HIGHLIGHTS
- Number 466 of just 500 produced
- Rarity value
- Fantastic condition
- Comprehensive service history
- Fresh MOT
THE APPEAL
Just 500 Individually numbered Racing Puma models were created by Ford and given more attitude by the renowned coach builders Tickford. The wider body allowed for a wider track with stiffer suspension and four-pot brakes developed with the help of Alcon.
The tried and tested standard 1.7-litre engine was uprated to 153bhp offering a great power to weight ratio. The close-ratio gears, great handling chassis and stylish looks make this Ford rarity even more desirable today.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Only one former keeper
- Servicing invoices from Ford Specialists
- Fresh MOT until June 2023
As noted on the engine and Owners’s Guide Supplement, this factory specification Ford Racing Puma is number 0466 and was first registered on the 8th November 2000.
It was a Ford demonstrator for what appears to be the first seventeen months of it’s life until the first recorded owner purchased it in mid 2002 before passing it on to his wife in May 2012.
The current owner acquired this amazing Puma about four years ago but did not register it in his name. He has only driven it around 500 miles since and needs to sell due to the impending loss of indoor storage.
A neat ring binder contains the V5 along with the original owner’s guide books and service book with six stamps up to 2008, and a more recent one in 2018. In addition to the stamps a healthy number of parts invoices and servicing invoices from Ford specialists, Hill & Son, Wimborne, come with the car (see photo).
Reassuringly, a fresh ‘Pass’ MOT has been carried out and is valid until 6th June 2023, and the car is currently untaxed.
THE INTERIOR
- Original and unmolested
- Great condition throughout
- All electrics said to function correctly
Peer inside this compact sporty car and you can tell straight away that this original interior has been well cared for.
Aside from some natural wear to the Blue Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel and Sparco drivers bucket seat, it is pretty much unmarked and in great condition.
The dash houses sporty black-on-white instrumentation and is accompanied by the factory equipment which includes air-con’, central locking, electric windows and two front airbags. The original CD/radio sound system is in the central panel and the owner assures us that all the electrical equipment is functioning.
The rear seats, door trims, roof lining, carpets and trim are all in great shape too, and lift the rear hatch, and you will find a wonderfully clean and undamaged boot space.
THE EXTERIOR
- Original looking body
- Fantastic paintwork
- Original alloys
This ‘pumped up’ Puma body looks exceptional in the factory specification metallic Imperial Blue. The discreet ‘Ford Racing’ emblems on the ‘B’ pillar hint at this cars potential.
We didn’t detect and nasty dings or scrapes other than some minor stone chips to the fibreglass front bumper and some scuffs along the leading edge of the carbon-fibre effect front spoiler.
The lightweight aluminium front wings look great and from what we could see, the sills and underside structure appear really clean and corrosion-free. The exhaust system also looks healthy and sounds spot-on.
The lights, windows, mirrors and external trim are fine and the original Ford wheels were refurbished in April 2015 and still present well. Two Autogrip tyres are up front and two Cooper ones are on the rear. All have a reasonable degree of tread remaining.
THE MECHANICS
- Matching numbered Zetec-S engine
- Original performance specification
- "Drives really well…”
This 1.7-litre 16-valve Zetec-S, naturally aspirated engine, produces around 153bhp with a claimed top speed of 126mph and sits in a very clean and well locked after engine bay. It’s limited edition number is also clear to see along with the vin-plate.
Having covered so few miles in recent years, any basic servicing requirements have been attended to by the current owner and he tells us that it “drives really well, like it’s on rails”. It certainly sounded great whilst on the photoshoot.
The fun driving experience is clearly helped by the combination of the IB5 5-speed close-ratio gearbox, racing dampers, precise PAS steering, Alcon derived ABS brakes and traction control.
SUMMARY
This engaging Ford Racing Puma is a rev-happy and agile modern classic and, as with other competition pedigree Ford’s, is enjoying appreciating values.
What makes this 22 year old Racing Puma outstanding, is undoubtedly it’s originality, low mileage, and stunning condition. You’ll definitely struggle to find another in such good order.
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