Description
The Ford Racing Puma (FRP) was the name eventually given to Ford's concept Puma, the Puma RS, which was first unveiled to the public at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show. At the time, Ford were keen to stress that this was no mere styling job and the idea was to transfer the know-how and technology learned directly from Ford Puma race and rally programmes to a road car. The Racing Puma featured a modified version of the 1. 7 Zetec-SE engine pushing out 153bhp with high lift camshafts, strengthened IB5 gearbox, revised inlet manifold, exhaust system and ECU. The bodywork was changed to give it wider front and rear wings, with the track increased and the rims upgraded to 17"x7. 5J which housed large Alcon four-pot callipers and discs, with disc brakes to the rear as well as Eibach shocks. All Racing Pumas left the factory painted in metallic Imperial Blue to signify their special racing edition status - a colour Ford only used on a select range of cars such as the Escort Cosworth and Mk. 1 Focus RS. The interior was also transformed with Sparco bucket seats finished in blue alcantara trim, which was also used to trim the steering wheel, rear seats and door cards. All conversions were carried out by Tickford, Daventry UK. The strictly limited production run was initially pencilled to run for 1000 units, with 500 destined for the German market, and 500 for the UK. In the end, only the 500 destined for the UK market were produced and less than half were actually sold directly to customers, with the rest being offered to Ford executives and senior managers through their MRC scheme.
This 2000 X-reg example, number 359, has covered 94, 000 miles and is in fantastic condition having been garage stored for 16 years and never left to rot. With service history, invoices and sundry literature including original Tickfords owner’s guide supplement (matching the vehicle number), build detail records and sales brochure.
Recently serviced and MOT’d to December 2021 (no advisories). Cambelt replaced at 82, 000 miles. HPI clear.
The car has undergone extensive maintenance/ revitalising within the past 18 months - and at great expense - including:
- Fresh paint job
- All four wheels refurbished
- New tyres all round
- Major service
- Underbody wax-oiled
- Gear box oil change
- New spark plugs
- Rear top mounts
- Front wheel bearings
- D/ S front drive shaft
- N/ S front anti-roll with rod
- N/ S front window regulator
- Steering wheel reupholstered in genuine blue alcantara
With less than 300 of the 500 built cars still on the road, and with many less with under 100, 000 miles, this example represents excellent value. Ford Racing Pumas are growing in popularity and are rapidly appreciating, following in the footsteps of the Escort RS and Sierra Cosworth. If you know what you’re looking for you will truly appreciate this car.
£14, 995
Viewings are most welcome (Chertsey, Surrey). Please do not hesitate to call Phil on the details below if you have any questions or enquiries.
