It"s the end of the...
It"s the end of the road for the British Motor Show ò€“ Auto Express has learned that next year"s event has been canned as struggling car makers can"t afford to take space at ExCeL in London"s Docklands.
The Puma burst into...
The Puma burst into showrooms in 1997 as the second car to showcase Ford’s ‘new edge’ design philosophy. Coming hot on the heels of the Ka, the coupé’s looks and excellent proportions made it the only Ford at the time to have a waiting list. This was due in no small part to a memorable ad campaign featuring the late Steve McQueen blasting round San Francisco’s streets.
However, with the Fiesta chassis as a basis, the Puma could back up its styling with an unrivalled driving experience. Its original Zetec engine range included an entry-level 1.4-litre unit and a revvy 1.7 powerplant with variable valve timing. The line-up was bolstered by the arrival of a 1.6-litre motor in 2000, but the limited run of 500 wide-bodied Ford Racing Pumas stole the limelight.
These hardcore special editions get an uprated version of the 1.7-litre engine, along with a wider track, larger brakes and Alcantara-trimmed race-style interior. Yet the standard 1.7-litre model is the best all-rounder – and prices are seriously low, so take your time to find a good one.
The Puma’s curving roofline might make the rear seats suitable only for children, but the coupé is still a practical choice thanks to its proven Fiesta running gear and low running costs.