General Description
The Ford Racing Puma represents a key moment in the lineage of Ford's performance-oriented
vehicles, marking the beginning of an era of high-performance cars – the ‘Fast Fords’ – that would
soon bear the iconic 'ST' name badge. Produced in a limited edition of only 500 units, this model showcased Ford's racing and rallying expertise and technological advancements in a road car, and was also the last production Ford car to be part hand assembled.
Originally based on the standard 1.7-litre Ford Puma, manufactured and engineered in Germany,
each Ford Racing Puma was transformed in the UK by Tickford. Renowned for their expertise in
automotive engineering, Tickford reimagined the Puma into the 155 bhp Racing Puma, a model
that is still highly regarded by enthusiasts worldwide today.
The modifications were extensive, including a wider track both front and rear, Alcon 4-pot racing
brakes, lightweight wheels, stiffer suspension, a more free-flowing exhaust system, and a unique
monocoque shell – originally designed to be Ford's WRC entrant. These enhancements, coupled
with light engine tweaks, elevated the Racing Puma to a new level of performance and agility,
setting it apart from its standard counterpart.
Unveiled initially as the ST160 concept at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show, the Racing Puma
underwent significant development to become the production model we recognise today. Its
distinctive bodywork, widened arches, and striking Ford Imperial Blue metallic paint gave it a
commanding road presence and an instantly recognisable nod to its special racing edition status –
the iconic blue hue only used by Ford for a special selection of cars.
Inside, the Racing Puma featured Sparco bucket seats upholstered in blue Alcantara trim,
providing both style and improved driver control during spirited driving. The interior refinement reflected the car's racing pedigree, with all details carefully fine-tuned to make the Racing Puma a formidable car not only on the road, but also in the cabin.
Despite its prestigious lineage and performance capabilities, the Racing Puma faced challenges in
the market due to its initial high price tag, however its exclusivity and rarity have since cemented
its status as a sought-after collector's item. From its race-inspired braking system to its finely tuned chassis dynamics, the Ford Racing Puma embodies the spirit of Ford's performance heritage. Its legacy continues to live on, appreciated by enthusiasts who recognise its significance in the pantheon of 'Fast Fords' and its lasting appeal as an icon among performance vehicles.
About this specific vehicle
The Ford Racing Puma, limited to a production run of just 500 units, remains a coveted model
among collectors and enthusiasts alike. First registered in March 2000, these cars were crafted by Tickford in the UK, featuring wider aluminium front and steel rear wheel arches, a prominent front bumper with a carbon fibre splitter, and upgraded springs and dampers. The engine modifications included revised camshafts, an upgraded inlet manifold, a bespoke exhaust system, and a remapped ECU.
This particular example last sold in 2022, has seen minimal use since then, having been kept in dry storage with regular start-ups to ensure optimal performance. It showcases the iconic Ford Imperial Blue metallic paint, complemented by a black fabric and blue Alcantara-trimmed interior, with the specially-crafted Sparco racing seats with Ford Racing emblems and silver trim inserts adding to its sporty appeal and driver comfort in the cabin. The 17-inch Speedline alloy wheels, fitted with Federal 595 RS-R tyres, feature blue brake callipers and Ford Racing centre caps, while interior features include a black leather and blue Alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, electric windows, Sparco aluminium pedals and gear stick, air conditioning, a CD stereo unit, heated front and rear screens, and electrically adjustable door mirrors.
The 1.7-litre VCT inline-four engine under the bonnet delivers approximately 153 bhp through a five-speed manual transmission to the front wheels. Exceptionally rust-free, the exterior of this Racing Puma is also free from impact damage, with the Ford Imperial Blue paint in excellent condition with minimal stone chipping. The interior is also well-preserved, with seats protected by covers showing little wear, although there are minor marks on the Alcantara sections of the steering wheel, some wear on the Ford Puma carpets, and light scratches on the gear stick.
However, what sets this example apart is the inclusion of all original brochures, Ford Racing
materials, and the original evo magazine that featured the Racing Puma, making this entire
package ideal for any enthusiast.
This Ford Racing Puma exemplifies a rare and remarkable sports coupe. Its striking wide-body design and performance upgrades make it a highly desirable model, and with its original condition and comprehensive documentation enhancing its appeal, this car is a fantastic addition to any performance car collection.
Service History
- 04/09/2000 - 9,488 miles
- 20/11/2001 - 19,206 miles
- 25/02/2003 - 30,283 miles
- 02/03/2007 - 42,393 miles
- 16/06/2009 - 45,837 miles
- 10/01/2011 - 46,522 miles
- 26/06/2014 - 48,384 miles
- 06/05/2016 - 52,055 miles
- 06/2017 - 54,721 miles
- 01/07/2019 - 57, 048 miles
- 17/09/2020 - 57,534 miles
