Ford Puma
The Ford Puma was a small coupe produced by the Ford Motor Company from 1997 to 2002. It was based on the Ford Fiesta and featured four versions with varying engines and features over the years: 1.4 Zetec-SE (90 bhp), 1.6 Zetec-SE (103 bhp), 1.7 Zetec-SE VVT (125 bhp) and 1.7 Ford Racing Zetec-SE (155 bhp). Those engines were complemented by modified suspension, a new body, low speed traction control, anti-lock brakes and other changes. Weighing approximately 1,040 kg (2,293 lb), it gave quite decent performance, for example 0 to 62 mph (0 to 99 km/h) acceleration in 8.6 seconds and a 30 to 70 mph (48 to 112 km/h) acceleration in 8.8 seconds.
Stylistically, the Puma followed the Ford's New Edge design strategy, which was first seen in the 1996 Ford Ka. While it was not as controversial as the Ka when it first appeared, the Puma gained acclaim for its well-proportioned and cat-like design cues. It also had a memorable launch campaign featuring the late Steve McQueen with an original UK television commercial using clips from the movie Bullitt and cutting McQueen into a modern San Francisco setting with the Puma.
The Puma was only sold in Europe and was replaced by the Ford StreetKa, which also borrowed its transmission and suspension. This seeming discontinuation of the Puma was mirrored by other small coupes in Europe, with the Vauxhall Tigra later entering a short hiatus.
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