Puma VCT
The Ford Puma VCT features naturally-aspirated 1.7-liter Zetec SE inline-4 engine with Variable Camshaft Timing producing 123 horsepower (92 kW) at 6300 RPM with 116 pound-feet (157 Newton-meters) torque at 4500 RPM through five-speed manual transmission and front-wheel-drive representing sporty European coupe with distinctive three-door styling and Fiesta-based platform providing lightweight handling dynamics with MacPherson strut suspension and refined chassis tuning establishing affordable sports coupe positioning with characteristic Ford VCT technology and efficient operation featuring practical hatchback versatility with distinctive styling including integrated rear spoiler and aggressive front fascia representing late-1990s Ford Europe design language with comprehensive equipment specification and youthful market positioning delivering engaging driving dynamics with precise steering and balanced chassis character.
Puma VCT launched 1997 represents Ford Europe sports coupe establishing affordable performance segment built in Cologne Germany competing against contemporary hot hatches establishing distinctive coupe market positioning with Mark IV Fiesta underpinnings and unique styling produced until 2002 with special Ford Racing Puma variant offering 155 horsepower establishing ultimate Puma specification with only 500 examples produced establishing strong enthusiast following for engaging dynamics and distinctive design continuing Ford European performance tradition with characteristic VCT technology representing significant departure from traditional hot hatch formula with dedicated coupe body style and sophisticated chassis development representing European Ford engineering excellence with refined handling and distinctive character establishing cult classic status among enthusiasts for pure driving engagement and unique market positioning representing final era of affordable European sports coupes before crossover transition.