Originally Posted by Rob_DOHC

Hi there guys,

im looking for a puma for my girl friends birthday, budget is around 2k...

I haven't ever seen a rusty one but i guess that doesn't mean they don't! so any specific places to look at when i view?

Rear arch rust is common - other than that, they're pretty rust free.

Any common mechanical/electrical problems?

HCV as with other Fords, Bushes can perish with age (as the handling is the cars forté, some powerflex ones are good) Nothing common electrically tbh.

What engine would you go for? and did they ever do one with ESP.....

The 1.7 is the best for power / driving pleasure / MPG etc. IMO. Make sure the cambelt history is there. Every 5 years or 80,000 miles whatever comes first. Budget £200-£400 for one fitted.
ABS + TC is standard on the 1.7s, optional on early 1.4s.

Think i am after a black one with leather.

That'll be a Puma "Black" then - 1600 made with black leather interior, F1 alloys and only in black. They can be had for £2K.

Cheers all

Rob,