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Post by NS-R on Dec 17, 2007 15:04:44 GMT
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Post by awsponsor on Dec 17, 2007 16:18:22 GMT
Very interesting... Pity though they're flogging Jaguar and Land Rover to the Indians to pay for it..
Anyway - I can't see one of these racing at Knockhill for at least ten years... But I guess it could be a BTCC contender..
Is that your aim Nick? Stick with Fords so you can have a crack at a BTCC drive? ;D
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Post by fletch on Dec 17, 2007 17:13:29 GMT
This is absolutely brilliant news, not just for RS fans and lovers of fast fords, but for the the whole Ford range - from Ka's to Galaxys. It shows that there is confidence in the market again, and a confidence in serious Hot Hatches. It also shows that Ford of Europe and Ford of Britain are sustainably profitable again and that's good news for everyone, right down to the dealership apprentice. Who wants to work for and promote a loss making company? Nobody! Very interesting... Pity though they're flogging Jaguar and Land Rover to the Indians to pay for it.. Why is it a pity? What have Jaguar and Land Rover done for FMC in the grand scale of things...apart from give them a splitting headache??? By offloading these companies, Ford can concentrate on its dealers, its customers and, most importantly, it's product, and can continue to develop cars like the RS more often. I thing it's great news (yes, I am ever-so-slightly biased) - My name is well and truly down for one! |
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Post by NS-R on Dec 17, 2007 19:19:59 GMT
...so NSR get RS Number 001 and Kempster Ford get RS Number 002 - or do you think I should let my sponsors get the first one? !   AWSponsor - I wish! STs are as far as I'll be going but it's going to be a hot series in 2008.  Nick. |
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Post by aland on Dec 17, 2007 20:05:24 GMT
would be nice if they built something that could be done to S2000 standards that was fast as the previous ones that raced in germany were not. story doing the rounds is that arena motorsport are currently building a S2000 ford
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Post by awsponsor on Dec 17, 2007 20:26:17 GMT
Fletch..... Wanna fight ? ;D
Jag's big screwup was the X type --- built on a Mondeo chassis! That was a Ford decision and was never going to work because everyone knew it was essentially a Ford in drag. Their other cars haven't done too badly and the latest XF is an example of what they can do when they think it through properly. Too late though....The losses are already too high. Crappy management decisions I'm afraid.. Jaguar would have done better remaining independent.
Land Rover though has done well.. It's the sweetener for someone to take the hit on the Jag losses.
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Post by Blair on Dec 17, 2007 20:49:21 GMT
Is it just me that doesn't find the prospect of the RS that exciting ? I've heard figures of it running 280bhp - from what I've heard 250 is achievable with the ST at the moment with a wee bit of magic on the tuning side of the engine.
Then I assume they'll make this 4wd ? Even more losses in the transmission.
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Post by NS-R on Dec 18, 2007 7:55:28 GMT
Bit more info from Autosport: -
The Focus RS is back! Bosses at the blue oval have finally given the hot hatch the greenlight for production and they’ve even released this teaser image to give us a taste of what’s to come.
Following in the footsteps of other legendary Fords such as the Escort RS Cosworth and the original Focus RS, the new model will reach showrooms in 2009, with a concept version debuting next year. Priced at around £25,000, the new Focus RS will offer an incredible blend of pace and value.
Although official details have yet to be released, the RS will be based on the current Focus ST.
With rivals such as VW’s Golf R32, Mitsubishi’s EVO X and Subaru’s Impreza STI, the Focus RS will offer a huge leap in performance over ST, and is likely to pump out around 280bhp from its modified 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine.
This will be achieved with a revised engine management system, increased boost pressure, free-flow air filter and performance exhaust. With at least 400Nm of torque, the Focus RS will sprint from 0-60mph in around five seconds and hit a top speed of 155mph.
With stiffened and lowered suspension, plus uprated brakes, the Focus RS will be the ultimate expression of Ford’s driving excitement DNA. Factor in styling that will boast blistered arches, bonnet vents, all manner of wings and spoilers plus an interior that features figure-hugging racing seats, and the Focus RS will have the visual impact to match its performance too.
The production Focus RS will go on sale in Spring 2009. For further details and to see spy shots of the final prototype pick up the December 26 New Year Special issue of Auto Express magazine.
N.
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Post by awsponsor on Dec 18, 2007 9:43:19 GMT
But will it be 4 wheel drive?
If it is to compete with the Evo and the Impreza then it really has to be.
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Post by aland on Dec 18, 2007 10:57:28 GMT
get malcolm wilson and the lads at m/sport to develop it then see the japs in your dust :-)
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Post by Mike Strong on Dec 18, 2007 11:26:14 GMT
get malcolm wilson and the lads at m/sport to develop it then see the japs in your dust :-) Dream on. Evo vs Ford Halfords Special? Ooh, difficult choice.  |
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Post by awsponsor on Dec 18, 2007 15:54:56 GMT
Ooooh...... Provocative... ;D
Actually I was just googling... The new Impreza and the Focus are very similar.. Very eurobox... As to the latest Evo it's got a flappy paddle gearbox and looks like a Peugot... ;D
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