Tickford's sporting chance

TICKFORD has HSV in its sights with a hotter, more overtly sporting T-Series range, due in late September.

Ford special vehicle operations business development manager Rick Nayler says the T-Series cars will "have more appeal" than the current line-up.

"The general aim is to make them less subtle and more sporty," he says.

"They will be better aligned with what the target market expects." Mr Nayler suggest the updated T-Series models will have more dramatic spoilers and wheels than the current versions, which are far more conservative than rival offerings from HSV.

The new line-up will still comprise three models - TE50, TL50 and TS50 - but it is rumoured all three cars will be powered by the 220kW version of the Tickford-enhanced, 5.0-litre V8.

This engine is currently offered only in the TS50. The other two cars are powered by a 200kW motor, which is also used in the cheaper XR8 Falcon.

The TS50 is presently available only with a four-speed auto, but the new model will be available with a five-speed manual that has been strengthened to handle the added grunt of the 220kW motor.

Other newcomers to FTE showrooms will include the Mustang coupe and convertible, deliveries of which will start in November.

There is still no official word on pricing, but the coupe could retail for just over $80,000 while the convertible is likely to cost around $90,000.

FTE has opted to import the Cobra version, which uses a 4.6-litre, quad cam V8 that generates 240kW and 430Nm. A five-speed manual will be the only transmission offered.

Mr Nayler says FTE currently holds 54 orders for the Mustang, which accounts for stocks until March. The "pony car" is expected to find about 250 buyers in its first year on the market.

Meanwhile, FTE has launched the limited edition Cougar Eibach, which features lower, stiffer suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 215/45x17 high performance tyres.

It also comes with a full body kit including new rear spoiler and bonnet scoop. Priced at $43,380 in manual form and $45,259 as an auto, just 100 examples of the Cougar Eibach will be offered.

"It (Cougar Eibach) has a more muscular, sporting stance and delivers an enhanced handling package from one of Europe's top high-performance suspension tuners," Tickford's managing director, Mr David Flint, says.

However, news from the US suggests the Cougar could be axed in 2003 to create factory space for an all-new Mustang likely to share its platform with the next Falcon.