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Ford Races First Entry Into New Performance Market

29 March 1999

Ford Races First Entry Into New Performance Market; Racing Heritage and Engineering Expertise Create Compact Hot Rod

    POMONA, Calif.--(AutomotiveWire)--March 26, 1999--Ford Motor Company today introduced a new entry aimed at the modern-day hot rod scene -- the growing compact performance market. The new Ford ZX2 S/R was unveiled at the second annual Specialty Equipment Market Association's (SEMA) "International Auto Salon" in Pomona. The ZX2 S/R is Ford's first product jointly developed by Ford Racing Technology and Ford Motor Company's Small Vehicle Center Product Development.
    "Each generation finds its own automotive expression and passion," said Al Kammerer, Ford's Small Vehicle Line Director. "Today that means the compact performance phenomenon. Any manufacturer who wants to attract youth must participate in this market.
    "The compact performance market is hot-rodding for the '90s and though the shape of the cars has changed through the years, what has driven these movements is consistent -- the availability of affordable, stylish, well-built cars designed for performance along with a healthy aftermarket industry available to provide products for personalization and performance enhancement. We're embracing the importance of this market and our introduction of the ZX2 S/R at the International Auto Salon solidifies our commitment to it."
    "Ford's racing heritage, and its involvement with racing today, is second to none -- and we think this knowledge and reputation will serve us well as we reach out to develop products of interest to the compact performance enthusiast," said Terry Crossett, Ford's Manager of Small Car Powertrain Development. "The ZX2 S/R is also unique because it was produced in cooperation with a coalition of eight aftermarket companies including: B&M, Borla, Centerforce, Eibach, Energy Suspension, Goodyear, Roush and Tokico."
    The ZX2 S/R includes refinements to the body and under the hood to make it a competitive street and racetrack performer. Modifications include: horsepower increased 10 percent over the base ZX2 while still meeting California state and federal emissions standards; dual friction clutch for increased clamping force; improved handling with progressive-rate springs that lower the car one inch; rear disc brakes; seven-spoke aluminum wheels and a cockpit featuring a 150 mph speedometer, leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather shift knob. All performance parts on the S/R are tuned to complement each other and additional racing-only components are available.
    The Ford ZX2 S/R will be produced in limited quantities and will be available through select Ford dealers this summer. The SEMA International Auto Salon runs March 26-28 at the Pomona Fairplex. For more information on the event call Amy Callan at 909/396-0289 ext. 158.