FORD is proud of the Puma, but realises that all good things come to an end.

After five years, the Puma has reached the end of the road it is based on the Fiesta, which will be replaced by April.

But there's no doubt that the Puma has been a success for Ford. When it was launched in 1997 one major publication said: "The Puma comprehensively defeats anything that can be regarded as competition."

Another still says: "It makes all other sub-£20,000 coupes look slow-witted."

Now the Puma is bidding farewell with a striking limited edition the 1.7-litre Thunder (left), in showrooms any day now.

Priced at £13,995, only 2,000 Thunders will be produced, with grey or silver paintwork, and black leather trim, along with air-con, power heated door mirrors, heated front screen and six-disc CD.