There is an interesting artcle in 4car.co.uk that says 420bhp RWD Focus V8 but unfortunately the link insn't working!

the title has got my attention, has anyone else heard about this?

edited to add www.

[Edited by AK47 - 11/4/2003 5:04:54 PM]

[Edited by AK47 - 11/4/2003 5:06:37 PM]

 

it's operative now

here's the artcle:

Focus RS not powerful enough? Fed up with waiting for the much-rumoured Focus Cosworth? The Americans have delivered the goods - Ford has just unveiled a 420bhp, rear-wheel drive prototype called Focus RS8 at the SEMA show in Las Vegas.

As its name suggests, the RS8 features a V8 engine: a new all-alloy 5.0-litre, 40-valve 'Cammer' crate overhead cam block, developed by Ford Racing Performance Parts (FRPP) from the 4.6-litre Mustang engine and producing 420bhp and 395lb ft of torque. Using FRPP's so-called 'plug and play' engine electronics installations, this engine has been crammed into the Focus's engine bay and teamed with the SVT Mustang forged crankshaft, Mustang-derived rear-drive powertrain components, a Tremec five-speed manual transmission with Ford Racing clutch kit and Ford Racing prototype shifter, a Ford Racing differential, an all-new suspension set-up with adjustable ride height and the Focus RS's 18-inch alloys with Michelin Pilot Sport 225/40 ZR18 tyres up front and 255/45 ZR18s behind. The show car has RS-like styling mods and is finished in Blue Pearl paint; inside, it has Ford Racing instruments and styling plus a high-grade audio system.

Sadly, this is only a prototype show car, but if you're handy with the spanners you can DIY - FRPP will be offering a 'rear-wheel drive conversion kit' for the stock Focus in its 2004 catalogue, along with the 5.0-litre engine ($14,995), wiring kit and all other necessary components. Ford will be showing the RS8 at a number of hot rod and drag racing events in the States next year to publicise this catalogue - and we can no doubt expect to see the V8 engine fitted in a number of low-volume European sports cars, too.

Ford has also fitted the engine in two other models for its SEMA stand: a 1965 Mustang Fastback and a 1953 F-100 Panel Truck. "We see the 5.0-litre Cammer crate engine as the future for tuners, project-vehicle builders and aftermarket car and truck enthusiasts," said Ford Racing Technology director Dan Davis. Now that's what we call hot-rodding - it rather puts British Max Power readers in the shade.

 

thank **** for that, thought I had to trade in my STi