I have to express the opposite view point -- Ford is doing tremendously well given a (very) old car, low budget and less seasoned drivers.
Look at it this way, we know Marko can drive, and he is still getting bested by drivers with less experience in his old car. (I am sure Marko has had a tinge of regret at switching camps, that is until the pay check arrives...)
I am also inpressed with Gardimiester, I expected him to wreck 3 or 4 cars by now, he has really stepped his game up, more in staying on the course than being fast, but the speed is coming with the consistency. (I give Malcom Wilson Credit for being an amazing coach.)
The most unfortanate part of the story will be 2006 and 2007 without the French teams. It will be most likely a Subaru, Ford Story which will be nice, but not as impressive as beating 6 other manufacturers.
It will also be interesting to see where the best drivers end up -- there will be 4 top drivers next year looking for seats. I am sure some will go to ford and some to Mitsubishi, but it is also likely someone will be left out in the cold.
So far a good season, I am hoping Petter can keep it competitive, Granholm can always be a spoiler. And if Marko learns to drive the car, and Duval can keep it on the road they'll throw a wrench into the works too.
My .02
Mike