  In this paper we discuss a left-right symmetric model for elementary
particles and their connection with the mass spectrum of elementary fermions.
The model is based on the group $SU(2)_L\otimes SU(2)_R\otimes U(1)$. New
mirror fermions and a minimal set of Higgs particles that breaks the symmetry
down to $U(1)_{em}$ are proposed. The model can accommodate a consistent
pattern for charged and neutral fermion masses as well as neutrino
oscillations. An important consequence of the model is that the connection
between the left and right sectors can be done by the neutral vector gauge
bosons Z and a new heavy Z'.
