1963 | Ford Lotus Cortina MkI

The Lotus Cortina Mk1 race car is a formidable and iconic competition machine that encapsulates the spirit of 1960s motorsport. Born from the collaboration between Lotus and Ford, this high-performance racer seamlessly blends the elegance of a road car with the tenacity of a track warrior.

Underneath its sleek exterior lies a potent combination of Lotus engineering and Ford power. The Lotus Cortina Mk1 is powered by a robust, race-tuned 1.6-litre twin-cam four-cylinder engine, delivering a symphony of horsepower and torque. The powerplant is mated to a close-ratio gearbox, providing precise control over every shift - a crucial aspect for competitive racing.

The FIA (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) homologation papers are valid on this car until 31/12/2032 which ensures that this Lotus Cortina Mk1 meets the stringent regulations for historic racing. With a lightweight construction and purpose-built suspension, this race car hugs the tarmac, delivering exceptional handling and agility through tight corners and high-speed straights.

Visually, the Lotus Cortina Mk1 race car is a striking presence on the track, adorned with period-correct racing livery that pays homage to its racing heritage. The widened wheel arches accommodate wider racing tires, further enhancing grip and stability. The distinct Lotus badging and signature Cortina styling cues are unmistakable, making it a standout both on and off the racetrack.

Stepping into the cockpit, the driver is greeted by a minimalist yet purposeful interior. Bucket seats, a roll cage, a fire extinguisher system and a competition steering wheel create a focused driving environment. The dashboard is equipped with essential gauges and switches providing the driver with crucial information during intense racing scenarios.

Whether thundering down the straightaways or navigating challenging chicanes, the Lotus Cortina Mk1 race car stands as a testament to a golden era of motorsport. With its racing pedigree, timeless design, and exhilarating performance, this iconic racer continues to captivate enthusiasts and leave an indelible mark on the historic racing scene.

This Lotus Cortina Mk1 FIA Race Car is a true embodiment of precision engineering for the discerning motorsport enthusiast having recently completed a full restoration to FIA standards. Undergoing meticulous modifications, this race car boasts a powerhouse performance that sets it apart on the track and presents in near perfect condition having only covered testing and shakedown miles so far.

At the heart of its prowess lies the 701M L Block, an integral component that forms the foundation of the Lotus Cortina's exceptional powerplant. The engine has been meticulously crafted with an 83.5mm bore and hone, accommodating the installation of 83.5mm racing pistons. This, in conjunction with the 460 inlet cam and 450 exhaust cam, propels the race car into a league of its own, delivering a harmonious blend of power and responsiveness.

The Lotus Cortina Mk1 FIA Race Car’s engine internals feature big end bearings set to standard specifications, ensuring durability and reliability under the demanding conditions of competitive racing. Complementing this, the main bearings are also set to standard specifications, contributing to the overall robustness of the powertrain.

Breathing life into the Lotus Cortina's performance are the Weber 45DCOE 152 carburettors, skilfully paired to optimise fuel and air mixture for maximum output. The race car is further equipped with a high-pressure oil pump, enhancing lubrication efficiency and maintaining engine health during high-speed competition.

Igniting the spark of performance is an electronic distributor and leads, adding a modern touch to the race car’s ignition system. This not only contributes to precise timing but also ensures a reliable and consistent spark, crucial for maintaining power output during intense racing scenarios.

The Lotus Cortina Mk1 FIA Race Car’s capabilities are not just theoretical; they have been validated through a comprehensive dyno test and run, showcasing an impressive 176 bhp. This real-world performance figure underscores the race car’s formidable presence on the track, making it a force to be reckoned with in historic racing events.

In essence, the Lotus Cortina Mk1 FIA race car, with its meticulously tuned components and stellar performance figures, stands as a testament to the marriage of Lotus and Ford's engineering prowess during a golden era of motorsport. It continues to captivate enthusiasts with its racing pedigree, timeless design, and the sheer thrill it brings to those fortunate enough to commandeer it on the racing circuit.

Available now for viewing and demonstration at our Hertfordshire showroom.