Ford Cortina Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Ford Cortina

The Ford Cortina debuted in 1962 as Ford of Britain’s answer to mass-market family transport. Drawing its name from the Italian ski resort Cortina d’Ampezzo, it was designed to fill the gap between the Anglia and the Consul Classic, offering a practical saloon that could accommodate five adults. It adopted much of its engineering from Ford’s existing models but improved with a fully synchronised four-speed gearbox and robust Kent OHV engines. The Cortina found favour quickly, partly for its affordability and straightforward maintenance, but also due to the broad range of body styles—two- and four-door saloons and estate cars. With five distinct generations between 1962 and 1982, the Cortina evolved constantly: the Mk2 in 1966 brought increased interior space and revised styling, while the 1970 Mk3 introduced the ‘coke bottle’ design and new engines. Later Mk4 and Mk5 versions leaned further into practicality and executive options, leading up to its replacement by the Ford Sierra in 1982. The Cortina’s connection with British motor racing, especially in Lotus-tuned forms, further entrenched its reputation as more than just a family car.

Model History

The Cortina story begins with the Mk1 (1962–1966), known for its light weight, minimalist cockpit, and easily recognised ‘Y’ shape rear lights. The Lotus Cortina—a factory collaboration with Lotus—took the Mk1 into high-performance territory with alloy panels and a twin-cam engine. The Mk2 (1966–1970) widened the chassis and upgraded the cabin’s comfort, adding trims like DeLuxe, Super, GT, and 1600E with walnut veneer and sports steering wheels. The Mk3 (1970–1976) introduced the American-influenced coke-bottle shape and new OHC engines. Mk4 (1976–1979) streamlined the look and platform in line with the Taunus, with more glass area and improved practicality; the range-topping Ghia emerged here. The Mk5 (1979–1982) was a major facelift for improved aerodynamics, safety, and comfort. Estates (wagons), Lotus versions, ‘2000E’ and Ghia editions, and export models (including left-hand drive) highlight the diverse Cortina line-up, which only ended with the arrival of the Ford Sierra. In South Africa, the model lived on as the P100 pickup, using Cortina/Granada drivetrains.

Highlights and Key Features of the Ford Cortina

A standout feature of the Cortina is the sheer range of factory and dealer options: vinyl roofs, overdrive gearboxes, sports seats, armrests, top-spec Ghia or 2000E trim with walnut dash, special colours, and more. Notably, the Lotus Cortina (Mk1/Mk2) is famous for its twin-cam engine, lightweight build with alloy panels, and unique suspension setup. High-performance GT models and competition-prepared specials such as Superspeed conversions underline the platform’s versatility. For family drivers, cabin comfort, a spacious boot, and cost-effective running costs stood out. Dashboard layouts, upholstery materials and optional extras were tweaked across models; for example, 2000E and Ghia featured reclinable seats, wood veneer, and advanced instrumentation. Saloons and estates were available throughout, with rare cabriolet conversions by specialist firms.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The Lotus Cortina stands foremost among collector editions, built in cooperation with Lotus using special twin-cam engines, alloy body panels, distinctive white-and-green livery, and modified rear suspension for competitive driving. Mk2 versions continued this legacy. The 1600E, GT, Superspeed, and 2000E models each brought unique sport or luxury touches—ranging from wood trim and exclusive colour schemes to performance-oriented modifications and badges. Ghia trim (from Mk4 onwards) represented the height of luxury in the Cortina range, featuring deeper carpets, full instrumentation, higher-grade seat fabrics, and more chrome. Some dealer and independent conversions, including rare convertible builds and special racing homologations, also exist.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

While robust by 1960s-1980s standards, typical Ford Cortina issues today centre on rust in sills, arches, and chassis sections, especially for early models with less advanced rust-proofing. Worn suspension bushes, tired dampers, and slack steering can affect handling, particularly on GT and Lotus variants. Older Kent and Pinto engines require regular timing chain inspection, carburettor tuning, and head gasket checks. Electrical gremlins (especially with aftermarket wiring modifications) and corrosion around windscreen surrounds are noted maintenance points. Most parts remain available due to the Cortina’s popularity, but unique Lotus mechanicals and trim pieces may pose challenges.

Engine, Transmission and Handling

Cortina driving character stems from its rear-wheel-drive layout, light kerb weight, and simple suspension. Early models feature lively Kent pushrod engines, while GT and Lotus versions take performance up a notch with dual-carb setups or Lotus twin-cam power. Manual gearboxes feel direct, and handling is predictable thanks to MacPherson struts up front and a live rear axle. Mk3 onwards introduced OHC petrol engines, improved ride comfort, and more stable high-speed manners. Lotus Cortinas feel the most agile, with quick turn-in and outstanding brakes for their era. Estates retain good ride quality with added practicality. The availability of dealer and factory performance upgrades (e.g., 1600E, GT, Superspeed V6) allows for bespoke driving experiences without straying from Ford’s mechanical basics. 1. Cortina Mk1 Lotus – 1558cc twin-cam, alloy body panels, unique suspension setup, Ermine white with green flash. 2. Cortina 1600E (Mk2) – Luxury features, walnut dash, sports interior, uprated 1600cc crossflow engine. 3. Cortina 2000E/Ghia – Top-trim models with upmarket interior, higher-spec suspension/steering and Pinto OHC engines. 4. Cortina Estate – Extended cargo space, offered in most engine/transmission combos for families and touring applications.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Cortina’s design story is marked by constant evolution: from the crisp lines and distinctive grille of the Mk1 through to the softer, more American-influenced coke-bottle profile of the Mk3, and finally to the broader, blockier Mk4/5 aesthetics. Notable style elements include chromed bumpers, distinct rotation of taillights by series, and (in Mk1) lever-operated vent windows. Interior finishes vary with generation and trim: early cars favour painted metal dashes, later cars switch to wood veneer and deep carpets. Accessory highlights include radio, clock, heated rear window, and in upmarket trims, reclining front seats, auxiliary gauges and Ghia/2000E embellishments. Externally, buyers could specify vinyl roofs, metallic paints, fog lamps, discrete badging, and on some export models, left-hand drive configurations.

Other Information

A notable footnote: the Cortina’s life continued after its UK demise, especially in South Africa where utility-focused pickups (P100) carried the name and mechanicals well into the 1980s. Motorsport enthusiasts value the wide range of racing and rally successes, especially those by Jim Clark and Sir John Whitmore. Factory and aftermarket rally preparation is well-supported through historic motorsport homologation registers.

Summary

The Ford Cortina’s strength lies in its range: economical saloons, practical estates and wagons, upmarket Ghia editions, and thoroughbred Lotus or Superspeed performance specials. Its lasting popularity—seen most keenly in ongoing demand for early Mk1 and Mk2 models—rests on simple engineering, retro-styled British design, and vast scope for restoration or modification. Whether as a period-correct survivor or reimagined for historic racing, the Cortina continues to inspire across generations of enthusiasts.