1966 Ford Cortina Mk1

Description

• Two door, in gorgeous Goodwood Green
• Fully overhauled
• 130bhp X-flow engine
• Superb condition
• Irish registered car

A super rare, and superbly upgraded 1966 Ford Cortina Mk1 2 door in fabulous condition.

The Cortina was one of the most important cars in Ford’s history. Especially the Mk1. It was larger, quicker and superior in every way. Ford’s Motorsport program got a massive boost with the introduction of the sport saloon models such as the GT. When Lotus got involved, they slotted in a twin-cam engine and tweaked the suspension, the Ford Cortina Mk1 slipped into legend territory.

Today, that status is where it is firmly anchored. The fabulous ‘Tina we have here is, in a way, a homage to those legends.

Background

This will be short. The condition of classic cars covers a very broad spectrum. We rarely see classic cars of this quality come to market. This has to be in the top ten percent.

Our vendor Pat purchased this as a rolling shell with no windows, no seats etc c15 years ago. The car has undergone a full restoration during that period, even featuring in Retro Ford magazine!

The images and the specification speak for themselves. So we will let this classic speak for itself.

The detail of work carried out is so exhaustive we’d also be literally exhausted if it were all to be listed here. Instead, we’ve jotted down the salient points. The eagle eyed experts among you will spot so much more. If you have any questions, don’t wonder, just call or email us. It’s what we’re here for.

Engine

We’ll start here because the engine – with the running gear – is one of the areas makes this Ford Cortina so very special:

• 1660cc cross-flow four cylinder engine
• Twin 45’s
• Full race ported, gas flowed cylinder head
• The head is fitted with;
  • Big valves
  • Wasted valve stems
  • Steel rocker posts
  • Alloy rocker cover
• The bottom end includes;
  • A 234 Kent cam
  • Duplux chain and sprockets
  • Fully lightened and balance bottom end
  • Lotus connecting rods
  • Accrelite forged pistons
  • New genuine oil pump
  • Extra capacity sump
  • 4 branch manifold and custom exhaust with 2 boxes

Aside from looking drop dead gorgeous, the whole package is said to deliver approximately 130BHP at the flywheel.

We don’t need to tell you that there is strut brace in the engine bay and by any measure, this is one of best detailed and cleanest, tidiest engines bays we’ve seen.

Mechanicals

We do see a number of classics come to market with very, very nice engines dropped into them. We’ve all done it; sometimes, the running gear can get overlooked.

Nothing of the sort has happened here. The attention to detail in the suspension, brakes and final drives is as amazing as the rest of build. Take a look in the gallery.

Add all that together and it makes a super package

• Type 9 five speed gear box fitted with internal slave cylinder
• The additional fifth gear makes the Cortina super versatile if travelling longer distances
• Newly powder coated 6J x 13 Lotus Steel Wheels
• New 185/60/13 Yokohamas tyres all round
• Double width anti-roll bar complete with adjustable castor
• Four-pot Princess brakes front brake calipers
• 8 vented disc
• 9” Capri brakes fitted on the rear
• Leda adjustable suspension

Do we need to say it? It goes. It stops. It handles. We’ll say it anyway.

We’re told there is an LSD also available on request

Outside

Anyone growing up in 60s and 70s will instantly recognise the timeless lines. Everyone had a Cortina Mk1 or knew someone that did. Simple, straightforward, but uber stylish. That charm endures today and makes them so coveted. The Ford Cortina Mk1 is at its most attractive in two door form.

Sadly, the rate of attrition of Cortina Mk1’s is astronomical.

This one in Goodwood Green is remarkably preserved. We haven’t seen anything like it. Our vendor, Pat, tells us this one “100% rust free” and we have that in writing.

He adds;

• The Mk1 Cortina has been extensively wax oiled throughout
• All perfect chrome bumpers
• All new window rubbers have been fitted
• Cibie headlamps
• It has a two-speed wipers system fitted with electric washers

We think the stand-out item is this smashing front quarter bumpers; delightful.

We don’t think we need to add any more.

Inside

The interior continues with the same level of quality. Equally it has that same superb mix of period retro and modern upgrades which combine to give that authentic old skool feel but offers comfort and reliability too.

We’re told the interior is “immaculate” fitted with “Starion front seats in black leather”

• Lotus Cortina Rev counter and speedo which has been refurbished
• GT clocks
• New carpet
• Fitted with extra underlay and soundproofing
• Wooden rimmed steering wheel
• Wooden gear lever knob

Our View

Whether turning heads along the seafront, gathering a small crowd at the pub, or winning the odd rosette at shows (which it is easily capable of), or bombing about embarrassing a few Porsche owners, you’ll be guaranteed smiles with this classic.

If you are craving a Ford icon that is fast, useable and reliable you’ve probably found one of the best available. Don’t hang about.

Viewing the Cortina – our vendor is located near to Shannon Airport and is happy to collect any bidders who would like to view the car.

*Please note that the only paperwork to come with the Cortina is the Irish Log Book.*

Vehicle Location: Ardnacrusha, Co Clare, Ireland  – it’s the responsibility of the winning bidder to make collection / transportation arrangements directly with the vendor. 

Have a question about this Ford Cortina Mk1? Please contact the Evoke team at auction@evoke-classics.com and we will speak to the vendor on your behalf. 

 Guide Prices? 

We’re different. But you know that. And we’re always honest. In a sector where no two classics are same, how does anyone put a ‘guide’. 

Well, everyone knows the broad value of classic, let’s all be honest. So we don’t need to tell you what you already know, do we. 

The ‘market’ decides and the old cliché that ‘it’s are worth what someone wants to pay’ is no less true. So why kid everyone! 

But, because we are different, if it really does matter to you, that’s fine, we want you to be happy. Just drop us a line at auction@evoke-classics.com and one of us will be delighted to ring you back and discuss, it’s what we do. 

 Tedious but it’s vital you read this, please. 

We will always strive to offer the most descriptive and transparent auction listings available. However, we can’t claim to be perfect. Your own analysis is very important and we are here to help and also answer any and all queries you may have prior to purchase. 

We offer and positively encourage bidders to view, or arrange inspections for each vehicle thoroughly prior to bidding. 

If we do take a physical, as opposed to a remote, look at any of the vehicles on our platform, they are not those of a qualified vehicle inspector or other professional. Nor do they include a test drive unless expressly stated. 

As with all vehicles of a certain age, localised paint repairs are common. This specifically applies with classics. 

So, please, unless we state explicitly to the contrary, please assume that classic vehicles on our platform could have had remedial bodywork of any kind at some point in its life. 

Two final comments on images and photos. 

The vast majority are supplied by vendors. Camera technology has and continues to improve significantly, but please note and understand that image and sound quality does vary. If you would like vendors to provide more images please ask us and we will contact the vendor for you. 

If you are at all unsure, just ask us. It is what we are here for. 

Finally, finally, finally. Please note that vehicles are sold as seen and a returns policy is not applicable. This is the norm for used items acquired at auction. 

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