1966 Ford Cortina Mk1

Description

• UNSOLD at auction August 2022
• 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.*