1966 Ford Lotus Cortina
Key points
- Roadworthiness test valid until 23/11/2029
- In the hands of the current owner since July 2011
- Prepared for historic motor sport
- Completely rebuilt engine and gearbox (€11,000 invoices available in the photo gallery)
The Plus
Although Lotus has produced some excellent cars on its own, some of the Hethel-based manufacturer's best work has been done in collaboration with other manufacturers. Such is the case of the Ford Lotus Cortina.
Company founder and engineering genius Colin Chapman lacked the funds to develop his own Lotus engine, so he approached Ford, offering to develop a twin-cam variant of the existing Kent engine.
After Lotus and Cosworth engineers had finished, the engine would go on to power cars like Jim Clark's to Grand Prix victory and would be key to the success of the Lotus Elan. Naturally, Lotus had to fulfil its side of the bargain, so the engine was fitted in the Ford Cortina for touring car racing. This meant that there also had to be road cars for homologation, and that's exactly what we have here.
This 1966 Lotus Cortina has been extensively prepared for competition use - be it circuit racing or small format rallying. We are told that the car has proved to be a creditable contender on a number of occasions, and continues to run well. The vendor has owned the car since 2011 and is offering it with a long term MOT.
History and documents
- The seller states that this is an example with the corresponding numbers
- Collector's registration document
- MOT valid until 23/11/2029
- 15,000 kilometres indicated - the odometer has been run at least once
- In the hands of the current owner since 5 July 2011
- The Cortina has taken part in various types of rally and circuit races
- Numerous invoices present detailing mechanical maintenance and repairs during current ownership
- Stored in a garage throughout current ownership
Condition
- Classically finished in white with olive green stripe
- Front bumper removed
- Quick release bonnet with key pins
- Solid, straight three-door bodywork
- No obvious signs of corrosion or accident damage
- Genuine British-made Minilite alloy wheels (including spare)
- Heavily modified interior
- Fitted with roll-over bar
- Bespoke dashboard
- Treadplate applied to floors
- Sparco seats and safety harness
- Circuit breaker installed
Powertrain
- 1.6-litre twin-cam Lotus engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Competition fuel tank
- Trunk-mounted battery
- Heavy duty electric fuel pump
- Completely rebuilt engine and gearbox (€11,000 invoices available in the photo gallery)
BEFORE BUYING
This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights under EU consumer protection legislation do not apply. Car & Classic's returns policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your bid is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is where is" basis and without warranty. A full vehicle inspection prior to purchase is strongly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final Auction or Bid price, as specified in the advert.
✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic can refer you to a third-party transport company. For more details, please email [email protected]. Prices start at €150 + VAT within the same country or €400 + VAT for cross-border journeys.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1966
- Make Ford
- Model Cortina
- Colour White
- Odometer 14,743 Kilometres
- Engine size 1600
Listing Details
- Seller type Private
- Town Nice
- Location International
- Country France
The Gallery
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