1965 Ford Lotus Cortina Evocation

Lot details
Registration No: AVG 45D
Chassis No: BA84EE32846
Mot Expiry: Dec 2012

Ford were looking to race the MkI Cortina in the Group 2 category, for which 1,000 'homologation specials' would be required. The obvious powerplant was the twin-cam version of the ubiquitous Ford 'Kent' engine that Lotus genius Colin Chapman had already developed for use in the Elan. A deal was struck and the Lotus Cortina was born in 1963. The model was based on the two-door Cortina. In addition to the 105bhp 1558cc twin-cam engine, the changes included: a close-ratio gearbox, shorter front suspension struts, and trailing arms and coil springs with 'A' bracket at the rear. Wider 5.5J steel wheels were added and aluminium used for the doors, bonnet and boot (though, these lightweight panels later become optional). The cars also received front quarter bumpers, Lotus badges on the rear wings and right side of the radiator grille. Interior amendments included: a new centre-console to house the remote control gear lever, different seats and facia, and a wood-rim steering wheel.

With original Lotus Cortinas now priced beyond the reach of many enthusiasts, more and more are creating their own evocations. 'AVG 45D' differs from most in having had genuine Lotus mechanicals inserted into a standard four-door Cortina shell - arguably the '60s equivalent of a BMW M3 Saloon that could perhaps have sold in quantity had it been built in period. Fastidiously executed by a mechanical engineering lecturer from Loughborough University, the car is nicely finished in White with Red side stripe and matching Red interior. The only hints of what lie below are the lowered stance, front quarter bumpers, Lotus wide rim steel wheels and a matt black grille. Reportedly balanced, blueprinted and benefiting from high-lift camshafts, the reworked 'twin cam' engine is thought to be developing circa 125bhp. Offered complete with a fresh MOT and historic class (free) tax disc valid until November 2012, 'AVG 45D' provides a unique opportunity to purchase Lotus performance and fun for ordinary Ford money.