1970 Ford Cortina Lotus

Lot details
Registration No: CYG315H
Chassis No: BA9115T17534
Mot Expiry: July 2010

Introduced in March 1967, the Ford Cortina Lotus MK2 shared much of the same high performance DNA as its illustrious MK1 predecessor. However, by moving production in-house (rather than outsourcing it to Lotus as before), the Blue Oval hoped to not only improve reliability but also to bask in more of the halo effect associated with the model. Available in a range of colours, the newcomer sported a distinctive black front grille, 5.5J x 13 wheels and Lotus badging to each rear wing. Fitted with a more powerful version (109bhp) of the 1558cc Lotus 'Twin-Cam' engine which had hitherto been optional on the Elan and MK1, the MK2 also benefited from a revised 3.77:1 final drive ratio and new remote-control gearchange. Still carrying its battery in the boot to aid weight distribution, the two-door sports saloon boasted a wider track and larger fuel tank. Riding on stiffened suspension and utilising disc / drum brakes, it provided Ford with an effective competition platform until the arrival of the 'Twin-Cam' Escorts. Better built and less temperamental than its forebear, the Ford Cortina Lotus MK2 remained in production until 1970 by which time some 4,032 are thought to have left the Dagenham gates.
H&H are indebted to the vendor for the following description: "Finished in red and gold as a tribute to the famous Alan Mann-prepared racers, this particular example was re-shelled some 4/5 years ago because its original monocoque was suffering from excessive rot and therefore beyond repair. I am not sure if the current shell is a correct Cortina Lotus one or not but it was obviously chosen for its superb un-welded and corrosion free condition. The engine was overhauled at the time of the re-shell and has covered minimal mileage since. All of the mechanicals appear to be in first class order and the Lotus tie bars are present on the rear axle. The car drives very well and rides on four very rare but refurbished Dunlop D1 period alloys shod with fresh tyres. The log book shows a 'BA91'-prefix chassis number which is correct for a Lotus Cortina. All work was carried out by a well respected specialist".