Lot details Registration No: T.B.A. Chassis No: BA85EG59584 Mot Expiry: Nov 2011
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 (or Cortina Lotus in Ford speak) was born in 1963.
The car was based on the two-door Cortina. In addition to the fitting of 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 lightweight aluminium panels were used for the doors, bonnet and boot. The cars also received front quarter bumpers, while Lotus badges were fitted to the rear wings and right side of the radiator grill. Interior amendments included: a new centre-console to house the remote control gear lever, different seats and fascia, and a wood-rim steering wheel. All cars built at the Lotus factory were finished in white with distinctive green side stripes.
The MKI model was made until 1966, during which time the most significant upgrades included the adoption of Ford's new 'Airflow' ventilation system and the replacement of the troublesome 'A' bracket rear suspension with leaf springs and radius arms. Homologation was granted in September '63 and the cars immediately showed their potential. The following season Jim Clark won the British Saloon Car Championship in one and countless other laurels were accumulated in both racing and rallying.
The right-hand drive car offered is a late MKI example made in 1966, but was re-engineered as a competition car in 2008/2009. Freshly finished in the classic white with green stripes colour scheme, it is understood to have undergone a bare metal / ground-up restoration and to have been treated to many new parts, including two sets of wheels. The car apparently comes complete with a large file of photos and bills relating to the work done, plus the all important MSA Historic Technical Passport. Reportedly tested but as yet unraced, this fast Ford is said to be sorted and ready for the 2011 season. The Lotus Cortina's specification is too long to detail here but highlights include:
Engine: Assembled in 2009 by Ray Sherrett using various John Smirthwaite-supplied but FIA Appendix K compliant parts (e.g. ported / bench flow tested cylinder head and exhaust manifold / system). Fitted with a high torque starter and twin 45 DCOE carburettors, the unit recorded 166bhp and 130lbft of torque during a February 2009 dyno test (see accompanying sheet).
Gearbox: Original type cast iron gear case fitted with Quaife straight-cut gear set (period ratios) plus alloy bellhousing, tail housing and remote assembly.
Rear Axle: Alloy differential casing, extensive internal axle case strengthening and modified half shafts.
Steering and Suspension: High ratio steering box, 1-inch anti-roll bar, modified track rod ends, heavy-duty front crossmember, Spax Classic Krypton gas shock absorbers and selection of front springs.
Body and Interior: Custom Cages rollover cage, Sparco Evo 2 Plus seat, Willans six-point harness, electric Spa 'Firesense' extinguisher, original style period dashboard and instruments. Fuel tank assembly by Gartrac. Four new alloy wheels plus four original steel wheels (excellent condition).
PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle has an MOT until November 2011.
PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle is currently going through a registration number transfer.
All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.
You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:
If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035