Strengths
- Rare fastback in high-spec GXL
- Fully overhauled with around €14,500 invested
- NOS parts from a Ford Taunus, Escort and Capri specialist
- History file including invoices and MOTs dating back to 1995
- The car has absolutely no rust or filler
- No play in the steering and excellent handling on the winding country lanes
The Appeal
The Ford Taunus TC1 fastback was Ford Germany’s sporty reply to Europe’s appetite for Mustang-style driving in the early 1970s. In GXL trim, the top of the range, it was fitted with integrated fog lamps, a vinyl roof, an additional central dash, premium trim and the more powerful 1.6 L engine developing 88 hp. Alongside the Capri, it remains one of the most memorable Ford Europe silhouettes of that era, and surviving coupes are now rare.
The snout of the Ford Taunus TC1 Coupé is the work of Bunkie Knudsen. One of Knudsen’s curious legacies during his short stint at Ford was the introduction of long “noses” on the grilles of certain Ford models (LTD, Mercury Cougar, Thunderbird). According to the widely accepted version, they were inspired by the front ends of Pontiacs from the late 1960s. Knudsen was Pontiac’s general manager from 1956 to 1961 and is credited with dramatically changing the division’s reputation and boosting sales. Thus, even though he held other roles at GM after being dismissed by Ford, he is likely to have kept an eye on Pontiac with a paternal view.
The snout of the Ford Taunus TC1 Coupé is the work of Bunkie Knudsen. One of Knudsen’s curious legacies during his short stint at Ford was the introduction of long “noses” on the grilles of certain Ford models (LTD, Mercury Cougar, Thunderbird). According to the widely accepted version, they were inspired by the front ends of Pontiacs from the late 1960s. Knudsen was Pontiac’s general manager from 1956 to 1961 and is credited with dramatically changing the division’s reputation and boosting sales. Thus, even though he held other roles at GM after being dismissed by Ford, he is likely to have kept an eye on Pontiac with a paternal view.
This 1973 example in Roman Bronze Metallic was built at Ford’s Genk plant in Belgium for the French market and has been in the South of France since at least 1995, its history traced by owners in Tarn-et-Garonne, Haute-Garonne, Pyrénées-Orientales and Var. Under current ownership since September 2024, it has undergone substantial restoration after hail damage to the body, with NOS parts from Charron Auto Retro, a recognised Ford specialist. The mechanical programme included a engine overhaul, brake service and new seals throughout the vehicle.
Inside, the light beige cabin presents well, the seats retaining their original beige colour and the new mats completing the period character. The seating is closer to contemporary than old, meaning long distances won’t fatigue your back as with many older cars. Minor wear is noted on the climate control display, the lower storage pockets and the central console armrest cover, with a small crack on the upper dashboard cap.
Key Information
- Mileage: 68,578 km (indicated)
- Country of registration: France
- MOT status: valid until April 2028
- Technical specifications: petrol 1.6 L four-cylinder, 88 hp, four-speed manual, rear-wheel drive, final drive ratio 3.89:1
- Documents: Registration certificate; historical file of invoices and MOT certificates dating back to 1995
The Detail
- Full respray in Roman Bronze Metallic completed in late 2025, covering the engine bay, body, sills and boot
- NOS replacement bonnet from Charron Auto Retro in October 2025
- Vinyl roof replaced with a satin black paint finish with a vinyl-like texture
- The chrome trim replaced with NOS parts where available, or restored; the lower boot trim strip is new
- GXL badges on the rear roof pillars replaced and new gear lever knob fitted
- Engine rebuilt and repainted in Ford Blue
- Oil seals, leaks and brakes all addressed during the mechanical service
- New engine mount installed, addressing a slight defect noted at the last MOT
- New handbrake cable
- Sports suspension installed
- New Vitour Formula RWL tyres fitted in March 2026
- Power switch added
- Recent beige-coloured seats with headrests, longitudinal and recline adjustment
- New beige carpets throughout
- The seller states the steering wheel is in very good condition
- Sunroof presents well
- Dashboard and gauges operate; the original clock does not work
- Small crack noted on the upper dashboard cap
- Normal wear on the climate control display, lower pockets and edge of the central armrest lid
- Subtle, removable 'GT' side-body stripe matching the chrome
- Radio with CD player installed
- NOS ignition barrel kept in reserve as a spare
- 13-inch wheel with spare wheel provided
- Always kept indoors; currently stored in a secure garage
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By placing a bid and/or making an offer, you also accept the following points:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means EU consumer protection laws do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
✓ We require payment of a non-refundable fee if you are the successful bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and the T&Cs for the specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold as seen”, on an “as is” basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are for guidance only and it is customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer’s fees. VAT may be included or excluded from the final bid or offer, as stated in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction for you as well, and to that end we have all UK-registered cars and motorcycles checked via an online HPI check to ensure they do not show as written-off or stolen and that there is no financial owing on them, allowing you to bid with confidence.
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