1966 Lotus Cortina Mark 1

1966 Lotus Cortina Mk. 1

At the start of the 1960s Lotus and Ford needed each other. Lotus was trying to develop a more cost effective replacement for the Elite and required the help of a major manufacturer. Meanwhile, Ford was struggling with its image, its products being seen by many as conservative and lacking in sporting appeal. Fearful the Cortina would suffer similarly, Ford decided a more adventurous variant was required. As Lotus was already at work on its Elan which featured many Ford parts, including a Ford based Twin Cam engine, they were obvious candidates to assist with this advanced Cortina. In January 1963, the Ford Cortina Lotus, a. k. a. Lotus Type 28 and soon to be known simply as the Lotus Cortina, was launched.

In terms of specification, the Lotus was a considerable step on from the standard car. While the 105bhp 1. 6 litre Lotus Twin Cam engine was the major feature, the transmission, suspension, steering, bodyshell and interior all received numerous alterations of varying magnitude. Finally there was a colour scheme that itself would become a key part of the Lotus Cortina legend: Ermine White with a Sherwood Green stripe down each side.

This 1966 left hand drive example was bought in California in mid-1968 by the late husband of its current owner. As such it has spent the vast majority of its life with one family and, in that time, has clocked up only a little over 55, 000 miles.

The car returned home with the family aboard the S. S. Oriana in 1971 and was first registered in the UK at that time, hence the “J” suffix plate. It has been established the car is eligible to carry an age related number, but the current owner feels its ’71 registration is a part of this car’s particular history and thus it remains in place.

Having been meticulously maintained throughout its life, including recent careful restoration work, the car now presents beautifully in its signature white and green over a black interior while maintaining an excellent level of both originality and usability. It comes accompanied by a large history file extending from its earliest days right through to the most recent work performed. Importantly it comes with a report from the Lotus Cortina Register confirming its status as a genuine Lotus Cortina and giving a detailed appraisal of its current condition.

Along with the car itself, included in the sale are a number of spare parts, including additional Lotus Twin Cam engine blocks and heads, these being very desirable items in their own right.

In conclusion, this represents a chance to acquire a modestly used, superbly documented example of a truly iconic car. Extremely eligible for a number of high profile events on the historic motoring calendar, it is a machine that would be equally at home on the show field or out on the road being enjoyed as originally intended.

£67, 900 but will consider offers.
Located near Sidmouth, Devon, UK

Please note, I am advertising this vehicle on behalf of its owner and will be handling any initial enquiries.