Ford

Introduced in September 1962, the Ford Cortina was developed as a straightforward, affordable family car to compete directly with the BMC 1100 and other compact saloons. Lightweight, simple in construction and inexpensive to build, it quickly became a sales success in the UK and export markets. Initially powered by 1,198 cc and 1,498 cc engines, the range expanded to include estate versions and, in 1963, the legendary Lotus Cortina, developed for homologation and motorsport success. A facelift in 1964 brought revised front styling and improved trim. 

1963

1964

Launched in October 1966, the Cortina Mk II was an evolution rather than a revolution. It retained the basic mechanical layout of its predecessor but adopted sharper, more angular styling in line with mid-1960s design trends. The interior was more spacious, refinement improved, and the engine range broadened to include updated Kent units as well as larger crossflow engines. Performance versions remained important, including the Lotus Cortina Mk II. The model further strengthened Ford’s dominance in the fleet and private buyer markets, combining practicality, strong performance options and competitive pricing. By 1970, the Cortina was firmly embedded as a core pillar of Ford UK’s success.

Introduced in 1970, the Cortina Mk III - internally known as TC1 (Taunus-Cortina) - marked a major shift toward Ford of Europe integration, sharing its platform with the German Ford Taunus. The styling adopted a fashionable “Coke-bottle” profile with a wider stance and more American-inspired proportions. The range expanded significantly, offering multiple trim levels from basic fleet models to sporty GT and luxurious GXL variants, along with saloon and estate bodies. Engines ranged from 1,297 cc and 1,599 cc four-cylinders to larger 1,993 cc units. The TC1 reinforced the Cortina’s role as Britain’s best-selling car of the 1970s.