Lot 153 - 1963 Ford Lotus Cortina Mk. I
| Lot Number | 153 |
| Registration | 618 FRH |
| Chassis Number | 274C065803 |
| Engine Number | LP217 |
| Odometer reading | 31,684 miles |
| Result | Sold - £42,560 |
- Restored to a superb condition
- Supplied with a wealth of paperwork and some spare parts
In 1961, Colin Chapman was commissioned by Harry Mundy to design a twin-cam version of the Ford Kent engine and its first appearance was at the Nürburgring in a Lotus 23 driven by Jim Clark. Soon after, the engine appeared in the Lotus Elan. During the engine's development, Walter Hayes at Ford asked Colin Chapman to fit the twin-cam into 1,000 Ford saloons for Group 2 racing homologation. Chapman accepted the contract and the type 28, or Lotus Cortina as it became known, was born. Whilst Ford supplied the two-door body shells and took care of the marketing, Lotus engineered the mechanical and cosmetic changes which included the 1558cc engine along with the Elan's close-ratio gearbox, front quarter bumpers and Lotus badges. They also made changes to the interior with a new centre console to accommodate the revised gear lever position, different seats and a later styled dashboard that incorporated a tachometer, odometer, oil pressure, water temperature and fuel gauges. A wood rimmed steering wheel was the finishing touch.
This magnificent Lotus Cortina was first registered on 17th June 1963 and was originally manufactured in the Lotus colours of white with a green stripe. Having been restored to a superb standard, the body colour was changed to the Alan Mann racing colours of red with a gold stripe in September 2001. With excellent door gaps and panels that are extremely straight with no rippling the quality of the restoration of this Ford is clear to see. The twin cam Lotus engine runs well with good oil pressure and the gear changes smooth. We are advised on the open road this Lotus Cortina drives well and creates a host of admiring glances. Supplied with a V5C registration document, a full years MoT test certificate and a huge history file together with a number of spare parts. Alongside the detailed ownership history, this is a very desirable and well-maintained example and is a great opportunity to own one of these highly sought-after and collectable classics.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.