Lot 222 - 1970 Ford Lotus Cortina Mk. II
| Lot Number | 222 |
| Registration | BPA 140H |
| Chassis Number | BA91JE34433 |
| Engine Number | TBA |
| Odometer reading | 7,802 miles |
| Estimate | £28,000 - £34,000 |
The second incarnation of the Cortina was designed by Roy Haynes and was launched on 18th October 1966. Following on from the enormous success of the Lotus Cortina Mk. I, Ford introduced the Cortina-Lotus Mk. II in 1967 with the famous Lotus twin-cam engine now giving 109bhp. Ford renamed the Lotus version the Cortina-Lotus due to its manufacture at Ford's Dagenham plant in Essex. This came about through their move from Cheshunt to Hethel in 1966. As an aside, the well-known stripe that adorns the Ford Cortina-Lotus models was never applied by the factory and was made a dealer option only.
This example was built in December 1969 and registered on 7th January 1970 to the Milk Marketing Board in Thames Ditton. As such, this is one of the last of its type. At the time Ford were beginning to refer to these cars as the Cortina Twin Cam, however the build code for this car confirms it was built as a right hand drive manual car, in a Lotus specification factory build shell and painted in Blue Mink with black trim which it is still found in today. She is fitted with export specification opening front quarter lights, although it is unclear whether this was from new or a later upgrade. A comprehensive body restoration was undertaken in the late 90’s with photographic evidence. The Lotus engine has been rebuilt by Vulcan Engineering at Brands Hatch and now produces 126bhp and an Edwards Motorsport stainless steel exhaust system has been fitted. More recent work includes replacing the front brakes, a new clutch, suspension struts, tack control arms and refurbishing of the Lotus 5½ J wheels. The carburettors were rebuilt and overhauled by Northampton Motorsport in 2022. In 2012 the speedometer was rebuilt whilst showing 105,769 miles, currently the odometer is reading 7,802 suggesting the total mileage of this Lotus Cortina Twin Cam to be 113,571. Supplied with a V5C registration document together with a comprehensive history folder, previous owners of this car include two Lotus Cortina Committee Members. The Lotus Cortina earned an awesome reputation in its day and BPA 140H represents an opportunity to acquire an iconic piece of motoring history.
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.