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Ford Ford Cortina

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Ford Cortina: A Comprehensive Guide

The Ford Cortina was a hugely popular family car produced by Ford of Britain from 1962 to 1982. Bridging the gap between smaller cars like the Anglia and larger saloons like the Zephyr/Zodiac, the Cortina was designed to be affordable, practical, and appealing to a wide range of buyers. It played a significant role in shaping the British and international automotive landscape and remains a fondly remembered classic.

Generations of the Ford Cortina

  • Cortina Mk I (1962-1966)
    • Key Changes: Launched with a distinctive "Aeroflow" styling featuring a sharply creased body. Initially available with 1200cc and later 1500cc Kent engines. Notable models included the Lotus Cortina, a high-performance variant with a Lotus-developed twin-cam engine. The estate version was introduced in 1963.
  • Cortina Mk II (1966-1970)
    • Key Changes: Introduced a more rounded, less angular design. Engine options included 1300cc, 1600cc, and later, the 1600E with improved trim and features. Improved suspension and braking systems were also implemented. Offered as a two-door, four-door saloon and estate.
  • Cortina Mk III (1970-1976)
    • Key Changes: A complete redesign, heavily influenced by the Ford Taunus TC in Germany. Featured "coke bottle" styling and a wider range of engine options, including the Pinto OHC engine in 1.3, 1.6, and 2.0-liter variants. Popular models included the GXL with sporty trim and the 2000E with luxury features.
  • Cortina Mk IV (1976-1979)
    • Key Changes: While visually similar to the Taunus TC2, the Mk IV was a separate model with detail differences. A more conservative styling compared to the Mk III. Engine options remained largely the same as the Mk III. Offered as a two-door, four-door saloon and estate. Improved interior ergonomics and comfort.
  • Cortina Mk V (1979-1982)
    • Key Changes: Essentially a facelift of the Mk IV, featuring revised styling elements such as larger headlights, integrated bumpers, and improved interior trim. Engine options were carried over from the Mk IV. The Crusader special edition was a popular model offering enhanced equipment levels. This was the final Cortina model before being replaced by the Ford Sierra.

Reliability & Common Issues

The Ford Cortina, while generally robust for its time, is now a classic car and subject to the wear and tear associated with age. Common issues vary depending on the generation but some are prevalent across the range:

Engine

  • Kent Engine (Mk I & Mk II): Generally reliable but can suffer from oil leaks and wear in the valve gear. Regular maintenance is crucial. The distributor can also be problematic.
  • Pinto Engine (Mk III, Mk IV, Mk V): More prone to head gasket issues, particularly if overheated. Timing belt replacement is essential to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Carburetor issues can also occur.
  • Cooling System: Overheating is a common problem, especially in older models. Check for leaks in the radiator, hoses, and water pump. Ensure the cooling system is properly flushed and maintained.

Transmission

  • Manual Gearboxes: Generally reliable, but wear and tear can lead to difficulty shifting, especially into second gear. Clutch wear is also a common issue.
  • Automatic Gearboxes: Prone to slipping and delayed shifts if not properly maintained. Fluid changes are crucial.

Suspension & Steering

  • Suspension: Bushes and ball joints wear over time, leading to vague handling and knocking noises. Regular inspection and replacement are necessary. Leaf springs on estate models can sag.
  • Steering: Steering boxes can develop play, leading to imprecise steering. Power steering, if fitted, can suffer from leaks.

Bodywork & Electrics

  • Rust: Rust is the biggest enemy of the Cortina. Check for rust in the usual areas: sills, wheel arches, floor pans, door bottoms, and around the windscreen. Repairing rust can be expensive.
  • Electrics: Lucas electrics, common in British cars of this era, can be temperamental. Wiring can become brittle with age, leading to electrical faults. Check for corrosion in connectors and ensure all lights are working.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of a Ford Cortina varies depending on the generation and model. However, some general characteristics apply:

Pros:

  • Affordable and Accessible: The Cortina was designed to be an accessible family car, and this still holds true today, compared to some other classic cars.
  • Simple Mechanics: Relatively simple mechanicals make maintenance and repairs straightforward, especially for those with basic mechanical skills.
  • Classic Car Charm: Offers a nostalgic and charming driving experience that is different from modern cars.
  • Parts Availability: Parts are generally readily available, although some specific trim pieces may be difficult to find.

Cons:

  • Age and Condition: Age-related issues and potential rust are major concerns.
  • Performance: Performance is modest by modern standards, especially with smaller engines.
  • Handling: Handling is not as precise or responsive as modern cars.
  • Safety: Safety features are limited compared to modern vehicles.

Buying Advice

Buying a Ford Cortina requires careful consideration and a thorough inspection. Here's some advice:

What Years to Look For:

  • Mk II: The Mk II is generally considered a well-balanced and desirable model.
  • Mk III GXL/2000E: These models offer a good blend of performance and luxury.
  • Mk V Crusader: The Crusader is a well-equipped and popular special edition.
  • Later models (Mk IV & Mk V): tend to have more modern features (relatively speaking for a classic car) and could be in better condition due to being newer.

What to Avoid:

  • Cars with Extensive Rust: Walk away from cars with significant rust unless you are prepared for a costly restoration.
  • Cars with Poorly Maintained Engines: Avoid cars with obvious engine problems, such as excessive smoke, knocking noises, or signs of overheating.
  • Cars with Heavily Modified Components: Unless the modifications are well-documented and professionally done, avoid cars with heavily modified components as they can affect reliability and originality.

Key Inspection Points:

  • Rust: Check all the usual rust-prone areas thoroughly.
  • Engine: Check for leaks, smoke, and unusual noises. Compression test is recommended.
  • Transmission: Check for smooth gear changes and clutch engagement.
  • Suspension: Check for worn bushes, ball joints, and shocks.
  • Electrics: Check all lights, gauges, and accessories.
  • Interior: Check for wear and tear on seats, carpets, and trim.

Final Tip: Join a Ford Cortina owners club. They can provide invaluable advice, support, and access to parts and expertise.

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