Ford Cortina 1966 - MK1

This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2025 on Saturday the 8th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. , 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 and 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 1,558cc 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.According to a letter from the general secretary of the Lotus Cortina Register in the accompanying history file, LXD 300D is a 'genuine example of a Cortina Lotus'. Finished in Ermine White with the instantly recognisable Sherwood Green flash, this particular early Lotus Cortina Mk1 is in very good condition throughout after being totally rebuilt between 2012 – 2016 by Lotus Cortina expert Colin Ginn.Purchased by our vendor in 2012 after 24 years in storage, the rebuild started straight away and included a bodyshell restoration with many new panels including new/old stock inner front wings. The original engine and gearbox were fully rebuilt as was all suspension and brakes, rebuilt carburettors, refurbished wheels, new tyres, SS exhaust, and an all new interior etc. Only around 1,500 miles have been completed since all the work was carried out and the car has always been MOT’d, even though not required, and the current certificate is valid until 18th September 2026.Fresh to the market after 13 years of private ownership, this Cortina is accompanied by an impressive history file, including the aforementioned letter from the Lotus Cortina Register. We recommend that all interested parties attend the NEC to view the car and study the file, as we believe this cherished Mk1 is more than worthy of early inspection to confirm it fulfils all your requirements. A delightful example, it promises to provide much enjoyment to its next custodian for years to come.