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Classics Monthly editor Simon Goldsworthy and Lancaster Insurance’s Car Clubs Manager Dave Youngs are allowed just one car each that they would recommend as a Cortina rival

SIMON GOLDSWORTHY Triumph Dolomite

Nearly as boxy as the Cortina, Triumph’s Dolomite spanned the Mk3- Mk5 eras, running from 1972-1981. Engine options were broadly comparable to those in the Ford, comprising 1300 and 1500 OHV options, plus OHC engines at 1850cc and 2.0-litres. The latter was, of course, the Sprint with its revolutionary 16-valve design. Overdrive was an option on 1500s and above, as was a three- speed auto. There was only one body available though, and that was a four- door saloon. The Dolomite offers an intriguing alternative to the Cortina, being physically smaller but with an interior that feels genuinely luxurious. It also has a thriving club scene, with decent specialist support.

DAVE YOUNGS Vauxhall Cavalier

Vauxhall were Ford’s big rival in the UK for prospective Cortina customers in the 1970s, so of course their Cavalier Mk1 has to be included as an alternative option. It ran from 1975-1981 before giving way to the Mk2, and engines over that time went from an entry-level 1.3 (actually 1256cc), through 1584cc and 1897cc to a range-topping 1979cc unit. There was no estate version, but buyers could choose initially from two and four- door saloons or a two- door coupe. A three- door hatchback was later added to the range, and there was even a convertible option in 1978-79. The Cavalier offers a very similar driving experience to the Cortina, but without carrying the Ford price premium.