Buying Guide
The Cortina was one of the stars of the 1962 Earls Court show, and went on to become one of Ford’s big hitters. Here’s what to look for if you’re thinking of buying one
Ford Cortina MkI
With more than a million produced, the Cortina was the car that provided sensible and reliable transport for legions of families and salesmen. Its arrival in 1962 marked the beginnings of a badge that would endure for 20 years. Originally available in two-door form only, its family-friendly credentials were soon boosted by the arrival of the four-door variant, then the even more practical estate in 1963. That was the same year the slightly weedy 1200 engine was joined by a 60bhp 1500, which made ploughing the nation’s A-roads and recently opened M1 motorway a little bit more pleasant, while those after a sportier offering didn’t have long to wait. The tasty GT boasted 78bhp and uprated suspension.
Autumn 1964 saw the first major facelift, with buyers getting front disc brakes across the range, as well as the innovative Aeroflow ventilation system. Production drew to a close two years later as the larger MkII model was waiting in the wings.
You only have to spend a few moments in the company of the original to see why its appeal is so strong. The blend of space and easygoing driveability makes it an effective and usable daily classic, and it’s easy to maintain on a DIY basis while benefiting from excellent club support and parts availability. There’s plenty of modification potential, too, all of which explains why values have continued to rise over the last few years.
Aim for a four-door 1500 and you’ll need to part with upwards of £2500 for a sound one that you can use and improve, but that’s still cracking value for such a practical and amenable classic.
It may not be the sort of car to have you jumping up early for a Sunday morning blast, but for everything else it’s just about perfect.
‘Easygoing driveability makes it a usable daily classic’