Buying Guide

Ford Cortina MkIII

‘At launch, there were 35 variants of the MkIII to choose from’

It had been eight years since the legendary Cortina name had first graced Ford’s family saloon, and after the boxy MkII it was time for a change. And buyers certainly got that, the MkIII’s launch at the 1970 Earls Court Motor Show revealing a new model that was wider and lower than its predecessor. It also featured a slightly longer wheelbase for greater passenger space, but that wasn’t what caught showgoers’ attention. What surprised many was the ditching of straight lines for altogether curvier transatlantic styling with its distinctive ‘coke bottle’ profile. This was a family Ford for a new decade, and while not everyone was sold on the bold new look, they couldn’t argue with the choice on offer.

At launch, there were 35 variants to choose from and a wealth of trim and engine options, meaning there was a model for every pocket and aspiration. The 1300 ‘Kent’ motors might have been a mite weedy but those with a bit more to spend could have the newer 1.6- and 2.0-litre Pintos. And Ford didn’t stop there, as the front suspension now featured double wishbones rather than MacPherson struts and the rear leaf springs were ditched for coil springs, improving the ride, if not the handling. As for trim levels, things started with meanlyequipped Base and L models, before heading through XL and GXL with plenty more creature comforts and delights, such as Rostyle wheels, quad headlamps, and a vinyl roof, while the 1973 2000E (for Executive) was the one to impress the neighbours, thanks to its velour and wood trim, and deep carpets. In all, Ford sold just over 1.2 million MkIIIs before the replacement MkIV arrived in 1976. Today you can secure a usable MkIII for upwards of £3000.