Value My Classic

WHO David Aldridge MILES 108,771 PROVENANCE Stolen hire car MODS None HOW MANY LEFT 69 on road

HOW LONG HAVE YOU HAD IT?

For 35 years. It was originally an Avis hire vehicle for three years until being sold on to my brotherin-law in 1978. Unfortunately the guy who sold it to him was still hiring the car from Avis at the time, and my brother-in-law was totally unaware that he was acquiring a rented vehicle. Soon after, the car was impounded by the police and a settlement was agreed after some tricky negotiations. I then purchased the car from my brother-in-law in 1984 and used it as the family car until 1990, after which it became too unroadworthy to use.

HOW MUCH HISTORY?

I have receipts for any work that has been done and most of the MoTs going back to 1984. I decided to restore the car in 1998 and the following work was carried out over a period of a year: two new steel front wings, inner and outer sills, front and rear valances, rear wheel arches and lower rear body panels. Various bits of interior trim were replaced and I recently had the driver’s seat re-trimmed. New water pump, carburettor, brake pipes and clutch were just some of the mechanical bits I replaced. The car was then repainted in 1999 and also undersealed. Photos of the restoration progress were taken throughout and the car is now only used for local classic car shows.

WHAT’S LEFT TO DO ON IT?

Apart from keeping it looking good, I have no immediate plans for further work (I hope). It’s only done 9000 miles in the last 25 years.

HAS IT BEEN MODIFIED?

The Cortina is totally original, and is currently insured on Liverpool Victoria’s classic car scheme for £4500.