‘We’ve struck gold with our new Ford’

Your tales of the latest classic car deals. This week, Paul buys a car he helped to restore

What made you want a Cortina?

We sold our Daimler V8 and ended-up with a classic-car shaped hole in our lives to fill. The Cortina fitted there nicely. Once you have a classic car, the enjoyment they give you never goes away, so being out on the road again in a classic is a lovely feeling.

Tell us about this one.

I’ve known it for 16 years and was involved in restoring it. The owner was very reluctant to let it go, but I think it helped them knowing it was going to be looked after. It has a 1700cc Burton Engine and is finished in Amber Gold with all new panels.

Why did you pick this specific example? Did you see any others?

I always knew this was the one I wanted. I’ve owned two Cortina MKIIS before, so I knew what I was getting into and I know how much I’m going to enjoy having this one. The fact I know every nut and bolt on this car made it an easy decision when deciding whether to buy it.

Has it been a joy to own?

We’re very much looking forward to using the car, and so far are really pleased with our investment. Having been involved with the restoration, seeing the finished car means a lot to me. We’ve already fitted refurbished Rostyle wheels – which are correct for the car – and it drives really well. That Burton engine makes it sound really sprightly and I hope others get the same smile when I drive past as I do from behind the wheel.

What are your plans for it now?

That’s easy – I wasnt to drive it as much as possible! With spring on the way and a new classic to enjoy, that’s exactly what I plan to do. I’m really looking forward to using this car as much as possible and making sure that it is well looked-after. Using the car often will help me stay on top of any issues that might crop-up and it will also give me the most enjoyment out of the car – it’s what we own classics for, isn’t it?

CCW. The best thing you can do for your classic is to drive it as often as you can. It not only makes sure all that hard work in the restoration is worth it, but also helps make sure everything is working as it should. Hopefully Paul is going to have a summer filled with some happy trips in the Cortina, and will make some new memories to go with the happy times he had with his previous two Cortinas.’