1966 Ford Cortina MK 2 1500GT

An extremely well presented Cortina GT...Introduced in autumn 1966, the Ford Cortina MKII was styled in-house by Roy Haynes. Employing much the same floor pan as its predecessor complete with independent front suspension, a 'live' rear axle and disc / drum brakes, it nevertheless benefited from a wider track and revised steering geometry. Second only to the MKII Cortina-Lotus, the MKII Cortina GT was initially powered by a pre-crossflow 1498cc OHV four-cylinder engine allied to four-speed manual transmission (complete with new diaphragm clutch and three-rail remote gearchange). With some 78bhp and 97lbft of torque on tap, the model had a suitably sporty feel. Further boasting an enlarged fuel tank, optional radial tyres and dashtop-mounted auxiliary instrument binnacle, it was supplanted by the commoner 1600cc crossflow version in August 1967.

Finished in Alpina Green with black vinyl upholstery, this particular example was reportedly ""the twenty-eighth MKII Cortina GT produced"". A two-door export model that still retains its correct sump / petrol tank guards and reinforced bodyshell, the Ford was supplied new in Singapore to ex-pat Mr Eardley who then returned home with it in 1970.

The subject of some bodywork restoration during the early 1990s (paint and a pair of NOS front wings) 'PUA 304D' entered the current (fourth) ownership in March 2005. Since then, the saloon is understood to have had attention paid to its ""wheel bearings, brakes, propshaft, suspension, steering, clutch, radiator, dynamo, starter motor, exhaust, differential and distributor"". Subtly upgraded with Gaz Gold black anodised adjustable front struts, it is said to ""handle like a dream but look period under the bonnet"". In 2007, we understand the cylinder head was converted to an unleaded Stage 2 specification.

This car was owned at one point by the Membership Secretary of the Lotus Cortina Club and is well-known in these circles. These early MkII GTs, with the strengthened shell, are now pretty rare and sought after by the growing band of sixties fast Ford enthusiasts. A great car for Goodwood.