Beskrivning
1972 Ford Cortina 2. 0 GXL MK III. Left Hand Drive. A rare and beautifully preserved example of Ford’s executive saloon, this 1972 Ford Cortina GXL 2. 0 was originally supplied new by Autohall Metropole in Geneva, Switzerland. Registered on 14th April 1972, the car remained in Switzerland for over fifty years and comes with a fascinating and well-documented history. The original service book remains with the car and records three stamped services by the supplying dealer, the last of which took place on 4th September 1975 at 20, 144 km. A further service was carried out on 28th August 1984 at 49, 711 km, noted by an oil change tag still present on the indicator stalk. Shortly afterwards, at 50, 399 km, the Cortina was taken off the road and placed into dry storage, where it remained carefully preserved for the next four decades.
In 2025, the car finally emerged from its long hibernation and was imported from Geneva into the United Kingdom. Although it presented in remarkably original condition, the matching-numbers 2. 0-litre engine would not turn over after so many years of inactivity. To retain the car’s authenticity, the engine was rebuilt by Paul Inch Engine Services, a highly regarded name well known for their meticulous work on classic Minis and historic racing engines.
The recommissioning process was extensive, with no corner cut. The engine was fully rebuilt, and a host of new components were fitted to ensure reliability and long-term usability. This included a new clutch kit, cambelt, water pump, full exhaust system, new brake hoses, discs, pads, shoes and cylinders. A brand-new fuel tank was also installed to replace the original, ensuring a clean and dependable fuel supply. The wheels were refurbished and now wear new Blockley tyres, and a subtle electronic ignition upgrade has been added to improve performance and starting while remaining true to the car’s original character. The car now drives superbly and remains largely as Ford intended when it left the factory.
Today, this Cortina has covered just over 51, 000 km, which equates to fewer than 32, 000 miles, a figure supported by the documentation and its long period in storage. It comes with a current MOT certificate showing no advisories, despite being MOT, tax, and ULEZ exempt under its historic status. The car presents as an honest, well-cared-for example that retains its character while benefitting from careful mechanical restoration.
A rare left-hand drive Cortina GXL with matching numbers, low mileage, and excellent provenance, freshly restored and ready to enjoy. This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire one of Ford’s finest seventies saloons, blending period charm with the reassurance of a recent and thorough mechanical overhaul.
Come and see for yourself, any inspection welcome! We take all major cards, consider part exchange, and can even deliver to your door.
For further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Additional high-quality photos and an exclusive video are available on our website and Facebook page.
