Highlights

Single-family ownership since 1971
Starts and drives following recent recommissioning after approximately 10 years in storage
Original wheels retained in good condition and included in the sale alongside the currently fitted deep-dish 'Mexico' alloys
The vendor reports the interior to be in very good condition and all original

The Appeal

The third generation of the Cortina was a step change for the legendary British saloon - inspired by the marque's Americana routes with a more 'blocky', aggressive stance, improved trim and a host of new equipment. A characterful retro classic at its finest, and in a colour scheme like this one - green over cream - it's a particularly evocative profile.

Bought new by the seller's grandfather in 1971, affectionately christened 'Bessie', and kept within the same family ever since, this car has reportedly been garaged for its entire life, and following approximately 10 years of undisturbed storage, has recently been recommissioned with a new battery, cleaned spark plugs, and a primed fuel pump. We're told it starts and drives well.

Now, this distinctively '70s classic is ready and waiting for a cosmetic restoration. There is considerable surface oxidisation to note, along with some trim items requiring attention, but the vinyl roof, interior, and underside all present encouragingly well, and we're content that it'll prove a very rewarding classic car.

History and Paperwork

First registered in 1971 in the United Kingdom
Purchased new by the seller's grandfather and retained within the same family since
The seller's father drove the car briefly before passing it down to the seller in 2000
Affectionately known as 'Bessie'
The vendor notes that the car brought them home from the hospital in 1977!
Always garaged throughout its life
Stored and undriven for approximately 10 years prior to recent recommissioning
No service or MOT history paperwork available, though the seller has knowledge of the car's history through family ownership
New clutch fitted in 1997
New alternator fitted around 2005
Battery replaced, spark plugs cleaned, and fuel pump primed as part of recommissioning after storage
The odometer shows 83008 miles
MOT-exempt
A flat bed maybe recommended if going any considerable distance

The Condition

Green body with a cream vinyl roof
Considerable surface corrosion on the bonnet and around other parts of the car
There is a bit of heavy corrosion underneath the back bumper drivers side and front driver side but nothing that can't be fixed
Underneath there is some surface oxidization but structurally she looks sound
Sharp vertical dent on the boot, approximately three quarters of an inch long
Rear passenger wheel arch trim has begun to detach
Trim around the front bumper has cracked and needs replacing
The vendor reports the vinyl roof to be in very good condition with no cracks or peeling
Underside reportedly solid; previous MOTs required some welding
Currently fitted with deep-dish Mexico alloys; original wheels in good condition and included in the sale
A CD/radio player has been fitted to the dashboard
The car needs restoration work
There is a bit of heavy corrosion underneath the back bumper drivers side and front driver side but nothing that can't be fixed

The Mechanics

1.6-litre Pinto four-cylinder engine
Four-speed manual transmission
Believed to be very mechanically standard
Oxidisation around the water pipe leading to the engine was cleaned and the jubilee clip replaced
No apparent loss of water, oil or overheating
Reportedly starts on the third turnover every time, which the vendor states has always been the case
They further note there are no known or noticeable issues with the gearbox or clutch
Has only been on some short test drives, but is reportedly driving well

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.