Legends come and go, but there are some that remain forever. And as performance car icons go, the Lotus Cortina is the most legendary of the lot.
Developed as a collaboration between Ford and Lotus and with the direct involvement of Colin Chapman, the giant-killing Cortina went on to become one of the most successful saloon car racers of all-time, as well as being a sensational road car.
This car has an interesting history, having been purchased by the previous owner through the Bangers & Cash TV series. Its previous owner was interviewed on the show and believed it to have been reshelled at some point.
The car was shipped to sports car maker Tiger Racing in Wisbech, Cambs, where it was inspected and found to most likely have a GT shell.
Tiger stripped and completely rebuilt the car, treating it to a bare metal respray in the process. It was a meticulous restoration, costing it owner over £50k all-in and resulting in the truly immaculate example you see here.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
MOT and tax exempt
Fully restored
TV-featured on Bangers & Cash
Fully restored by Tiger Sports Cars
Large photo file documenting restoration
Previous owner for over 20 years
Selection of books and service data
Featured in Tiger Racing boss Jim Dudley’s Autobiography, just published
Detail is very much of the essence with the Cortina’s cabin and while much of it has been renewed, the look in entirely sympathetic to how it would have be when new, from the six-dial dash to the period fixed safety belts.
It’s all in wonderful order, the recovered seats, carpets, roof lining and door cards all In terrific order, and delicately set-off by a three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel and matching gear knob.
THE EXTERIOR
Bare metal respray in authentic colour scheme
5.5J Lotus split rims
A-Frame conversion
Complete photographic record of body restoration
During its restoration, the Cortina was stripped back to bare metal and various areas of welding work carried out. No expense was spared and the car was then painted in Tiger’s paint booth, where it paints its new road cars.
The underside was treated to full protective treatment and then painted white to match the upper body.
Whilst stripped, the owner stipulated that he wanted the car converted to “A-Frame” specification rather than the more traditional leaf-sprung set-up, and all required new sections and arms underneath the car and in the rear boot were welded in, in a manner authentic to 1960s conversions.
The finish remains immaculate, with no marks or damage, while the detail is incredible – brand new window rubbers and new-old-stock door handles show the level of perfection sought by the owner. It sits on the correct split rim 5.5J steel wheels, with chrome hubcaps and new Goodyear tyres.
THE MECHANICS
Authentic Lotus Twin Cam engine
Engine stripped and reconditioned
GAZ adjustable shocks
Reconditioned Lotus gearbox
Mechanically, the Lotus Cortina has seen a pretty comprehensive going over. The original Lotus Twin Cam engine was stripped and reconditioned, it has a fully reconditioned Lotus gearbox and a new propshaft, for example, along with a new radiator and water pipes.
The car sits slightly lower than standard, with new Gaz adjustable front and rear and renewed brake discs and linings, including a correct original servo. It has also had many steering parts, including new track control arms and drag links.
SUMMARY
If you want to get your hands on a prime example of one of the most legendary sporting saloons of all-time, then you’ve just found it. It may not be 100% original, but this is a wonderfully restored and authentically detailed example of the original and best Lotus Cortina, presented in remarkably lovely condition and wanting for absolutely nothing.
The detail is immense, the presentation wonderful and the appeal immeasurable. A beautiful example of a wonderful car, restored by skilled engineers.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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