Lot 026: 1968 FORD CORTINA LOTUS MK2

Introduced in March 1967, the Ford Cortina Lotus MK2 shared much of the same high performance DNA as its illustrious MK1 predecessor. However, by moving production in-house (rather than outsourcing it to Lotus as before), the Blue Oval hoped to not only improve reliability but also to bask in more of the halo effect associated with the model. Available in a range of colours, the newcomer sported a distinctive black front grille, 5.5J x 13 wheels and Lotus badging to each rear wing. Fitted with a more powerful version (109bhp) of the 1558cc Lotus 'Twin-Cam' engine that had hitherto been optional on the Elan and MK1, the MK2 also benefited from a revised 3.77:1 final drive ratio and new remote-control gearchange. Still carrying its battery in the boot to aid weight distribution, the two-door sports saloon boasted a wider track and larger fuel tank. Riding on stiffened suspension and utilising disc / drum brakes, it provided Ford with a decent competition platform until the arrival of the Twin Cam Escorts. Better built and less temperamental than its forebear, the Ford Cortina Lotus MK2 remained in production until 1970 by which time some 4,032 are thought to have left the Dagenham gates. Finished in red with black vinyl upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good overall" condition. Said to have been "formerly owned by Stuart McCrudden who loaned its 'MRY 611F' numberplate to a white David Sutton-prepared historic rally car so that the latter could compete on the 1993 Lombard-Sydney Marathon and subsequently the 1995 London to Mexico Rally", the MK2 was then sold into a Channel Islands collection during the mid 1990s. Recently repatriated, it has since been recommissioned and MOT tested. Riding on steel wheels, this unprepossessing Cortina Lotus is offered for sale with various books / videos chronicling the exploits of the white 'MRY 611F' and a MOT certificate valid until November 2008. PLEASE NOTE: Upon the carsÆ return to the UK, import tax has been paid by the vendor and the C&E 386 form will be forwarded to the new owner enabling the car to be registered. We understand that its original UK registration number, MRY 611F, has not been reallocated and should be able to be retrieved.