How can you tell a real Lotus Cortina?
The Lotus Cortina is a legendary car that holds a special place in automotive history. Produced in collaboration between Ford and Lotus in the 1960s, this high-performance version of the Ford Cortina is a sought-after classic. However, with its popularity comes the challenge of distinguishing a genuine Lotus Cortina from replicas or modified standard Cortinas. In this article, we’ll explore the key features and details to help you identify a real Lotus Cortina.
Understanding the History of the Lotus Cortina
The Lotus Cortina, officially known as the Ford Cortina Lotus, was introduced in 1963 as a result of a partnership between Ford and Lotus. The car was designed to dominate motorsport and featured significant upgrades over the standard Cortina, including a Lotus-tuned engine, lightweight components, and improved suspension. Only about 3,300 units of the original Mk1 Lotus Cortina were produced, making it a rare and valuable collector's item.
Key Features of a Genuine Lotus Cortina
To determine if a Lotus Cortina is authentic, look for the following distinguishing features:
- Chassis Number: The chassis number is one of the most reliable ways to verify authenticity. Genuine Mk1 Lotus Cortinas have chassis numbers starting with "BA74" or "BA77" (for left-hand drive models).
- Engine: The car should have a Lotus twin-cam engine, typically with a 1.6-liter capacity. Look for the engine code "LP" stamped on the block.
- Body Modifications: The Lotus Cortina featured lightweight aluminum panels for the doors, hood, and trunk lid. Additionally, the rear suspension was modified with an A-frame setup, which is unique to the Lotus version.
- Badging: Authentic Lotus Cortinas have specific badging, including the Lotus roundel on the front grille and rear panel, as well as "Cortina" script on the sides.
- Interior Details: The interior of a genuine Lotus Cortina includes unique features such as a wood-rimmed steering wheel, special gauges, and bucket seats.
Common Pitfalls When Identifying a Lotus Cortina
While the above features are helpful, there are some common pitfalls to be aware of:
- Replicas: Many enthusiasts have converted standard Cortinas to resemble Lotus Cortinas. These replicas may look convincing but lack the correct chassis numbers and mechanical upgrades.
- Restorations: Some genuine Lotus Cortinas have undergone extensive restorations, which may involve replacing original parts. While this doesn’t necessarily make the car inauthentic, it’s important to verify the provenance and documentation.
- Misleading Badges: Adding Lotus badges to a standard Cortina is a common practice. Always cross-check other identifying features to confirm authenticity.
Tips for Buyers
If you’re considering purchasing a Lotus Cortina, follow these tips to ensure you’re getting the real deal:
- Request Documentation: Ask for any available documentation, such as the original bill of sale, service records, or restoration history.
- Consult an Expert: Have the car inspected by a Lotus Cortina expert or a reputable classic car appraiser.
- Verify the Chassis Number: Cross-check the chassis number with Lotus Cortina registries or databases to confirm its authenticity.
- Be Wary of Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True: Genuine Lotus Cortinas are rare and valuable, so a significantly underpriced car may warrant closer scrutiny.
Conclusion
Identifying a real Lotus Cortina requires attention to detail and knowledge of the car’s unique features. By examining the chassis number, engine, body modifications, and other distinguishing characteristics, you can confidently determine whether a Lotus Cortina is authentic. If in doubt, always seek the advice of an expert to avoid costly mistakes. Owning a genuine Lotus Cortina is a rewarding experience, but ensuring its authenticity is key to preserving its value and legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell if a Lotus Cortina is real?
Chief tell-tale signs are a special panel to the boot floor, extra axle radius arms, reinforced front strut top mounts, added bulkhead flitch panels, bootmounted battery, relocated horn (behind the grille) and instruments unique to the Lotus.
How fast was a Lotus Cortina?
Behind the wheel of the Lotus Cortina, you could achieve top speeds of 104 mph, with acceleration from 0 - 60 mph in 11 seconds.
How many lotus cortinas were made?
There were 3,306 Mark 1 and 4,093 Mark 2 Lotus Cortinas produced. Ford wanted to change a few things for the Mk2, the Mk1 had done all and more than they could expect in competition, but the public linked its competition wins with Lotus and its bad points with Ford.
Is a Lotus Cortina the same as a Ford Cortina?
Ford decided to hand over the car to Lotus founder Colin Champman to work his magic on it. In 1963, the Ford Cortina Lotus was born, thankfully more recognisably known as the 'Lotus Cortina', with a road-going version and a race-trim version.
Is Jim Clark a billionaire?
Clark lives the life one would expect of a billionaire, with multiple mansions, racing yachts, private jets, and a model wife.
What is the difference between Mk1 and Mk2 Lotus Cortina?
Unlike the Mk1, the Mk2 was also made in left hand drive from the start of production. The Mk2 Cortina Lotus also gained an improved and more powerful (109 bhp (81 kW; 111 PS)) engine, which was formerly supplied as the special equipment engine option on Lotus Elan and the Cortina Lotus Mk1.
How many lotus cortinas are left?
According to How Many Left, there are now only 3,814 remaining of the 4,154,902 Cortinas of all types produced between 1962 and 1982.
How much is Jim Clark Lotus Cortina worth?
Its pre-auction estimate runs at £200,000-£250,000 but it comes with huge motor racing pedigree. As well as the F1 champion, the now fully restored Lotus Cortina Mk1 was also driven by touring car champions Sir John Whitmore and “Gentleman” Jack Sears as part of the 1965 Lotus works team.
How many Lotus Cortinas were made?
There were 3,306 Mark 1 and 4,093 Mark 2 Lotus Cortinas produced. Ford wanted to change a few things for the Mk2, the Mk1 had done all and more than they could expect in competition, but the public linked its competition wins with Lotus and its bad points with Ford.
How can you tell if a Lotus is good?
Good. For much like sausage links a whole lotus root usually has three to five segments.
