How can you tell a real Lotus Cortina?
The Lotus Cortina is a classic sports car that has become a highly sought-after collector's item. However, with the increasing value of these vehicles, there has also been a rise in the number of counterfeit or replica models on the market. To ensure you are purchasing a genuine Lotus Cortina, there are several key features you should look for.
Identifying the Authentic Lotus Cortina
The Lotus Cortina was a collaboration between Ford and Lotus, and it was produced from 1963 to 1970. To identify a real Lotus Cortina, you should look for the following:
- Unique Bodywork: The Lotus Cortina had a distinctive bodywork design that set it apart from the standard Ford Cortina. This included a lowered front end, flared wheel arches, and a unique rear end treatment.
- Engine Specifications: The Lotus Cortina was powered by a 1.6-liter Lotus-tuned engine, which produced significantly more power than the standard Ford Cortina. The engine should have the correct Lotus badging and specifications.
- Suspension and Brakes: The Lotus Cortina had a unique suspension setup and upgraded brakes to handle the increased power. These components should be consistent with the original Lotus specifications.
- Interior Trim: The Lotus Cortina had a more premium interior than the standard Ford Cortina, with features like bucket seats, a wood-rimmed steering wheel, and unique trim pieces.
- Identification Plates: Genuine Lotus Cortinas should have the correct identification plates, including the VIN number, engine number, and other identifying information.
By carefully inspecting these key features, you can help ensure that the Lotus Cortina you are considering is an authentic and original example.
Verifying Provenance and History
In addition to the physical features of the car, it's also important to verify the provenance and history of the Lotus Cortina. This includes obtaining documentation such as the original sales records, service history, and any previous ownership information. A thorough inspection by a qualified Lotus Cortina expert can also help confirm the authenticity of the vehicle.
By taking the time to carefully inspect and verify the authenticity of a Lotus Cortina, you can ensure that you are purchasing a genuine and valuable collector's item that will hold its value over time.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
