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How much was the first Cortina?

The Ford Cortina, a classic car that became a household name in the 1960s, was first introduced in 1962. Known for its affordability, reliability, and stylish design, the Cortina quickly became one of the best-selling cars in the UK. But how much did the first Cortina cost when it hit the market? Let’s take a closer look at its pricing and historical significance.


The Launch of the Ford Cortina


The Ford Cortina was launched in September 1962 as a family car designed to compete with other popular models of the time, such as the Morris Oxford and the Vauxhall Victor. It was available in several trims, including the Standard, Deluxe, and later, the more powerful GT versions. The Cortina was celebrated for its practicality and affordability, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers.


Price of the First Ford Cortina


When the Ford Cortina was first released in 1962, its base model was priced at £573. This price included purchase tax, which was a significant factor in car pricing during that era. Adjusted for inflation, this would be approximately £12,000–£13,000 in today’s money, making it an affordable option for families and individuals looking for a reliable vehicle.


Why the Cortina Was So Popular


The Ford Cortina’s success can be attributed to several factors:



  • Affordability: The Cortina was priced competitively, making it accessible to the average consumer.

  • Reliability: It was known for its dependable performance and low maintenance costs.

  • Customization: Buyers could choose from various trims and engine options to suit their needs and budgets.

  • Stylish Design: The Cortina featured a modern and attractive design that appealed to a wide audience.


The Legacy of the Ford Cortina


The Ford Cortina went on to become one of the most iconic cars in British automotive history. Over its production run, which lasted until 1982, it evolved through five generations, each offering improvements in design, performance, and features. The Cortina’s legacy lives on as a symbol of 1960s and 1970s motoring, and it remains a favorite among classic car enthusiasts today.


In conclusion, the first Ford Cortina was priced at £573 when it debuted in 1962, offering an affordable and stylish option for car buyers of the time. Its combination of practicality, reliability, and design ensured its place in automotive history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was the Ford Cortina sold in the US?


Ford in the United States imported both the Mark I and Mark II Cortina models. The Mark II was sold in the United States from 1967, achieving 16,193 cars sold in its first year. Sales of the Mark II in 1968 were 22,983. Sales in 1969 reached 21,496.



How many Mk4 Cortina are left?


Both Mk. 4 Cortina S models are now particularly rare with less than a dozen 2.0S and just 2 of the 2.3S models thought to survive today. Any Mk4 2.3 model is a very rare car in the UK now, with only about 20 remaining according to the DVLA. The S models were discontinued when Mk.



How much is a 1966 Ford Cortina worth?


All 1966 Ford Cortina body types

YearMakeAverage value
1963Ford£ 9,800
1963Ford£ 10,300
1966Ford£ 6,400
1966Ford£ 6,100



What is the record price for the Lotus Cortina?


The Lotus Cortina Mk1 was in production until 1966 when it was replaced by the second generation Lotus Cortina Mk2. Q: What is the highest sale price of a Lotus Cortina Mk1? A: The highest recorded sale was $100,800 for a 1965 Ford Cortina Lotus Mk 1 Estate Custom on Oct 24 2020.



How much was a Ford Cortina in 1972?


In March 1972, an entry-level Cortina would cost you £963, with the most expensive version reaching £1,210. Adjust the Cortina's prices for inflation between 1972 and 2022, and it would sell for between £13,520 and £16,988 today according to the Bank of England.



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.



Did Ford make a V8 Cortina?


Ford Australia's product planners gave consideration to a TC Cortina V8. While it didn't follow through on bringing this car to life, one enthusiast has. JOIN NOW! An early 1970s Cortina with a factory-fitted V8?



What was the American equivalent to the Ford Cortina?


But back in 1964, its USDM equivalent would be the Ford Fairlane. While the Fairlane was 5,002 mm (197“) long, hulking sedan riding on a 2,934 mm (115.5“) wheelbase, with a 2.8-litre straight six (145hp) as a base engine (a 4.7/289 c.i. V8 with 271hp was available), the Cortina was a different beast altogether.



How much was a gallon of milk in 1972?


1972: 52 cents
In 1972, the cost of milk was only 52 cents a gallon. People might not have realized it at the time, but this would mark the end of a period of relative stable milk prices and beginning of rapid increases.



What would 1 pound in 1972 be worth today?


You can think of £1 in 1972 as about £10 in today's money and today's pound as 10p in 1972. It gives you an idea of why the coins were bigger back then.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.