What is the top speed of a Cortina?
The top speed of a Ford Cortina varies by model and year, but most production versions sit in the roughly 95–110 mph range, while the fastest variants approach about 125 mph.
The Ford Cortina, a staple of British roads from the early 1960s through the early 1980s, was produced in several generations and tuned for different markets. Performance depended on engine size, modifications, and gearing. This article outlines representative top speeds for notable Cortina variants to illustrate the range you could expect from the lineup.
Notable Cortina variants and their top speeds
Below is a concise list of representative top speeds for notable Cortina variants. Figures are approximate and can vary based on year, trim, and condition.
- Cortina Lotus (1965–1968): top speed about 125 mph (201 km/h).
- Cortina RS2000 (late 1960s–early 1970s): top speed about 125 mph (201 km/h).
- Cortina GT 1.6 (MkI/MkII): top speed around 105 mph (170 km/h).
- Cortina 2.0-litre variants (MkII–MkIII): top speed roughly 110–115 mph (177–185 km/h).
- Cortina 2.3-litre and later variants (late MkIV–MkV): top speed about 115–125 mph (185–201 km/h).
These figures reflect the spectrum of Cortinas, from relatively modest family cars to higher-performance versions developed for rallying and sportier road use. Real-world results could differ based on maintenance, drivetrain condition, and specific factory tuning.
Why top speeds varied across Cortinas
Engine size and tuning
Smaller engines in base models produced modest acceleration and lower top speeds, while larger or specially tuned units—especially the Lotus Twin Cam and 2.0–2.3-litre variants—delivered higher performance.
Weight, gearing, and aerodynamics
Heavier variants with taller gearing and different aero profiles influenced the peak attainable speed. Lightweight, performance-oriented versions often had optimized gears and reduced drag, boosting top speed.
Condition and market distinctions
Even within a single model line, regional specifications, aging components, and restoration quality could push top speeds up or down from the listed figures.
Summary
Across its history, the Cortina offered a spectrum of performance. The majority of standard models hovered around the 95–110 mph mark, while iconic performance versions like the Lotus and RS2000 could reach roughly 125 mph. For prospective owners, the key takeaway is that “Cortina” does not denote a single top speed, but a family of cars with a broad range of performances depending on the engine and tuning.
What is special about Ford Cortina?
It had a unique 1558 cc twin-cam engine by Lotus, but based on the Cortina's Kent OHV engine. Aluminium was used for some body panels. For a certain time, it also had a unique A-frame rear suspension, but this proved fragile, so the model soon reverted to the standard Cortina semielliptical rear end.
How much horsepower does a GT Cortina have?
70-78 horsepower
Standard Cortina Mk2 Engines: 1.5L (1498cc): Offered around 70-78 horsepower. 1.6L (1599cc): Offered approximately 80 horsepower, and a higher-performance version (as found in the 1600E) with around 93 horsepower.
Did a Ford GT go 310 mph?
More Ford GT Runway Racing
Makes roughly 2700 hp, and currently holds the Guiness world record for fastest street-legal standing mile car at 283.2 mph. That record was set back in 2012, however, and since then the car's gone 292 mph and now, 310.8 mph.
What is the top speed of the Ford Cortina 1600E?
The 1600E is fitted with the high-performance version of the 1600cc cross flow engine with a higher compression ratio so producing 93bhp at 5400rpm, as fitted to the GT. This gives a top speed of 96mph and 0-60 in 11.8 seconds.
