1965 Ford Cortina Estate – Lotus Twin Cam Powered

Built as a fast road-going blend of patina, period character and carefully chosen upgrades, this Mk2 Cortina wagon delivers classic small Ford charm backed by a seriously well sorted driveline and chassis package. As you can see from the image gallery, this is an honest, purpose-built retro Ford with genuine presence, strong mechanical specification and the sort of upgrades that make it incredibly rewarding to drive.

Recently driven by Colin from CAM Automotive — one of Australia’s best-known small Ford specialists — his verdict was simple: “That really is great to drive... anyone who is genuinely interested will buy it.”

Power comes from an all-steel 1610cc Lotus Twin Cam engine which was rebuilt approximately six years ago and upgraded for strong, usable performance and reliability. At this time, the head has received new valves, blueprinted valve springs and cams reground by Clive Cams to broaden torque delivery. QED vernier cam gears are also fitted. The new head gasket was fitted and the carburettors were recently removed and cleaned internally. Gear changes are taken care of by a Toyota W50 5-speed fitted with a CUBE short shifter, paired to an AP clutch pressure plate and friction disc.

An overview of the engine specification as follows:

• Special Piston Services pistons
• High pressure oil pump
• Original twin Weber 40DCOE 181 carburettors
• Electronic ignition and matching coil
• Elan Trik Bits baffled and gated sump
• External water pump conversion
• Modified Escort Twin Cam extractors
• 2.25-inch exhaust system with stainless rear muffler
• Front cam cover breather to catch tank

The suspension and braking systems have also been extensively upgraded using quality Retro Ford components and carefully selected period-style hardware, as follows:

• Struts shortened to Lotus Cortina specification
• Retro Ford standard diameter springs (175lb)
• Retro Ford height adjusters
• KMAC Stage 1 adjustable tops
• SPAX adjustable inserts
• Retro Ford alloy front hubs
• Extra-long wheel studs
• Group 1 vented discs
• HiSpec alloy 4-piston calipers
• EBC Red pads
• 0.75-inch master cylinder with revised pedal ratio
• 22mm sway bar with custom 6061 alloy double-width mounts
• Front and rear track widened

Steering has also been properly addressed. A genuine low-kilometre GT steering box sourced and then rebuilt by Yesterford. The result is sharp, direct steering feel uncommon in many early Cortinas. A Retro Ford strut brace is fitted, while replica DUNLOP wheels wear lightly used Dunlop tyres.

The rear end features Cortina GT axles and drums along with a Quaife ATB differential and genuine Ford 3.77 crown wheel and pinion. Suspension has also been upgraded with a telescopic shock conversion and adjustable SPAX rear dampers, helping deliver improved control and road manners while retaining the car’s classic character.

Fuel delivery is handled by an electric fuel pump with a dash-mounted cut-off switch, while thoughtful supporting upgrades include a classic flip-top fuel cap, Denso-style compact alternator, stainless alternator bracket and Ford Works-style Delrin top strap and adjuster. Upgraded headlights fitted with 65w globes also improve night-time visibility and usability.

The cabin strikes an appealing balance between restored detail and preserved originality, maintaining a genuine period feel while adding subtle usability upgrades. The windscreen was upgraded to a laminated unit, whilst the re-covered dashboard and fresh carpets throughout lift the presentation.

A Mountney wood-rim steering wheel with Classic Cortina centre badge adds to the vintage character, while the GT dashboard and centre console are complemented by a full set of new Speedhut gauges. Practicality is improved with a new Land Rover combination column switch and electric washer system. The restored RS2000 front seats have been retrimmed in closely matched blue vinyl with cloth inserts, and modern convenience comes via a Bluetooth audio system with front and rear Kenwood speakers. Front and rear inertia reel seat belts complete a well-considered interior package.

There is a second rolling shell, beyond restoration but retaining numerous rare spare panels and glass and a number of removed parts are available via separate negotiation. The seller notes that the kilometres shown are indicative of post engine installation use only. The total engine use is approximately 38,000kms and the total vehicle kilometres is unknown. Due to the fact that the car is currently on the Victorian club permit scheme (non-transferable), it will be sold unregistered.

This Cortina wagon is a genuine driver’s classic — combining Lotus Twin Cam performance, 5-speed usability, upgraded brakes and suspension, Quaife LSD traction and a character-filled presentation that turns heads wherever it goes. As far as classic small Fords go, this is without question one of the coolest examples that we’ve had the privilege of taking to auction and we have no doubt it will provide its next custodian with many years of motoring enjoyment.