1966 Lotus Cortina Mk1

The legendary Lotus Cortina was built to compete in the European Group 2 Touring Car Class of the 1960s and quickly became one of the fastest sports saloons of its era. With a 1,558 cc twin-cam engine, Lotus transmission, and radically modified underpinnings, Cortinas became serious racing contenders, campaigned with success by drivers such as Jim Clark, Jackie Stewart, Jack Sears, Vic Elford, and Jacky Ickx. In fact, Jim Clark won the 1964 British Saloon Car Championship in his works-prepared Mk1.

This outstandingly original example was sold new in Texas by Kenray Ford Sales Inc. of Dallas to Charles Barnes, and the title was issued in his name on May 10, 1967. Mr. Barnes retained ownership of the high-performance British Ford until mid-2013, the car displaying just 18,500 miles after 46 years. The consignor purchased the car in 2014 and, seeking optimal running and driving characteristics, had extensive mechanical work performed. Invoices totaling more than $20,000 from 2015 through 2017 document this work to the engine, suspension, brakes, and other systems. A testament to its impressively original condition, the consignor states that the Cortina retains largely original paint. Rarely are Lotus Cortinas as well preserved as this example is, and very few remained in long-term single ownership. With its excellent provenance and recent mechanical work, this Cortina offers a perfect opportunity to acquire a great candidate for rallies, tours, and spirited driving of all kinds.