1969 Ford Cortina MK II

Graeme Head

Cortina History

As most folk would know the Cortina was built by Ford of Britain in various models from 1962 to 1983 and was the UK’s best seller of the 70s until the launch of the Taurus in 76. They used a lot of the same body panels as the Cortina. There were approximately 4,100 of the MK11 two-door Cortinas produced between 1966 and 1970. The MK11 was 5-5 cm wider than its predecessor, the MK1, with a much squarer shape.

In the twenty-year life 2.5 million were sold in Britain alone. The much-loved Cortina was revamped five times and has secured its place in the history books. The 1962 model was priced at 570 pounds. Months later the more powerful 60 h.p. 1500cc version came along followed by the 78hp GT.
They soon become very popular with families and many sales representatives had them. They were also a great favourite at Bathurst in the mid-1960s. In 1968 the MK 11 received the technically superior Kent cross flow engines in 1298 cc and 1598cc form.

The MK 11 two door I have had for the last 5 years was first purchased new in Newcastle in 1970. It was assembled in Australia. I purchased it of the second owner following a ‘yes, no, yes’ decision. I eventually got the car. Originally I had my heart set on a GT but missed out on two of them which were both sold out from under me. Anyway, I am very happy with this car as it comes a close second to my missus!

I love the great mate ship of our club. Keep the stories coming in as we have plenty of time on our hands. I hope everyone keeps well, or as they, say ‘keep well away’.

Graeme’s 1969 Ford Cortina MK II

Graeme Head

April, 2020