"The second incarnation of the Cortina was designed by Roy Haynes and launched on 18th October 1966, four years after the original Cortina. Although the launch was accompanied by the slogan 'New Cortina is more Cortina', the car, at 16' long, was fractionally shorter than before. Its 2½ inches of extra width and curved side panels provided more interior space. Other improvements included a smaller turning circle, softer suspension, self-adjusting brakes and clutch, together with the availability on the smaller-engined models, of a new five-bearing, 1300cc engine. A month later, in August, the 1300 received a new crossflow cylinder head design making it more efficient, while a crossflow 1600 replaced the 1500. The Cortina was Britain's most popular new car in 1967, achieving the goal that Ford had been trying to achieve since it set out to create the original Cortina back in 1962. Period reviews were favourable concerning both the styling and performance. Again, two-door and four-door saloons were offered with base, Deluxe, Super, GT and, later, 1600E trims available. Originally registered on 11th August 1967, this Mk. II Cortina is one of only seven pre-crossflow Crayford convertibles. With Mk. II 1500GT numbers remaining in single figures, this could well be the only Crayford convertible left making this a rare opportunity to purchase a piece of motoring history. Full photographic evidence is available of the restoration and the car presents in very good order throughout. The mileage of 64,226 miles is thought to be correct but not warranted. The car is supplied with a V5C registration document, a full year’s MoT test certificate and a history file. With classic Fords being in huge demand of late, this Cortina 1500GT is highly desirable in its own right; add to that the Crayford conversion and we expect this exceptionally rare stylish Ford to create significant interest. Why not enjoy the summer months in an instantly recognisable classic.
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