Registration – TBC

Chassis No. – TBC

M.O.T. – TBC

Odometer – TBC

The chassis number prefix of this superb MKI Lotus Cortina reveals it to be a Dagenham produced, right hand drive car manufactured in October 1965. That makes it one of just 1,112 built that year out of a total of 2,894 made between 1963 and 1966. Usually, we would refer to the car’s registration number here, but this example has always been a race car and hence never registered for the road. In fact, this Lotus Cortina has raced all over the world. In 1995 it was raced by Loris Beghetto. By 2006 it was in Australia with Neal Harvey who lavished much time and money on it. By 2010 it was in the Franz Wittner collection where it benefited from an engine rebuild and subsequent testing at the Nurburgring in 2011. By 2012 the Lotus Cortina was in Ian Harrison’s personal collection. Whilst in this ownership all the necessary work was done to attain an MSA Passport which was granted in 2018 and remains valid until 2028. It previously held FIA registration which has now expired but could likely be easily reinstated. Plenty of interesting paperwork is included. A truly rare opportunity to secure a bona fide race proven MKI Lotus Cortina.

This example showcases the traditional Lotus Cortina livery of Ermine White with Sherwood Green flashes and Lotus roundels. Externally there is no mistaking this car’s racing focus. The bumpers have been deleted, and front and rear tow eyes are highlighted in yellow. Both bonnet and boot are secured with alloy lock pins and a set of 6J x 13-inch Minilite wheels are fitted shod with Advan race tyres. It is noted that the original aluminium doors and boot lid are still fitted but the bonnet has been replaced with a steel item at some point. The body condition appears very good overall. The stripped out cabin is all about light weight and functionality. A full, tubular roll cage is fitted as is a Sparco race seat for the driver. A passenger seat is also fitted and both seats feature full race harnesses. Other race focuses attributes include an RRS fire extinguisher, the obligatory kill switches and a chunky Mota-Lita three spoke steering wheel.

The MKI Lotus Cortina was fitted with the legendary twin-cam version of the Ford Kent engine which benefitted from the attention of Lotus. The original units were of a 1557cc capacity and originally produced around 105bhp. This engine looks to be in great order and clearly well cared for. A big pair of DCOE Weber carburettors are noted. Other mechanical enhancements include a race fuel cell and accompanying Facet plumbing. The owner suggests that a light recommissioning may be required due to a lack of recent use.