1963 Ford Lotus Cortina FIA

Offered here is a very smart Lotus Cortina originally prepared in 2009 – 2010 by Guy Smith Motorsport for Neil Davies to full FIA-specification. It was built from a solid, accident-free shell with strength, reliability and Goodwood eligibility in mind. Since then, it has enjoyed a competitive life in historic touring car racing, with documented entries in U2TC, HSCC, BRSCC, 72nd Members Meeting Goodwood and Masters events, co-driven at times by the likes of Richard Dutton and Neil Brown.

It was subsequently acquired and raced by Nick Whale, founder of Silverstone Auctions/Iconic Auctioneers and continued to perform as a reliable, front-running entrant. Nick eventually parted with the Cortina, replacing it with his former period 'Group A' BMW M3, at which point the current owner purchased the car at a Silverstone Auctions sale in 2014.

During current ownership, the Cortina has seen only light use due to time constraints, however it has been regularly maintained and correctly stored. Alan Henderson Racing, known for their Lotus Cortina expertise, have assessed the Cortina and carried out various improvement works including upgraded suspension and half-shafts with invoices on file.

Motivation is provided by a Neil Brown Engineering full race engine, reportedly hand-assembled by Neil himself and fitted in 2013, along with various updates including front damper legs, exhaust manifold, MSD ignition, flywheel and clutch assembly, springs, starter motor and more, all supported by a history file of invoices and documentation. A 4.4 differential is currently installed.

This well presented Lotus Cortina, with that distinctive and instantly recognisable yellow stripe, has a great reputation in the paddock and comes with good provenance, including previous ownership by two well known figures in historic motorsport. It's offered with a second set of wheels and a substantial folder of documentation including its original 'buff' logbook, current V5C, a selection of old MOT certificates and tax discs, previous sales invoices and its now-expired MSA Historic Technical Passport dated 30th April 2009.

Subject to the renewal of relevant safety equipment and paperwork, it would be strong candidate for historic touring car competition or a return to prestigious events such as Goodwood, Masters, or U2TC.