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1963 Lotus Cortina Mk1

Lot Number: 80017

1963 Lotus Cortina Mk1

An early and well-known 1963 Lotus Cortina Mk1, recently restored over six years by a marque expert using a period-correct GT shell. Longtime UK rally entrant, now in superb condition and ready for the next chapter.

ESTIMATE: £28,000 - £32,000

including buyer's fee of 6% plus VAT

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TIMED AUCTION: This lot was auctioned on Thursday 13th November, 2025 at 7.00pm local time

DRIVE
RHD
REG NUMBER
AFE 718A
ODOMETER READING
721 Miles

SUMMARY

DESCRIPTION

Background:
The Lotus Cortina came into being through a collaboration between Ford and Colin Chapman, aiming to dominate saloon car racing and meet Group 2 homologation requirements. Built at Lotus’s Cheshunt facility, the new model featured a twin-cam version of the Kent engine, revised suspension, lightweight components, and distinct styling including the now-iconic green side stripe. These purposeful machines quickly earned their place in motorsport history, offering both performance and pedigree in equal measure.

The Car:
Registered in 1963, 'AFE 718A' is an early Lotus Cortina Mk1 with a long-standing reputation in UK club rallying, having competed for many years under the stewardship of a trio of friends. The car was well maintained throughout its competitive life, but the demands of rallying ultimately took their toll on the original shell.

The car was then placed into storage, alongside a 1963 Cortina GT of the same year. One of the long-time custodians, an engineer with extensive experience in classic Fords, embarked on a comprehensive restoration project, combining both cars into what is now a fully rebuilt and superbly presented Lotus Cortina. The restoration took six years to complete, using new or reconditioned OEM parts throughout, and is documented by a detailed photographic record and numerous invoices.

The car was correctly re-shelled using the 1963 GT body and has been mechanically renewed to a high standard. The twin-cam engine has been tuned and road-tested, and the car has been dynamically set up by a specialist intimately familiar with the model. The rev counter, previously noted as inoperative, has recently been repaired. The underside of the car is particularly impressive, reflecting the quality of the restoration, and is well documented in the image gallery.

Fit-for-purpose and free of unnecessary additions, this Lotus Cortina honours its motorsport legacy. It offers a rare opportunity to acquire an early example that remains true to the spirit and driving character that has made these cars so enduringly respected.

Location: Northern Ireland
Seller: Private
Photography: Vendor Supplied

SPECIFICATION

Lot Number: 80017
Make: LOTUS
Model: CORTINA
Registration Number: AFE 718A
MOT Expiry: Exempt
Chassis Number: Z74C073197
Engine Number: LP21372LBA
Transmission: Manual

GALLERY

SPECIALIST

Justin Dawkins
Car Specialist
07718 140398
justin@iconicauctioneers.com

Email Justin
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