Ford Cortina 1300 Mk 2 Automatic (1966-70)

The **Ford Cortina Mk II 1300 De Luxe** had its share of common issues, as any classic car does. Let's explore some of the typical faults associated with this model:

1. **Corrosion and Rust**:
- **Rust** is a significant concern for Mark 2 Cortinas. Original panels are scarce and expensive, but some reproduction pressings are available.
- Inspect all **inner and outer panels** carefully for signs of rust. Solid bodywork is vital, as the cost of removing rust and respraying a tatty car can be substantial.

2. **Gearbox and Synchro Problems**:
- The **gearboxes** in Mark 2 Cortinas usually suffered from **synchro problems**, causing gear change crunches and, in certain cases, difficulty getting into gear.
- Regular maintenance and proper gear shifting techniques can help mitigate these issues.

3. **Electrical System**:
- **Wiring Issues**: Intermittent electrical problems can occur due to damaged wires or loose connectors. Regularly inspect the wiring with connectors and a multimeter.
- Keep wire crimpers and connectors in your auto electrical supplies.

4. **Suspension and Handling**:
- The **suspension** and **handling** characteristics of the Cortina Mk II are unique. Some drivers love it, while others may find it more challenging.
- Regularly check components like **shock absorbers**, **bushings**, and **steering linkages** for wear.

5. **Body Panels and Paintwork**:
- The Cortina Mk II is prone to **body rust**, especially in areas like the **wings**, **sills**, and **floor pans**.
- Inspect the paintwork for signs of fading, peeling, or mismatched colors.

Remember that regular maintenance, thorough inspections, and addressing issues promptly can keep your Ford Cortina Mk II 1300 De Luxe running smoothly.
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Generations
The **Ford Cortina Mark II** had a **single generation**, which was produced from **1966 to 1970**. This second incarnation of the Cortina, designed by Roy Haynes, featured a more modern and sleek design compared to the original Cortina. It was launched globally on **18 October 1966** and became a popular model both in the UK and internationally. The Mark II Cortina was available in various body styles, including two-door saloons and five-door estates.
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Body Styles
The **Ford Cortina Mark II** was available in several body styles, catering to a wide range of preferences. Let's explore the options:

1. **Two-Door Saloon**:
- The **two-door saloon** variant offered a sporty and compact design. It was popular among buyers who wanted a stylish and agile car.

2. **Four-Door Saloon**:
- The **four-door saloon** provided practicality and ease of access. Families and commuters appreciated the extra doors for passengers and luggage.

3. **Five-Door Estate**:
- A few months after the introduction of the saloon versions, a **four-door estate** was launched. It became available on the UK market on **15 February 1967**.
- The estate version offered class-leading load capacity, making it suitable for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and business use.

4. **Convertible (Conversion)**:
- While not a factory option, some enthusiasts converted the Cortina Mark II into a **two-door convertible**. These custom conversions added an open-top experience to the Cortina lineup.

In summary, the Ford Cortina Mark II catered to various needs, from practical family transport to sporty driving. Whether you preferred a saloon or an estate, the Mark II Cortina had you covered!
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Trim Levels
The Ford Cortina Mark 2, produced between 1966 and 1970, came in several trim levels to cater to different preferences and budgets. These trim levels included:

- **Base**: The most basic version with minimal features.
- **Deluxe**: A step up from the base model, offering more comfort and convenience features.
- **Super**: Added more luxury and style elements compared to the Deluxe.
- **GT (Grand Touring)**: Focused on performance with sportier features.
- **1600E**: Introduced in late 1967, this trim combined the sporty suspension of the Lotus Cortina with luxury features like a walnut-trimmed dashboard, sports steering wheel, and full instrumentation.
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Engines
The **Ford Cortina Mark II** offered a variety of engines to suit different preferences and performance levels. Let's explore the engine options available for this classic model:

1. **1,298 cc Engine (Deluxe Models)**:
- The **1,298 cc** engine was used in **Deluxe saloons and estate cars**.
- It developed **63 bhp (gross)**, which was **5.5 bhp more** than the 1967 engine of identical capacity.

2. **1,599 cc Engine (Super Models)**:
- The **1,599 cc** engine was featured in **Super saloons and estate cars**.
- It provided **over 20% more power** compared to the previous 1,499 cc unit.

These engine options allowed buyers to choose between practicality and performance, making the Ford Cortina Mark II a versatile and popular choice during its production years.
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Performance
The Ford Cortina 1300 Mk2 (1966-1970) was a popular model known for its practicality and reliability. Here are some key performance figures:

- **Engine Power**: 62 HP (46 kW)
- **Torque**: 71 lb-ft (97 Nm)
- **Top Speed**: 82 mph (132 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: 19.6 seconds

The Cortina 1300 Mk2 featured a 1.3-litre inline-4 engine, which provided adequate power for everyday driving. It was appreciated for its comfortable ride and spacious interior.
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Spares
Certainly! If you're looking for **Ford Cortina Mark 2** spare parts in the UK and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **The Pop Shop - Ford Cortina Mk1 & Mk2 Spares**:
- **The Pop Shop** specializes in supplying parts and spares for your **Ford Cortina Mk1 & Mk2**.
- They cater to all British Ford Cortina models from **1962 to 1970** and can supply a large range of reproduction parts, New Old Stock (NOS), and good used spares.
- Whether you need trim, panels, repair sections, upholstery, or mechanical items, they have you covered.
- They also stock parts for other classic cars, from Austin to Vauxhalls.
- Visit their website: [The Pop Shop - Ford Cortina Mk1 & Mk2 Spares](http://www.cortinaparts.co.uk/pages/home%20page.html)

2. **123spareparts.co.uk**:
- **123spareparts.co.uk** offers suitable parts for your **Ford Cortina Mk2 Saloon** vehicle.
- Explore their offerings: [123spareparts.co.uk - Ford Cortina Mk2 Saloon Parts](https://www.123spareparts.co.uk/car-brands/ford/cortina-mk2-saloon-parts)

3. **Car-parts.ie**:
- Find spare parts for any **FORD Cortina Mk2 Saloon** model on **Car-parts.ie**.
- Check their catalog: [Car-parts.ie - FORD Cortina Mk2 Saloon Parts](https://www.car-parts.ie/car-brands/ford/cortina-mk2-saloon-parts)

4. **Autodoc**:
- **Autodoc** provides a wide range of spares for the **Ford Cortina**.
- Select your car model to search for suitable parts: [Autodoc - FORD Cortina Parts](https://www.autodoc.co.uk/spares/ford/cortina)

5. **Cortina Mk2 Spares**:
- **Cortina Mk2 Spares** offers Mark 2 Cortina body repair panels, engine components, transmission parts, suspension items, brake systems, clutch components, exhaust systems, and more.
- Explore their offerings: [Cortina Mk2 Spares](https://cortinamk2.co.uk/)

Remember to verify compatibility and quality when selecting parts for your Ford Cortina Mark 2.
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND FORD SPECIALIST LIST**

Ford specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Services: Maintenance, repairs, pre-purchase inspections, full restorations.
2. ACSR Ltd
o Address: 24 Antrim Road, Crumlin BT29 4DX
o Phone: 028 9446 2841
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30
o Services: Servicing, repairs, spares.
3. TrustFord Ballymena Car & Transit Centre
o Address: 14 Larne Rd, Ballymena BT42 3HB
o Phone: 0343 317 9500
o Hours: Monday to Friday 07:45 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: New and used car sales, vehicle servicing, Motability scheme.
4. TrustFord Belfast - Mallusk Car & Transit Centre
o Address: 31 Mallusk Rd, Newtownabbey BT36 4PP
o Phone: 028 9083 7700
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 18:00, Saturday 08:30 - 15:00
o Services: New and used car sales, vehicle servicing, Motability scheme.


Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. NI Vans
o Address: Tandragee, Co. Armagh
o Phone: 028 3884 9777
o Services: Repairs, servicing, MOT, PSV for both Ford vans and cars.
2. McMullan Auto Services
o Address: Armagh
o Phone: Available upon request
o Services: Servicing and maintenance for all makes and models, including Ford.
3. Approved Garages
o Location: Various locations in County Armagh
o Services: MOT, servicing, and repairs for Ford vehicles.



Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. TrustFord Belfast - Newtownards Road Ford Store
o Address: 391-397 Upper Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 3LH
o Phone: 028 9065 4687
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 18:00, Saturday 08:30 - 15:00
o Services: New and used car sales, vehicle servicing, Motability scheme.
2. TrustFord Belfast Fleet Service Centre
o Address: 16 Maryland Industrial Estate, 286 Ballygowan Road, Belfast BT23 6BL
o Phone: 028 9044 9450
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:30
o Services: Fleet servicing, repairs, and maintenance.
3. The Motor Gym
o Address: 18A Balloo Avenue, Bangor BT19 7QT
o Phone: 028 9145 3310
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00
o Services: General vehicle servicing and repairs, specialising in Ford.
4. The Dent Man NI
o Address: Bangor, County Down
o Phone: Available upon request
o Services: Dent removal and car body repairs.

Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Pat Kirk Ltd.
o Address: 53 Brookmount Road, Omagh BT78 5HZ
o Phone: 028 8225 0777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: General vehicle servicing, repairs, and maintenance.
2. Monaghan Bros
o Address: 1-3 Main Street, Lisnaskea BT92 0JB
o Phone: 028 6772 1147
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: Servicing, repairs, and MOT for Ford vehicles.


Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. Desmond Motors
o Address: 173 Strand Road, Londonderry BT48 7PU
o Phone: 028 7136 7137
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: General vehicle servicing, MOT, repairs, and maintenance2.
2. Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd
o Address: 1A Drumahoe Road, Londonderry BT47 3SD
o Phone: 028 7130 1234
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: Vehicle repairs, servicing, and maintenance.
3. ClickMechanic
o Location: Various locations in Londonderry
o Services: Mobile mechanics offering servicing and repairs for Ford vehicles.


Here are some Ford specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Pat Kirk Ltd.
o Address: 53 Brookmount Road, Omagh BT78 5HZ
o Phone: 028 8225 0777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Services: General vehicle servicing, repairs, and maintenance.
2. Approved Garages
o Location: Various locations in County Tyrone
o Services: MOT, servicing, and repairs for Ford vehicles.
3. ClickMechanic
o Location: Various locations in County Tyrone
o Services: Mobile mechanics offering servicing and repairs for Ford vehicles.
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Racing
The Ford Cortina Mark 2, including the 1300 model, was indeed raced. While the more powerful versions like the Lotus Cortina and the GT models were more commonly seen in competitive racing, the 1300 model also participated in various motorsport events. The Cortina Mark 2 had a strong presence in saloon car racing, rallies, and even ice racing during its production years.

The Ford Cortina Mark 2 had several notable racing achievements, particularly in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Here are a few highlights:

1. **British Saloon Car Championship (BSCC)**: The Cortina Mark 2 was a strong contender in the BSCC, with drivers like Frank Gardner and Sir John Whitmore achieving significant success. Gardner won the championship in 1967 driving a Cortina GT.

2. **Rallying**: The Cortina Mark 2 also made its mark in rallying. It was a popular choice for privateers and factory teams alike. The car's robust design and reliable performance made it a favorite in events like the RAC Rally.

3. **European Touring Car Championship (ETCC)**: The Cortina Mark 2 competed in the ETCC, where it faced off against other popular touring cars of the era. It had several class wins and podium finishes.

4. **Ice Racing**: In Scandinavia, the Cortina Mark 2 was used in ice racing events, showcasing its versatility and adaptability to different racing conditions.

These achievements helped cement the Cortina Mark 2's reputation as a versatile and competitive racing car.