Ford Cortina 2000 GT Mk 3 (1970-76)
Production Total: 1,126,559
Recorded UK 2024
All Manual Transmission
1300L Licensed=33 SORN=39
1300 XL Licensed=2 SORN=1
1600 L Licensed= 118 SORN=95
1600 GT Licensed= 102 SORN=60
1600 GXL Licensed=20 SORN=7
2000 L Licensed=5 SORN=7
2000 XL Licensed=28 SORN=27
2000 GT Licensed=46 SORN=43
2000 GXL Licensed=67 SORN=45
2000 E Licensed=63 SORN=56
The **Ford Cortina Mark III**, produced from **1970 to 1976**, faced a few common issues:
1. **Rust**: Like many other Cortinas, Mk.3s were prone to rust. Only about 1000 survive today due to this issue.
2. **Suspension Settings and NVH**: Initial problems with suspension settings and overall noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) affected sales.
3. **Void Bushes**: These could cause wiggle during tight, low-speed corners.
4. **Diff Noises**: Diff noises were common, and cam rattles were heard by local cabbies.
Despite these challenges, the Mk.3 Cortina remains an iconic car of the mid-70s, with prices rising for well-preserved examples.
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Generations
The **Ford Cortina** was produced in **five generations** from **1962 to 1982**. These generations are known as **Mark I** through to **Mark V**. Although officially, the last one was only the **Cortina 80 facelift of the Mk IV**. It became the **United Kingdom's best-selling car of the 1970s**.
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Body Styles/Variants
The **Ford Cortina Mark III**, produced from **1970 to 1976**, offered several variants to suit different preferences and budgets:
1. **Base**: The entry-level model.
2. **L (Luxury)**: Enhanced features for added comfort.
3. **XL (Xtra Luxury)**: Further upgrades, including Rostyle wheels.
4. **GT (Grand Touring)**: Sportier version with a 1.6L SOHC Pinto engine.
5. **GXL (Grand Xtra Luxury)**: Top-tier trim, featuring quad headlights and Rostyle wheels.
Engine options included the 1.3L Kent, 1.6L Kent (for non-GT models), and a 2.0L SOHC Pinto (available in all trims except the base). The Mk3 Cortina remains an iconic classic!
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Engines
The **Ford Cortina Mark III**, produced from **1970 to 1976**, offered several engine options:
1. **1.3 L Kent**: Used in models up to GT trim.
2. **1.6 L SOHC Pinto**: Found in GT and GXL trims, also available in 1600 form briefly.
3. **2.0 L SOHC Pinto**: Used in all trim levels except the base.
Additionally, in South Africa, the Mark III came with larger engines, including the **Essex V6 2.5 L** ('Big Six' L and GL) and the **Essex V6 3.0 L** (Perana, GT, and XLE). There was even a pickup truck version available!
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Performance
The Ford Cortina 2000 GT Mk3 (1970-1976) was known for its solid performance and classic styling. Here are some key performance figures:
- **Engine Power**: 98 HP (73 kW)
- **Torque**: 110 lb-ft (150 Nm)
- **Top Speed**: 105 mph (169 km/h)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 10.5 seconds
The Cortina 2000 GT Mk3 featured a 2.0-litre inline-4 engine, which provided a good balance of power and efficiency. It was appreciated for its comfortable ride and reliable performance.
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Trim Levels
The Ford Cortina Mark 3, produced from 1970 to 1976, came in several trim levels to cater to different preferences and budgets. These trim levels included:
- **Base**
- **L** (Luxury)
- **XL** (Xtra Luxury)
- **GT** (Grand Touring)
- **GXL** (Grand Xtra Luxury)
- **XLE** (Xtra Luxury Edition) - available in Australia and South Africa.
Each trim level offered varying features and engine options, making the Cortina Mark 3 a versatile choice for many drivers.
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Spares
If you're looking for **spare parts** for your **Ford Cortina Mark III** in the **United Kingdom** or **Ireland**, here are some options:
1. **Cortina Owners Club**: You can explore the **Cortina Owners Club**¹ for information, discussions, and potentially find fellow enthusiasts who can guide you to reliable sources.
2. **Autodoc**: Autodoc offers a **catalogue of spare parts** for various car models, including the Ford Cortina. You might find what you need there.
3. **Gumtree**: Check out **Gumtree**, where you can find **used Ford Cortina Mk3 parts** for sale from local sellers³.
4. **Motomobil**: Motomobil provides an **online spare parts catalogue** and technical data specifically for the Ford Cortina⁴.
Remember to verify compatibility and quality when purchasing parts.
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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 3 did participate in motorsport, although it wasn't as prominent as some other models. One notable example is the **Super Speed conversion**, which was a specialist racing version of the Cortina Mk3. This version was modified by Super Speed Conversions Ltd, a company known for enhancing Ford cars for racing.
The Mk3 Cortina was also used in various club racing events and rallies, showcasing its versatility and performance capabilities². While it may not have had the same level of motorsport pedigree as some of its predecessors, it still made its mark in the racing world.
The Ford Cortina Mark 3 participated in various motorsport events, including:
1. **Club Racing**: The Mk3 was a popular choice in club racing circuits across the UK and Europe. Its versatility and performance made it a favorite among amateur racers.
2. **Rallying**: The Mk3 Cortina was also used in rally events. Its robust build and reliable performance allowed it to compete in various rally stages, showcasing its durability and handling capabilities¹.
3. **Specialist Racing Conversions**: Companies like Super Speed Conversions Ltd modified the Mk3 Cortina for racing, creating high-performance versions that competed in different racing events¹.
These events highlighted the Mk3's adaptability and performance, even if it wasn't as dominant as some other models in the Ford lineup.
The rally versions of the Ford Cortina Mark 3 were quite interesting and showcased the car's versatility and performance capabilities. Here are some key points about these rally versions:
1. **Modifications**: The rally versions of the Mk3 Cortina were often heavily modified to enhance performance. This included upgrades to the suspension, brakes, and engine to handle the demanding conditions of rally stages.
2. **Engine Options**: These rally cars typically featured more powerful engines than the standard road versions. The modifications often included tuning the existing engines or swapping them for more powerful units to increase horsepower and torque.
3. **Durability and Handling**: The Mk3 Cortina's robust build made it a suitable candidate for rallying. Modifications to the suspension and chassis improved its handling and durability on rough terrain, making it competitive in various rally events¹.
4. **Notable Events**: The Mk3 Cortina participated in several rally events across Europe. While it may not have been as dominant as some other rally cars of the era, it still made a mark in the rallying community¹.
These rally versions highlighted the Mk3 Cortina's adaptability and performance potential, making it a beloved choice among rally enthusiasts.