Ford Cortina 1600E Mk2 1969 review
Saloon Petrol
Photo: Vauxford (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Cortina 1600E is the thinking enthusiast's Mk2 Cortina - a humble family saloon transformed by Lotus Cortina running gear, Rostyle wheels and a wood-veneer dashboard into something genuinely special. Built from 1967 to 1970, the E for Executive was Ford's first sporting luxury saloon.
With the 88 bhp crossflow engine, lowered suspension and that unmistakable 60s style, the 1600E is as much fun as a Lotus Cortina at a fraction of the price. Survivors are rare and values have climbed as the Fast Ford scene rediscovers them.
UK price from: £12,500
Specifications
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-4 (1,599 cc) |
| Power | 88 bhp @ 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 96 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm |
| 0-60 mph | 13.3 seconds |
| Top speed | 97 mph |
| Fuel economy | ~26 mpg |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Production years | 1967-1970 |
| Kerb weight | 940 kg |
Features
- 1.6-litre Kent crossflow engine with 88 bhp
- Lotus Cortina suspension, brakes and close-ratio gearbox
- Distinctive Rostyle wheels and black grille
- Wood-veneer dashboard and sports steering wheel
- Executive spec with reclining front seats
- The original Q-car - family looks, sporting heart
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pad set | £30 | Standard road pads |
| Clutch kit | £100 | Cover, plate and release bearing |
| Exhaust system | £220 | Mild steel full system |
| Water pump | £40 | Cooling system service item |
| Track rod end pair | £25 | Steering wear item, per pair |
| Carburettor rebuild kit | £45 | Gaskets and service parts |
Pros
- Lotus-derived chassis makes it genuinely fun to drive
- Rare and increasingly collectible - values rising
- Simple Ford mechanicals any garage can maintain
- Huge period charm and show-scene appeal
Cons
- Genuine 1600Es are rare - many fakes exist, check provenance
- Tin worm attacks struts, sills, floors and arches
- Modest power by modern standards
- Trim and 1600E-specific parts are getting hard to find
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Cortina 1600E worth?
Genuine 1600Es in good condition sell for £10,000-£15,000, with exceptional cars reaching £20,000. Verify authenticity before paying a premium.
How do I spot a fake 1600E?
Check the VIN and factory records, plus 1600E-specific details: strut top reinforcements, dashboard, seats, Rostyle wheels and badging. Provenance is everything.
Where does the Mk2 Cortina rust?
Front strut tops, sills, floors, wheel arches and the spare-wheel well. Structural rot in the strut towers is the killer.
Can you tune the crossflow engine?
Easily - the Kent crossflow responds well to a Weber carburettor, cam and exhaust, taking it from 88 bhp to 110 bhp-plus reliably.
Is the 1600E usable daily?
In fair weather, yes. It is simple and robust, but drum rear brakes, no synchro on first and 1960s safety standards ask for respect.
