Lotus Cortina
A Ford and Lotus collaboration, the Lotus Cortina is a homologation special that dominated 1960s touring car racing with its twin-cam engine. It's a highly prized collector car thanks to its legendary racing pedigree and its status as one of the first 'super saloons'.
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6 listed in the past year. The last was 2 months ago.
Lotus Cortina Specsacross 2 versions
- Horsepower
- 105–109 hp
- Torque
- 108–110 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph
- 10.2–10.5s
- Top Speed
- 105–107 mph
- Curb Weight
- 1,764–1,874 lbs
Lotus Cortina prices by year
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
Lotus Cortina Submodels
The Lotus Cortina was born from Ford's desire to dominate touring car racing in the early 1960s. Ford supplied the 2-door Cortina body shells, and Colin Chapman's Lotus team worked its magic, fitting a 105 hp, 1,558 cc twin-cam engine and a completely revised suspension. The result was a homologation special that went on to achieve legendary status on the track, famously driven by champions like Jim Clark.
Collectors prize the Lotus Cortina for its racing pedigree and its role as one of the first true sports sedans. Its iconic Ermine White and Sherwood Green color scheme is instantly recognizable. As a lightweight, analog machine, it offers a raw and engaging driving experience that modern cars can't replicate. Genuine cars are rare, and their connection to a golden era of motorsport makes them highly desirable.
With an average sale price around $49,000, the market for Lotus Cortinas is strong. Exceptional examples with documented history can fetch up to $88,000, while projects can be found for less. Authenticity is everything, as many standard Cortinas have been converted to replicas over the years. Buyers pay a premium for verified, original cars.
Buying Tips
- Authenticity is crucial. Verify the chassis number, which should start with BA74 for a Mk1. Genuine cars had an A-frame rear suspension and, on early models, alloy body panels.
- Check for rust thoroughly. Key areas include the base of the A-pillars, inner and outer sills, floor pans, and suspension mounting points.
- The twin-cam engine requires specialist knowledge. Look for a solid service history, check for oil leaks, and listen for any rattles from the timing chain.
- Drive the car to assess the gearbox and suspension. The remote-shift gear change should feel precise, and any clunks from the suspension point to worn bushes.
Based on 14 recent sales, prices range from $22,250 to $88,000.
57 Lotus Cortina vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 2 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Lotus Cortina listings are for sale right now?
There are 2 Lotus Cortina listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.
How fast is a Lotus Cortina?
Across its 2 versions, the Lotus Cortina does 0-60 mph in 10.2–10.5 seconds and tops out at 105–107 mph.
How much horsepower does a Lotus Cortina have?
Across its 2 versions, the Lotus Cortina makes 105–109 hp.