1963 Ford Cortina

The 1963 Ford Cortina is part of the Mk1 series, produced from 1962 to 1966, and is notable for several key features. It was available with two engine options: a 1198cc and a 1498cc four-cylinder overhead valve (OHV) engine, with the larger variant being introduced for the Cortina Super model in early 1963. Body styles included two-door and four-door saloons, alongside a five-door estate version launched in March 1963. The car was equipped with a four-speed all-synchromesh manual transmission and featured a MacPherson strut front suspension with a live rear axle supported by leaf springs. Initially, it had Girling hydraulic drum brakes, with the 1200cc model sporting 8-inch drums and the 1500cc having 9-inch front drums. A notable variant, the Cortina GT, debuted in spring 1963, delivering enhanced performance with its tuned 1498cc engine producing 78 bhp. This year marked significant developments in the Cortina’s appeal and performance.