The classic British car is a familiar sight on New Zealand roads, a testament to their popularity in the 60s and 70s. Often locally assembled, they represent an era of simple, practical motoring.
Rust is a major concern, along with weak engine performance (especially in smaller engine variants) and unreliable electrics.
WOF tips
Check carefully for corrosion, especially around the sills, wheel arches, and floor pans. Pay attention to the brake system, suspension wear, and any engine oil or coolant leaks. Headlight functionality is also a common issue.
About the Ford Cortina Lotus
These cars were a symbol of affordable motoring in New Zealand. Many were assembled locally, making parts availability better than some other classics. Their simplicity makes them relatively easy to work on, a bonus for the home mechanic.
Why it Matters: This car holds a special place in NZ's rallying history. Its participation and successes in early NZ rallies highlight the car's ruggedness and popularity.
Questions owners ask
What are the common rust spots I need to watch out for on my 1963-1966 Ford Cortina in New Zealand?
Rust is a significant issue for these Cortinas. Pay close attention to the sills, wheel arches, and floor pans. Given that many were assembled locally, replacement panels might be easier to source than for some other classic imports, but prevention is always better than cure.
What should I check on my Ford Cortina 1963-1966 to pass a WOF in New Zealand?
For a Warrant of Fitness, carefully inspect for corrosion, especially around the sills, wheel arches, and floor pans. The brake system and suspension wear are also critical. Check for any engine oil or coolant leaks, and ensure the headlights are functioning correctly. These are common failure points for Cortinas of this age.
Where can I get parts for my 1963-1966 Ford Cortina in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 57 SKUs for the 1963-1966 Ford Cortina. We can supply parts to keep your Cortina running smoothly.
What is the recommended service interval for a 1963-1966 Ford Cortina?
The recommended service interval for your 1963-1966 Ford Cortina is every 5000km. Regular servicing is crucial to keeping these classics on the road.
Are 1963-1966 Ford Cortinas easy to work on for a home mechanic?
Yes, the 1963-1966 Ford Cortina is known for its simplicity, making it relatively easy to work on for home mechanics. This is especially true for models assembled locally in New Zealand, where parts availability is generally good.
My 1963-1966 Ford Cortina's engine feels a bit weak. Is this normal?
Yes, weak engine performance, especially in smaller engine variants, is a common issue with the 1963-1966 Ford Cortina. Ensure your engine is properly tuned and consider upgrading components if you're looking for more power. Regular maintenance, such as spark plug replacement and air filter cleaning, can help improve performance.
What are some common electrical problems with the 1963-1966 Ford Cortina?
Unreliable electrics are a known issue with the 1963-1966 Ford Cortina. Check wiring connections, fuses, and the condition of the battery. Headlight functionality is a common WOF failure point, so ensure they are working correctly.