Ford Lotus Cortina MkII

The Ford Lotus Cortina MkII is a genuine icon, a spirited collaboration between Ford and Lotus that brought racing pedigree straight to the streets. Introduced in 1967, it followed the legendary MkI, inheriting its predecessor's gutsy twin-cam engine and adding a touch more refinement. But don't let the smoother edges fool you—this was still a car built for serious driving.

Under the hood, the MkII retained Lotus' brilliant 1.6-liter twin-cam engine, a rev-happy marvel producing around 109 horsepower—more than enough to embarrass bigger, pricier machinery on twisty backroads. The suspension was softened slightly compared to the MkI, trading a bit of raw aggression for improved comfort, yet it still handled with precision and agility that made you grin like an idiot behind the wheel.

Visually, the MkII ditched some of the MkI's flamboyance for a more restrained look, losing the iconic green stripe but maintaining an understated charm that appealed to a broader audience. On the track, it continued the Cortina legacy, clinching victories and podium finishes in touring car championships around the globe. Its racing pedigree was undeniable, and owning one meant being part of a select group who understood the thrill of driving something truly special.