Brand: Maxxis, Profile: 80 | Ford Cortina Mk1 1500 Super & GT 1963 to 1966

Higher specification versions of Ford's best selling saloon. Manufactured between 1963 and 1966. Originally fitted with a 560-13 crossply tyre, which is still available. The best radial replacement is a 155SR13 radial.

When the Ford Cortina Mk1 was launched it was the most important car that Ford had ever made. Large, practical and light, the Cortina was also Ford's first car to adopt the American strategy of a really wide model range with a variety of engines and trims. Launched in September 1962, the Consul Cortina 113E two-door saloon came in basic or de Luxe forms with an 1198cc OHV engine.

Within a month a four-door saloon joined the range, then from January 1963 a five-bearing 1498cc engine was introduced as standard on the Super and optional on the de Luxe. The Cortina range expanded further in March 1963 when a five-door estate debuted, along with a GT option that brought a 1498cc engine, uprated suspension and disc front brakes.

A facelift in September 1964 brought a full-width grille and disc front brakes for all models, improved (Aeroflow) ventilation, interior upgrades and more power. A year later the basic saloon was dropped, in September 1966 the last Cortina Mk1 saloon was built, then by November 1966 the Cortina Mk1 estate had been discontinued too.