Tyre Diameter: R13, Profile: 80 | Ford Cortina Mk3 1970 to 1976

Ford's best selling family car revised in coke-bottle styled form, manufactured between 1970 and 1976. Ford produced the Mk3 in many different specifications, with the standard 4.5J wheel taking a 165SR13 radial. There were also optional wheels up to 5.5J, taking either a 175SR13, or a 185/70SR13 radial tyre.

After two smash hits with the Cortina Mk1 and Mk2, Ford went for the hat-trick with the Cortina Mk3 that was launched in 1970. Whereas the Cortina Mk2 was a development of the Mk1, the Cortina Mk3 was a new car with a fresh platform, new suspension plus rack-and-pinion steering for the first time. The range was wide with a choice of 1.3 or 1.6-litre Kent engines along with 1.6 or 2.0-litre Pinto units. Two- or four-door saloons were offered, or there was a five-door estate.

Production continued until 1973, at which point the cabin was overhauled and the 1599cc Kent engine was axed, although the 1593cc Pinto unit remained, as did the 1298cc Kent unit. This facelift also brought a close-ratio gearbox for 1.3 and 1.6-litre cars while the 2000E made its debut.

Ford continued to develop the Cortina Mk3 range with the introduction of a 2000E estate in 1974, but by 1976 the Cortina Mk3 had been axed, replaced by the Cortina Mk4.