Ford Cortina facts for kids

First Generation

The Ford Cortina was a very popular car made by the Ford Motor Company. It was built for a long time, from 1962 all the way to 1982. For many years, especially after 1970, it was very similar to another Ford car called the Ford Taunus. The Cortina was a common sight on the roads in the United Kingdom for many years. Even when a new car, the Ford Sierra, replaced it in 1982, people still wanted to buy the Cortina.

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  Second Generation

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  Third Generation

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  Fourth Generation

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  Fifth Generation

The Ford Cortina Car

The Ford Cortina was a type of car known as a "family car." It was designed to be affordable and reliable for everyday use. Many families in the UK chose the Cortina because it was practical and good value.

Different Models Over Time

The Ford Cortina was made in several different versions, often called "generations" or "Marks." Each new generation brought updates to the car's look and features.

Mark I (1962-1966)

The first Cortina, known as the Mark I, came out in 1962. It was a simple and sturdy car. It quickly became popular because it was easy to drive and maintain.

Mark II (1966-1970)

In 1966, the Mark II Cortina was launched. It had a more modern and rounded look than the first version. This model continued the Cortina's success as a family car.

Mark III (1970-1976)

The Mark III Cortina arrived in 1970. This version had a completely new design. It was also the point where the Cortina became very similar to the Ford Taunus, which was sold in other parts of Europe.

Mark IV (1976-1979)

The Mark IV Cortina was introduced in 1976. It had a more angular and sleek design. This model kept the Cortina's reputation as a reliable and popular choice.

Mark V (1979-1982)

The final version was the Mark V, launched in 1979. It was an updated version of the Mark IV. The Cortina continued to sell well right up until it was replaced by the Ford Sierra in 1982.

Why Was It So Popular?

The Ford Cortina was popular for several reasons. It was known for being dependable and not too expensive. This made it a great choice for many families and businesses. It was also a comfortable car for its time. Its simple design meant it was easy to fix and maintain.

Images for kids

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  Saloon

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  Estate

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  Henry Taylor driving a Ford Cortina down the Olympic bobsleigh run at Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy

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  Ford Cortina Mark I two-door saloon (before facelift)

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  Ford Cortina Mark I four-door saloon (before facelift)

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  Ford Consul Cortina Mark I estate (before facelift)

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  Ford Cortina Mark I four-door saloon (after facelift)

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  Ford Cortina Lotus Mark I (after facelift)

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  Ford Consul Cortina rear

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  Ford Cortina Mark II two-door saloon

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  Ford Cortina Mark II four-door saloon

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  Ford Cortina Mark II Estate

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  Revised Mark II front, note the blacked-out grille

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  Revised Mark II rear, note the chrome strips around the taillights and separate block letters spelling "FORD"

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  Ford Cortina 1600E Mark II four-door saloon

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  Four-door saloon

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  Estate (with nonstandard wheels)

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  Two-door saloon

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  A 1978 Ford Cortina Ghia four-door saloon

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  1978 Ford Cortina Ghia four-door saloon

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  Mark IV Estate

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  Ford Cortina L two-door saloon