1974 Ford Cortina XLE review from South Africa
"The best Ford ever build in South Africa"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The front suspension rubbers collapsed at about 165,000 Kilometres. The car's ignition was worn out badly the last year, and I replaced it with a secondhand unit from a Mk V Cortina.
The gearbox also does not stay in second gear of you decellerate (but that is after more than 280,000 Km).
I replaced the rings, oil pump, bearings and water pump at 300,000 Km.
General comments?
This car is very reliable and very quick if one takes the model and the kilometres it has done. I can take on the latest 325 BMW and cars in that class without being ashamed. I recently experimented with a camshaft replacement (very mild cam 2000 to 6200 road) and I can tell you it worked very well. I can get a speed of +- 210 km/h at about 5700 RPM. This thing goes!
Recommended reviews
  | Timeless classic and excellent value |
| Cortina-built in obsolescence personified |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1974 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.0 essex V6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 5/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 10 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 450000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Escort |
| Date of Entry | 6th July, 2002 |