1974 Ford Cortina Mk3 2000E Auto - Ford-Built Experimental Vehicle (TRRL)

Not sold

Highest bid £0

Ended 16 May 2026

Data from Iconic Auctioneers, updated on 10 Oct 2026

View on Iconic Auctioneers

Year: 1974
Mileage: 17,164 miles
Gearbox: Automatic
Engine: 2000
Colour: Diamond White

Specification

Fuel: GASOLINE
Steering: RHD
Auction house guide: £10,000 – £12,000
Sale: The Classic Sale at Supercar Fest 2026

Previously listed

Other auctions of this same vehicle.

This vehicle has been to auction once before

Description

The Ford Cortina Mk3 2000E was the flagship, executive trim of the third-generation Cortina, produced between late 1973 and 1976. Introduced as a more luxurious replacement for the sporty GXL, the 'E' in its name stood for 'Executive', and it was designed to appeal to buyers looking for a more refined, premium driving experience
It was powered by the 2.0-litre OHC 'Pinto' engine, producing roughly 98bhp enabling a top speed of 105mph and, in this case, fitted with an automatic gearbox
Dating from 1974, this example was developed jointly by Ford and the Government’s Transport and Road Research Laboratory
Presenting much like a standard example externally, aside from its Avon Safety Wheels, the interior is markedly different with extensive additional padding front and rear, a distinctive cabin treatment and an early digital dashboard unusual for the period
Developed to demonstrate levels of passenger protection comparable to seatbelts through interior padding, it also features Avon Safety Wheels intended to help prevent tyre detachment in the event of sudden deflation
Following its time as a TRRL demonstrator, it is understood to have been saved from destruction and stored for around 30 years, later refurbished including a respray after 2011, and acquired by our vendor in 2025 when an engine overhaul was completed with minimal use since
The car does run and drive, although the odometer displays 17,164 miles which has remained unchanged for many years due to an intermittent fault with the electronic dashboard, however, a separate speedometer is attached by Velcro and powered via the cigarette lighter. There is a small oil leak from the automatic transmission (spare seals in the boot)
With six former registered keepers, last MOT valid until May 2023 and now exempt as an historic vehicle, the car is accompanied by a history file including invoices, MOT Certificates and a vehicle data sheet. It is likely to require recommissioning so trailering from the sale is recommended