Ford : Corsair

Model Introduction

The Ford Corsair was introduced in 1963 as a mid-range executive saloon positioned between the Cortina and the Zephyr, offering sharper styling and a more upmarket feel within Ford of Britain’s expanding lineup. Styled under the direction of Roy Brown Jr. - the designer of the Edsel - it featured a distinctive pointed nose, wide grille, and a slightly American flavour that set it apart from its more conservative stablemates. Initially launched with the 1.5-litre Kent engine, it later gained the 1.7-litre and 2.0-litre V4 units from the Taunus range, which gave it more torque and refinement, though the V4’s gruff character divided opinion. The Corsair was available as a four-door saloon, estate (converted by Abbotts of Farnham), and even in rare convertible form.

Magazine Articles

  • CAR Magazine cover

    4our men in a Ford

    Being a concise account of the manner in which certain of the staff of this Journal, with others, completed a Trek of some 1500 miles in a self-propelled V4 Motor Carriage constructed after the modern fashion by Mr Ford of Dagenham, Essex

    CAR Magazine · January 1966
  • CAR Magazine cover

    Giant Test

    Ford Corsair V4 v Hillman Super Minx

    CAR Magazine · February 1966
  • CAR Magazine cover

    2nd thoughts on some recent Fords

    Ford Cortina GT, Zephyr V4, Corsair 2000E

    CAR Magazine · March 1967
  • CAR Magazine cover

    E : Ford's E-Type

    The best Ford yet? People said the same about the Mark Four. But the 2000E is something different - an understated design with no trace of vulgarity. We think it will do well, at least until Fiat's 125 arrives

    CAR Magazine · July 1967
  • CAR Magazine cover

    Q-Car

    Sir John Whitmore's Corsair V6 and Zodiac 4.7 V8 by Alan Mann

    CAR Magazine · September 1967