Ford : Cortina (Mk5)
Model Introduction
The Ford Cortina Mk5, introduced in 1979, was officially a facelift of the Mk4 but featured enough visual and mechanical updates to be considered a generation in its own right. Still based on the Taunus-Cortina platform, the Mk5, also known as the “Cortina 80”, was styled once again under Uwe Bahnsen, who softened the Mk4’s sharp angles with a smoother grille, larger wraparound indicators, reprofiled rear lights, and improved aerodynamics. The bodywork was subtly wider, trim detailing more refined, and quality control markedly improved, especially in the wake of criticism aimed at earlier models. It retained the same proven formula: rear-wheel drive, MacPherson strut front suspension, and a wide range of engines from the 1.3 Kent unit to the 2.3-litre Cologne V6, while some markets also received a 2.1-litre diesel option.
Magazine Articles
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News
This week Ford announce a new Cortina, but it is a new model that will take more than a quick glance to distinguish it from its predecessor. The Cortina 80 as Ford call their new car is one of the company's famous mid-term tidy-ups: making detailed revisions to a car that is at the very peak of its popularity.
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Giant Test
Mazda Montrose v Vauxhall Carlton v Ford Cortina 2.3GL
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Giant Test
Vauxhall Carlton v Austin Princess 2000HLS v Ford Cortina 2.0 Ghia
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MotorWeek
Ford recalls 172,000 Cortinas
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Group Test - Best Sellers
Ford Cortina 1.6GL v Talbot Solara 1.6GL v Triumph Acclaim HLS v Vauxhall Cavalier 1.6GL
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Cortina Crusader
'Limited' edition (but with a planned production of around 30,000), the Ford Cortina Crusaders are modelled on the base-level Cortina (normally sold only in 1.3 and 1.6 litre forms) in four-door saloon or estate car bodywork with engines up to 2 litres capacity