Ford Cortina TC

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Ford

Ford Cortina TC

1970 - 1974
Country:
Australia
Engine:
4 & 6 cyl.
Capacity:
2000 - 4100cc
Power:
112 bhp (4 cyl.)
Transmission:
3/4 spd. man, 3 spd. auto
Top Speed:
n/a
Number Built:
n/a
Collectability:
1 star
The TC Cortina was introduced by Ford in late 1970. The base model was designated "L", while the more upmarket "XL" model featured chrome trim around the wheel arches. A 2000 XL (112 bhp @ 3500 rpm) with a GS pack could reach 113.6 mph and cover a quarter mile in 17.2 seconds, a big improvement over the Mk.II.

The new model TC did not however immediately capture the heart of the buying public, with sales falling away to 12,000 after the previous models high of over 17,000 units.

There are perhaps 2 main reasons for the downturn in the popularity of the Cortina, for starters the Japanese were making big inroads at the time, and unfortunately the Cortina was quickly gaining a bad reputation for poor quality and reliability.

To redress the situation, Ford decided to follow suit with Holden and introduce a 6 cylinder mid size car (particularly following the success of the Torana).

A little known fact is that around 500 V6 engines were imported from the UK and installed into the local Cortina's, however the decision was made to stick with the locally manufactured straight 6 as was being used in the Falcon.

The two Falcon sixes were available, either the 200ci 3.3 liter or the 250ci 4.1 liter. To fit the straight sixes into the Cortina's body, the engine bay had to be lengthened - easy to spot, the six had a bonet bulge and quad headlights.

Other Falcon parts were used, including the 3-speed manual, while the Falcon's 3-speed auto was made an option, as was the 4-speed manual ($53 extra) from the lethal Falcon GT.

While the 6-cylinder models were only marginally faster than their 4 cylinder cousins, they were much better suited to Australian conditions, cruising with far less effort. An upmarket XLE model was introduced, which included appointments such as a vinyl roof, snazzy hubcaps, and bumper overriders.

While the six was a more relaxing car to drive, the sloppy front end quickly gained a bad reputation and sales continued to decline, particularly when compared to its rival the Torana (which was selling 3 to every 1 Cortina). Perhaps the most controversial aspect of the TC was the dash, with the instruments being very low in comparison to the driving position, and the ventilation system incorporated into tiny "slits" between the instruments/glove box and padded dash top.

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Also see:


Ford Cortina TC Brochure
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