1965 Ford Cortina GT40

This 1965 Ford Cortina GT is a remarkable one-off build that combines classic British styling with serious American V8 performance. Conceived as a “Cortina Tiger,” the car was stripped to its bare-metal shell and comprehensively rebuilt by Johnny Riddling to preserve its understated sleeper appearance while accommodating a modern, high-performance drivetrain. Power comes from a stroked small-block Ford V8 producing approximately 500 horsepower, paired with a Tremec six-speed manual transmission. The engine was positioned low and rearward in the chassis to improve weight distribution, while a custom shallow oil pan, hidden oil cooler, electric water pump, and carefully concealed wiring contribute to the exceptionally clean engine compartment. Weighing approximately 2,200 pounds, the Cortina offers an extraordinary power-to-weight ratio and truly exhilarating performance. The original front suspension was replaced with a custom narrow-track Mustang II-style A-arm setup featuring rack-and-pinion steering and Wilwood brakes. At the rear is a specially shortened and reinforced Heidts independent suspension with Jaguar/Wilwood inboard brakes. Additional chassis upgrades include mini-tubbed rear wheel wells, six-point roll protection, subframe connectors, a remote brake booster, and side-exit exhaust routed tightly beneath the floor. Despite the extensive engineering beneath the surface, the Cortina retains the clean, restrained appearance that makes the build so compelling. Every component was thoughtfully designed, fabricated, fitted, and concealed to create a car that looks remarkably close to something Ford might have built—until the V8 comes to life. Previously featured by Classic Motorsports and displayed at the PRI Trade Show, Ray Evernham’s Indianapolis show, and other automotive events, this Cortina has earned considerable attention for its craftsmanship and imaginative execution. Equal parts vintage rally car, traditional hot rod, and high-performance sleeper, it is an exceptionally unique interpretation of the beloved Mark I Cortina GT. Articles About This Vehicle: Classic Motorsports S3 Motorsports Ford Authority Bang Shift Features & Highlights Engine & Drivetrain Fuel-injected 347ci V8 Air Flow Research cylinder heads Eight-stack EFI intake MSD Pro-Billet distributor Aeromotive fuel pressure regulator Stainless four-into-one headers MagnaFlow exhaust system Dual electric radiator cooling fans Tremec six-speed manual transmission Chassis & Suspension Mustang II–style front subframe Tubular front control arms Heidts independent rear suspension with tubular linkages MCS adjustable coilover shocks front and rear Rack-and-pinion steering Wilwood disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors Exterior White exterior with red side stripes 15-inch steel wheels with performance tires Functional hood scoop Side exhaust outlets Le Mans–style external fuel filler Vintage-style lighting and trim Interior Six-point roll cage Black bucket seats MOMO Prototipo steering wheel Smiths gauges with 200 mph speedometer Period Motorola push-button AM radio Fuel Safe fuel cell in trunk Spare tires and tool storage