Back to Back: 1500 Mk1 or 2000 Mk1?

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When you are in the market for a 1960s British bread and butter saloon, Brightwells is your partner. They have an awful lot of saloon cars on offer at their Leominster Classic and Vintage sale on. We picked out a delightful duo from the mid-1960s, so just right to join the fun at the pre-’66 car park at Goodwood this summer. First there’s a Cortina MkI 1500 GT (estimate £6,500 - £8,500). The GT designation makes it the 78nhp version with slightly lowered suspension and extra gauges. The car was restored in the 2000s but is used regularly, making it perhaps look even more attractive. The very British dark green suits it really well, too.

But how about a four-door in slightly more outstanding Powder Blue? Enter the Triumph 2000 Mk1. It’s slightly larger and more powerful, thanks to that lovely rasping six-in-line producing 90bhp. This car was bought by the current owner in 2003 ‘to join his large private collection in Northern Ireland. He lovingly restored it at considerable expense as a nod to happy childhood memories of just such a car.’, or so the auctioneer writes. It certainly does look good and contrary to the Ford the chrome is sparkling and the interior in blue ‘leatherette’ looks as though it is brand new. A modern digital radio with period style knobs is hidden behind a centre console flap. The estimate of £5,000 - £7,000 seems perhaps low compared to the Ford and you certainly seem to get more car for your money. But perhaps less prestige? So the question is once more: which of the two appeals most to you?

(Words editor, pictures courtesy Brightwells)

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