Ford Cortina Mk5
The final evolution of Britain's most ubiquitous family saloon.
- Power
- 73 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 13.0 s
- Top speed
- 94 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$13k
About the Ford Cortina Mk5
The Mk5, officially marketed as the 'Cortina 80', was the final iteration of Ford's dominant family car before the radical Sierra took over. While mechanically similar to the Mk4, it featured a larger glasshouse, a slatted grille, and improved corrosion protection. The 1.6-litre 'Pinto' engine was the heart of the range, offering dependable if unexciting performance for the era's fleet and family buyers. Today, it is a nostalgic icon of British motoring, valued for its simplicity, ease of maintenance, and status as the last of the rear-wheel-drive Cortinas.
Ford Cortina Mk5 specs
The Ford Cortina Mk5 produces 73 bhp (54 kW) and 117 Nm (86 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 13.0 seconds and has a top speed of 94 mph (151 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Cortina |
| Generation | Mk5 |
| Trim | 1.6 L |
| Years | 1979–1982 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,593 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 73 bhp (54 kW) at 5,300 rpm |
| Torque | 117 Nm (86 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 13.0 s |
| Top speed | 94 mph (151 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,015 kg (2,238 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 72 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Cortina Mk5 worth?
A typical Ford Cortina Mk5 is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $13,000 (about £1,900 – £9,300).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Cortina Mk5 rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Cortina Mk5 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 19 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Cortina Mk5 fun facts
- Though universally known as the Mk5, Ford officially marketed this facelifted version as the 'Cortina 80'.
- The Cortina was Britain's best-selling car for nine out of ten years between 1972 and 1981.
- The very last Cortina, a silver Crusader special edition, rolled off the Dagenham production line on 22 July 1982.
