h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Surely the MKII Cortina 1600E is one of the finest cars ever produced. Whenever I see one, particularly in Aubergine purple, it takes my breath away. I particularly like the series 2 model. When I was 5 my Mum's friend crashed one into the concrete support pillar of a car park in Swindon. I was sitting on the sculpted vinyl backseat and cut my lip on impact. Amazing the things you remember, innit.

With Black and Silver Rostyle wheels, oil pressure gauge, rev counter, sports steering wheel and black vinyl roof they were the business and produced from G reg to J (suffix).

In 1990 I was going to buy one for £400. It was basically a box of bits, with a bare body shell, two engines and a wealth of spare parts. I dreamed of restoring her and proudly driving her back to the guy that was selling her for a nostalgic reunion. But it was a pretty unealistic amibition. I had no tool kit, garage, or even any mechanical skills.

I'd still like one though. Or a 1600GT, or a Lotus, or an even rarer Savage.

Hi can I point you in the direction of Sidney Kidney who is also a classic car nut? His page is at http://www.h2g2.com/U47460