1969 Ford Corsair With A Copper Glow

Luck struck when Johann found a one-owner 1969 Ford Corsair that was in a better condition than most cars he looked at.

Built by Johann van Zyl

Johann van Zyl has built a reputation with Classic Ford builds over the years. His purple Ford Anglia graced the cover of Street and Strip magazine back in the day. The Anglia featured modifications like all-around disc brakes and a killer 3.5 Stroker V6. This was back in the early 1990s. Johann then backed that up with his second build, an MK1 Cortina which was featured in SA HotRods Magazine. After this, Johann had his sights on something different. He always kept an eye out for a Ford Corsair because the front end reminded him of the Ford Thunderbird. So, finding the perfect Corsair became the main priority.

Johann finally came across a Corsair, however, it was extremely rusted. Needless to say, he still started work on it. However, luck struck when Johann found a one-owner car that was in a much better condition. Then, the whole process started, as everything had to be moved over from the rusted car to the one in better condition.

Bodywork

Firstly, the Corsair was taken down to bare metal and any small rust was repaired. Johann then started with modifications to give it a more modern look. The old fuel tank and filler were removed from behind the number plate and then relocated to the side of the car with the fuel tank fitted behind the seat. The side mirrors were relocated from the front of the car to the doors. He then added Ford Courier side mirrors. This aided the process to replace the front quarter windows with a full window.

Furthermore, the front end of a Cortina MK5’s front valence was modified and built into the form, giving the car a lower, more aggressive look. Also, all the bumpers were reshaped and mounted closer to the body.

Suspension

When it came to brakes and suspension, Johann decided to give it a full upgrade. In the front, Johann went with a Ford Capri front suspension, where he added in Ford Sapphire front discs and callipers. In the rear, he went with a shortened Cortina rear axle with Sapphire rear discs and callipers. The suspension was also lowered by 40mm all around.

Motor and Gearbox

For the motor, Johann decided to go for a 3-litre Ford V6 with a 5 Speed Gearbox. Fitting a V8 is always a tight squeeze, so the V6 is perfect for the job. However, the motor is not built to stock. The camshaft was re-profiled, the engine fully balanced and the block was decked. Johann also went with modified heads and intake manifold.

Interior

When it came to the interior, Johann decided to use a Ford Sierra XR6. The front seats (with original material), were a straight swop while the back seat, armrest included, was a bit more work. Even the Sierra centre console was incorporated. The electric windows were a great addition because they allowed full windows.

Overall it is a fantastic build and the attention to detail is remarkable, especially if you take into account that the build was done in one year.

Johann would like to thank Shield Panelbeaters for the body and paintwork, City Auto Electrical who did the wiring of the car and Supa Quick Sunward Park for the wheels and tires. “Thank you guys for the help with this build”.