Some cars are bought. Others are built. And then there are the rare few that are lived. This 1976 Ford Cortina 3.0L V6 XLE Big Six falls firmly into the last category—a car shaped by patience, family, friendship, and an unwavering passion for classic Fords.
From Family Hands to a Long-Term Vision
The journey began in 2009 when the Cortina was purchased from a brother-in-law. At the time, it wore a modest light blue paint job and carried decades of history. Rather than rushing into a quick restoration, the decision was made to do things properly—slowly, carefully, and entirely at home.
Twelve Years of Dedication
The build stretched across an incredible 12 years. Every stage of the process was tackled in a home garage, proving that true craftsmanship doesn’t require a workshop—just commitment. Family and friends played a huge role, pitching in to sand, strip, and prep the body for paint. It became more than a build; it became a shared project filled with late nights, dusty hands, and unforgettable memories.
Keeping the Soul Alive
True to its roots, the Cortina still runs the legendary 3.0L Essex V6. While the heart remains original, it has received performance-focused upgrades to sharpen its character and improve drivability. Power is sent through a 4-speed Bullet gearbox, delivering a raw, mechanical driving experience that modern cars simply can’t replicate.
Supporting the V6’s unmistakable soundtrack are branches and a freeflow exhaust system, ensuring the car sounds every bit as bold as it looks. Rolling on striking 17-inch wheels, the Cortina blends classic presence with a subtle modern edge.
Style After Dark
One of the more unique touches is the addition of interior and exterior night glow lighting, giving the car a distinctive personality once the sun goes down—especially at shows and evening events. While there’s currently no sound system installed, it’s already pencilled in on the ever-evolving to-do list.
A Miniature Icon
As a tribute to the build, a custom 1:24 scale 3D model of the Cortina was created. This miniature version accompanies the full-size car to shows, drawing crowds and sparking conversations. It’s a detail that perfectly reflects the care and pride invested in the project.
Sharing the Journey
To showcase the car and its ongoing evolution, a TikTok account was launched where fellow enthusiasts can follow along, enjoy the details, and share in the passion. You can find it on TikTok under the handle @die_blou_ford—a space dedicated to the car, the culture, and the community around it.
More Than a Car
This 1976 Ford Cortina 3.0L V6 XLE Big Six isn’t just a restored classic. It’s the result of 12 years of perseverance, hands-on learning, and shared effort. And like all great builds, it’s never truly finished—just continually refined, one small change at a time.
