Willie's MK4 Cortina Bakkie Transformation Story

In the heart of Kempton Park, amidst the roar of engines and the smell of gasoline, one man's passion for power and performance breathed new life into a forgotten workhorse. Meet Willie Cilliers, the mastermind behind the rebirth of a 1978 Ford Cortina Bakkie that was once a humble tool in his construction empire.


Photos by Jan van der Walt

A True Petrolhead's Journey: Willie's automotive journey is one of blood, sweat, and gears. From his first love affair with a '66 Corsair 83 deluxe to taming the wild beast of a 1949 Pontiac Silver Streak, his garage has seen it all. But it was the MK4 Cortina Bakkie that stole his heart, a relic of his construction days, waiting to be unleashed.

A Bold Decision: When Willie sold his construction company, he faced a crossroads with the old Cortina. Sell it off as scrap or transform it into something extraordinary? Choosing the latter, he embarked on a journey that would make even the bravest gearheads think twice. With his sons dubbing him crazy, Willie forged ahead, turning his workhorse into a thoroughbred.

Power, Precision, and Performance: With a meticulous eye for detail and a thirst for power, Willie sought the best upgrades for his project. Opting for an old Jaguar XJ suspension and a Lexus VVTI motor, he crafted a masterpiece that balanced raw muscle with refined elegance. Hours of planning, cutting, and fabrication culminated in a beastly machine that exuded aggression and sophistication.

A Labor of Love: The transformation wasn't just under the hood. Willie and his team at Steelroad Rods & Customs poured their souls into every inch of the Cortina's bodywork. Fender flares, front spoilers, and bonnet scoops were meticulously fabricated, while a custom Sikkens-based silver paint job with a hint of red pearl brought the bakkie to life.

The Finishing Touches: From the 76mm stainless steel performance exhaust to the ventilated XJ 6 brakes, no detail was overlooked. Willie's daughters, owners of their own upholstery business, added their magic touch to the interior, while a Ford Falcon instrument cluster and GPS-speedo brought modern convenience to this vintage powerhouse.

The Road Ahead: As Willie's MK4 Cortina Bakkie roars to life, his journey is far from over. With dreams of future projects dancing in his head – a Range Rover rebuild, A40 Austin Pickups transformation, and a 1929 Model A Roadster revival – the road ahead is paved with endless possibilities.

A Grateful Heart: As the dust settles and the engine purrs, Willie extends his heartfelt gratitude to the team at Steelroad Rods & Customs, AAW Upholsterers, Top Coat Automotive, and Lextreme in Pretoria for their unwavering support and expertise.

In the world of hot rods and high-octane dreams, Willie's MK4 Cortina Bakkie stands as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. From humble beginnings to roaring triumphs, this is more than just a restoration – it's a legacy in the making. So, gear up, rev your engines, and join Willie on his journey to automotive greatness.