The Lotus-Cortina started out as a homologation special, and their involvement in motorsport did much to improve Ford’s image and desirability.

They were visually distinguished by white paintwork with a green stripe and front quarter-bumpers and yellow Lotus badging, with a wood-rimmed steering wheel and special seats inside.

The painting was requested as a surprise birthday present for the owner. I was asked to portray the car against a backdrop of the picturesque Kent village of Eynsford, incorporating the Ford sign.

I visited the village to get additional reference photos of the location. It is not actually possible to park where the car is portrayed, but never let reality get in the way of a good picture!