Description
Ford Taunus TC1 DRS Sedan | 1975
Highlights:
– Fitted with a 2.9L Cosworth V6 engine
– Rare TC1 pre-facelift body with sedan configuration
– Manual transmission with rear-wheel drive
– Classic Ford from the golden era of European design
– Retains Dutch registration with papers
The seller offers for sale a 1975 Ford Taunus TC1 DRS sedan, originally built with Ford’s traditional rear-wheel-drive setup. The car has been extensively modified 12 years ago with a 2.9-litre V6 Cosworth engine, which was professionally installed and registered on the Dutch title. The engine features six cylinders and a displacement of 2935cc, offering more power and a distinctive character compared to the standard units of its time. The car uses a manual transmission and petrol as fuel.
This Taunus has travelled just over 16,000 km according to the odometer, although mileage cannot be guaranteed. The car remains largely true to its original design aside from the powertrain upgrade. The paintwork is finished in a dark shade and was professionally redone 12 years ago during the mechanical conversion. The car retains original features like the interior dashboard, seats, and trim, offering a blend of factory styling with performance upgrades under the bonnet.
The exterior presents minor chips or scratches. The body lines remain sharp, and panels align correctly. Chrome and trim components are present and largely intact, enhancing the car’s classic aesthetic. It sits on period-correct wheels and maintains a restrained, stock-like appearance despite the engine modification.
The interior is reported as original and clean, with some wear in expected areas but no major defects. Dashboard elements, seats, and door cards reflect minimal use. The upholstery has not been retrimmed and retains its period materials. Switchgear is in place, and the steering wheel and gear knob appear in line with the car’s age.
The seller notes no upgrades to systems like power steering or disc brakes, suggesting the car retains much of its original chassis and suspension setup. A recent technical inspection is valid, and the vehicle is roadworthy in its current condition.
The Ford Taunus nameplate dates back to 1939 and became a staple of Ford’s European operations through several generations. The TC-series, introduced in 1970, marked a significant design shift and was the first Taunus developed under Ford of Europe, alongside its British cousin, the Ford Cortina Mk3. Known for its “Coke bottle” styling and range of body types, the TC1 was offered as a 2- or 4-door sedan, coupe, and station wagon.
By 1975, the Taunus was well-established in markets across Western Europe, including the Netherlands. The range covered everything from basic four-cylinder commuter cars to more refined V6 variants. The car featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a live rear axle, offering a balance of comfort and durability. While the original V6 engine options maxed out around 2.3 litres, this particular example goes further with a later-generation 2.9L V6 from the Ford Cosworth catalogue, an engine often used in the Scorpio and Sierra models of the late 1980s and early 1990s.
The 2.9 Cosworth engine, known for its smooth delivery and durability, provides significantly more performance than the original drivetrain and transforms the driving experience without dramatically altering the car’s visual identity. This makes the vehicle an attractive sleeper classic with period-correct looks but modern usability.
The TC1 Taunus also benefited from a reputation for mechanical simplicity and wide parts availability, which has helped it survive in enthusiast circles. The car never gained the collectible status of a Capri or Escort, but its understated style and roomy interior make it an appealing choice for classic touring events or Sunday drives. Surviving early examples like this one are now relatively rare, especially with a modern engine conversion legally approved on the vehicle’s registration.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Noord-Brabant, Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
