Brits want the Ford Cortina back – with a modern twist
Car changing is a big deal
A new Carwow survey reveals the classic cars Brits most want to see return, with the Ford Cortina topping the list and drivers calling for a modern twist.
The Ford Cortina is the classic car Brits most want to see return, new Carwow research finds. But drivers say retro styling alone wouldn’t be enough to win them over.
Carwow’s survey of 1,486 UK drivers found that 35% would like to see the Ford Cortina return, making it the most popular choice. The MGB came second with 25%, followed by the Ford Fiesta at 18%.
Here are the top five most desired classic car comebacks, according to the Carwow survey:
| Ranking | Model | % who want the revival | Production dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ford Cortina | 35% | 1962-1982 |
| 2 | MGB | 25% | 1962-1980 |
| 3 | Ford Fiesta | 18% | 1976-2023 |
| 4 | TVR Sagaris | 12% | 2005-2006 |
| 5 | Austin 1100/Morris 1100 | 10% | 1962-1974 |
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The 1970s remain a favourite
The 1970s was the most popular decade for classic cars deemed most worthy of a reboot, chosen by 25% of drivers. The 1960s came a close second at 24%, according to the Carwow survey.
Nostalgia looks different depending on your age:
- 18- to 29-year-olds: The 2000s are the favourite decade for 29%.
- 30- to 45-year-olds: 24% favour the 1990s.
- 46- to 61-year-olds: The 1990s are also the top choice, at 36%.
- 62- to 80-year-olds: The 1970s come out on top, with 36% choosing the decade.
Drivers want old favourites with modern features
Almost half of those surveyed (46%) said revived cars should be modernised, while 45% said they must retain the original model’s spirit.
That means any comeback needs to strike a balance between familiar styling and features today’s drivers expect, such as modern safety technology, comfort and updated powertrains.
Which revived cars are attracting buyers?
Carwow also compared registration data for model names that have already been revived. The modern Ford Puma topped its ranking, with more than 2,500 registrations per 100,000 people.
The Renault 5 E-Tech came second with 644 registrations, followed by the Land Rover Defender and Ford Capri.
The Puma is a good example of how a revival can take a different direction. Unlike the original sporty coupé, today’s Puma is an SUV, showing how manufacturers can reuse a familiar name for a very different type of car.
Here are the top four cars ranked by comeback potential, based on popularity, recent registration growth and sustained demand:
| Ranking | Model | Index score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ford Puma | 81.1 |
| 2 | Renault 5 E-Tech | 80.8 |
| 3 | Land Rover Defender | 65.1 |
| 4 | Ford Capri | 50.9 |
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