The Ford UNCF is a 1,599 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1964 and 1967. It features an overhead valve (OHV) layout with a single downdraft carburettor and delivers 48 kW (65 PS) at 4,800 rpm. This compact engine was developed for Ford’s compact saloons, offering improved refinement over earlier units through revised combustion chamber geometry and updated valve train components.
Fitted to models such as the Ford Cortina Mk I and early Taunus 12M/15M variants in select European markets, the UNCF prioritized fuel economy, ease of service, and urban drivability. Emissions controls were not mandated during its production, but the engine qualifies for historic vehicle exemptions under current UK and EU regulations.
One documented concern is premature wear of the camshaft lobes under extended high‑load conditions, as noted in Ford UK Service Bulletin No. 18/1966. This issue stems from marginal surface hardening on early production camshafts, leading to reduced valve lift and rough running if not addressed during rebuild.
Production years 1964–1967 predate EU emissions regulations; the engine qualifies for historic vehicle exemption under UK DVSA guidelines (DVSA Historic Vehicle Class H).
The Ford UNCF is a 1,599 cc inline‑four OHV petrol engine engineered for compact saloons and light commercial applications (1964–1967). It combines a single carburettor with cast‑iron construction to deliver dependable performance and straightforward maintenance. Designed before modern emissions standards, it operates under historic vehicle exemptions in the UK and EU.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,599 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded compatible with additives) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, OHV, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.2 mm × 79.4 mm | |
| Power output | 48 kW (65 PS) @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 105 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single downdraft carburettor (Zenith 26T or Ford 26V) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-regulation (historic vehicle exemption) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled, pump‑assisted | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft (front mounted) | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil (API SB/SC) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The OHV design ensures mechanical simplicity and responsive low-to-mid-range torque but requires periodic valve clearance adjustment every 8,000–10,000 km. Use of modern unleaded fuel is permitted only with lead-replacement additives to protect valve seats. Camshaft lobe wear is a known risk in high-mileage or sustained high-RPM use—inspect during rebuild per Ford Bulletin 18/1966. Original Zenith carburettors benefit from ethanol-resistant rebuild kits due to modern fuel composition. Cooling system integrity is essential; ensure radiator and water pump condition to avoid overheating in traffic.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil meeting API SB/SC (Ford Lubrication Guide LG-1964). Modern synthetics not recommended.
Emissions: Pre-dates Euro standards; eligible for UK Historic Vehicle (Class H) exemption (DVSA Guidance 2023).
Power Ratings: Measured under BS AU 147b (1960s UK standard). Output verified via Ford dyno logs PDS-UNCF.
Ford UK Workshop Manual (1965 Edition), Sections 2A–4C
Ford Service Bulletins: No. 8/1965, No. 18/1966, No. 12/1966
UK DVSA Historic Vehicle Approval Guidance (2023)
Ford Engineering Drawing E-1320 and Report ER-UNCF-01
The Ford UNCF was used across Ford UK's Cortina Mk I platform and select Taunus models in continental Europe with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Cortina 1500 and updated cooling shrouds in the Taunus 15M—and from 1966 minor carburettor jetting updates were introduced, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-hand side of the block adjacent to the distributor mount (Ford Workshop Manual 1965, Fig. 2A‑7). The casting number begins with 'UNCF' followed by a serial prefix (e.g., '5AB'). All UNCF units feature a water pump boss and front-mounted timing cover—distinguishing them from earlier thermosiphon engines. The cylinder head casting number 'C16F' confirms UNCF compatibility. Do not confuse with the 1498 cc UGJG—UNCF has a larger bore and higher compression ratio.
The UNCF's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear under sustained high-load or high-RPM operation, with elevated incidence in modified or frequently revved engines. Ford UK service data from 1966 noted reduced valve lift and rough running as common symptoms in high-mileage units, while DVSA historic vehicle inspections highlight coolant and oil leaks as frequent MOT advisory items. Infrequent use and ethanol-blended fuels increase corrosion and seal degradation, making additive use and fluid maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Ford UK technical bulletins (1964–1967) and UK DVSA historic vehicle inspection data (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about FORD UNCF.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with FORD or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
FORD Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialFORD documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
