Nope. I think you'll find it depended on the engine (and gearbox).
1.8 Zetec are on the right hand side (not been in a Duratec). When I first bought this 4/4 I regularly reached around the back of the gear lever, only to remember the handbrake was closer to me! smile
Both my '97 +4 Rover M16 (IIRC) and '76 4/4 X-flow had handbrake on left of tunnel.

Graham (G4FUJ)

Sold L44FOR 4/4 Giallo Fly
'11 MINI Countryman Cooper D All4
'90 LR 90 SW