Hillman Avenger Tiger (1972-73)
Mk 1 Production Total: 200
Mk 2 Production Total: 400
Recorded in UK 2024
Both Mks Licensed=19 SORN=9
The **Hillman Avenger Tiger**—a feisty feline with a penchant for turning heads! Let's talk about those quirks and hiccups that occasionally cropped up in these classic cars.
1. **Suspension and Dampers**:
- The Avenger Tiger came equipped with heavy-duty dampers, which generally held up well. However, keep an eye out for any signs of wear or leaks.
- Occasionally, steering racks could break loose, leading to vague steering. If you find yourself meandering like a daydreaming cat, it might be time to check those steering components.
2. **Bushes and Wear**:
- Like any car, the Avenger's suspension bushes can wear out over time. These little rubber components play a crucial role in maintaining stability and handling.
- Regular inspections and replacements are essential. Think of it as giving your Avenger a spa day for its paws!
3. **Transmission Troubles**:
- Some early Avengers suffered from poor synchromesh on their gearboxes. If you notice any grinding or difficulty shifting gears, it's time to investigate.
- Also, keep an ear out for any noisy back axles. Cats might purr, but your Avenger shouldn't rattle excessively.
4. **Paintwork Woes**:
- Back in the day, Avenger paintwork wasn't always top-notch. Some owners reported issues with chipping, fading, or uneven finishes.
- If you're restoring one, pay attention to the coat—it's like giving your cat a glossy coat of fur!
5. **Door Handles and Oil Consumption**:
- Broken door handles were a minor annoyance for some Avenger owners. If your handle decides to play hide-and-seek, consider replacements.
- As for oil consumption, a few engines had thirstier appetites than others. Keep an eye on those oil levels—you don't want your Tiger feeling parched.
Remember, these quirks are part of the Avenger's charm. It's like having a spirited pet that occasionally misbehaves but steals your heart anyway!
And just for fun, did you know that the Avenger Tiger hugged the ground more tightly than its standard counterpart? Those lowered front springs gave it a sportier stance. Not quite an Escort RS, but it had its own unique roar!
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Generations
The **Hillman Avenger Tiger**—a delightful blast from the past! Let's unravel the generations of this feisty feline on four wheels, shall we?
1. **Mk1 Avenger Tiger (1972-73)**:
- Picture this: It's March 1972, and the Chrysler Competitions Centre decides to jazz up the Avenger "Super" model. They sprinkle some magic dust, and voilà—the Avenger Tiger is born!
- **Distinctive Features**: Sundance Yellow paintwork (because why blend in?), a matte black bonnet bulge (unique to the Mk1), side stripes, a rear spoiler, Lucas auxiliary lamps, and "Avenger Tiger" lettering on the rear quarters.
- **Under the Hood**: The Tiger's 1,500cc engine flexed its muscles with 92 bhp. Not bad, right? It even outgunned the Mk1 Ford Escort Mexico by a whole 7 bhp.
- **Performance**: Top speed? A respectable 108 mph. 0 to 60 mph? A zippy 8.9 seconds.
- **Rare Breed**: Only around 200 Mk1 Tigers were produced, and today, we're talking about a mere 25 survivors. Talk about exclusivity!
2. **Mk2 Avenger Tiger (1972-73)**:
- In October 1972, Chrysler unveiled the more "productionized" Mark 2 Tiger. It's like they said, "Let's make more of these cool cats!"
- **What Changed?**: Mechanically identical to the Mk1, but with a different bodyshell—the Avenger "GL" with four round headlights.
- **Styling Tweaks**: The bonnet bulge got the boot (or rather, the matte black treatment), and Exacton alloy wheels replaced the fancier magnesium Minilites.
- **Colour Palette**: Sundance Yellow and Wardance Red—because Tigers don't do beige.
- **Production Numbers**: Approximately 400 Mk2 Tigers hit the streets. Not too shabby!
- **Survival Story**: Of those 400, only around 30 are still prowling around today.
So, my friend, that's the tale of the two Tigers—the Mk1 and the Mk2. A limited-edition duo that left their paw prints on motoring history!
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Trim Levels
Let's take a peek at the trim levels available for the **Hillman Avenger Tiger**—that spirited feline that prowled the roads with its distinctive stripes and a hint of rebellion.
When it comes to the Avenger Tiger, there were three trim levels to choose from:
1. **DL (Deluxe)**:
- The DL was the entry-level option. It had a simple dashboard with a straightforward strip-style speedometer. No frills, just the essentials—like a cat content with a cozy cardboard box.
2. **Super**:
- The Super trim level stepped things up a bit. It shared the same dashboard style as the DL but added a touch of flair. Imagine a cat wearing a stylish collar—it's still practical but with a hint of sophistication.
3. **GL (Grand Luxury Super)**:
- Ah, the GL—the grandest of them all! This trim level was equipped with a round-dial dashboard. However, the effect was slightly spoiled by conical instrument covers that occasionally played optical tricks with the readings. But hey, even a tiger has its quirks!
And guess what? The GL was exclusively available with the 1500 cc engine. It's like the Avenger Tiger decided, "I want the full roar!"
So, whether you preferred the no-nonsense DL, the subtly upgraded Super, or the dashingly GL, the Avenger Tiger had a trim level to match your taste.
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Engines
Let's pop the bonnet and explore the heart of the **Hillman Avenger Tiger**—that spirited feline that prowled the roads with its distinctive stripes and a hint of rebellion.
1. **Mk1 Avenger Tiger (1972-73)**:
- The original Tiger, the Mk1, came equipped with a feisty 1,500cc engine. Picture this: enlarged valves, a brace of twin-choke Weber 40 carburettors, and a heady 92 bhp. Now, that might not sound like much by today's standards, but back then, it was a whole 7 bhp more than what a Mk1 Ford Escort Mexico could muster. Talk about giving the competition a run for their money!
- This Tiger was like the cool kid who showed up at the party with a turbocharged energy drink—it was ready to pounce!
2. **Mk2 Avenger Tiger (1972-73)**:
- The Mk2 Tiger continued the legacy. Under its bonnet, you'd find a twin-carburettor 1,500 cc engine, just like its Mk1 sibling. It was the same powerplant, but with a different bodyshell—the Avenger "GL" with those iconic four round headlights.
- Imagine the Mk2 Tiger as the refined older sibling—the one who still knows how to have a good time but also attends art galleries on weekends.
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Performance
Let's unleash the performance prowess of the **Hillman Avenger Tiger**, that spirited feline with a growl that turned heads and left tire marks on the tarmac.
1. **Mk1 Avenger Tiger (1972-73)**:
- The original Tiger, the Mk1, was no sleepy tabby. Under its bonnet, it housed a 1,500cc engine that meant business. Picture this: enlarged valves, a duo of twin-choke Weber 40 carburettors, and a heady 92 bhp. Now, that might not sound like much by today's standards, but back then, it was a whole 7 bhp more than what a Mk1 Ford Escort Mexico could muster. Talk about giving the competition a run for their money!
- Road tests of the period revealed a top speed of 108 mph, with a 0 to 60 mph sprint in a zippy 8.9 seconds. Not bad for a car that looked like it was perpetually ready to pounce!
2. **Mk2 Avenger Tiger (1972-73)**:
- The Mk2 Tiger continued the legacy. Based on the four-door Avenger Super, it sported a modified 1500GT engine. With higher compression, a revised cylinder head, and those trusty twin Weber carbs, it produced a respectable 93 bhp.
- Imagine the Mk2 Tiger as the refined older sibling—the one who still knows how to have a good time but also attends art galleries on weekends. It could sprint to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds and hit a top speed of 110 mph—faster than the rival Ford Escort Mexico. Meow, indeed!
So, whether you were tearing up the twisty lanes or cruising on the open road, the Avenger Tiger had a performance that made other cars sit up and take notice. It's like the automotive equivalent of a cat stretching after a nap—graceful yet ready to pounce!
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Spares
**Hillman Avenger Tiger** spares! As you tinker with your vintage feline, let me guide you to a few places where you might find those elusive parts:
1. **Partservice Ltd**:
- Located at 116 Temple Street in Sidmouth, Devon (EX10 9BJ), Partservice Limited has been in the game since 1982. They boast a whopping 18,000 square feet of warehouse space, which means they're probably hiding all sorts of treasures—like a cat with secret hiding spots.
- Their stock includes car and commercial vehicle parts and accessories. Plus, they're all about supporting local independent garages. So, if you need something specific, give them a ring at **01395 513356** or check out their website: [Partservice Ltd](https://www.partservice.co.uk/).
2. **Rootes (Post Vintage) Parts Service**:
- These folks are like the historians of Rootes group cars. Dating back to 1979, they've been keeping the flame alive in Holland. From Sunbeam-Talbot to Hillman, they've got you covered.
- They specialize in parts for Rootes group cars from 1945 to 1975. And guess what? They respond to emails daily and pack and ship parts on weekends. Talk about dedication! 📩
- Check out their offerings at [Rootes Parts Service](https://rootesparts.com/).
3. **Classic Parts Shack**:
- If you're looking for spare parts for Hillman Avengers (and other Roots and Hillman cars), the **Classic Parts Shack** might have just what you need.
- They're like that quirky little shop where you stumble upon hidden gems. You can find them online: [Classic Parts Shack](https://www.classicpartsshack.co.uk/store/c65/Hillman_.html).
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Specialists
1. Bridge Classic Cars:
o While not exclusively in Northern Ireland, Bridge Classic Cars is an award-winning classic car restoration and maintenance specialist. They’ve worked their magic on various classics, including the Hillman Avenger Tiger.
o Their expert classic car technicians treat each project like a cherished pet. If you need restoration or maintenance work, they’re worth checking out.
o Explore their offerings and services: Bridge Classic Cars.
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Racing
The **Hillman Avenger Tiger** wasn't content with just prowling the streets—it wanted to stretch its legs on the racetrack too!
Here's the scoop:
1. **Avenger Tiger I and Tiger II**:
- These were the racing versions of the Avenger Tiger, developed by Des O'Dell, the boss of Chrysler's Competition Department. Picture this: race on Sunday, sell on Monday—because nothing boosts showroom appeal like a car that's been tearing up the track.
- The Avenger Tiger I and Tiger II were built in limited numbers, and their purpose was clear: generate interest in Chrysler's motorsport program. They were Hillman's answer to the Ford Escort RS—a feisty feline with its eyes on the podium.
- While the Avenger Tiger's ultimate motorsport potential wasn't fully realized, it did leave its paw prints on the racing scene.
2. **British Touring Car Championship Victory**:
- Bernard Unett, a works driver, climbed behind the wheel of an Avenger Tiger Mk2 and roared to victory in the British Touring Car Championship in 1974. Imagine the Tiger strutting its stuff, tail held high, as it clinched that championship title!
- The Avenger Tiger proved that it wasn't just about looks—it had the performance chops to back up its stripes.
Let's dive into the **Hillman Avenger Tiger's** racing legacy—a tale of speed, stripes, and motorsport glory!
1. **Birth of the Avenger Tiger**:
- The Avenger Tiger wasn't content with just prowling the streets—it wanted to stretch its legs on the racetrack too! Built in limited numbers, the Tiger I and Tiger II were developed by Des O'Dell, the boss of Chrysler's Competition Department. Their mission? To generate interest in Chrysler's motorsport program. As they say, "Race on Sunday, sell on Monday."
- These Tigers were like the adrenaline-fueled cousins of the standard Avenger, ready to unleash their power and agility on the track.
2. **Flamboyant Beginnings**:
- The Avenger Tiger was born during a time of change. Chrysler had gained a significant stake in Rootes Group (which included Hillman) since 1964. The Arrow project—the Avenger's development—was the first to benefit from Chrysler's cash infusion.
- Early iterations of the Avenger were flamboyant-looking, influenced by the American mindset. Imagine a cat with neon racing stripes—it stood out!
3. **Market Rivals and Racing Success**:
- At launch in February 1970, the Avenger found itself competing with the Ford Escort and Cortina Mk2, as well as the Vauxhall Viva HB. But the domestic opposition looked tired, and the Avenger had a fresh appeal.
- The Avenger Tiger enjoyed considerable competition success. In 1974, works driver Bernard Unett piloted an Avenger Tiger Mk2 to victory in the British Touring Car Championship. Imagine the Tiger strutting its stuff on the podium, tail held high!
- Homologated for racing and rallying, the Avenger Tiger left its paw prints on the motorsport scene. It wasn't just about looks—it had the performance chops to back up its stripes.
4. **Rare Gems and Auctions**:
- Rare Avenger Tigers occasionally surface. For instance, a 1972 Tiger Mk1 in classic Sundance Yellow and matte black recently appeared at a classic car auction. These gems are like collector's items—a nod to racing history.
Let's take a journey through the design evolution of the **Hillman Avenger Tiger**, that spirited feline with racing stripes and a hint of rebellion.
1. **Origins and Chrysler Influence**:
- The Avenger was an ambitious ground-up new car for the Rootes Group, benefiting from the development resources of parent company Chrysler. Launched in the UK and Europe in 1970, it was arguably the first Rootes Group car to receive a serious injection of time, resources, and youth from Chrysler.
- Chrysler had gained a significant stake in Rootes since 1964, and the Arrow project (which birthed the Avenger) was the first to benefit from Chrysler's cash. The Avenger was influenced, designed, and engineered as a UK car to be built by the Americans.
- Early iterations of the Avenger were flamboyant-looking—like a cat with neon racing stripes. Chrysler's influence was evident in its bold design.
2. **Market Rivals and Launch**:
- At its launch in February 1970, the Avenger found itself competing with the Ford Escort and Cortina Mk2, as well as the Vauxhall Viva HB. However, the domestic opposition looked tired, and the Avenger brought freshness to the scene.
- While the Ford Escort RS was its primary rival, the Avenger Tiger—a limited-edition variant—was Hillman's answer to the Escort RS. Developed by Des O'Dell, boss of Chrysler's Competition Department, the Tiger aimed to generate interest in Chrysler's motorsport program.
3. **The Avenger Tiger**:
- The Avenger Tiger was a rally-inspired version available in limited numbers (Mk1 and Mk2). It strutted onto the scene with a big-valve, twin-Weber version of the GT engine, producing 93 bhp.
- Styling changes included removing the bonnet bulge and fully painting the bonnet in matte black. Exacton alloy wheels replaced the more expensive magnesium Minilites, and Restall seats became optional.
- Underneath, the Tiger had improved suspension and brakes, making it a capable performer both on and off the track.
4. **Legacy and Underrated Status**:
- Despite its potential, the Avenger Tiger remains somewhat underrated. While rivals like the Ford Cortina and Morris Marina are frequently re-examined, this solid British saloon tends to be overlooked.
- Perhaps it was because the Avenger was never directly replaced, or maybe its motorsport potential wasn't fully realized. Nevertheless, it's time to appreciate this fine saloon and its unique place in automotive history.