Hillman Imp (1963-76)
The Hillman Imp (1963–76) was born out of necessity, innovation, and a bold attempt to rival the Mini. Its concept was shaped by post-Suez fuel anxieties, Rootes Group’s desire to modernise, and a government-backed push to decentralise industry into Scotland.
🎯 Concept Behind the Hillman Imp
🚗 Response to the Suez Crisis
The 1956 oil shortage triggered demand for small, fuel-efficient cars.
Rootes, known for larger saloons, needed a compact offering to stay competitive.
🧠 Clean-Sheet Engineering
Designed by Tim Fry and Mike Parkes, the Imp featured:Rear-mounted Coventry Climax-derived engine
All-aluminium overhead camshaft unit—a first for British mass production
Independent suspension all round for agile handling
Transaxle gearbox with full synchromesh—advanced for its class
🏭 Linwood Plant Strategy
Built in a new factory in Linwood, Scotland, funded by government grants to combat regional unemployment.
The plant symbolised Rootes’ commitment to modernisation and decentralised manufacturing.
🏁 Ultimate Goals
GoalDescription Compete with the MiniIntended as a direct rival, offering more advanced engineering and rear-engine layout Expand Market ReachTargeted young families and export markets with multiple body styles (saloon, estate, van, coupé) Boost British InnovationShowcased Rootes’ technical prowess with aluminium engine and swing axle geometry Support Scottish IndustryLinwood plant aimed to revitalise the local economy and create skilled jobs Enable Motorsport SuccessHomologated for rallying; won events like the 1965 Tulip Rally and 1966 Coupe des Alpes
📉 Legacy
Despite its engineering brilliance, the Imp suffered from early reliability issues, poor cooling, and rushed development.
It sold 440,000 units, far short of the projected 150,000 per year.
Yet today, it’s celebrated for its quirky charm, technical innovation, and rally pedigree.
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Global Popularity
The Hillman Imp (1963–76) achieved modest global popularity, but it never matched the international success of rivals like the Mini. Its reach was broad—thanks to Rootes Group’s export ambitions—but its impact varied significantly by region.
🌍 Global Reach & Popularity
Region/ Popularity Level/ Notes
United Kingdom⭐⭐⭐⭐☆Strong domestic sales; ~440,000 built
New Zealand⭐⭐⭐☆☆Locally assembled; popular among families
Australia⭐⭐☆☆☆Sold as Hillman GT; niche appeal
South Africa⭐⭐☆☆☆Limited sales; some local assembly
Ireland⭐⭐☆☆☆CKD kits assembled locally; modest uptake
Malaysia & Philippines⭐☆☆☆☆Minimal market penetration
Costa Rica, Uruguay, Venezuela⭐☆☆☆☆Small-scale assembly; low visibility
USA & Canada⭐☆☆☆☆Brief export run; overshadowed by domestic compacts
🏁 Motorsport & Export Influence
Rally Success: The Imp won events like the 1965 Tulip Rally and 1966 Coupe des Alpes, boosting its reputation in Europe.
Badge Engineering: Sold as Singer Chamois, Sunbeam Imp, and Commer Van, helping it reach diverse markets.
Export Strategy: Rootes pushed the Imp into Commonwealth countries, but early reliability issues and unfamiliar rear-engine layout limited its appeal.
📉 Why It Fell Short Globally
Launched too late: The Mini had a four-year head start and dominated the small car segment.
Reliability Concerns: Cooling issues and rushed development hurt its reputation abroad.
Rear-Engine Skepticism: Buyers in many markets preferred front-engine layouts for familiarity and serviceability.
Despite its limited global success, the Imp remains a cult classic—especially in the UK and New Zealand.
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Overview
The Hillman Imp, produced from 1963 to 1976, was a small economy car designed to compete with the likes of the Mini. It was known for its rear-engine layout, compact dimensions, and innovative design. The Imp was aimed at urban drivers and small families, offering practicality and affordability. Despite its innovative features, the Imp had a mixed reputation due to early reliability issues.
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Manufacturing Details
First Manufactured: 1963
Production Run: 1963-1976
Manufacturing Locations: Linwood, Scotland
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Generations and Trim Levels
The Hillman Imp went through several updates and variations during its production run:
Original Imp (1963): The initial model with a 875cc engine.
Imp Deluxe (1964): Added more features and improved interior.
Imp Super (1965): Enhanced performance and styling.
Imp Californian (1967): A coupe version with a sportier look.
Imp Sport (1968): Higher performance variant with twin carburetors.
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Designer and Dimensions
Lead Designer: Michael Parkes
Exterior Dimensions:
Length: 3,581 mm
Width: 1,473 mm
Height: 1,346 mm
Wheelbase: 2,083 mm
Interior Space:
Boot/Trunk Capacity: 200 liters
Seating Configuration: 2+2 seating arrangement
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Total Production: 440,000
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Price New: In 1963, the Hillman Imp was priced at approximately **£508** in the UK.
To calculate the equivalent value of £508 from 1963 in 2025, we need to account for inflation over the years. Using the Bank of England's inflation calculator, we can estimate this value.
In 2025, £508 from 1963 would be approximately **£10,000**.
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Main Rivals (Price): In 1963, the Hillman Imp faced competition from several other cars in the UK market. Here are some of its main rivals and their approximate new prices at that time:
1. **Austin Mini**: Around £497
2. **Ford Anglia 105E**: Around £498
3. **Morris Minor 1000**: Around £478
4. **Vauxhall Viva HA**: Around £527
5. **Triumph Herald 1200**: Around £702
These prices are approximate and can vary based on the specific model and options chosen. The Hillman Imp itself was priced at around £508 in 1963.
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Engine Specifications
The Hillman Imp was equipped with a rear-mounted, all-aluminum engine:
Engine Type: 875cc, inline-4, water-cooled
Power Output: 39 hp (standard), 51 hp (Sport)
Torque: 52 Nm (standard), 67 Nm (Sport)
Performance
0–60 mph (0–100 km/h) Acceleration Times: Approximately 25 seconds (standard), 18 seconds (Sport)
Top Speed: 70 mph (standard), 85 mph (Sport)
Fuel Economy:
Official: 40 mpg
Real-World: 35 mpg
Handling Characteristics: Known for its nimble handling and good road-holding, but early models had issues with oversteer.
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Common Faults
The Hillman Imp had several common issues:
Mechanical Issues: Early models suffered from engine overheating and head gasket failures.
Bodywork: Prone to rust, especially in the sills and floorpans.
Electrical Failures: Problems with the ignition system and wiring.
Recalls: Several recalls were issued to address engine and cooling system problems.
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Historical Pricing Comparisons
Original Launch Price: £508 (1963)
Price Changes Across Generations: Prices increased slightly with each new variant and trim level.
Comparison to Rivals: The Imp was competitively priced against the Mini and other small cars of the era.
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Rarity & Collector’s Appeal
Surviving Examples: Relatively few Imps remain, making them rare and sought after by collectors.
Factors Contributing to Rarity: Low production numbers, high attrition rate, and desirability among enthusiasts.
Current Collector Interest: High, with well-preserved examples fetching good prices at auctions.
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Value in the UK in 2025
Current Typical Price Range: £5,000 - £15,000 depending on condition and provenance.
Factors Influencing Value: Condition, originality, and rarity.
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Maintenance and Running Costs
The Hillman Imp's maintenance and running costs are relatively low, but finding spare parts can be challenging. Enthusiast clubs and specialist suppliers are valuable resources for parts and advice.
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Racing
Hillman was involved in motorsport from its earliest days, with racing playing a key role in both its engineering development and brand identity.
🏁 Early Racing Roots
1907 Tourist Trophy
Hillman’s very first car—the 24HP Hillman-Coatalen—was entered in the 1907 Tourist Trophy race, marking the company’s motorsport debut. Though it crashed, the entry helped establish Hillman’s reputation for performance engineering.Louis Coatalen, Hillman’s co-founder, was himself a racing driver and engineer. His influence shaped the brand’s early focus on competitive capability.
🏆 Rallying Successes
1968 London–Sydney Marathon
The Hillman Hunter, driven by Andrew Cowan, won this grueling 10,000-mile rally, beating factory teams from Porsche, Citroën, and BMC. It remains one of the most celebrated underdog victories in rally history.1970 World Cup Rally (London–Mexico)
Hunters competed again, reinforcing Hillman’s reputation for endurance and reliability.Avenger Tiger (1972–73)
Developed by Des O'Dell’s Chrysler Competitions Centre, the Tiger was built to homologate the Avenger for Group 1 rallying. It competed in:British Group 1 Rally Championship
1971 Press-on-Regardless Rally (USA) – won outright as the Plymouth Cricket
Heatway Rally of New Zealand (1976) – claimed victory
🧰 Homologation & Engineering
Hillman models like the Hunter and Avenger Tiger were homologated for Group 1 FIA competition, allowing them to race in production-based saloon categories.
Motorsport success influenced showroom models—e.g. the Hunter GLS with Holbay tuning and twin Webers.
🏎 Legacy
While Hillman wasn’t a dominant racing marque like Lotus or Ford, its rallying achievements—especially the Hunter’s London–Sydney win—cemented its place in motorsport history. These victories helped boost brand image and inspired performance trims that are now highly collectible.
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Owners Clubs in Northern Ireland
There are several owners clubs in Northern Ireland dedicated to the Hillman Imp, providing a community for enthusiasts to share their passion and knowledge. These clubs often organize events, rallies, and shows.