Hillman Imp (1963-76)

The Hillman Imp, despite its cool appearance and practicality, faced several issues during its production. Here are some common problems associated with it:

1. **Corrosion**: The Imp's bodyshell was prone to rust. Check areas like the leading edge of the double-skinned bonnet, door bottoms, front and rear wheel arches, and the base of the inner wheel arch.
2. **Engine Overheating**: Due to its rear-engined layout and lack of a good cooling draft, the Imp gained a fearsome reputation for overheating.
3. **Water Leaks**: Some Imps suffered from water leaks, which could lead to interior damage.
4. **Defective Chokes and Throttle Issues**: Early models had issues with chokes and throttle mechanisms.
5. **Aluminium Engine Maintenance**: The all-aluminium engine lasts well if antifreeze levels are maintained. Old antifreeze can corrode the alloy and block the radiator.
6. **Head Gasket Failure**: Check for head gasket failure by inspecting the underside of the oil filler cap for "mayonnaise" (a mix of oil and coolant).

Despite these challenges, the Imp remains an interesting classic car choice. If you're on a budget, even regular Imp saloons or Singer Chamois models can provide fun per pound!

Generations
The Hillman Imp went through several generations during its production. Here's a breakdown:

1. **Mark I Imp (1963–1965)**: The initial version, available in Standard trim only.
2. **Mark II Imp (1965–1968)**: Introduced at the end of 1965, it featured revisions like a more conventional throttle linkage and an automatic choke. The Commer Imp van and the Hillman Husky estate (with side windows behind the B-pillar) were also part of this generation.
3. **Mark III Imp (1968–1976)**: Badged as "IMP III," it continued with Standard or Super trim options.
4. **Hillman GT**: Built from Sunbeam Imp Sport CKD kits, produced from 1967 until the end of 1968.

Body Style/Variants

The Hillman Imp came in **three** main body styles:

1. **2-door saloon**: The standard version.
2. **2-door coupe**: Known as the Hillman Imp Californian, Sunbeam Stiletto, and Singer Chamois.
3. **3-door estate (Husky)**: A practical estate version.

Additionally, there were variations like the **panel van** and other sporty models under the Sunbeam brand. Quite a diverse lineup!
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Trim Levels
The Hillman Imp was offered in several trim levels over its production run. Here are some of the key ones:

1. **Standard Imp**: The base model with basic features.
2. **Imp Super**: An upgraded version with more features and better interior trim.
3. **Imp Deluxe**: A more luxurious version with additional comfort and convenience features.
4. **Imp Sport**: A performance-oriented model with a more powerful engine and sportier features.
5. **Sunbeam Stiletto**: A coupe version with a more stylish design and enhanced features.
6. **Singer Chamois**: A more upmarket version with additional luxury features.

Each of these trim levels offered different combinations of features and performance enhancements, catering to a range of preferences and budgets.
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Spares
If you're looking for **Hillman Imp** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are a couple of options:

1. **Malcolm Anderson Imp Parts**: They have a large stock of new and used parts for your Hillman Imp, Singer, Sunbeam, or Commer Imp Van. Their inventory includes complete engines, cylinder heads, steering components, brake parts, and more. You can reach them at **01823 350360** or email **malcolmimps@aol.com**.

2. **Imp Club Spares (NX12)**: The Imp Club offers a comprehensive list of spares for Hillman Imps and derivatives. For inquiries, you can contact them via email at **spares@theimpclub.co.uk**.
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Specialists
You can find a few specialists in Northern Ireland who can work on a Hillman Imp:

1. **Corley Conversions**: They specialize in Hillman Imp engines for road or rally, including engine builds, rebuilds, and race car preparation.

2. **The Specialist Panel**: The Imp Club offers a comprehensive list of spares and services for Hillman Imps. They have a panel of professionals with extensive experience working on Imps².

3. **Reg Patten Engines**: Known for their work on classic car engines, including the Hillman Imp.

These specialists should be able to help with any repairs, modifications, or maintenance you need for your Hillman Imp.
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Racing
Rosemary Smith's victory in the 1965 Tulip Rally is a remarkable chapter in motorsport history. She, along with her co-driver Valerie Domleo, drove a factory-entered Hillman Imp to victory in this prestigious event¹². The rally covered approximately 1,800 miles (around 2,900 km) over four days, presenting a significant challenge².

Smith's win was notable not only because she was one of the few women competing at that level but also because she managed to outperform many seasoned drivers. This victory helped cement her reputation as a skilled and fearless rally driver¹².

Her success in the Tulip Rally was one of many achievements in her illustrious career, which also included victories in other major rallies and numerous class wins²³. Rosemary Smith's legacy continues to inspire many in the world of motorsport.

Rosemary Smith had an illustrious rally career, competing in numerous prestigious events. Here are some highlights:

1. **Monte Carlo Rally**: She competed multiple times, winning the Coupe des Dames (ladies' class) in 1966, although she was controversially disqualified that year.
2. **Circuit of Ireland Rally**: She won the ladies' prize several times.
3. **Alpine Rally**: She secured the ladies' prize twice.
4. **Canadian Shell 4000 Rally**: Another event where she won the ladies' prize twice¹.
5. **Acropolis Rally**: She claimed the ladies' prize once.
6. **Cork 20 Rally**: She achieved an outright win in 1969.
7. **London to Mexico World Cup Rally (1970)**: She finished 10th overall and was the first lady team².
8. **London to Sydney Marathon (1968)**: Another notable event in her career².

Rosemary Smith's achievements in these rallies, along with her numerous class wins, solidified her reputation as one of the top rally drivers of her time.