Hillman Minx (1965-67)
Production Total: N/A
Recorded in UK 2024
All models between 1956-67: Licensed=895 SORN=297
The **Hillman Minx** from **1956 to 1967** underwent several changes and improvements, but like any classic car, it had its share of common faults. Let's explore some of them:
1. **Water Ingress and Corrosion**:
- Water could seep into the body structure through a leaking front screen seal. This hidden water could corrode the metal, leading to a **corroded floor pan** where it joins the front bulkhead.
2. **Iron Cylinder Heads**:
- Although the Rootes engines used in these cars were updated with **five main bearings**, the Minx versions retained the **iron heads** from the previous generation of engines.
- While this might seem like a drawback, it was actually a blessing in disguise. The new alloy heads tended to corrode, leading to **overheating** and **warped heads** when the waterways silted up.
3. **Rust-Prone Areas**:
- Check the **front wings directly above the headlights** for rust. This area is a known rust trap that can get out of control quickly.
- The **trailing edges of the front wings** can also rust severely, and corrosion may affect the **A-pillars** and **outer edges of the bulkhead**.
Despite these faults, the Hillman Minx Series cars were nicely engineered British saloons, and many have been tuned over the years. They represented a significant leap forward for their maker, combining smart styling with better performance and handling.
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Generations
The **Hillman Minx** went through several generations during its production from **1931 to 1970**. Let's explore the different versions of this iconic British car:
1. **Pre-WWII Minx**:
- The original **Minx** was introduced in **1931**.
- It had a straightforward and conventional design, featuring a pressed-steel body on a separate chassis and a **30 bhp 1185 cc engine**.
- Over time, it received upgrades such as a **four-speed transmission** and became the first mass-produced car with an **all-synchromesh gearbox**.
- The 1936 model, known as the **Minx Magnificent**, featured a more rounded body and improved passenger space¹.
2. **Post-WWII Minx Variations**:
- The **Hillman Minx** continued to evolve after World War II.
- There were many versions of the Minx, including the **Mark I to Mark VIII**, each with its own design and mechanical updates.
- These variations were produced from **1945 to 1957** in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan².
3. **Final Version**:
- The last iteration of the Minx was the **"New Minx"**, launched in **1967**.
- Part of the **"Arrow"** family, it essentially served as a basic version of the **Hillman Hunter**.
- Generally, the Minx was available in **four-door saloon** and **estate** forms, equipped with a **1496-cc engine**.
- During the **Audax era**, there was also a slightly larger model called the **Hillman Super Minx**.
In summary, the Hillman Minx holds a special place in automotive history, representing a slice of British motoring heritage across its various generations.
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Variants
The **Hillman Minx** went through several variations during its production from **1931 to 1970**. Let's explore the different versions of this iconic British car:
1. **Pre-WWII Minx**:
- The original **Minx** was announced to the public on **October 1, 1931**.
- It had a straightforward and conventional design, featuring a pressed-steel body on a separate chassis and a **30 bhp 1185 cc engine**.
- Upgrades included a four-speed transmission in **1934** and a styling update with a slightly V-shaped grille.
- By **1935**, all forward gears had synchromesh, making it the first mass-produced car with an all-synchromesh gearbox.
- The **1936 model**, known as the **Minx Magnificent**, featured a more rounded body, a stiffened chassis, and improved passenger room.
- An estate version, badged as **Commer**, was also part of the range.
2. **Post-WWII Minx Variations (1945–1957)**:
- The Hillman Minx continued to evolve after World War II.
- There were **eight variations** of the Minx during this period, from the **Mark I to Mark VIII**.
- Each version had its own design and mechanical updates, making the Minx a classic British car model.
3. **Badge-Engineered Variants**:
- In addition to the Hillman Minx, there were badge-engineered variants sold by **Humber**, **Singer**, and **Sunbeam**.
- From the mid-1950s to the mid-1960s, the Minx and its derivatives were the greatest-volume sellers of the "Audax" family of cars from Rootes, which also included the **Singer Gazelle** and **Sunbeam Rapier**.
4. **Final Version**:
- The last iteration of the Minx was the **"New Minx"**, launched in **1967**.
- Part of the **"Arrow"** family, it essentially served as a basic version of the **Hillman Hunter**.
- Generally, the Minx was available in **four-door saloon** and **estate** forms, equipped with a **1496-cc engine**.
- The **Hillman Super Minx**, a slightly larger model, was also offered during the Audax era.
In conclusion, the Hillman Minx is a classic British car model that went through several variations, each contributing to its enduring legacy.
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Trim Levels
For the Hillman Minx produced between 1965 and 1967, there were primarily two trim levels available:
1. **Basic (Safety) Model**: This version featured simpler rexine trim instead of leather, no opening front quarter lights, and generally less luxurious fittings.
2. **De Luxe Model**: This more upscale version included leather trim, opening quarter lights, additional trim pads, and various other comfort enhancements.
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Engines
The **Hillman Minx** went through several variations during its production from **1931 to 1970**. Let's explore the different engines used in this iconic British car:
1. **Pre-WWII Minx (1931–1939)**:
- The original **Minx** was announced in **October 1931**.
- It featured a straightforward design with a pressed-steel body on a separate chassis and a **30 bhp 1185 cc engine**.
- Over time, the engine size increased, and various versions of the Minx had different engine capacities:
- **1390 cc** (early models)
- **1494 cc** (1958)
- **1592 cc** (1961)
- **1725 cc** (1965).
2. **Post-WWII Minx Variations (1945–1957)**:
- The Hillman Minx continued to evolve after World War II.
- During this period, there were **eight variations** of the Minx, each with its own design and mechanical updates.
- The engine sizes varied across these versions, reflecting the ongoing development of the Minx.
3. **Final Version (1967)**:
- The last iteration of the Minx was the **"New Minx"**, launched in **1967**.
- Part of the **"Arrow"** family, it essentially served as a basic version of the **Hillman Hunter**.
- The Minx was available in **four-door saloon** and **estate** forms, powered by a **1496-cc engine**.
- The **Hillman Super Minx**, a slightly larger model, was also offered during the Audax era.
In summary, the Hillman Minx featured various engines over its production years, adapting to changing times and technological advancements.
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Spares
If you're looking for **spare parts for a Hillman Minx** in the **UK** or **Ireland**, here are some options:
1. **Hillman Spares**:
- **Hillman Spares** offers quality spare parts for various Hillman models, including the **Minx**, **Husky**, **Super Minx**, and **Hunter**.
- They cover the years from **1950 to 1970** and provide components for your classic Hillman.
2. **eBay**:
- You can explore **eBay** for **Car Parts for Hillman Minx**. It's a platform where you can find a variety of parts and often get great deals.
3. **Masterparts**:
- **Masterparts** stocks a range of parts and spares for Hillman, including the **Super Minx** and **Hunter** models.
Remember to check these sources for the specific parts you need to keep your Hillman Minx running smoothly!
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Specialists
Finding a mechanic experienced with classic cars like the Hillman Minx can be a bit challenging, but there are a few places in Northern Ireland you might want to check out:
1. **Classic Car Services**: They specialize in the restoration and maintenance of classic cars. They have a good reputation for working on a variety of classic British cars, including the Hillman Minx.
2. **Vintage & Classic Car Repairs**: Located in Belfast, they offer services specifically for vintage and classic cars. They have experience with a range of models and could be a good fit for your Hillman Minx.
3. **Hillman Classic Car Parts**: While primarily a parts supplier, they might be able to recommend local mechanics who are familiar with Hillman vehicles.
It's always a good idea to call ahead and discuss your specific needs to ensure they can provide the services you require.
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Racing
The Hillman Minx from 1965-67 wasn't primarily known for its racing pedigree. However, some enthusiasts did modify and race these cars in various local and club-level events. The Minx's more sporty derivatives, like the Sunbeam Rapier, were more commonly seen in competitive racing.