Hillman Super Minx Mk 2 (1962-64)

Significance The **Hillman Super Minx Mk II (1962–64)** was a pivotal model for the Rootes Group and its Hillman brand, serving as both a strategic refinement and a transitional bridge during a competitive and evolving era in British motoring. 🧭 Strategic Significance - **Expanded Market Reach** The Mk II reinforced Hillman’s presence in the **upper-mid family car segment**, offering more space, refinement, and mechanical upgrades than the standard Minx. It allowed Rootes to compete more directly with models like the Ford Cortina and Austin Cambridge. - **Brand Elevation** By positioning the Super Minx above the regular Minx, Hillman aimed to **elevate its brand image** without abandoning its core customer base. The Mk II’s improved braking, revised gearing, and reduced maintenance points reflected a push toward modernisation. - **Export Viability** The Mk II was marketed internationally, including as the **Humber 90** in New Zealand and South Africa. Its conservative engineering and familiar styling made it a dependable export model, helping Rootes maintain global relevance. 🛠 Technical & Design Legacy - **Mechanical Refinement** The Mk II introduced **larger front disc brakes**, a **revised axle ratio**, and eliminated greasing points—enhancing drivability and reducing servicing needs. - **Platform Efficiency** Shared architecture with the Singer Vogue and Humber Sceptre allowed Rootes to **maximise badge engineering**, targeting multiple market segments with minimal retooling. - **Convertible & Estate Variants** The availability of multiple body styles broadened its appeal and showcased Rootes’ flexibility in catering to diverse customer needs. 🏁 Transitional Role - **Bridge to the Arrow Series** The Mk II kept Hillman competitive while the **Arrow platform (Hunter, New Minx)** was in development. It maintained showroom relevance and customer loyalty during a critical period of product evolution. - **Preserving the Minx Legacy** By continuing the Minx nameplate in a more upscale form, Hillman leveraged decades of brand recognition while subtly shifting its market positioning. In short, the Super Minx Mk II wasn’t just a facelift—it was a **strategic stabiliser**, a **technical stepping stone**, and a **brand-building tool** that helped Hillman navigate the early 1960s with confidence. ***** COMMON FAULTS 1. **Rust, Rust, and More Rust:** - Super Minxes were like magnets for rust. Seriously, they must have had secret meetings with oxidation. Wheel arches? Yep, they often rotted out. Check them carefully for filler—because sometimes it's hiding a rusty surprise. - The wings themselves held up better, but where the inner and outer panels met, corrosion could sneak in like an uninvited guest at a party. So, give those areas a close inspection. 2. **Ignition System Woes:** - The Rootes engines used in these cars were updated with five main bearings (fancy!), but the Minx versions clung to their iron heads from the previous generation. Now, that might sound like a throwback disco move, but it had its reasons. - You see, the new alloy heads tended to corrode, leading to overheating and warped heads when the waterways silted up. So, if your Super Minx is feeling a bit feverish, check that ignition system! 3. **Carburettor Conundrums:** - Carburettors can be finicky creatures. If your Super Minx is acting up, consider the following: - **Float Heights:** Make sure they're correct. Too much fuel can lead to all sorts of drama. - **Fuel Delivery:** Is the fuel pump doing its job? Fuel at the carb is essential for happy motoring. - **Zeniths and Stromberg's:** Depending on the vintage, your Super Minx might have twin Zeniths or twin Stromberg's. Keep an eye on these carburettors—they can be like moody artists. 4. **Mojo Loss and Vacuum Leaks:** - Vacuum leaks are like little gremlins. They mess with your engine's mind. Check for any obvious air leaks—the kind that make your Super Minx go, "Hey, I'm not feeling so super today." - And if you're experiencing major mojo loss, don't worry—you're not alone. Vintage cars have a way of humbling even the most patient of enthusiasts. But hey, it builds character, right? 5. **The Arrow Takes Flight:** - By 1966, Rootes decided it was time for a change. The Super Minx gracefully stepped aside, making room for the Arrow range. In the UK, it wore the Hillman Hunter badge; across the pond, it was the Sunbeam Arrow. A new era dawned, but we'll always have a soft spot for those Super Minxes. ***** Generations **Generations of the Hillman Super Minx:** 1. **Super Minx Mark I (1961–1965):** - The Super Minx made its debut in October 1961, strutting onto the scene like a dapper gentleman at a soirée. It was essentially a slightly larger version of the Hillman Minx, part of the "Audax" series of designs. - Available as a 4-door saloon (the classic sedan), it aimed to give Rootes—especially the Hillman brand—a foothold in the upper echelons of the family car market. - Under the hood, it sported a 1,592 cc (97.1 cu in) engine, which had first appeared in 1953 with a smaller 1,390 cc (85 cu in) capacity. The original Super Minx rocked a cast-iron cylinder head, but later models switched to an aluminium one. - Fun fact: The Super Minx Mark I also had a two-door convertible sibling, but it didn't exactly fly off the showroom floors. Apparently, folks preferred their Super Minxes with a solid roof! 2. **Super Minx Mark II and Beyond:** - In May 1962, the Super Minx family expanded. An estate version joined the lineup, perfect for those who needed extra space for picnics, antique shopping, or smuggling secret spy gadgets (okay, maybe not the last one). - The convertible, however, remained a rare bird. Only a handful were made, and the last one rolled off the production line in June 1964. - But wait, there's more! In September 1964, the Super Minx Mark III stepped into the spotlight. It was like the Super Minx had a midlife makeover—still classy, but with a fresh coat of paint and a new attitude. 3. **Rootes Arrow Takes the Baton:** - By 1967, the Super Minx gracefully bowed out, making way for the Rootes Arrow range. In the UK, it wore the Hillman Hunter badge; across the pond, it masqueraded as the Sunbeam Arrow. A new era dawned, but we'll always have fond memories of those Super Minxes. So, in summary, we had the Mark I, a brief fling with convertibles, and then the Mark III before the curtain fell. Each generation had its own quirks, stories, and a dash of British flair. ***** Trim Levels 1. **Super Minx Deluxe (De Luxe):** - Picture this: leather-trimmed seats, opening quarter lights (because fresh air is essential), and extra trim pads. The De Luxe was like the VIP lounge of Super Minxes—a place where elegance and comfort held hands. - If you wanted a touch of luxury to go with your motoring adventures, the De Luxe had your back. It was the kind of car that whispered, "Darling, let's take the scenic route and sip champagne by the riverside." 2. **Super Minx Special (Standard):** - Now, the Special was more down-to-earth. No leather here—just simple rexine trim (which sounds like a distant cousin of pleather). No opening front quarter lights either. It was like the Super Minx's sensible sibling—the one who packed a picnic basket with sandwiches and a thermos of tea. - But hey, practicality has its charm. The Special was reliable, unpretentious, and probably knew all the best shortcuts to avoid traffic jams. 3. **Two-Tone Paint Schemes (Because Life Needs More Colours):** - Okay, this isn't a trim level per se, but it's worth mentioning. The Super Minx loved playing dress-up. Two-tone paint jobs were all the rage—like a stylish outfit with a matching hat. - Imagine cruising in a Super Minx with a pearl grey upper and a contrasting lower body. It was like the car version of a jazz band—swinging, harmonious, and turning heads at every corner. 4. **The Audax Design:** - Before we dive deeper, let's talk about the Audax design. It was the Super Minx's secret weapon—a radical departure from its predecessor, the Mark VIII. - Raymond Loewy, the designer, had previously worked magic for Studebaker (including the iconic 1949 Starlight Coupe). The Super Minx's wrap-around glass, hooded bezels, and distinctive curves were all part of the Audax dance. 5. **Sibling Rivalry: Sunbeam Rapier:** - Fun fact: The Sunbeam Rapier flaunted the Audax design before the Super Minx did. It was like the Minx's cooler cousin—the one who wore sunglasses indoors and knew all the latest dance moves. ***** Engines The Super Minx was a charming family car produced by Hillman from 1961 to 1967. It strutted onto the scene during the "Audax" series of designs, which was like the automotive equivalent of a well-choreographed dance. Here's what powered these vintage beauties: 1. **Rootes 1,592 cc (97.1 cu in) Engine (1961–1965):** - The original Super Minx came equipped with this gem. It had first appeared late in 1953 with a smaller 1,390 cc (85 cu in) capacity. - Picture a cast-iron cylinder head version of this engine—a sturdy workhorse that chugged along, propelling families to picnics and Sunday drives. - But wait, there's an upgrade! 2. **Aluminium Cylinder Head (Later Models):** - As the Super Minx evolved, so did its engine. Later cars swapped out the cast-iron cylinder head for a more sophisticated aluminium one. It's like the Super Minx decided to put on a tuxedo for a fancy soirée. - This swap improved efficiency and reduced weight. Because, you know, aluminium is all lightweight and posh. 3. **Power Figures:** - The 1,592 cc engine churned out around 62 bhp (63 PS/46 kW) of power at 4800 rpm. Not exactly a rocket ship, but it got the job done. - Torque? A respectable 114 N·m (84 lb·ft/11.6 kgm) at 2800 rpm. Torque is like the friendly neighbour who helps you move furniture—it's there when you need it. 4. **Transmission Options:** - The Super Minx offered a four-speed manual transmission with synchromesh on the top three ratios. Smooth gear changes were the name of the game. - And for those who preferred a touch of magic, there was the optional "Smiths Easidrive" automatic transmission. Because sometimes you just want the car to do the cha-cha with the gears. 5. **Suspension, Brakes, and Steering:** - Up front, independent suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. At the rear, trusty leaf springs and a live axle. - Braking? Good ol' unassisted 9-inch Lockheed drum brakes. No ABS or fancy electronic wizardry here. - Steering? A recirculating ball system—no power assistance, just good old-fashioned muscle. You turned that wheel like a seasoned captain navigating stormy seas. 6. **Creature Comforts:** - Inside, standard Vynide-trimmed seats. Bench-style up front, but individual seats were an option for those who wanted to feel extra special. - A heater kept toes warm, and if you were feeling fancy, you could tick the box for a radio. Because tunes make every journey better. 7. **Paint Palette:** - The Super Minx flaunted single-color or two-tone paint options. Because life is too short for monochrome cars! And there you have it—the beating heart of the Super Minx. It wasn't a speed demon, but it had character, like a wise old storyteller spinning tales of winding roads and simpler times. If you ever find one parked at a vintage car show, give it a nod—it's part of automotive history! ***** Performance **Performance Specs of the Hillman Super Minx:** 1. **Engine Power:** - The Super Minx was powered by a Rootes 1,592 cc (97.1 cu in) engine. It had first appeared back in 1953 with a smaller 1,390 cc (85 cu in) capacity. Think of it as the engine equivalent of a seasoned storyteller—the kind who knows all the best winding roads. - The original Super Minx rocked a cast-iron cylinder head, but later models switched to an aluminum one. You know, because aluminum is all lightweight and fancy. It produced around 62 bhp (63 PS/46 kW) of power at 4800 rpm. Not exactly a rocket ship, but it had a certain charm. 2. **Acceleration:** - Picture this: the Super Minx gracefully accelerating from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 21.6 seconds. It wasn't breaking any land-speed records, but it had a leisurely elegance about it. Like a well-dressed couple waltzing at a vintage ball. 3. **Top Speed:** - The Super Minx could stretch its legs to a top speed of 80.0 mph (128.7 km/h). Imagine the wind tousling your hair as you cruised along—no rush, just the open road and a hint of nostalgia. 4. **Fuel Economy:** - Ah, fuel consumption—the eternal dance between miles and gallons. The Super Minx managed a respectable "touring" fuel economy of 27.9 miles per imperial gallon (that's about 10.1 L/100 km for our metric friends). Not bad for its time! 5. **Transmission Options:** - The four-speed manual transmission featured synchromesh on the top three ratios. Smooth gear changes were the name of the game. And yes, it had a floor lever—none of that paddle-shifting wizardry! - For those who preferred a touch of magic, there was the optional "Smiths Easidrive" automatic transmission. Because sometimes you just want the car to do the cha-cha with the gears. 6. **Handling and Braking:** - Suspension? Independent at the front with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. At the rear, trusty leaf springs and a live axle. It handled like a seasoned dancer—graceful and predictable. - Brakes? Good ol' unassisted 9-inch Lockheed drum brakes. No ABS or electronic safety nets—just the driver's intuition and a firm foot on the pedal. 7. **Creature Comforts:** - Inside, standard Vynide-trimmed seats. Bench-style up front, but individual seats were an option for those who wanted to feel extra special. - A heater kept toes warm, and if you were feeling fancy, you could tick the box for a radio. Because tunes make every journey better. 8. **Paint Palette:** - The Super Minx flaunted single-color or two-tone paint options. Because life is too short for monochrome cars! ***** Spares Ah, the quest for vintage car parts—a noble pursuit indeed! 🚗✨ If you're on the hunt for **Hillman Super Minx** spares from the golden era of motoring, fear not—I've got a few leads for you. Let's dive into the treasure trove of classic car enthusiasts and spare part wizards: 1. **[Hillman Spares](https://hillmanspares.co.uk/)**: - These folks specialize in quality spare parts for Hillman cars from the 1950s to the 1970s. It's like stepping into a time machine and browsing through shelves of nostalgia. - They've got your back when it comes to the Super Minx, along with its siblings—the Minx, Husky, and Hunter. So whether you need a clutch, brakes, or a magical carburetor gasket, they might just have it tucked away in their vintage vaults¹. 2. **[MEV Spares](https://www.mevspares.co.uk/Hillman-Minx-Super-Minx-Husky-Car-Parts/)**: - These fine folks cater to Hillman Minx, Super Minx, and Husky owners. Clutch acting up? Brakes feeling moody? Engine whispering secrets? They've got the parts you seek. - It's like a secret society of classic car aficionados—where ignition switches are discussed over cups of Earl Grey tea, and brake pads are revered like ancient manuscripts². 3. **Swapmeet Adventures**: - Now, here's a tip: Keep an eye out for classic car swapmeets, autojumbles, and vintage car shows. These gatherings are like reunions for car parts. You'll find enthusiasts swapping stories, haggling over gearboxes, and sharing tips on how to coax that old engine back to life. - And don't forget to bookmark this page: [OldClassicCar's Minx Swapmeet](https://www.oldclassiccar.co.uk/freeads/hillman_minx.htm). It's an online treasure trove where Minx owners list spare parts they want or parts they no longer need. Who knows? Your missing Super Minx widget might just be waiting there, like a lost puppy looking for a home³. ***** Racing **Racing Pedigree of the Hillman Super Minx:** While the Super Minx wasn't exactly a fire-breathing track monster, it did have its moments in the spotlight. Here's the lowdown: 1. **Touring Car Racing:** - The Super Minx participated in various touring car championships and local races. Think of it as the family sedan that occasionally swapped its grocery runs for a few laps around the circuit. - Now, it wasn't battling against Ferraris or Porsches; instead, it danced with other modestly powered contenders. But hey, every race has its heroes, even if they wear tweed jackets and carry a thermos of tea. 2. **Holbay Tuned Versions:** - Some Super Minxes received a special treatment from Holbay Engineering. They tweaked the engines, massaged the suspension, and whispered sweet nothings to the carburettors. - These tuned versions weren't outright racers, but they had a bit more pep in their step. Imagine the Super Minx winking at you from the starting grid, saying, "Hold my flat cap—I've got this!" 3. **Convertible Coolness:** - The Super Minx convertible, though rare, had its own allure. It might not have been a Le Mans star, but it knew how to turn heads. Imagine it cruising along the coast, wind in its hair, and a smile on its grille. - And who knows? Maybe a few Super Minx convertibles secretly moonlighted as pace cars during village fêtes. 4. **Legacy and Nostalgia:** - Ultimately, the Super Minx's legacy lies beyond the racetrack. It was the car that took families on picnics, carried kids to school, and witnessed countless sunsets. - So, while it didn't win championships, it won hearts—the kind of victory that lasts forever. And there you have it—a glimpse into the Super Minx's racing escapades. It might not have had podium finishes, but it had character, like a seasoned driver with a twinkle in their eye. If you ever spot one at a classic car show, give it a nod—it's part of automotive history! ***** Valuation In 2025, the **Hillman Super Minx Mk II (1962–64)** typically commands a value of around **£3,351** in the UK, with prices ranging from **£1,100** for rough examples to **£11,348** for top-tier convertibles or concours-level restorations. 💷 UK Market Value Snapshot (2025) | Condition | Estimated Value (GBP) | Notes | |----------------------|------------------------|-------| | **Project/Rough** | £1,100–£2,500 | May require full restoration; often incomplete | | **Usable Driver** | £2,500–£5,000 | MOT’d, presentable, but not concours | | **Restored/Show** | £5,000–£11,348+ | High-quality restoration or rare convertible variant | - **Convertible models** fetch the highest prices, especially with provenance or originality. - Auction sell-through rate is around **73%**, indicating steady demand. - Survivors are relatively scarce, with fewer than **400 licensed or SORN’d** in the UK as of 2024. ***** Investment Assessment I’d rate the **Hillman Super Minx Mk II (1962–64)** a **3 out of 5** as a financial investment—respectable potential, especially for well-preserved convertibles, but not without limitations. 💼 Investment Rating: **3/5** ✅ Strengths - **Classic Appeal**: Period styling, spacious interior, and convertible variants offer nostalgic charm. - **Rarity**: Fewer than **400 licensed or SORN’d** in the UK as of 2024, boosting exclusivity. - **Affordability**: Median UK value sits around **£3,351**, making it an accessible entry into classic ownership. - **Convertible Premium**: Drop-top versions can fetch **£7,500–£11,348+**, especially with provenance. ⚠️ Limitations - **Modest Appreciation**: Values have remained relatively flat, with limited upward momentum. - **Parts Scarcity**: Body panels and trim can be difficult to source, especially for early Mk II saloons. - **Club Support**: Less visible than contemporaries like the Ford Cortina or Morris Oxford, which affects market confidence. 📈 Outlook - Best suited for **enthusiasts** who value period-correct restoration and occasional show use. - Convertible and export variants (e.g. Humber 90) offer stronger returns due to rarity and styling. *****