Hillman Imp- 1967

Launched in 1963, the Hillman Imp was Rootes Group’s first post-WWII small car, developed under the internal project name “Apex”. A direct competitor to the BMC Mini, which had debuted nearly four years earlier, the Imp stood out with its 875cc all-aluminum engine. The engine, derived from the Coventry Climax OHC Formula Car engine, was adapted for the Imp with significant changes, including a new cylinder head.

The Imp featured a rear-mounted engine, canted at a 45° angle to keep the car’s center of gravity low, enhancing road-holding. To mitigate the common oversteer of rear-engine cars, it incorporated a semi-trailing arm independent rear suspension—an advanced and relatively costly feature for a small car of its time. This solution was inspired by tests performed with a Chevrolet Corvair. The front suspension, however, used swing axle geometry, which initially caused excessive understeer. This was addressed by lowering the  pivot points to adjust the camber.

Designed by Tim Fry and Mike Parkes, the Imp’s saloon body style offered an innovative rear window that could open, essentially creating a hatchback for better access to the small rear luggage area. Produced until 1976, the Imp came in three body styles and played a key role in Rootes’ postwar vehicle lineup.

Specifications:

Manufacturer: Rootes Group

Country of Origin: England

Drivetrain Configuration: rear engine, rear-wheel drive

Engine: Coventry Climax; water-cooled, 875cc, OHC inline four-cylinder, four-stroke, 39hp

Transmission: 4-speed manual with Reverse

Top Speed: 80 MPH

Years of Production: 1963-1976

Number Produced: 440,032

Original Cost: £460+ / ∼$1100 (depending)