Hillman Minx MkI Saloon

Shortly before the outbreak of World War Two, Hillman announced its first unitary construction saloon (with no separate chassis), the new Minx. 

The Minx proved so rugged and reliable that it actually remained in production for the first few years of the war, being used as a light staff car by military personnel. Reintroduced with the advent of peace, it quickly won a loyal following and sold well, helped no doubt by its attractive waterfall grille which injected some much needed sparkle into grim post-war Britain.

Mechanically it was conventional, with a separate chassis, beam-axle front and rear suspension, and an 1185cc four-cylinder side-valve 35bhp engine mated to a four-speed gearbox. With a top speed of just over 60mph it was not especially fast, but it was reliable, refined by the standards of the day, and roomy enough to carry four or even five adults.

Dating from 1947, this particular Minx has been in storage for many years and now requires restoration although we are informed that it still starts, runs and drives. The blue leather interior is in reasonably good condition and should clean up quite well. It also has an appealing and transferable number plate, HLM 940, which could well be worth the guide price on its own. Altogether a straightforward project that should keep someone gainfully employed during the coming summer months.