Marque: Hillman - Company History & Models - Cars By Brand
Hillman
In Coventry a century ago the first cars to bear the Hillman name were being produced as Hillman-Coatalens, since Louis Coatalen designed the first examples. Early production included lusty four-cylinder 6.4-litre and six-cylinder 9.7-litre models, but the 9hp Hillman (built until 1925) was sold in much greater numbers, and sports versions were competitive in motor-sport. The larger Hillman Fourteen…
Hillman Husky
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1956-1965 - Engine:
1390 cc S4 OHV 47.5bhp @4400 rpm - 0-60 mph:
17 secs - Top Speed:
74 mph - MPG:
29 mpg
Smooth, refined, luxurious – the Hillman Husky was none of these but it was an utterly dependable workhorse. Introduced in 1956, the Husky was basically an swb two-door version of the Minx estate, with a side-hinged rear door. Incredibly basic such luxuries as ‘ashtray’ and ‘main beam warning lamp’ were on the options list but the cars were a firm favourite with the MOD and rural constabularies alike! The Husky was progressively upgraded in line with the Minx range, the 1963 models having the Series VI Minx grille and amber front indicators. A van derivative known as the Commer Cob was basically a Husky sans side windows and rear seat and ran parallel to it until both ceased production in 1965. The Husky name was briefly revived for the 1967-1970 estate-car version of the Hillman Imp.
Hillman (Post War) Hillman Minx To 1948
PRICE: Saloon/estate: £500 - £3000+; Tourer: £2000 - £6000
Fast Facts
- Produced:
1946-48 - Bodywork:
Four-door saloon; two-door tourer estate - Engine:
Sidevalve in-line; four-cylinder 1184cc 35bhp - Top Speed:
65+ mph - MPG:
30-40
Well worth a look as a practical, interesting classic for a family. Rare (especially early ones), Hillman’s Minx saloon once sold in healthy numbers and provided solid, reliable motoring in the mid-range family car market of its time. Many are unaware that significant features on some of the first cars included a standard-fit car radio (in the ‘Melody Minx’ of 1932), and all-synchromesh gearboxes (but only fitted between 1935 and 1939). Post-War cars look generally similar to their predecessors, but had more power. We reckon Minx is an overlooked, undervalued classic, which is good news if you are buying as prices are generally affordable.
