Imps &Spin-Offs

HILLMAN IMP (1963-1976)

evelopment of Rootes’ first truly small car dragged on for eight years, with much of that time spent ensuring it had refinement and comfort comparable with the firm’s bigger cars without sacrificing grip or handling. The all-alloy OHC engine, famously derived from the Coventry Climax racing motor family, was smooth, eager and high-revving. A lifting rear window leading to a storage cubby and folding rear seats (plus luggage space under the ‘bonnet’) made the Imp