When it comes to improbability, the world's motor industry has provided some excellent examples. How about a Mazda 121 (think Kia Pride) floorpan and mechanical units clothed in a first-generation Renault 5 body, complete with large black plastic wheelarch extensions? That would be the Pars Khodra Sepand PK. It's another story, but the design lasted from 2000 to 2008, and typifies the nature of Iran's motor industry, of which more later.
A very British improbability, the Rootes Group – an independent manufacturer of cars, vans and trucks built up by two brothers who started as motor dealers and distributors – was facing a difficult future in the mid-1960s. Lacking a true small car, Rootes had invested heavily in the Hillman Imp, also building a new factory for it in Scotland. Beset with teething problems, it was not a great success and Rootes were left with rather lessand younger, but prematurely middle-aged Super Minx and their derivatives wearing Singer, Sunbeam and Humber badges. Perhaps that was just as well, because Rootes toyed with the idea of making a medium-sized rear-engined car, but dismissed it due to lack of funds!
