THE ALTERNATIVES

HILLMAN IMP Smaller but scarcely lighter than an R8, the Imp’s alloy ohc 875cc engine made it fun but unreliable and it lacked the Renault’s expandability (998cc unit was special-order). Rot claimed most. Sold/no built 1963-’76/440,032 Mpg 30-45 0-60mph 22.1-14.9 secs Top speed 75-92mph Price new £626-785 (’68) Price now £3-12,000

NSU 1000/1200 With an air-cooled ohc ‘four’ and hot versions, the NSU was an interesting choice and lighter than the Imp, but base models had alldrum brakes and all were two-door. Economy poor. Sold/no built 1964-’73/492,379 Mpg 20-35 0-60mph 20.5-12.8 secs Top speed 80-95mph Price new £679-840 (’68) Price now £4-20,000