Hillman Minx
ENGINE 1390cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 47.5bhp@4600rpm TORQUE 70lb ft@2400rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 77mph 0-60MPH 27.7sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 28-36mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed man + o/d MoT 12 months ODOMETER 30,179 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
That old cliché about the engine running as smoothly as a sewing machine (if only it was a Singer) truly applies here; it is remarkably quiet. The four-speed column change has absolutely no baulkiness, and all ratios select easily. An overdrive has been fitted – not an original feature – and makes a big difference; the car feels much more relaxed at higher speeds. Even on crossplies, the handling is sharp with minimal play, and the drum brakes are effective enough, providing you don’t call on them for anything too urgent. It’s surprisingly competent and delightful to drive.
BODYWORK CHECK
Finished in a very periodlooking Seacrest Green and Pearl Grey, the Hillman has had paintwork over the years, but otherwise remains largely original. In some areas, there is the occasional crack but no rust to be found. We also found a spot of touch-up above the nearside front wheel arch. Aluminium inner wing liners have been wisely fitted to ward off tinworm. All the chrome is great, with just some light tarnishing to the rear bumper, and there’s plenty of undersealing. Some of the door and window rubbers have perished, but Sherwood intends to renew these.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Rootes interiors can look quite worn once past their best, with carpets often threadbare. That’s not the case here; everything is very wellpreserved. There are some age marks here and there, but nothing major, and the vinyl seats are still firm with no tears. The walnut veneer is good throughout, although it’s a little thin in places on the door cappings and there’s a small nick in the timber above the glovebox. Vacuum and battery condition gauges have been neatly added to the centre panel. The clock is working, its AA battery being neatly installed in the ashtray.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine bay is so untouched that it does make the blue plastic Varta battery – with quick release clip – appear a bit rogue. Even the radiator looks like it’s the original item, or at least period, judging by the embossed ‘Coventry Radiator & Presswork Co. Ltd.’ branding. It’s missing some of its black paint, as is the oil filler cap, but aside from this and some touches of grime and Waxoyl incursions, it’s very presentable. No leaks are apparent and the engine fires up immediately and idles well.
THE CCW VIEW
This Minx stayed with its last owner for 52 years. He lavished care upon it, keeping an exhaustive record of everything, including all MoTs from 1970, every one of which it passed first time. They back up the mileage of just over 30k miles. High price, but this is up there with the best.
PROS One owner, low miler, rare opportunity CONS High price (although well deserved)