1953 Hillman Minx

Lot details
Registration No: SPG 968
Chassis No: A1143597HSE
Mot Expiry: None

The `phase V' Hillman Minx was produced from October 1951 until February '53, and conferred many improvements over the outgoing model. Styling adhered to the Raymond Loewy-influenced transatlantic look begun with the Phase III model. The car received an extended rear boot, removing the pre-war flat-back rear, which allowed a traditional 3-box saloon shape to emerge for the `full-width' 5-seater coachwork. Detail work included adding vertical sides to the grille bars, and installing stainless steel stone-guards to the rear door wheel-well protrusions. The engine was a 1265cc side-valve four, with a power output increased by 7% to 37.5 bhp over the older model. A saloon tested by The Motor had a top speed of 67 mph and could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 39.7 seconds. A fuel consumption of 32.1 miles per imperial gallon was recorded. The basic car cost £701 but optional extras such as a radio for £36, over-riders at £5 the set and a heater for £18 could be added. The interior featured bench seating to both front and rear compartments. 59,777 Phase V Minxes were produced during the 16 months the model lasted, yet today survivors are few and far between.

Finished in burgundy with tan upholstery and bright tartan seat coverings, this particular example has been on static display as part of a private Lake District collection for many years. Rumoured to have been given to the secretary of Lord Rootes as a retirement present, it appears to be substantially original and wears period `Ace' style number plates. Although reported to have been driven into the collection building under its own power, the Hillman is currently a non-runner and will require re-commissioning prior to road use. Sold strictly as viewed it is accompanied by a buff logbook, expired MOT certificate (August 1973) and V5 / V5C Registration Documents.