Descrizione
The Hillman Minx was a series of cars produced by the Rootes Group from 1931 until 1970. In the mid-1950's Rootes decided to release a new version of the Minx to follow the popular and successful earlier ‘Mark’ models. The new model was to have the same 1390cc engine as the earlier Mark VIII, with minor improvements including updated steering and suspension systems and a completely restyled, roomier body. During development this new body style was known as 'Audax' - latin for 'bold' - and the new design, a radical departure from the Mark VIII was certainly striking. The body’s legendary designer, Raymond Loewy, had previously worked for Studebaker amongst others, having been responsible for the 1949 Starlight Coupe. Announced in May 1956 the car proved a success and went through a progression of annual face lifts, each given a series number, replacing the mark number used on the previous Minxes.
The Minx was a medium sized family car that remained very popular throughout the 1950s and 60s. Our car is a Series III model which was in production from September 1958 until September 1959 - a very short production run and few have survived. 814 SMY was built at the beginning of production in September 1958 and first registered on October 3rd that year. With just thirteen other Series III cars known to the Hillman owners club in Great Britain this is likely to be the earliest survivor. With just 42, 800 miles on the clock, careful examination reveals the Minx to be original and unrestored. Most of the two-tone Fathom Grey and Antelope paintwork is as it left the factory back in 1958 and the condition is a credit to its previous owners. It has been carefully preserved and garaged all its life and although there are a few chips and age marks after 62 years it remains a superb example with all panels correct and original. This may be the most original unrestored Hillman Series III Minx in existence and features a wonderful period interior. On the road the car is delightful and everything works exactly as it should.
There is a current M. O. T. until August 2021, and it seems the car has covered less than 4, 000 miles in the past fourteen years. We will be carrying out a thorough service and submitting the car for a new MOT for its new owner who will have one of the best examples of a classic British family car available.
