1965 Hillman Imp de luxe review from UK and Ireland
"The only car I miss.."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Severe overheating.
Cylinder head gasket failure.
Water pump failure.
King pins wore out.
General comments?
The overheating/heag gasket prob solved with replacement radiator.
Water pump was original and it's replacement never gave any trouble.
The car was a stunning white very early MK2 (with king pin grease nipples)
It was considerably improved with the fitting of a Stiletto engine from a very rotten, but mechanically good 1969 car. The head must have been skimmed sometime as the compression pressure was approx 250 p.s.i. The Imp Centre (now gone) in Watford assisted in the setting up of the engine - I could not get it ro run very well initially - they fitted Triumph Herald spark plugs
(short reach) to lower the compression a bit. I have never driven a car like it - 70 mph in second gear with just me aboard!!!. To think I replaced it with a Ford Cortina!!!
Search for New and Used Hillman Imps available in the UK
Click here to advertise your car
Recommended reviews
|
| The original pocket rocket with an almost un-burstable engine |
|
| Best £300 I ever spent! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1965 |
| First year of ownership | 1980 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1988 |
| Engine and transmission | 875 Manual |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 4 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 41000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 62000 miles |
| Previous car | Morris Mini |
| Date of Entry | 11th September, 2003 |