Hillman Minx ‘Magnificent’

Key facts

Year

1938
Country

Great Britain
Capacity

1,185cc
Cylinders

4
Valves

Side
Output

33hp @ 4,100rpm
Performance

59mph, 0-50mph 31 seconds
Price new

£169
Owner

National Motor Museum Trust
Manufacturer

Hillman Motor Car Co. Ltd.

The Minx was one of the most popular saloon cars of the 1930s and the most famous Hillman model. It was first introduced in 1932 and underwent several updates before the larger, more modern ‘Minx Magnificent’ was launched in August 1935. 10,000 of the new model were sold before the end of that year. This car features the new style of grille and opening boot lid first seen in mid-1937.

Hillman merged with Humber in 1928, both soon becoming part of the Rootes Group. There was much standardisation between the two ranges with Hillman generally producing the cheaper cars. The well equipped Minx was aimed at the growing market for family cars and remained a best seller throughout the 1930s. The Minx name continued in use on Hillman family saloons through the 1950s and 60s.