Sunbeam

The Sunbeam Imp was the export-market version of Rootes’ innovative small car, launched in 1963 and sold as a Hillman in Britain. It featured a rear-mounted 875 cc all-aluminium overhead-cam four-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, independent suspension and a fully synchromesh four-speed gearbox. The opening rear window and folding rear seat added useful practicality. Early Mk I cars suffered from cooling and reliability problems, prompting extensive improvements. The Mk II arrived in 1965 with a conventional throttle linkage and choke, revised front suspension geometry, an improved cooling system and a modified cylinder head. The Imp range gradually expanded with more luxurious and sporting versions. In several export markets, including France, Rootes marketed its British-built cars under the better-known Sunbeam name rather than Hillman.

See also: Hillman Imp

For 1968 the Imp received a substantial revision following Chrysler’s takeover of Rootes, although the Mk III designation was never officially used. Changes included a redesigned dashboard with four circular instruments, a new steering wheel and revised controls, while the basic rear-engined 875 cc mechanical layout remained. In several export markets the car continued to be marketed as a Sunbeam rather than a Hillman. Despite improvements, early reliability problems had damaged its reputation. Imp production continued at Linwood until March 1976.