Hillman

In May 1963, after much advance publicity, the Hillman Imp was introduced. It was the first British mass-produced car with the engine block and cylinder head cast in aluminium. Being a direct competitor to the BMC's Mini, it used a space-saving rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout to allow as much luggage and passenger capacity as possible in both the rear and the front of the car. It used a unique opening rear hatch to allow luggage to be put into the back seat rest. The car was designed for the Rootes Group by Michael Parkes and Tim Fry and was manufactured at the purpose-built Linwood plant in Scotland. The Imp gained a reputation as a successful rally car which led the Rootes Group to produce a special rally version, known as the Imp rallye. Considered ahead of its time, the Imp nevertheless suffered from reliability problems, which harmed its reputation and led to the Rootes Group being taken over by Chrysler Europe in 1968.

See also: Sunbeam Imp

Following the initial problems that affected the Mark I, the Rootes Group decided to re-introduce the Imp in September 1965 with significant changes both mechanically and cosmetically. The Mk I Imps had a pneumatic throttle linkage and an automatic choke, both of which were replaced by more conventional items on the Mk II. The Mk II also had improved front suspension geometry, and several trim and detail changes. 

The Imp was never officially badged nor referred to as the "Mark III". However, changes were made to the range when the Rootes Group was fully acquired by Chrysler Europe, and so that version is sometimes referred to as the "Chrysler Imp". The entire range was revised and introduced in October 1968, except for the Stiletto. The instrument panel and steering wheel were redesigned: the large speedometer previously positioned behind the steering wheel was replaced by a horizontal row of four circular dials of varying detail and complexity, according to the model involved.