Minx and Super Minx
For me it is an unanswered question why Rootes launched Super Minx. Was it planned as a sequel to Minx (Audax)? Or was it meant to be a nicer version? Minx and Super Minx look very different, but share the same external dimensions, wheelbase and drivetrain. It is possible that Rootes would attract new customers - not only as Hillman Super Minx, but also as Singer Vogue, Humber Vogue and Humber Sceptre. It was, of course, about "badge engineering" where the same model got different fronts.
Model history
The Hillman Super Minx appeared as a 1962 model year and was produced until 1967. During these years, 4 series were made - with changes accompanying the Hillman Minx. Worth mentioning is the Series III which came as model year 1965. Then the model got a completely new glass body with a new, larger windscreen, a new rear window which was no longer a panoramic window, and separate triangular windows behind the side windows, which the Volvo 144 got, when it was introduced the following year . The last year's model got the new 1725 ccm engine. Previously, the Super Minx had been equipped with an engine of 1592 ccm - the same as in the sister model Hillman Minx. In addition to the 4-door sedan, a 5-door station wagon and a 2-door cabriolet were made.
How were they?
I have not driven a Hillman Super Minx myself, but I have been a passenger in both a series II (1963) and series IV (1966) as relatively new cars - and remember both as fine, English cars. I was impressed by the interior, primarily the dashboard. The cars had class. The sound level was also pleasant compared to other cars at the same time. My maternal uncle owned a 1963 model that still looked like a brand new car when it was traded in after 10 trouble free years. I also well remember a neighbour's 1966 model that I occasionally got a lift with.
About the pictures
The photo of the red car was taken at Ekeberg in the fall of 2016. The green "Aidensfield" taxi was photographed at Hadeland Glassverk 2022. Both cars are the same series and year – series II, model year 1964. The light blue car was photographed at a car show in Wickham, South England, 2016. Photographer: "1markim" (Depositphotos.com). The open convertible was photographed outside a workshop in Padiham, Burnley, UK. Photographer: Quasarphotos (Depositphotos.com). Hillman Minx with taxi sign on the roof attended a Rootes car show at Hadeland Glassverk.
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