Hillman Hunter and Minx (1966 - 1979)

Introduction

The Hillman Hunter was a clean-sheet car developed to replace the Minx and Super Minx, and tidy-up and modernis the Rootes range in the process. The angular looks were penned by Rex Fleming with the help of noted stylist William Towns and were neat but hardly stirred the blood, and ended up looking very similar to the Ford Cortina Mk2, although the Hillman hit the market first.

The 1725cc engine was the only real link with Rootes history and, with MacPherson strut front suspension, front disc brakes and overdrive, the Hunter gave a good account of itself. The entry-level Minx variant was more affordable, with a 1496cc engine, but the old name disappeared in 1970. The Hunter soldiered on, largely unloved, with the 88bhp GT and 93bhp GLSs its most interesting versions. The last couple of years' production took place in Ireland.