OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA INC |
(the first Minx models) |
OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA INC |
Produced: Humber Road, 1931-1935. 43,306 cars built
General layout: Separate steel chassis-frame, 4-cylinder engine and wide choice of
saloon, tourer and DHC (drop head coupe) bodies. Front-mounted engine driving rear wheels.
Engine and transmission: Hillman engine, 4-cylinder, side valve, in-line, 1,185 cc,
63 x 95 mm, approx. 30 bhp, torque not revealed.
At first: 3-speed gearbox, no synchromesh. From May 1933: optional 4-speed gearbox
with freewheel, still without synchromesh, cost an extra £2/10/0. From August 1933: this optional
gearbox became standard, as well as a freewheel on all except the basic model. From September
1934: 4-speed all-synchromesh gearbox, no freewheel. Centre-floor
gear-change. Live (beam) rear axle with spiral-bevel final drive.
Chassis: Beam-axle front suspension, half-elliptic leaf springs. Worm-and-nut
steering. Live (beam) rear axle, half-elliptic leaf springs. Front and rear drum brakes.
4.50-18 inch tyres.
Dimensions: Wheelbase 7 ft. 8 in. Front track 4 ft. 0 in. Rear track 4
ft. 0 in. Length 11 ft. 2 in. Width 4 ft. 10 in. Height 5 ft. 9 in. Unladen
weight (saloon) approx. 1,680 lb.
Distinguishing features from previous models: Completely different type of Hillman
compared with previous models, fitted mainly with standard Pressed Steel body shell having family
resemblance to original Wizard of 1939 period.
Typical performance: Maximum speed 59 mph. Typical fuel consumption 35 mpg.
Derivatives: 1932 Aero Minx used same basic running gear, but sleek sporty bodies.
1935 Minx Magnificent used same running gear, but new chassis and body styles.
Fate: Discontinued in 1935 in favour of next-generaton Minx Magnificent.
An artist's impression of the first generation Minx, sold in 1932.
The radiator and grille are completely flat and upright.
1934 Minx – from 14 November 1933 edition of The Motor magazine (UK).
Minx Family Saloon price £159. De Luxe Saloon with Clutchless Gear Change price £179.
The radiator grille is slightly tilted and curved.
1934 Minx – a poor photocopy from January 1934 edition of Modern Motoring magazine (UK).
The radiator cap is external to the body.
1935 Minx Family Saloon – from the 1935 Hillman models catalogue.
The radiator cap is inside the body.
Forward to Michael Ford's 1932 Minx
Forward to further 1932-1935 Minx Identification
HOME page