1967 HILLMAN Imp Californian

Registration: PHR247F

Chassis:

B401006507HC0 Odometer: 00464

Transmission:

Manual MOT: Exempt

Time warp example

Credible indicated mileage of 464 miles

Rare Californian version

A must for any Rootes collector or afficionado

With an indicated mileage of only 464 miles from new, this Imp Californian Mk2 is a true time warp example that needs to be seen to be believed.

Although its early history is uncertain, it is believed it was a dealer display vehicle and / or in a collection.

We believe the Imp was manufactured in October 1967 and delivered in March 1968 to a Terence Jackson of Reading. It was sold at BCA Auctions in 2004 following Mr Jackson’s death - with the mileage at the time showing as 40 miles. It was sold by BCA quoting a front registration number of ‘MDP248F’ although it lacked any registration documents. There are photos on the file with the Hillman sporting that registration number. A search of the DVLA website shows that this number is no longer recognised by DVLA so perhaps it was a show plate.

It appears the Imp was then sold at another Auction in 2017 for the princely sum of £20,700 including fees to a local Chester based Imp enthusiast. The mileage at the time of the sale was showing as 82 miles.

The vendor purchased the Hillman at auction in 2023 with the mileage showing at 83 miles, and he has enjoyed showing it off at local classic car shows where understandably it gained lots of attention. He also decided to register the Imp to make it a little more usable so he could drive to shows rather than having to trailer it - which make sense. This explains the increase in mileage to its present 464 miles.

Finished in Forest Green with Apple Green interior, it presents beautifully with only the most minimal marks on the outside and inside. The paintwork and chromework is shiny and being a Californian model, the sloping rear lines really suit it - providing a sportier looking profile than a standard saloon. The front windscreen still boasts the original ZebraZone sticker - a nice touch.

The 875cc engine sounds sweet and it starts on the button. During the vendor’s ownership, the Imp has been treated to new radiator hoses, and the previous owner bought a new battery for it plus a water pump. There are invoices on file for these items.

Overall, what a find! We believe this is probably the lowest mileage Imp in the UK and being a Californian model, this makes it very rare.

Not to be confused with other Imps for sale, this example is unique and a must for any classic car collector.