Hillman Imp Californian

The Hillman Imp Californian was a coupe version of the small rear-engined Hillman Imp, announced in January 1967 and listed for 1967 to 1970 as coupe and fastback saloon versions. It used the Imp coupe bodyshell, which is similar to the standard body but has a more shallow-raked windscreen and rear window that, unlike those on the standard saloon, cannot be opened, and it appeared with less powerful engines than the sporting Sunbeam Stiletto, while the more luxurious Singer Chamois coupe used the same style. The attempt at a sportier shape did not translate into better acceleration or top speed, and the aerodynamics of the standard saloon are actually slightly better. The Imp itself was designed for the Rootes Group and manufactured at the purpose-built Linwood plant in Scotland, and it was the first British mass-produced car with the engine block and cylinder head cast in aluminium.