Rear Engine: 1965 Sunbeam Imp
The Hillman/Sunbeam/Chrysler/Rootes Imp was a zippy little descendant of the Scottish built Linwood Imp and was built by the Rootes Group from 1963 to 1976. It used a Beetle-esq rear-engine rear-drive setup but its body shape was anything but Buglike and it looks more like a strange cross between a Ford Escort Mk I and a Mini. Find this 1965 Sunbeam Imp offered for $17500 in Sacramento, CA via craigslist. Tip from Rock On!
From the seller:
1965 Sinbeam IMP
condition: excellent
cylinders: 4 cylinders
drive: rwd
fuel: gas
odometer: 46958
paint color: white
size: compact
title status: clean
transmission: manual
type: coupe
This 1965 Sunbeam IMP has been professionally restored with minor period correct modifications, (gauges, fog lamps, steering wheel, etc.) to make it a fun, reliable ride for road or track. Its 875cc Coventry Climax derived all aluminum engine has been built to “sport model” specifications. Sport model twin carburetors, header, oil cooler, and modified 1 piece rear main seal. It has a full synchro 4 speed manual transaxle and heavy duty clutch, rallye suspension and rack and pinion steering. Documented full rotisserie restoration, custom car cover, Florida Title in Sellers Name.
See a better way to drive something Scottish? tips@dailyturismo.com
beautiful better than new restauration, and probably asking about the same amount as when they were new in showrooms. But just don't try to get parts in North America.
Check out the top-hinged rear window/hatch. Awesome.
It's a cool car but I'm looking for something a little smaller.
This is the first time I've even vaguely questioned buying my Nissan Pao as this seems to possess many of the same design elements. I've never seen a lovingly restored Imp in person just knackered and worn restoration candidates. I wonder how well this could do daily driving, if it could do minor interstate trips, etc.
guessing that unusual ignition key location will baffle would be thieves. on top of the theft resistance provided by the 3rd pedal.