1948 Hillman Minx Drop Head Coupe

Prepare to be charmed because ‘EBO 305’ is an absolutely delightful little motorcar that reeks of gentler times gone by. 

Finished in grey with a black folding hood and a blue interior, this 1948 Hillman Minx Drophead Coupé has been beautifully restored and is still very well presented and highly usable. 

It’s been in the care of its older owner since August 2021 and took first prize at the Boston Classic Car Club. Sadly, her health has since deteriorated and is forcing the sale of her beloved car. 

The sweeping wings are a wonderful halfway house between the separate items we saw on the pre-war models and the fully incorporated ones of the MKIII cars onwards. They, like the rest of the coachwork, are in a terrific condition with their edges untroubled by scuffs, dings, and other damage.

The shutlines and panel alignment is very good too, and the restored grey/blue paintwork is sharp and unsullied. 

The chromework is good too and being a premium car there’s plenty of it. Sure, there is a little pitting here and there, plus a few scratches, but we think it’s nothing more than a developing patina and could be left as it is for a good while yet.

More evidence of the Hillman’s high-end status comes with the mirrors, which are TEX Viewmaster. It’s got proper working trafficators, too.

The 16-inch steel wheels are not only painted in the same hue as the coachwork but are fitted with a set of chrome hubcaps. The result is sporting and elegant, which means they’re entirely in keeping with the rest of the vehicle.

The front axle is fitted with a pair of good Firestone 5.50-16 crossply tyres, while the rears are Avon H M Tourist and Homerton. All have good tread, but all have cracked with age, so will need replacing.

The folding black fabric roof fits very well. It’s in the same great condition as the rest of the exterior, which means it operates as it should, rising and falling easily and offering a choice of positions: fully lowered, or with just the front section rolled back to give the driver and front seat passenger some fresh air while screening those in the rear. Ideal for families then, keeping the kids in the shade while mum and dad enjoy the sun.

The roof is also free of rips, tears, and other damage, and the rear screen is glass, for better rearwards vision than the faded, opaque plastic you find on inferior vehicles.

A boot-mounted luggage rack extends the Minx’s versatility while simultaneously adding a hefty dollop of charm.

As for flaws, there’s a crack in the finish near the headlamp but that’s all we can spot that might trouble you.

The rear-hinged ‘suicide’ doors open wide and allow entry and egress to be made with an uncommon elegance – and to an uncommonly elegant interior.

The cabin might be simple, but it is beautifully executed with Smiths instruments, a pair of copper-coloured Perspex sunvisors, and the nicest rear window winders we’ve seen in a very long time.

It’s all in a very good condition, too. With virtually unmarked seats that are still firm and comfortable thanks to that recent restoration, there is room to seat four in comfort.

The carpets and door cards are equally good, and it really is a lovely place to be.

Practical, too because the split-level boot allows you to carry a spare wheel and your luggage without the former dirtying the latter. It’s also nicely painted and also plays home to a good tool kit.

As you can see, the 1185cc engine starts and idles as it should, and revs willingly – and it does it all without illuminating either the engine oil pressure or the battery charge warning light.

The engine and underbonnet area is as nicely presented as everywhere else, and we can see most would be happy to wipe it over with an oily rag now and then and call it good.

The underside looks good and solid and is neatly protected by a coat of underseal.

The exhaust still looks almost new. 

As is so often the case with older cars, the Minx’s history is sparse. We are told it resurfaced in 2013 after being sold at auction. It is then, we think, the restoration took place although there is no paperwork to confirm this.

The advert from W H Brand, from whom the seller bought the car in 2021, said of it: “Subject to a full restoration over a five year period including a bare metal respray, and most mechanical and electrical parts repaired or rebuilt. It has all new upholstery, carpets, new three position hood and rear window.”

The recent Vehicle History Check is clear, and the Minx comes with a good history file in addition to a period parts list booklet.

The Hillman doesn’t have a current MoT certificate, and while it is exempt by virtue of its age, we would strongly encourage the new owner to have it MoT’d at the earliest opportunity. The cost of an MoT is a small investment when offset against the purchase and upkeep of any classic vehicle, and it gives an independent, third-party assessment of the car’s condition, which not only provides reassurance to the owner (and any subsequent purchasers) but might also be invaluable in the event of a bump when negotiating with the police and any interested insurance companies… 

With a guide price of between £10,000 and £15,000, there might be cheaper ways to get into Hillman Minx ownership, but we doubt there are many that are nicer. 

With proven prize-winning potential at your local classic car show plus better than average reliability and looks, it would cost you an awful lot more to buy a basket-case and restore it yourself – and that’s without factoring in the value of being able to use it this summer.

No, far better, we think, to let someone else do the heavy lifting and just get on with enjoying life in your new post-war classic. 

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located with the vendor in Boston, Lincolnshire. Viewings are strictly by appointment. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.