Hillman Hunter : Arrow projects and prototypes
June 25, 2011
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Matthew Hayward · 
2 Comments
The Arrow range was conceived to be a conventional replacement for the Audax Rootes cars – and as such, was designed in Hillman, Humber and Singer versions. The early styling schemes resembled an enlarged Imp, but these were soon revised into a plainer and more classical looking saloon.
Quarter-scale models
Full-scale proposals
Late in 1963, a simpler car (than the Swallow) was conceived; one that would be cheaper to develop, and cheaper to produce. The smart “Arrow” was the result, and thanks to the above work on the earlier car, the style was adopted and accepted remarkably quickly. These full-size models were approved by management on April 17th 1964.
The Arrow took shape in remarkably quick time, and this is the proposal that management approved for further development.
Once the full-size clay had been sanctioned, work began on several different frontal treatments. Here are three that did not progress beyond this stage.
By March 1965, this frontal treatment had also been signed off for the Hillman version, in favour of the two proposals immediately above it.
With thanks to Roy Axe for clarifications
Related posts:
- Hillman Hunter : Arrow variations
- Hillman Avenger : Projects and prototypes
- Hillman Hunter : Sunbeam Rapier
- Hillman Hunter : Paykan
- Hillman Hunter : The Swallow project
2 Responses
I passed an old couple in their Minx ‘Arrow’ the other morning – it must be one of the earliest as it was wearing a ‘D’ plate.
The Hunter always had a good solid feel to it. I used to drive them when I was delivering new Viva’s, Victors, Crestas, Jags and Rovers all over the country. The Rootes’ car never felt as lively as the Viva and felt a little more ponderous. The Viva could be chucked about more and was essentially more fun.
I do remember the gearbox though – the long lever came out from under the dash and was quite pleasant – certainly different to most box’s on the market at the time although I think the Triumph range had a similar set up.
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