Zagato prototype, 1963

1963 Other Makes Zagato ZIMP Description

One of the only three prototypes built by Zagato on the Hillman Imp chassis in 1963, the ZIMP.
London Motor Show car.Very well documented.
The Hillman Imp, a highly advanced new small car, was launched in 1963. The engine was an extremely light, mainly aluminium 875cc unit and was based on the ‘Coventry Climax FWMA’ Le Mans class-winning racer. The Imp had many other advantages, including all independent suspension, rack and pinion steering, an all synchromesh gearbox and a diaphragm spring clutch.
The Imp was produced in a new factory in Linwood, Scotland. Competition came from the highly popular Mini.
Zagato in Italy decided to produce the Zimp, via its recently formed British Zagato Company, as a fine example of the combination of British technology and Italian styling flair. Rootes agreed and three Imps were dispatched to Italy to be rebodied, using the floorpans and mechanics of the successful Imp. Ercole Spada, chief stylist for the Zagato design studio during the 1960’s and author of masterpieces as Aston Martin DB4 GTZ and the Lancia Flaminia Sport and Alfa Romeo TZ, designed the new car with very advanced lines.
The Zimp was launched at the London Motor Show. However, the car never really took off and just three were built. Stories at that time suggested that the model may have been ‘killed off’ by Rootes prior to the introduction of the Imp Californian due to fears that the Zimp would be too much competition.
The previous Italian custodian, himself a life-long Zagato enthusiast, purchased the Zimp in 1978 and set about restoring the car (I have the photographic file of the restoration).
This important Hillman Zimp Zagato, has been featured in many publications, including Auto Italiana, Small Car, Classic and Sports Car and Classic Cars. The car has been regularly ‘exercised’ on the road and has been cared for. Its condition could be described as "not ready for an important concours, but sound, complete, original and well restored". It starts on the button and it drives, steers, stops very well. The car is very light (it is an "ode to aluminum"), linked to a brilliant engine, the driving experience is sparkling and fun.
The underneath is absolutely sound and straight.
Everything works properly, including the mechanism to lift the front eyelids.
Further details to the interested parties. Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.
The Zimp is supplied with UK "V5C" registration certificate and a history file with an engaging content, including very rare never published photos from Zagato factory and the book "Ercole Spada" with an autograph of the Maestro.
Five almost new Dunlop tyres. The original owners manual and the jack come with the car.
I have hundreds pictures of my car, I can send them to interested parties.
I can ship the car to any US port for $2,000. I can store the car (free of charge) in a dry and safe storage for four weeks after the end of the sale.
A unique opportunity to add to your collection a significant piece of one of the iconic Italian coachbuilders, at a very reasonable price: the auction starts at only $39,999 and there is no reserve. The highest bidder will get the car.