Here is a Rootes Group project that I have been working on for the last 3 or 4 years. It is a 1959 Hillman Estate Wagon with the small block Ford V-8. I started out thinking I would like a Rootes vehicle that was a little more practical (as if any are really practical) than the Tiger but still fun to drive with some American power. The similarities and differences have been interesting to observe. Still unibody construction predating the Tiger but with mostly the same panels, similar front crossmember, interior and trunk. It was surprising how much tar was used to fill gaps and holes. I am used to the Tiger parts suppliers where just about everything is available. Not so much with the other Rootes cars. The Yahoo list has been helpful with info and some parts and of course Ebay but mostly it is a struggle to find original parts. I decided early on not to try to keep it original anyway. I used the two tone paint scheme with Tarten red on the bottom with as close as I could get to original with a Chevy color and white on top. I took the trim off the sides and welded up the holes. I hate trim. The Hillman block letters on the front and Hillman script on the back are prominently displayed. The drive train looks pretty much like a Tiger. The electrical and instruments are a mix of Tiger and American stuff. Bullet connectors attached to a Painless Wiring harness. I still have aways to gobut here is a few pictures.
Charlie N
65 Tiger
59 Hillman
Charlie N
65 Tiger
59 Hillman
I have been looking at 2 hillman husky's locally with images of dougs Huskger/Tigy in the front of my mind... they are such cool sleepers. The idea of using one of Jose R's V6 kits its quite tempting too!