Our Hillman Minx Californian-!
I very much enjoyed Martin Buckley’s article in the current issue of Classic and Sports Car on our Hillman Minx California. In an era of SUVs which apart from ridiculous lighting arrangements look depressingly similar, the Californian stands out as the automotive personification of the optimism of the mid 1950s.
Although the war ended in 1945, it took a decade for a literally shell shocked nation to emerge from the terror and tragedy that another world conflict had created.Our big cities bore the obvious scars of massed bombing and it took years for the economy to recover from the vast debts incurred to fund the allied victory.
Àlthough “exciting international elegance” is obvious advertising hyperbole, the Californian was aimed at an export market where glamour equalled pounds earned. Compared to the standard car, this was a bold styling statement which promised far more than it could actually deliver. Like the Austin Atlantic , it would learn the hard way that avant-garde styling and bold colours were not enough to hide its obvious shortcomings as a freeway cruiser. Nevertheless, the fact that it was made at all is wonderful as it added colour and hope to streets which were still largely grey and sad.
As Martin points out at the conclusion of his piece, the Calfornian was too Diana Dors for a country that had Marilyn Monroe but on a sunny day in Cleethorpes, Diana would have drawn quite a crowd in a swimsuit and a Minx Californian.
You can easily imagine Mum in the mid-50s sliding into the passenger seat in her best summer dress, headscarf tied neatly, handbag placed carefully on the floor, as the family set off for the seaside. The Californian might not have conquered California, but it would have felt wonderfully exotic on a British promenade.
With Mother’s Day around the corner, it feels rather fitting. For Mother’s Day we are offering something extremely special for your mum. Come enjoy a ride in a Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit, a FREE glass of prosecco as well as entry into Great British Car Journey for only £29.95.
A proper treat, and a lovely way to say thank you.