One of the only three prototypes ever built by Zagato: 1963 Zimp (Abarth Lancia)

One of the only 3 prototypes ever built. 1963 Hillman "ZIMP" by ZAGATOThe History. 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. the Lancia Flaminia Sport and the Alfa Romeo SZ. designed the new car with very advanced lines. The Zimp was launched at the London Racing Car 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. ---------------------------------------My Zimp. 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. the only example in road-worthy condition. 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 as if it was a member of the owner’s family. 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. Further details and further pictures to the interested parties. 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. I am reluctantly selling this unique piece of Zagato history only as I have to reduce my collection. being now focused on racing cars of the '50s.