HILLMAN Cars: Complete Guide, Models & Reliability (2025)

HILLMAN is a notable name in the UK automotive landscape, with a total of 129 vehicles recorded. The brand has a rich history, primarily known for its production of reliable and affordable cars that catered to the needs of everyday drivers.

Last updated September 07, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

Introduction and Brand Overview

HILLMAN is a notable name in the UK automotive landscape, with a total of 129 vehicles recorded. The brand has a rich history, primarily known for its production of reliable and affordable cars that catered to the needs of everyday drivers.

Among the HILLMAN models, the MINX stands out as the most popular, accounting for three registrations, while the 14 and AVENGER models have also made their mark, albeit in smaller numbers. The majority of HILLMAN vehicles are petrol-powered, with a distribution of 119 petrol vehicles and an additional 10 classified as Petrol.

In terms of age, HILLMAN vehicles span several decades, with the earliest models dating back to 1957. The year distribution shows a significant presence of vehicles from the 1960s and 1970s, indicating a strong legacy in the automotive market. For instance, there are 14 vehicles from 1972 and 13 from 1973, showcasing the brand's popularity during that era.

When it comes to vehicle reliability, HILLMAN cars have an impressive average MOT pass rate of 91.4%. This statistic reflects the overall durability and maintenance of HILLMAN vehicles over the years. However, common failures have been noted, particularly in the categories of brakes (7 failures) and suspension (4 failures), which are important considerations for potential buyers.

All HILLMAN vehicles are currently registered in Great Britain, highlighting the brand's strong presence in the UK market. With a total of 35 MOT tests conducted, the data provides a snapshot of the brand's performance and reliability.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available records and may not reflect the complete picture of HILLMAN vehicles. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, further research may be necessary.

Popular HILLMAN Models

The HILLMAN brand has a rich history in the UK automotive market, with a total of 129 vehicles recorded. Among these, the most notable model is the HILLMAN MINX, which accounts for 3 of the total vehicles. Other models include the HILLMAN 14, with 2 vehicles, and the HILLMAN AVENGER, which has 1 recorded vehicle. Additionally, there is a category for 'UNKNOWN' models, which also includes 1 vehicle.

In terms of fuel type, the majority of HILLMAN vehicles are petrol-powered, with a total of 129 petrol vehicles recorded. This distribution highlights the brand's focus on petrol engines, appealing to a wide range of drivers during its production years.

Examining the year distribution of HILLMAN vehicles, the oldest models date back to 1957, while the most recent registrations are from 1977. The peak years for HILLMAN vehicles appear to be in the early 1970s, with 14 vehicles registered in 1972 and 13 in 1973. This suggests a strong presence in the market during that era.

The average MOT pass rate for HILLMAN vehicles stands at an impressive 91.4%. This statistic indicates that the majority of HILLMAN vehicles are well-maintained and meet safety standards. However, common failures have been noted, particularly in the brakes (7 failures) and suspension (4 failures), which are important considerations for potential buyers.

All data presented is based on current records and may be subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, further research is recommended.

MOT Reliability and Common Issues

The Hillman brand, with a total of 129 vehicles recorded, demonstrates a commendable MOT pass rate of 91.4%. This statistic indicates that the majority of Hillman vehicles are well-maintained and meet the necessary safety and environmental standards required for road use.

Among the various models, the Hillman Minx is the most prevalent, accounting for 3 out of the 129 vehicles. Other models, such as the Hillman 14 and Avenger, are less common, with only 2 and 1 vehicles respectively. The fuel type distribution shows a strong preference for petrol, with 119 vehicles using petrol fuel and an additional 10 classified as Petrol.

Despite the high pass rate, certain common issues have been identified during MOT tests. The most frequent category of failures is brakes, which accounted for 7 failures. This highlights the importance of regular brake maintenance to ensure safety on the road.

Suspension issues were the second most common, with 4 failures noted. Proper suspension is crucial for vehicle handling and comfort, making it essential for owners to be vigilant about this aspect of their vehicle's performance.

Other categories of failures included steering and miscellaneous issues, each contributing 2 failures, along with 2 failures classified as 'other'. These statistics suggest that while Hillman vehicles generally perform well in MOT tests, there are specific areas where attention may be required.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on a total of 35 MOT tests conducted across the Hillman range. As with any statistical analysis, variations may occur, and individual vehicle performance can differ based on maintenance history and usage.

Ownership Costs and Tax Information

When considering the ownership costs of a Hillman vehicle, it is essential to take into account various factors, including fuel type, maintenance, and tax obligations. The Hillman brand has a total of 129 vehicles registered, with a significant majority running on petrol, accounting for 119 vehicles, while 10 are classified as Petrol.

The average MOT pass rate for Hillman vehicles stands at an impressive 91.4%. This statistic indicates that most owners can expect their vehicles to meet safety and environmental standards without significant issues. However, it is important to note that common failures do occur, particularly in the areas of brakes (7 failures), suspension (4 failures), and steering (2 failures). These factors can influence maintenance costs over time.

In terms of age distribution, Hillman vehicles span several decades, with the oldest models dating back to 1957. The year distribution shows a variety of models, with notable counts from the early 1970s, including 14 vehicles from 1972 and 13 from 1973. This age range may affect insurance premiums and road tax, as older vehicles can sometimes attract lower rates.

For tax purposes, owners should be aware that the vehicle's age and emissions will play a significant role in determining the applicable road tax. As Hillman vehicles are predominantly older models, it is advisable to check the specific tax rates that apply to the year of registration.

Finally, while this data provides a comprehensive overview of ownership costs and tax information for Hillman vehicles, it is essential to verify the latest figures and regulations, as they may change over time. The statistics presented here are based on the most recent data available and may not reflect future trends.

Buying Guide and What to Check

Buying Guide and What to Check

When considering the purchase of a Hillman vehicle, it is essential to conduct thorough research and inspections. With a total of 129 vehicles recorded, the Hillman brand offers a variety of models, including the popular Minx and 14, alongside others like the Avenger.

Most Hillman vehicles run on petrol, with a distribution of 119 petrol vehicles and an additional 10 classified as Petrol. This fuel type is prevalent among the available models, making it crucial to check the fuel efficiency and condition of the engine.

Year distribution shows that Hillman vehicles span several decades, with notable numbers from the early 1970s. For instance, there are 14 vehicles from 1972 and 13 from 1973. When buying, consider the age of the vehicle and its historical maintenance records, as older models may require more attention.

The average MOT pass rate for Hillman vehicles stands at 91.4%, indicating a generally reliable performance. However, it is vital to be aware of common failures. The most frequent issues reported include brakes (7 failures), suspension (4 failures), and steering (2 failures). Inspect these components carefully during your evaluation.

Additionally, with a total of 35 MOT tests conducted, it is advisable to review the test history of the specific vehicle you are considering. This can provide insights into its past performance and any recurring issues.

Finally, while the data presented here is based on available records, it is essential to verify the condition of any vehicle personally. Always consult with a professional mechanic or vehicle expert before making a purchase decision.

Related Information and Resources

The Hillman brand has a rich history in the UK automotive market, with a total of 129 vehicles recorded. The most prevalent model is the Hillman Minx, accounting for 3 of the total vehicles, while the Hillman 14 and Avenger contribute to the diversity of the brand's offerings.

In terms of fuel type, the majority of Hillman vehicles are petrol-powered, with 119 vehicles using petrol and an additional 10 classified as Petrol. This indicates a strong preference for petrol engines among Hillman owners.

When examining the age distribution of Hillman vehicles, the data reveals a range of models from various years, with notable concentrations in the early 1970s. For instance, there are 14 vehicles from 1972 and 13 from 1973, showcasing the brand's popularity during that era.

The average MOT pass rate for Hillman vehicles stands at an impressive 91.4%. This statistic suggests that Hillman vehicles are generally well-maintained and meet safety standards effectively. However, common failures have been identified, particularly in the categories of brakes (7 failures) and suspension (4 failures), which are critical areas for vehicle safety.

For those interested in the geographical distribution of Hillman vehicles, all 129 are registered in Great Britain. This concentration highlights the brand's historical significance in the UK automotive landscape.

For further information, enthusiasts and owners can explore various online forums and resources dedicated to classic cars, where they can share experiences and seek advice. Additionally, local car clubs may offer valuable insights and support for Hillman vehicle owners.

Please note that the data presented here is based on available records and may not reflect the complete picture of Hillman vehicles currently in existence.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of thousands of HILLMAN vehicles in our database, including MOT test results, registration data, and reliability statistics.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.