Rootes completed its takeover of the combined Hillman/Humber concern in 1931.

Under their guidance, Hillman concentrated on models with mass-market appeal - the shortly-to-be-announced Minx would ensure the reconstituted company's success - while Humber was pitched at a wealthier clientele.

The company announced what amounted to an almost entirely new across-the-board model range for 1936, the larger Hillmans and Humbers benefiting from a new chassis design featuring 'Evenkeel' independent front suspension and vacuum servo brakes.

Built on the same 124"-wheelbase box-girder frame, the Humber 18hp and similar Snipe were powered by 2.7-liter and 4.1-liter sidevalve sixes respectively.

The Snipe was revamped as the Snipe Imperial for 1937, retaining its immediate predecessor's 10' 4" wheelbase and 4.1-liter engine while featuring a restyled range of bodies that included a sports saloon, drophead coupé and Pullman limousine with coachwork by Thrupp & Maberly.

Humber's Snipe Imperial l...