Rootes' bold challenge to the all-conquering Mini was announced in 1960 and commenced manufacture at the Group's new Linwood factory in 1963.

The Imp's design, by British standards, was as revolutionary as that of the Mini and placed the all-alloy engine/transmission package at the rear of the car.

With only 875cc to play with, performance was adequate if not inspiring, 80mph being manageable under favourable conditions, with fuel consumption averaging around 35mpg.

Rootes also marketed the car as the Sunbeam Imp and Singer Chamois.

Coupé, van and estate car versions were introduced and the basic design would, surprisingly, turn out to have considerable competition potential, as evidenced by countless saloon car racing victories and three British Touring Car Championships.

Despite having an engine developed from a Coventry-Climax design, the Imp proved very difficult to tune at first, although that task became easier after the Sunbeam Imp Sport's introduction in 1966.

Bored out t...