Hillman 16
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1907 |
| Products | Automobiles |
| Parent | Rootes Group |
The Hillman 16 represented a range of medium-priced executive automobiles with a 16 horsepower (RAC rating) engine, accommodating five passengers, manufactured by Hillman throughout the 1930s. These vehicles were developed by installing a smaller power unit into the pre-existing 20-horsepower Hillman 20 lineup.
Their production was eventually replaced by Hillman’s 14, which later adopted the name Humber Hawk during the years 1939 to 1945.
Hillman 16
Beginning in 1934, Hillman presented two six-cylinder side-valve saloon models featuring identical bodywork and pricing but differing engine capacities: one rated at 16 horsepower and the other at 20 horsepower. The company highlighted these cars’ use of "Cushioned Power" mounts designed to minimize vibration transmitted from the engine and gearbox, underscoring the vehicles’ refined construction with a “margin throughout.”
Design aspects and mechanical components were shared with upscale Humber models such as the Humber 12, 16/50, Snipe, and Pullman—all under the Rootes Group umbrella. This approach was intended to secure Hillman’s position in the entry-level tier of the executive car segment.
Engines, seating and brakes
The Hillman 16 was equipped with a 2110 cc side valve straight-six engine, rated at 15.90 hp for tax purposes, while the larger 20/70 variant housed a 2810 cc engine rated at 20.9 hp. Both the "16hp" and "20/70" saloons offered seating for five passengers, featuring front bucket seats and a rear bench divided by a folding armrest. Braking was managed by Bendix "Duo Servo" systems utilizing rod and cable linkages, controlling all four wheels through both foot pedal and handbrake mechanisms.
Updated body style and enlarged 16 horsepower engine
In October 1935, Hillman unveiled a more aerodynamic body design alongside an enlarged engine for the 16 hp model, achieved by extending the stroke length by 14 mm. This raised engine displacement from 2110 cc to 2576 cc without affecting its tax horsepower rating, since the RAC calculation excludes stroke measurement.
Production figures
During this era, production numbers for Hillman’s 20/70 and Hawk models reached approximately 4,100 units, exceeding those of the Hillman 16.
Existing vehicles
Only a limited number of these cars remain in the United Kingdom today; however, some were exported internationally to countries such as Argentina, Australia, Greece, and New Zealand, where several "20/70" examples are still preserved.