Humber Sceptre History
Catalog record
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History
The Sceptre marked a change of direction for Humber: introduced in 1963, it was a compact, sporting, well-equipped saloon rather than a large limousine. The Mark I (1963–1965) and Mark II (1965–1967) were essentially luxury, twin-carburettor versions of the Hillman Super Minx, with a lowered roofline, full instrumentation and richer trim.
For 1967 a completely different Mark III appeared on the Rootes 'Arrow' platform — a plush, top-trim relative of the Hillman Hunter — adding an estate version. By far the best-selling Sceptre, it carried the marque through the Chrysler years.
When Chrysler rationalised its British range in 1976, the Humber and Hillman names were dropped and the cars rebranded as Chryslers, ending Humber after more than three-quarters of a century. The Sceptre was the last model to wear the badge.
Generations
Mark I · Super Minx-based
Upmarket twin-carb version of the Hillman Super Minx with a lowered roof and full instrumentation; 17,011 built.
1963 Photo: “File:1963 Humber Sceptre Mk I Saloon (12231549756).jpg” by Sicnag / Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 2.0. Cropped to 16:9.
Mark II · Super Minx-based (facelift)
Updated Super Minx-based Sceptre; 11,983 built before the switch to the Arrow platform.
Mark III · Rootes Arrow-based
All-new luxury version of the Rootes Arrow (Hillman Hunter family), with an estate added; 43,951 built — the best-selling and last Sceptre.
Body styles
- Saloon
- Estate
Related models
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