Production started in 1969 and continued to 1972. Of
the total production run of 394 cars 78 were MkI, 209 MkII, and 104 the Estates
version.
Cars were still available in component or fully built with electric
windows as standard and a walnut veneer dashboard, although some cars were
fitted with Genie style vinyl dash but a different lower centre console.
Like
the late Genie, all models had MGC suspension but, the front lever dampers were
replaced by true double wishbones, with coaxial coil springs and dampers.
Power
is provided by the MkIV Zodiac 3ltr Essex V6 engine with overdrive gearbox as
standard and an automatic gearbox option.
The MkI chassis was modified from the
Genie and later modified again for the MkII with different suspension points and
a Panard rod in place of the Watts linkage. The first Estate also had redesigned
rear shock absorber mounting.
The saloon Invader body shell is distinguished from
the Genie by different (smaller) rear lights and side vents added to the rear
roof pillars. The bonnet vents also changed from front to rear facing, albeit
that some were fitted with Genie type.
All exterior door handles were flush. The
MkI and most MkIIs have Gilbern made flush rectangular chrome handles with
hidden latch releases but some late MkIIs are fitted with Triumph Stag type, as
are nearly all MkIIIs. Other features such as opening front quarter lights and
rear side windows may be present on some MkIs but were all fixed on MkIIs.
The
chassis number will be found under the bonnet on the nearside on the top shock
absorber mounting. To distinguish models of chassis, in a MkI all the tubing in
the engine bay will be 1 ¾" or 1"sq, whereas on a MkII it is 2
½" or 1 ½"sq.
