Lot details Registration No: GTJ502F Chassis No: 1042039A Mot Expiry: Aug 2010
Launched using a name that harked back to the 1930s, the Hornet was a luxury, lengthened Mini, introduced to give Wolseley dealers their own special version of BMC's successful baby. The upright radiator grille of the Hornet (and its Riley Elf sister car) added a dignity to the standard snub-nosed Mini's cheeky visage, plus the extra length to the rear, combined with vestigial fins and a top-opening boot resulted in greater practicality and increased luggage space. The MKI Hornet utilised the same mechanical specification as the basic Mini but featured an upmarket interior complete with leather seating. The MKII was a little punchier to drive thanks to its adoption of a de-tuned single carburettor Cooper 998 engine, while the MKIII of 1966 gained the double benefits of concealed door hinges and wind-up windows some two years before they appeared on the standard MKIII Mini bodyshell. In truth, the Hornet was a mid-point model between the standard car and the Riley Elf. It featured wood trim to the standard Mini Super instrument panel, whereas the Elf gained a full-width wooden dashboard, conceived by Christopher Milner, Riley's sales manager to differentiate the Elf and Hornet. Many today reckon the Wolseley shelf is more spacious and useful!
Road registered on 1st December 1967, this particular example is finished in the handsome combination of maroon over grey with grey leather upholstery and a wooden dashboard surround. Reportedly treated to an extensive cosmetic and mechanical overhaul during the 1990s, the Wolseley's unwarranted odometer reading stands at circa 82,100. The engine was apparently overhauled as part of the restoration, but as with many early Minis, the synchromesh on 2nd gear is said to be "slightly weak at present". One of only 28,455 Hornets of all types built, these quirky Mini variants are sought after for their elegant design, plush trim, and the ease with which they can be modified into a truly usable and spacious touring Mini suitable for participating in long-distance Mini Cooper Register events. A delightful period piece, this smart Wolseley is accompanied by an amount of paperwork and MOT certificate valid until August 2010.
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