Following the outstanding success of the Mini, which had been introduced in 1959, BMC released two further variations on the theme in the Autumn of 1961. The Riley Elf and Wolseley Hornet were built around the same winning basic structure, but the body was lengthened by 8.5 inches to provide a “proper” boot, which increased luggage capacity by a very useful 2.5 cubic feet. The “Hornet” name evoked memories of more sporting Wolseleys from the 1930s, but this little gem had no such aspirations. In addition to the boot, the car boasted the traditional Wolseley grille (with mandatory illuminated badge), more luxurious trim, better sound deadening, and an oval instument nacelle with wood veneer finish. In March 1963, a Mk II version was introduced. The principal, and very welcome, change was the installation of the new 998cc version of the ‘A’ series engine, which resulted in a 12 per cent increase in peak power – 38bhp as opposed to the somewhat puny 34bhp of its predecessor. Performance was discernibly livelier, and fuel consumption, too, was greatly improved. Another significant change took place 18 months into the model’s run, when the car was fitted with Moulton’s acclaimed Hydrolastic suspension. This gave the little car a far smoother ride in comparison to the original rubber cones. In October 1966, the Mk III Hornet was born. The mechanical specification remained unchanged, but the car’s aesthetics were enhanced considerably by the removal of the external door hinges, plus the introduction of proper wind-up windows in place of the rather crude sliding efforts with which all cars in the Mini range had been hitherto afflicted. In-car ventilation was improved by the provision of ‘eyeball’ fresh air vents at either end of the dashboard. The car also inherited the neat remote control gear change from the Mini Cooper, and an automatic option was offered from late 1967. The model soldiered on unchanged until its demise in 1969. A total of 28,455 Hornets of all types were built.

The example we offer for sale is from the last production year. It was delivered new in Holland on the 17th of July 1969, in the nice colour combination of Porcelain Green with a Spruce Green top. Inside, it had the typical walnut dash and proper leather seats finished in Almond Green. The interior is still the original one, and is beautifully patinated though the years. This little Wolseley offers a very smooth ride, and is indeed more comfortable then a comparable Mini Mk2. It is a pocket Rolls-Royce, and as british as afternoon tea.

As a conclusion we can say that this Wolseley is a car for the person who likes originality and Britishness : it is all packed together in this small and extra-ordinary motorcar. Rarer then a Mini, more luxurious then a Mini and as funny to drive as a Mini.