1968 Wolseley Hornet MkIII

Highlights

• Owner maintained by a mechanic
• Recent comprehensive service including timing, valves, and carb tuning
• Garage kept and regularly used
• Very original and much admired
• Rare and practical with a charming character

The Appeal

The Mini stole the limelight, but was it really the best use of Issigonis' ingenious front-wheel-drive, A-Series-engined platform? When you look at the Mini's lesser-seen derivatives, there are some compelling reasons to suggest that it wasn't...
The Riley Elf and Wolseley Hornet shared the Mini's brilliant drivetrain and packaging but gained eight and a half inches at the rear to make a more conventional 'three-box' shape - thus providing a bigger boot. Both received prominent front grilles not dissimilar to the exotic Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Coupé and the interiors were notably upgraded with leather and even a smattering of walnut!
This supremely original 1968 Wolseley has been meticulously maintained by its mechanic owner.
The vendor summarises their ownership:
"Purchased in 2021, used regularly and super reliable. Kept in garage and looked after, recent new battery and engine steady bushes. Much admired and always gets a smile."
If you're looking for a classic Mini, we'd urge you to consider this Wolseley first. This one's very well-sorted, presents beautifully and benefits from MOT, road tax and ULEZ charge exemption.

History and Paperwork

• Owner maintained (mechanic)
• Recent service, timing, valves, oil and filters, carb tuning, and brakes all regularly attended to
• Purchased in 2021, used regularly and has reportedly proved reliable
• Kept in garage
• Exempt from road tax and MOT
• ULEZ compliant

The Condition

• Bodywork and paint in very good order
• Few small bubbles appearing on the door bottom and bonnet lower edge, but nothing especially worrying
• Underside has been cleaned and WaxOyl protected
• Minilite-style alloy wheels in nice condition with no corrosion according to the vendor
• Interior has a nice patina
• New red carpets
• Door cards are in good condition
• Headlining is in good condition
• Leather seats have some wear but are eminently serviceable
• Wooden centre console with fuel, speed, temperature, and oil pressure gauges
• Fitted with matching inertia seat belts and one belt in the back (was for child seat)
• USB charger for your phone also fitted
• Speakers fitted, radio included but not mounted
• We're informed that the heater is effective, making the cabin nice and cosy
• The vendor says the headlights work well for night-time driving, something that can't be said of all '60s cars

The Mechanics

• 998cc A Series l4
• Four-speed manual
• The vendor informs us that the mechanics are excellent, the engine runs sweetly and starts first time, never overheats and has good oil pressure
• We're informed that it is quite nippy and economical
• Front disc brakes
• We're informed that the gears all work as they should
• Recently replaced gearbox mounts, engine steady bushes, and battery
• Cruises at 60 mph without a fuss - easily keeps pace with the traffic

BEFORE YOU BUY

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