1967 Wolseley Hornet

Based on the original Mini of 1959, the MkI Wolseley Hornet, from October 1961, had a slightly longer tail with the similar and distinctive Wolseley tail fins as found on the outgoing 6/99 model. Likewise the nose of the new Wolseley Hornet had similar looks to the mid-range 15/60 and the 16/60 models. At 129" in length, the Hornet had a larger boot which made the car 9" longer than the Mini. This car had a slightly up-market specification from the Mini, complete with the traditional Wolseley illuminated radiator grille badge, upgraded seating with a fuller level of trim, and more sound deadening, which led to a much quieter ride. The three-instrument central oval dashboard, otherwise used on the Mini Cooper, was fitted. There was also much better access to the engine as the vertical face of the radiator grille also lifted up in one-piece with the bonnet.

The same 850-cc A-series engine was fitted as to the Austin/Morris Mini. The same 34 bhp at 5500 rpm propelled the car to a top speed of 71 mph with 0-60 mph coming in 32.2 seconds, which was slightly slower than the Austin and Morris Mini's times of 27.1 seconds. The standing 1/4 mile took 23.7 seconds, and the initial price was £672.

In 1962 leather upholstery replaced the original cloth, the seats in the rear were improved, and the boot lid was made to balance open. In March 1963 the Wolseley Hornet MkII was launched with the larger 998-cc engine. The price was reduced to £557. Now with 38 bhp at 5,250 rpm, 77 mph was possible and 60 mph came up in 24.1 seconds, with 22.4 seconds required to cover the standing 1/4 mile. Plastic window catches replaced the old chrome type in May 1963. Hydrolastic suspension was introduced from October 1964 to replace the original rubber-cone type, and an automatic transmission option came in May 1965.

From 1966 the MkIII Hornet and the equivalent Riley Elf were the first Mini-based cars to receive wind-up windows and better ventilation. Integral door hinges were also introduced, not seen on the Austin or Morris Mini until 1969. In 1967 the all-synchromesh gearbox was announced but only came to fruition in the summer of 1968.

Production of the Wolseley Hornet was dropped in August 1969 on the formation of British Leyland, with the total production run of 28,455 cars, coinciding with the 2,000,000th Mini built in June 1969. The Mini Clubman was introduced following the Wolseley Hornet and the equivalent Riley Elf. By September 1969 the Austin, Morris, Riley and Wolseley brands were dropped altogether and the range of cars were then known plainly as the Mini.

The Elf / Hornet Register caters for the Wolseley and Riley versions of the car. New and used mechanical parts are readily available but body panels are more of a problem. Mini adventures abound for all owners of these iconic cars, as they are fun and easy to drive and own and also have a lively following. They also have an impeccable history of racing and rallying from the word go, and continue to be accepted in all types of events worldwide.