Created as a somewhat upmarket Mini. With a specially built body, similar to a standard Austin/Morris Mini. But with a different shaped bonnet, elaborate chrome grille shell, air vents, and bumpers. And in the rear, a larger trunk compartment. And the Wolseley emblem in the grille lights up when the lights are on. Sort of like a pinball machine.
And while standard Minis had crude sliding windows and no ventilation, the Wolseleys (and their companion model, the Riley Elf) came with roll up windows, face level air vents, a fresh air heater, wood dash, internal door hinges, and leather seats.
This car: 26,000 original miles (validated by English MOT inspection papers), came to the USA in 2005, never registered, sitting in storage with occasional short drives to local shows, excellent body and subframes, excellent drive train, wiring, chrome, some wear on the driver's seat caused us to reupolstered both front seats in leather, new carpets, interior is excellent. White exterior with deep red interior. The 998cc engine produces 38hp but, then again, the curb weight is a mere 1400 pounds. And with excellent steering and handling. Compression is 140-145 psi in every cylinder, 65-70 psi oil pressure, no smoke, quiet valves, it really doesn't come better than this.
The fresh air heater has great output, all of the gauges and electrics work, we evacuated and repumped the hydrolastic system and installed all new lines and fittings, trunk floor is perfect, it is a GREAT little car. AND IF sell the car, we will supply the special hydrolastic pump for use by the next owner.
Truth is, as 'founder, owner, and....best customer,' might very well keep this car in my own collection (and my plan would include fitting a modern stereo, an effective modern auxiliary heater, and a full fabric sunroof)...........but if not, it will be for sale. If interested, inquire for details.
