Wolseley 18/85 ADO17
The 'Landcrab' in a lounge suit: Alec Issigonis's space-efficient marvel with a touch of Wolseley luxury.
- Power
- 85 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.0 s
- Top speed
- 91 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$17k
About the Wolseley 18/85 ADO17
Introduced in 1967, the Wolseley 18/85 was the most luxurious iteration of the BMC ADO17 platform, famously nicknamed the 'Landcrab' for its unusual width and stance. It combined Alec Issigonis's revolutionary front-wheel-drive layout and Hydrolastic suspension with traditional Wolseley appointments, including a walnut dashboard and leather upholstery. While its dumpy styling was controversial, the 18/85 offered class-leading interior space and exceptional ride quality. The 1.8-litre B-Series engine, shared with the MGB, provided adequate performance for what was marketed as a refined executive express.
Wolseley 18/85 ADO17 specs
The Wolseley 18/85 ADO17 produces 85 bhp (63 kW) and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.0 seconds and has a top speed of 91 mph (147 km/h).
| Make | Wolseley |
|---|---|
| Model | 18/85 |
| Generation | ADO17 |
| Trim | 1.8 |
| Years | 1967–1972 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 35,597 built |
| Engine | 1.8-litre B-Series inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,798 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 85 bhp (63 kW) at 5,300 rpm |
| Torque | 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 16.0 s |
| Top speed | 91 mph (147 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,170 kg (2,579 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 73 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Wolseley 18/85 ADO17 worth?
A typical Wolseley 18/85 ADO17 is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $17,000 (about £3,000 – £12,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Wolseley 18/85 ADO17 rarity in CarSpot
The Wolseley 18/85 ADO17 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 39 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Wolseley 18/85 ADO17 fun facts
- The 18/85 name was a revival of a pre-war Wolseley model, chosen because the 1.8-litre engine produced exactly 85 bhp.
- Despite its ungainly appearance, the ADO17's body shell was one of the stiffest in the world at the time, making it a surprisingly successful long-distance rally car.
- The Wolseley version came standard with power-assisted steering, a feature that was highly necessary given the car's heavy front-end weight distribution.