Wolseley Hornet Mk I-III
The posh Mini: a luxury three-box saloon with an illuminated grille.
- Power
- 38 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 24.1 s
- Top speed
- 77 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$22k
About the Wolseley Hornet Mk I-III
Launched as a premium alternative to the standard Mini, the Wolseley Hornet (and its twin, the Riley Elf) featured an extended rear body that created a traditional three-box saloon profile and a larger boot. The Mk II, introduced in 1963, brought the more flexible 998cc A-series engine and, from 1964, the innovative Hydrolastic suspension system. Inside, it offered a level of refinement unknown to the base Mini, including a full-width wood-veneer dashboard and leather upholstery. While heavier than the standard car, it remains a charming and rare collector's piece that combines Issigonis's brilliant packaging with traditional British luxury.
Wolseley Hornet Mk I-III specs
The Wolseley Hornet Mk I-III produces 38 bhp (28 kW) and 71 Nm (52 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 24.1 seconds and has a top speed of 77 mph (124 km/h).
| Make | Wolseley |
|---|---|
| Model | Hornet |
| Generation | Mk I-III |
| Trim | 1.0 |
| Years | 1961–1969 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 28,455 built |
| Engine | 1.0-litre A-series inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 998 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 38 bhp (28 kW) at 5,250 rpm |
| Torque | 71 Nm (52 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 24.1 s |
| Top speed | 77 mph (124 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 660 kg (1,455 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 58 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 Hornet Mk I-III worth?
A typical Wolseley Hornet Mk I-III is estimated to be worth $7,500 – $22,000 (about £5,600 – £16,000).
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 Hornet Mk I-III rarity in CarSpot
The Wolseley Hornet Mk I-III is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 40 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 Hornet Mk I-III fun facts
- The Wolseley Hornet features a unique illuminated front grille badge, a signature styling cue of the marque since 1932.
- Despite the 'Hornet' name, this model was actually 8.5 inches longer than a standard Mini due to its extended boot and vertical grille.
- The Mk II Hornet was the first BMC car to use the 998cc version of the A-series engine, which later became a staple of the Mini range.