Wolseley Hornet History
Catalog record
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History
Launched in 1930, the original Wolseley Hornet was a small but technically ambitious car built around a single-overhead-camshaft inline six-cylinder engine — unusual sophistication for an inexpensive light car of its day. It began at 1,271 cc, growing to 1,378 cc on standard cars from 1934 and to 1,604 cc on the Special chassis.
Offered as two- and four-door saloons, coupés, open two-seaters and as a rolling chassis for outside coachbuilders, the Hornet became a staple of British club motoring. The Hornet Special chassis earned a strong reputation in road use and amateur competition; in 1932 land-speed-record holder Sir Malcolm Campbell road-tested a Daytona Hornet Special and praised its engine and acceleration. Around 31,686 were built before production ended in 1936.
Body styles
- Saloon
- Coupé
- Open two-seater
- Rolling chassis
Notable special editions & performance variants
Hornet Special
A sporting bare chassis (with the larger 1,378 cc and later 1,604 cc OHC six) sold for fitting with lightweight coachbuilt sports bodies; the basis of the Hornet's competition reputation. Announced in April 1932 and offered until Hornet production ended in 1936.
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