Wolseley 12/48 Series II Saloon

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Wolseley had built an enviable reputation for building high quality cars in the early 1920s thanks to their advanced OHC engines. Based on designs developed from the Hispano-Suiza aero engines that they had made under licence during WW1, these engines were beautiful but expensive to produce.

By 1926, Wolseley were in deep financial difficulty. With debts of over £2m, the receivers were called in and a sale organised to William Morris which he funded from his personal fortune. Continuing to trade independently as Wolseley until 1935, the company was then absorbed into the Morris empire, gaining access to the considerable resources of their new master. With the most modern components now available, their first task was to develop a new range of 12hp models.

The 1935 Wasp and New Hornet were the result, the models being updated shortly after with the Series II 12/48 with its 1,581cc OHV four-cylinder engine and more contemporary styling. Just 6,400 were to see the light of day before the rather less elegant Series III came along with its more upright windscreen and heavy treatment to its rear-end.

This 12/48 Series II comes from a deceased estate and was known to be largely complete until very recently. At the time of writing, the whereabouts of the wings and front seats were a bit of a mystery, although it is hoped that they will resurface in time for the sale.

It is clear that some work has been undertaken on the body in the past and it looks to have had a new headlining at some point too. There is a chassis plate on the bulkhead, although we are advised that there is no paperwork with the vehicle and its registration number is unknown.

Interested parties are advised that they will need to satisfy themselves as to which parts are and are not present when the vehicle arrives on-site. An interesting and worthwhile project, the car is being offered at no reserve so the best bid takes it.