Description
Wolseley Hornet Abbey | 1931
Highlights:
– 1.3-litre overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine, petrol, manual transmission
– Elegant Abbey coachwork giving a low-slung, sporting open body
– Pre-war coachbuilt classic from the lightweight “small six” sports car era
– Restored during the 1980s, last driven in summer 2025
– Brake master cylinder and wheel cylinders professionally restored and included for refitting
The seller offers for sale this 1931 Wolseley Hornet Abbey, powered by a 1,271cc overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine, paired with a manual transmission. Finished in British racing green with a contrasting red leather interior, this cabriolet wears coachwork by Abbey that lends it a distinctive, low and sporting silhouette quite unlike the standard saloon versions of the period. The open body, four-spoke steering wheel and simple instrument layout combine to give the car a purposeful and authentic pre-war character.
This particular example dates from 1931 and was restored at some point during the 1980s, with the exact year unknown. It was last driven in the summer of 2025. The brake master cylinder and the wheel cylinders have been removed and professionally restored, and are ready for refitting; they are included in the accompanying parts box. The paintwork is older and shows some age-related imperfections, including small cracks and localised blistering, consistent with a restoration of that age. Overall the car presents as a genuine and usable pre-war motoring proposition with clear scope for sympathetic recommissioning.
The Wolseley Hornet was introduced in 1930 and helped define the “small six” formula, fitting a compact overhead-camshaft six-cylinder engine into a light and nimble chassis. The model quickly became popular with coachbuilders, who offered a wide variety of sporting open bodies on the Hornet platform. Abbey was among the firms that clothed the chassis in lightweight two-seater and occasional-four coachwork, creating cars that punched well above their modest engine size and captured the spirit of affordable British sports motoring in the early 1930s. Surviving coachbuilt Hornets such as this are increasingly sought after by enthusiasts of the era.
On the road the smooth and free-revving overhead-camshaft six gives the Hornet a surprisingly spirited feel for its size, complemented by light controls and an engaging, vintage driving experience. The combination of genuine period coachwork, characterful six-cylinder power and strong historic relevance makes this Wolseley Hornet Abbey an appealing entry into pre-war classic ownership and eligible for a wide range of historic events.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
3 — Good. Bodywork or mechanical repairs needed; drives.
Condition of the interior
3 — Good. Bodywork or mechanical repairs needed; drives.
Technical condition
3 — Good. Bodywork or mechanical repairs needed; drives.
Overall condition
3 — Good. Bodywork or mechanical repairs needed; drives.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
