1955 Wolseley 4/44

Starting life as the ‘Sheep Shearing Machine Co’, Wolseley produced its first motor car in 1899. From 1901 when Vickers purchased the vehicle interests, the marque became a member of various motor manufacturing empires. In 1927 William Morris bought Wolseley until 1935 when it moved into Morris Motors.  1952 saw the creation of British Motor Corporation and the subsequent Wolseley models shared much of their design with their BMC sister models. The 4/44 of 1953 was very similar to the MG Magnette ZA, but was powered by the XPAG 1250cc engine. Equipped with all the refinements expected of the marque defined the Wolseley 4/44 and a relatively high price tag meant that the model was certainly not aimed at the economy end of the market. After just three years of production, the 4/44 was succeeded by the 15/50.

Described as being very original in most departments, this  Wolseley appears to be sound and solid. It is understood that the inner and outer sill panels have been replaced in the past, and work has been carried out on the jacking points. Mechanically, the 4/44 is described as good and the motor car has benefitted from a recent brake overhaul. The lady owner tells us that the Wolseley drives extremely well. The interior and leather upholstery remains in original condition and the wood facia dashboard and cream instrumentation are particularly pleasing.

The large history file contains invoices, numerous MOT test certificates, the V5C registration certificate, photographs, the operation manual, the schedule of repair charges and a factory parts list. A spare radiator and surround are included in the sale. 

Auction Date: 2 June 2016