1954 Wolseley 4/44 Saloon

The British Motor Corporation produced this Nuffield designed saloon between 1953 and 1956, very much along the lines of their sporting MG Magnette ZA, but with the 1250cc XPAW engine with single carburettor. Although less sporting, the Wolseley offered comfort and quality finish, particularly in the well- appointed interior, which featured a wooden dashboard, cream instrumentation and leather seats. The monocoque construction had independent coil sprung front suspension and a live rear axle. Transmission comprised a 4 speed manual gearbox with column change, as opposed to the floor mounted MG and this added to the apparent space.  The illuminated Wolseley badge was a popular feature mounted on the radiator grille, although it sometimes could be mistaken for a police vehicle much to the consternation of the lesser products of the welfare state harbouring nefarious intentions.

The current custodian acquired this Wolseley Saloon in 1990, it had previously resided in Weymouth with a Mr Cox and had been used regularly from the mid-Eighties, and before that, it belonged to a Mr Gibb of Corfe Castle, very much a Dorset-dwelling car. Early into the current ownership, a cyclist rode into the driver’s door, leaving behind a dent which is still in existence today. The 4/44 was then put into storage, the accident possibly a contributory factor in this decision, and there it remained, unused but kept dry until January 2024 when it arrived with us at DVCA. We understand the motor car to be complete and original, apart from the hub caps, but it will require some mechanical recommissioning before returning to the road, we understand that the engine does not turn. The paintwork is very good, a good polish should enhance the metallic finish, the chrome is good and the body appears to be rust free. A competent panel beater should be capable of repairing the aforesaid dent.

The history file contains a few photographs, two MOT test certificates from 1984 and 1988, an invoice from 1988, a photocopy V5 document and the V5C registration certificate.

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