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Wolseley 1100/1300 (1965-73)

ADO 16
All Marques Production Total: 2,365,420
Recorded in UK 2024
1100 Licensed=26 SORN=14
1300 Licensed=61 SORN=35
1300 Automatic Licensed=11 SORN=8

Wolseley 1100/1300 (1965-73)

The Wolseley 1100, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are some of the most notable issues:

1. **Rust**: This is a major problem for the Wolseley 1100. Rust can occur in various parts of the car, including the floors, sills, front inner wings, door bottoms, rear arches, boot floor, and the bulkhead near the heater¹². Poorly executed repairs can exacerbate this issue¹.

2. **Engine Issues**: Early models sometimes used bored-out 848cc Mini blocks due to supply issues, which could lead to problems with the connecting rods². Additionally, the idler gear, designed for the 34bhp 850 Mini, could fail due to production inaccuracies².

3. **Gearbox Problems**: The 1100 was the first BMC car to feature baulk ring synchromesh, but early models could suffer from fractured exhaust downpipes until a stabiliser was fitted².

4. **Electrical Problems**: As with many older cars, electrical issues can arise, often due to aging wiring and connections.

5. **Suspension and Steering**: Wear and tear on the suspension and steering components can lead to handling issues over time.

Despite these faults, the Wolseley 1100 is known for being a comfortable and well-appointed car, making it a beloved classic for many enthusiasts.
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The Wolseley 1300, like its predecessor the 1100, has several common faults that owners and potential buyers should be aware of:

1. **Rust**: This is a significant issue, particularly in areas such as the floors, sills, front inner wings, door bottoms, rear arches, boot floor, and the bulkhead near the heater¹². Poorly executed repairs can make this problem worse.

2. **Engine Problems**: The 1300's engine, while more powerful than the 1100's, can still suffer from issues such as worn-out carburettors and oil leaks.

3. **Gearbox Issues**: The all-synchromesh gearbox introduced in the 1300 can develop problems over time, particularly with the synchromesh rings.

4. **Electrical Faults**: As with many classic cars, the electrical system can be prone to faults due to aging wiring and connections.

5. **Suspension and Steering**: Wear and tear on the suspension and steering components can lead to handling issues.

Despite these faults, the Wolseley 1300 is known for being a comfortable and well-appointed car, making it a beloved classic for many enthusiasts.
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Generations
The Wolseley 1100 and 1300 went through two main generations during their production run from 1965 to 1973¹²:

1. **Mark I (1965-1967)**: The initial version of the Wolseley 1100 was introduced in 1965. It featured the 1098cc A-Series engine, producing 55bhp¹. The Mark I 1300, introduced later, had a 1275cc engine with 58bhp¹.

2. **Mark II (1967-1973)**: The Mark II versions received a facelift and some mechanical updates. The 1300 Mark II, introduced in 1967, featured a more powerful 1275cc engine with twin carburettors, producing 65bhp¹². This generation continued until the end of production in 1973².

These cars were known for their comfortable ride and well-appointed interiors, making them popular among classic car enthusiasts.
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Body Styles
The Wolseley 1100 and 1300 were primarily offered in the following body styles:

1. **4-Door Saloon**: This was the most common body style, providing a practical and spacious option for families.

2. **2-Door Saloon**: Although less common, this variant was also available, offering a sportier look.

These body styles were consistent with the other models in the BMC ADO16 range, which included similar offerings from brands like Morris, Austin, and Riley.
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Engines
The Wolseley 1100 and 1300 used different versions of the BMC A-Series engine:

1. **Wolseley 1100**:
- **1098cc Engine**: This engine produced 55bhp and was used in the Mark I models.

2. **Wolseley 1300**:
- **1275cc Engine**: Introduced in 1967, this engine initially produced 58bhp. Later versions, especially those with twin carburettors, produced up to 65bhp.

These engines were known for their reliability and performance, making the Wolseley 1100 and 1300 popular choices among classic car enthusiasts.
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Spares
Finding spares for a Wolseley 1100 or 1300 can be a bit of a treasure hunt, but there are several reliable sources in the UK and Ireland:

1. **Wolseley Register**: This club offers a large stock of used, new old stock, and new remanufactured spares. They also provide trade discounts and have a list of recommended traders.

2. **British Classic Spare Parts**: They offer a wide range of parts for the Wolseley 1100 and 1300, including engine parts, electrical components, and body fittings.

3. **Wolseley Plumb & Parts**: Although primarily a supplier of plumbing materials, they have branches across the UK and Ireland that might be able to help or direct you to the right place.

4. **Online Marketplaces**: Websites like eBay and specialist classic car parts websites often have listings for Wolseley parts.

5. **Autojumbles and Classic Car Shows**: These events can be great places to find rare parts and connect with other enthusiasts who might have what you need.
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Specialists
Here are some Wolseley specialists in the UK and Ireland where you can find parts and services for your Wolseley 1100 or 1300:

1. **Wolseley Register**: This club offers a large stock of used, new old stock, and new remanufactured spares. They also provide trade discounts and have a list of recommended traders.

2. **British Classic Spare Parts**: They offer a wide range of parts for the Wolseley 1100 and 1300, including engine parts, electrical components, and body fittings.

3. **Wolseley Plumb & Parts**: Although primarily a supplier of plumbing materials, they have branches across the UK and Ireland that might be able to help or direct you to the right place.

4. **Online Marketplaces**: Websites like eBay and specialist classic car parts websites often have listings for Wolseley parts.

5. **Autojumbles and Classic Car Shows**: These events can be great places to find rare parts and connect with other enthusiasts who might have what you need.

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