Description:

Norman Grimshaw’s 1965 Wolseley Hornet is no ordinary Mini-derived saloon, but a charismatic and well-documented competitor from the golden era of the Goodwood Revival. Built and campaigned for historic racing by the late architect and enthusiast Norman Grimshaw, this distinctive Hornet took its place on the St Mary’s Trophy grid amongst a sea of Mini Cooper S machinery — earning admiration as a spirited and competitive underdog.

Driven both by Grimshaw himself and by respected touring-car ace Alec Poole, and later associated with renowned historic Mini specialist Nick Swift, the car forms part of Goodwood Revival folklore. Following an on-track incident during its early Revival career, it was professionally rebuilt and returned to competition — a testament to both its provenance and the esteem in which it was held.

Today, this Hornet represents a rare opportunity to acquire a genuinely eligible and evocative historic saloon: a car with authentic Goodwood history, recognised drivers, and undeniable character. Equally suited to front-running historic grids or gracing prestigious classic events, it offers its next custodian not just entry into competition, but entry into an ongoing story.

I’ve owned, loved and raced SZJ 3 for the last few years campaigning in HRDC, HSCC, Swiftune events and hillclimbs and reluctantly have decided to hang up my racing license and entrust it to the next eager historic racer.

SZJ 3 remains eligible for Goodwood and is fully eligible for the Swiftune 2026 Racing series so well presented and run by Swiftune with 4 rounds due in 2026 starting in June. 

One of the cheapest and quickest routes into highly competitive and respectful racing that its possible to get. SZJ 3 comes fully set up ready to drive, having been regularly maintained by Phil Anning and comes with numerous spare parts and an spare set of wheels and tyres. 

Engine time since last rebuild - 7 hrs 24mins running (circuit and hill climbs) with estimated same left before next schedule of work needed.

Keyword Search Terms:

Historic, Mini, Hornet, HRDC, Swiftune