Wolseley Fifteen
Hundred
Fifteen Hundred
MKI
It was in 1957 that the
Wolseley 1500 was announced. The original idea was that the model
would be a replacement for the Morris Minor. So as many components
as possible would be carried over, this included floor pan and
suspension units. It was planned to have the 1200cc 'B' series
engine, (a small batch of 110 with this engine were made for the
Republic of Ireland). Having the 1489cc engine installed gave this
small car a very good power to weight ratio. Because of a high
final drive in the axle it had a very good cruising speed. The down
side was that you needed to stay in third gear much longer although
the remote gear change was very positive. The body was trimmed out
in the traditional Wolseley way with a walnut veneer facia, leather
seats with the front ones been of the bucket type style, room in
the back was some what restricted. The grille and illuminated badge
gave the car its traditional Wolseley look. Bodies were built and
trimmed at Fisher & Ludlow Castle Bromwich Birmingham and
transported to Longbridge to receive the mechanical
components.
Date when launched late
1957
Discontinued in 1960
Total produced 46,438
Engine
1489 cc 43 bhp at 4,200 rpm Max torque 71lbs/ft at 2,600
rpm
Main measurements
Length 12ft 7.8ins Width 5ft 1ins Height 4ft 11.8ins
Wheelbase 7ft 2ins Track front 4ft 2.9ins rear 4ft 2.3ins
Price at launch
£796
Wolseley 1500
MKII
Although it was called the Mark II very
few changes were made. The later production MKI cars had larger
section tyres fitted to the 14in wheels which was carried over. The
most obvious change was the removing of the external bonnet and
boot hinges which gave it a cleaner line.
Date when launched May
1960
Discontinued in 1961
Total produced 22,295
Engine
1489 cc 43 bhp at 4,200 rpm Max torque 71lbs/ft at 2,600
rpm
Main measurements
Length 12ft 7.8ins Width 5ft 1ins Height 4ft 11.8ins
Wheelbase 7ft 2ins Track front 4ft 2.9ins rear 4ft 2.3ins
Wolseley 1500 MKIII
This was the final face lift with the body
receiving a full width lower grille which incorporating revised
side-indicator lights. The side trim now ran the full length of the
body with a simpler wing logo by the headlamp. Suspension was
lowered to give the car a more sporty look
Date when launched Oct 1961
Discontinued in 1965
Total produced 31,989
Engine
1489 cc 43 bhp at 4,200 rpm Max torque 71lbs/ft at 2,600
rpm
Main measurements
Length 12ft 7.8ins Width 5ft 1ins Height 4ft 11.8ins
Wheelbase 7ft 2ins Track front 4ft 2.9ins rear 4ft
2.3ins
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