Riley One-Point-Five
It was in November 1957
that the Riley One Point Five was announced, some months after the
Wolseley 1500. As with the Wolseley 1500 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. The Riley One Point Five had the 'B'
series engine of 1489 cc but power output was higher at 62 bhp.
Because of a high final drive in the axle it had a very good
cruising speed. With 19 hp more than the Wolseley it was fairly
lively and a top speed of 84 mph. The standard mono-paintwork and
extra chrome made for a very attractive small car. The front bucket
type style seats were duo-tone with the walnut veneer facia having
three dials.
Date when launched November
1957
Discontinued in 1960
Engine
1489 cc 62 bhp at 4,500 rpm Max torque 83lbs/ft at 3,000
rpm
Main measurements
Length 12ft 7.8ins Width 5ft 1ins Height 4ft 11.8ins
Wheel Base 7ft 2ins Track front 4ft 2.9ins rear 4ft 2.3ins
Price at launch
£864
Riley One Point Five
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. With duo-body colours it
made for a very smart sporting small car.
Date when launched May
1960
Discontinued in 1961
Engine
1489 cc 62 bhp at 4,500 rpm Max torque 83lbs/ft at 3,000
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
Riley One Point Five MK
III
This was the final face lift with the body
receiving a deeper 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. This allowed the
model to be available in duo-tone colour schme. Suspension was
lowered to give the car a more sporty look. The rear lights were
also changed using ones that were been used on the latest Farina
A40.
Date when launched Oct 1961
Discontinued in 1965
Engine
1489 cc 62 bhp at 4,500 rpm Max torque 83lbs/ft at 3,000
rpm
Main measurements
Length 12ft 7.8ins Width 5ft 1ins Height 4ft 11.8ins
Wheel Base 7ft 2ins Track front 4ft 2.9ins rear 4ft
2.3ins
Total produced for all
version 39,568