The Classic Wolseley 1500
The Wolseley 1500 made good use of the Minor’s floorpan and suspension. Not only was it good to drive, but it looked classy thanks to the rounded and smart-looking body. Out of the Riley/Wolseley pair, the latter was set-up as a comfortable cruiser, making do with 43bhp from its single-carburettor BMC B-series 1489cc engine.
In 1960s, it was facelifted into MkII form - looking better for its concealed bonnet and boot hinges. A year later, the MkIII appeared with lowered suspension, new tail lamps and tweaks to the radiator grille.
Wolseley continue to appeal thanks to their simple engineering, high gearing and a healthy spares back-up. They also have period charm, with two-tone interiors on early cars, and the illuminated Wolseley badge on the grille.
The 1500 combined the Morris Minor’s floorpan and suspension with a more roomy body and the 1.5-litre B-series engine. There were MkI models from 1957 to 1960; MkIIs had concealed bonnet and boot hinges, and arrow-head side trim; while the 1961-1965 MkIII had larger side grilles and rear lamps, and single-tone upholstery on the interior.
Wolseley 1500 Specification
Engine 1489cc/4-cyl/OHV
Power (bhp@rpm) 50bhp@4200rpm
Torque (lb ft@rpm) 71lb ft@2600rpm
Top speed 78mph
0-60mph 24.4sec
Consumption 35mpg
Gearbox 4-speed manual
The Series II model came out in May 1960. The most notable external difference was the hidden boot and bonnet hinges. Interior storage was improved with the fitting of a full width parcel shelf directly beneath the facia.
In October 1962 the car received the more robust crank, bearing and other details of the larger 1,622 cc unit now being fitted in the Austin Cambridge and its "Farina" styled clones. Unlike the Farina models, however, the Wolseley 1500 retained the 1,489 cc engine size with which they had been launched back in 1957.
The Wolseley also had a Series III launched in October 1961 which featured a revised grille and rear lights.
If you’re looking for a loveable, affordable car to enjoy rather than to impress the lads, a Classic Wolseley 1500 would suit you very well. Maintenance isn’t expensive, and if you’ve bought a good one, you won’t have to spend your time scouring autojumbles and small ads for obscure parts.
Wolseley 1500 Gallery
