The 1500 was launched in April 1957 on the Morris Minor’s floorpan, torsion-bar front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, with the 1,489cc B-series and the MG Magnette’s gearbox under a short floor lever. Brakes are Lockheed hydraulic — smaller than the Girling set-up on its twin, the Riley One-Point-Five, which is a popular upgrade. From October 1962 the engine got the stronger crankshaft and bearings of the 1,622cc unit while staying at 1,489cc.
Three Marks, and the hinges tell you which. The Mk I has exposed bonnet and boot hinges; the Mk II (May 1960) hides them and gets a full-width parcel shelf; the Mk III (October 1961) has a new grille with round indicators set into it, larger tail lamps and lowered suspension. The 1500 was also built in Sydney, alongside its Australian cousins the Morris Major and Austin Lancer.
Wolseley 1500 — specification & changes within the model
- Mk I — 1957
- Exposed bonnet and boot hinges.
- Mk II — May 1960
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Hidden hinges, new side chrome, full-width parcel shelf.
- Mk III — October 1961
- New grille with round indicators, larger tail lamps, lowered suspension.
- Engine & gearbox
- 1,489cc B-series, single SU. Stronger crank and bearings from October 1962. MG Magnette gearbox, floor change.
- Brakes
- Lockheed hydraulic drums. The Riley One-Point-Five’s Girling brakes are larger.
- Shared with
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Morris Minor floorpan, suspension and steering. Riley One-Point-Five body. Australian cousins: Morris Major, Austin Lancer.
- Earth polarity
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We cannot tell you for certain, and we will not guess. We could not find a source we trust that settles the earth polarity for the 1500. Check the car before you order a coil, a regulator or a radio.
