The Wolseley 15/60 and 16/60

In 1958 BMC introduced a new corporate style created by the Italian Styling House of Farina. The first car to be released was the Austin A40, which only appeared as an Austin.

It was followed in December of that year by the first of the B-Series cars, the Wolseley 15/60, which replaced the 15/50.

Compared to the 15/50, the 15/60 had a shorter wheelbase and narrower track, but there was more passenger space, particularly in relation to knee and head room in the rear. To help provide this extra space, and extra space in the boot, the car was 5" longer than its predecessor.

The cars weighed almost the same with the 15/50 weighing 22 ½ cwt and the 15/60 22 cwt.

The B-Series cars were eventually available in Austin, Morris, MG, Riley and Wolseley versions. The five cars had the same basic body structure, with different frontal treatment and, to a lesser extent, different rears.

Station wagons (or, as they are termed in the UK, estate cars) were produced in Austin and Morris guise but not for the MG, Riley or Wolseley.

Australian built 15/60's (and the other BMC B series Farinas) were fitted with the 1622cc engine from their introduction in 1959 and had a Zenith carburettor rather than an SU. There were also a number of other modifications made to the Australian built cars, particularly in relation to the suspension.

The body style of the Wolseley 15/60 featured prominent tail-fins similar to those of the Austin and Morris (the MG and Riley had smaller fins).

There was the traditional Wolseley grille with illuminated name badge. Two-tone paintwork was optional.

The 16/60 had a lengthened wheelbase, wider track and stiffer suspension to improve stability and roadholding. There was also now the option of Borg-Warner automatic transmission. The tail-fins were reduced in height and there were changes to the tail-lamps and rear bumper.

In the UK, the 16/60 remained in production until 1971, when it was discontinued.

UK Specifications of the Wolseley 15/60

Australian Specifications of the Wolseley 15/60

Specifications of the Wolseley 16/60