Wolseley 15/50

The Wolseley 15/50 was an updated version of the Wolseley 4/44. The main change was the engine; the 4/44 used a pre BMC Morris XPA unit and after the MG TF stopped production it was the only car still fitted with it. To rationalise production the 15/50 was launched with the BMC B-series engine fitted. Much of the design was shared with the MG Magnette, although some of the panels of the MG Magnette ZA/ZB (e.g. the boot and rear wings) are not interchangeable with those of the Wolseley 15/50, as stated in Practical Classics.

Rear view

Wolseley 15/50
Overview
Manufacturer	BMC
Production	1956–1958 12,352 built[1]
Designer	Gerald Palmer
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Related	MG Magnette
Powertrain
Engine	1489 cc B-Series straight-4
Transmission	4-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	102 in (2,591 mm)[2]
Length	173 in (4,394 mm)[2]
Width	61.5 in (1,562 mm)[2]
Height	60 in (1,524 mm)[2]
Chronology
Predecessor	Wolseley 4/44
Successor	Wolseley 15/60

Unlike the MG, the 15/50 engine had only a single SU carburettor so the power output was slightly less at 55 bhp (41 kW) at 4400 rpm.^[2] Unlike the 4/44, the 15/50 had a floor gear change. From 1956 a "Manumatic" two pedal (centrifugal clutch) transmission was an option. This was controlled by a micro switch hidden in the gear lever operating a vacuum servo. Having no synchromesh on bottom gear could make changes into the lowest ratio, which would normally require double declutching, difficult.^[2]

The construction was monocoque with independent suspension at the front by coil springs and a live rear axle with semi elliptic leaf springs. The steering was rack and pinion and Lockheed brakes were fitted with 9 in (230 mm) drums all round.^[2]

In keeping with the up-market positioning of the Wolseley brand the car had upmarket trim with polished walnut dashboard and door cappings and leather seats and a traditional Wolseley radiator grille with illuminated badge. The individual front seats were placed very closely together to allow the car to be used as a six-seater albeit marginal but it was usually sold as a four seater. The handbrake lever was under the dash. A heater was fitted as standard.

Performance

An example with Manumatic transmission tested by the British The Motor magazine in 1957 had a top speed of 77.9 mph (125.4 km/h) and could accelerate from 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 26.7 seconds. A fuel consumption of 28.7 miles per imperial gallon (9.8 L/100 km; 23.9 mpg_‑US) was recorded. The test car cost £1011 including taxes of £338.^[2]

It was replaced in 1958 by the Farina styled Wolseley 15/60.

References

1. Robson, Graham (2006). A-Z British Cars 1945-1980. Devon, UK: Herridge & Sons. ISBN 0-9541063-9-3.
2. "The Wolseley Fifteen-fifty". The Motor. 6 February 1957.