The Riley RM series was the final masterpiece of the independent Riley company before it was absorbed into the BMC empire. Launched in 1945, this elegant range combined pre-war prestige with modern performance, instantly recognisable by its traditional upright grille, long bonnet, and fabric-covered roof.
Underneath the classic lines sat a remarkably advanced chassis. It used independent front suspension and precise rack-and-pinion steering to deliver superb handling. Power came from Riley’s legendary twin-camshaft high-bonnet engines, available as a 1.5-litre (RMA) or a potent 2.5-litre (RMB) unit capable of 100 mph.
Available as a saloon, drophead coupé, or rare three-seater roadster, it remains a quintessential post-war British classic.
Riley 1.5-Litre RMA
Launched the post-war line, with advanced IFS and rack-and-pinion steering. Cloaked in an elegant fabric-roofed saloon body, it relied on the 1.5-litre high-cam engine to reach 75 mph. Exceptional, sporting saloon car handling.
Years
1946-52
Engine
1496cc S4 OHV
Body Style
Saloon
Production
10, 504
Power: Weight
Dimensions
Riley 2.5-Litre RMB
Stretched the chassis by seven inches to house the larger 2.5-litre twin-cam engine. Producing 100 bhp, this flagship saloon offered true 100 mph performance and effortless cruising. Arguably the definitive RM.
Years
1946-52
Engine
2443cc S4 OHV
Body Style
Saloon
Production
6900
Power: Weight
100 bhp
Dimensions
Riley 2.5-Litre RMC
Striking, low-slung roadster built primarily for the US export market. Three-abreast bench seat, fold-flat windscreen, and cut-down rear deck. Disappointing sales in the target market.
Years
1948-50
Engine
2443cc S4 OHV
Body Style
Roadster
Production
507
Power: Weight
Dimensions
Photo: Flickr
Riley 2.5-Litre RMD
Elegant four-seater drophead coupé. Fitted with a high-quality, fully lined three-position fabric hood, it offered luxurious open-top motoring.
Years
1948-51
Engine
2443cc S4 OHV.
Body Style
DHC
Production
502
Power: Weight
Dimensions
Photo: Flickr
Riley 1.5-Litre RME
The RME modernised the 1.5-litre saloon formula for the 1950s. Retained rear-hinged doors, but removed the running boards; curved rear bumper, and rear wheel spats. Fully hydraulic brakes .
Years
1952-55
Engine
1496cc S4 OHV
Body Style
Saloon
Production
3446
Power: Weight
Dimensions
Riley 2.5-Litre RMF
Similar updates to the larger chassis. Wider rear window. The final curtain call for Riley’s legendary high-cam engine.
Years
1952-53
Engine
2443cc S4 OHV.
Body Style
Saloon
Production
1050
Power: Weight
Dimensions
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