Riley RMB. (1946-52)
Riley RMB (NGH492)
Photo courtesy of Paul Reachill
1951 Riley RMB
Photo courtesy of Jack Kerr
The RMB was launched several months after the RMA, in early 1946, although sales were slow to get started, with materials still in scarce supply. Identified from the RMA by the longer bonnet, and pale blue Riley Badge, the RMB was the RMA with Riley's excellent pre-war Big Four engine inserted under the bonnet. In 1948, the power was increased from 90 to 100bhp, which gave performance close to 100mph, in a car that was fast luxurious, and thanks to Nuffields ownership, cheaper than many competitors. Even so, Riley only found homes for 6,900 in 6 years.
Tim & Nicky Hunter's 1948 RMB (JYV809) 'Bessie'
The RMB was joined in 1948 by a Drophead Coupe (RMD), and Roadster (RMC) versions. The latter was designed for the American market, and available either with a 3-seater bench seat, or two individual bucket seats, whilst the drophead was a full 5 seater designed with the British market more in mind.
After about 6 years in production, the RMB was replaced in 1951/2 by the RMF, with many detail improvements.
ENGINEHigh camshafts and push-rod 90-deg ohv2443cc 16hp 4cyl Compression ratio 6.8:1 Bore 80.5mm Stroke 120mm 90bhp at 4,300rpm (100bhp at 4,500rpm from Oct. 1948 onward) Carburation 2 H4 SU |
TRANSMISSIONFour-speed gearbox, Synchro on 2nd,3rd,4th.Overall gear ratios: 1st 15.0, 2nd 8.86, 3rd 5.83, 4th 4.11 Reverse 15.0 |
SUSPENSIONIndependent front suspension with twin wishbones, torsion bars and hydraulic telescopic dampers. Semi Elliptic at rear |
BRAKESGirling Hydro-mechanical.12inch dia drums. |
PERFORMANCE0-50mph 11.9secStanding ¼mile 21.1secs Max Speed 91mph Fuel Consumption 19.6mpg |
DIMENSIONSWheelbase 9'11" (aprx 3010mm)Track 4'4.5" (aprx 1320mm) Length 15'6" (aprx 4710mm) Width 5'2.5" (aprx 1560mm) Height 4'11.5" (aprx 1480mm) Turning Circle 36' Tyres Weight 28cwt Fuel Tank |
PRICE£1,125 3s 10d. |
Riley RMB
MUC 243 |
