Riley RM Drophead (RMD). (1949-51)

5-seater 2˝ Litre Drophead

The RMD was launched just after the RMC, but with the English market more in mind. It was a less extravagent re-body of the RMB, with the roof chopped, and the 4 doors of the RMB substituted by 2 longer front doors. The result was a much more pleasing shape to look at, and much closer in style to the pre-war Riley Drophead models, as well as many cars on offer from the competition.

However, as with the RMC, it wasn't the success it needed to be, and both models were axed in 1951 after only 502 RMDs were built. However, the same, or very similar bodystyles were offered by outside coachbuilders on all four versions of the RM saloons, and it appears that Riley themselves built some 1˝ Litre RMA and RME examples. To date, no factory built RMF versions have been identified.

ENGINE

High camshafts and push-rod 90-deg ohv
2443cc 16hp 4cyl
Bore 80.5mm Stroke 120mm
90bhp at 4,300rpm
(100bhp at 4,500rpm from Oct. 1948 onward)
Compression Ratio 6.8:1
Carburation 2 H4 SU

TRANSMISSION

Four-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

SUSPENSION

Independent front suspension with twin wishbones, torsion bars and hydraulic telescopic dampers. Semi Elliptic at Rear

BRAKES

Girling Hydro-mechanical.
12inch dia drums.

PERFORMANCE

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 9'11" (aprx 4010mm)
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