Riley Two-Point-Six

Riley Two-Point-Six
Overview
Manufacturer	BMC
Production	1958–59 2000
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Powertrain
Engine	C.26.R C-Series Straight-6
Dimensions
Wheelbase	113 1⁄2 inches (2,880 mm)
Length	185 inches (4,700 mm)
Chronology
Predecessor	Riley Pathfinder
Successor	Riley Four Sixty-Eight

The Two-Point-Six replaced the Riley Pathfinder as Riley's top-line automobile when it was announced on 23 August 1957.^[1] While its predecessor retained the renowned Riley 4 cylinder twin cam, cross flow engine, Riley suspension and gearbox with its almost unique right hand gear lever, the Two-Point-Six was virtually identical to the Wolseley Six-Ninety Series III. It featured both monotone and duotone paintwork, as did the last of the Pathfinders.

Externally the most obvious differences from the Pathfinder were the bonnet arrangement – while the Pathfinder's grille lifted with the bonnet, the Two-Point-Six, in common with the 6/90, had a fixed grille – and the wheel arches having a raised edge.

It used the BMC C-Series straight-6, an engine that produced 101 hp (75 kW). This was actually less than the 2½ Litre Riley "Big Four" straight-4 engine it replaced. The Two-Point-Six was a commercial failure and was withdrawn from the market in May 1959, the last large Riley.

Engine:

• 2.6 L (2639 cc) C-Series straight-6, 97 hp (72 kW)

first registered 26 September 1957

References