Riley 4/72
The most luxurious and powerful of the BMC 'Farina' family saloons.
- Power
- 68 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 19.7 s
- Top speed
- 86 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$18k
About the Riley 4/72
The Riley 4/72 was the flagship of the BMC 'Farina' range, offering a more prestigious alternative to its Austin and Morris siblings. It featured a twin-carburettor version of the 1.6-litre B-Series engine, shared with the MG Magnette, and was distinguished by its upright chrome grille and plush interior complete with walnut veneers and leather upholstery. Compared to the earlier 4/68, the 4/72 benefited from a wider track and anti-roll bars, which significantly improved the roadholding of the Pinin Farina-designed body. It remains a charming example of 1960s British middle-class motoring, valued for its superior trim and traditional Riley character.
Riley 4/72 specs
The Riley 4/72 produces 68 bhp (51 kW) and 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 19.7 seconds and has a top speed of 86 mph (138 km/h).
| Make | Riley |
|---|---|
| Model | 4/72 |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1961–1969 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 14,151 built |
| Engine | 1.6-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,622 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 68 bhp (51 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 19.7 s |
| Top speed | 86 mph (138 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,148 kg (2,531 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 59 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Riley 4/72 worth?
A typical Riley 4/72 is estimated to be worth $6,500 – $18,000 (about £4,800 – £13,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Riley 4/72 rarity in CarSpot
The Riley 4/72 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 43 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Riley 4/72 fun facts
- The 4/72 was the only one of the five BMC Farina models to be equipped with a rev counter as standard equipment.
- Despite its luxury positioning, the Riley 4/72 was essentially the same car as the Morris Oxford, but cost approximately 20% more when new.
- The model name '4/72' was intended to signify its four cylinders and a (somewhat optimistic) 72 bhp, though the official net output was 68 bhp.