Triumph 1500
Triumph's upscale front-wheel-drive experiment in compact luxury.
- Power
- 65 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 16.5 s
- Top speed
- 87 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$10k
About the Triumph 1500
The Triumph 1500 was launched in 1970 as a more luxurious, longer-bodied successor to the 1300. It retained the brand's unusual front-wheel-drive layout for the era, though it replaced the independent rear suspension of its predecessor with a simpler dead-beam axle. Styled by Giovanni Michelotti, it featured a distinctive four-headlamp nose and a high-quality interior with walnut veneers. In 1973, the front-drive 1500 was discontinued in favour of the rear-wheel-drive 1500TC, making this original version a unique chapter in Triumph's engineering history.
Triumph 1500 specs
The Triumph 1500 produces 65 bhp (48 kW) and 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 16.5 seconds and has a top speed of 87 mph (140 km/h).
| Make | Triumph |
|---|---|
| Model | 1500 |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1970–1973 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 66,353 built |
| Engine | 1.5-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,493 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 65 bhp (48 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 110 Nm (81 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 16.5 s |
| Top speed | 87 mph (140 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 949 kg (2,092 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 68 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Triumph 1500 worth?
A typical Triumph 1500 is estimated to be worth $3,500 – $9,500 (about £2,600 – £7,100).
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
Triumph 1500 rarity in CarSpot
The Triumph 1500 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 37 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 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.
Triumph 1500 fun facts
- The Triumph 1500 was originally intended to be badged as a Wolseley before British Leyland decided to market it as a Triumph.
- It is one of the few cars in history where a manufacturer deliberately switched a model from front-wheel drive back to rear-wheel drive during its lifespan.
- The 1500's longer body and four-headlamp styling served as the template for the later, more famous Triumph Dolomite range.