Singer SM 1500C
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Founded | January 1, 1874 |
| Defunct | 1956 |
| Headquarters | Coventry , United Kingdom |
| Products | Automobiles, including Singer Roadster |
The Singer Roadster is a nine tax horsepower open sports-tourer available in two- or four-seat configurations, produced by Singer Motors between 1939 and 1955. Introduced in March 1939, it was an open-top derivative of Singer's Bantam saloon, sharing many of its components.
Production ceased within half a year due to World War II, but recommenced afterwards with the engine moved forward to create additional cabin space along with several minor refinements. In 1949, the Roadster evolved into the 4A model, incorporating a four-speed Manual transmission. Briefly, the 4AB and 4AC variants appeared in 1950, followed by the 4AD SM Roadster in 1951. Competing against the MG T series, the Roadster stood out for its elegant styling, making it one of the most visually appealing roadsters available at that time. Manufacturing concluded in 1955. A small number of bespoke bodies were also produced by coachbuilder James Young.
Singer 9 Roadster 1939-1949
The initial Roadster was a two-door tourer with occasional seating for four, built upon the Bantam saloon platform. It was equipped with Singer’s overhead camshaft 1074 cc inline-four engine, tuned to produce at 5000 rpm through an efficient "hot-spot" manifold combined with a downdraught SU carburettor and slightly elevated compression ratio. In 1940, sliding glass panels replaced the original celluloid sidescreens, while upgrades included a chromed front bumper and twin aero screens to be used when folding the windscreen flat. A fitted suitcase was designed to optimize luggage capacity. The vehicle’s performance was restricted by the Bantam’s three-speed transmission, yielding a top speed near .
Although marketing drew inspiration from the Singer Nine#Le Mans model, references to racing were subdued following the fatal Ulster TT accident in 1936. Unlike competition-focused models, the Roadster targeted affordability.
Performance claims boasted a maximum speed of , acceleration from zero to in six seconds, and reaching in eighteen seconds. Standard equipment included a spring-mounted steering wheel, concealed spare tire, a 12-volt electrical system, and windscreen wipers.
The body construction featured traditional aluminium panels over a wooden frame. Suspension consisted of leaf springs with rigid axles front and rear; braking was mechanical.
After World War II production resumed in 1946 with enhancements such as non-lubricated rubber shackle bushes and relocating the engine forward to improve passenger space and luggage access via an upgraded rear lid that created a flat loading surface. These modifications contributed to better handling and ride comfort through improved engine mounting and isolation techniques. Nearly all postwar models were exported, gaining popularity among Indian aristocracy and appearing in collections of Maharajas.
Singer 9 Roadster series 4A 1949-1950
In September 1949, the Roadster received an update to become the 4A model, now equipped with a four-speed gearbox sourced from the Singer Hunter. The previous SU carburettor was replaced by a Solex unit, which increased power output by one horsepower. Improvements were made to the driving position for easier ingress and egress, while repositioning of the gearbox enhanced gear shifting quality. Additionally, bumpers were redesigned to be larger, sturdier, and rounded at their ends.
Singer 9 Roadster series 4AB and 4AC 1950-1953
Launched in October 1950, the upgraded 4AB Roadster incorporated an independent front suspension system utilizing coil springs alongside a combined "hydro-mechanical" braking mechanism supplied by Girling. Notable design changes included a truncated bonnet, disc-style wheels, fixed sides on the bonnet, and redesigned fenders that were deeper and more rounded. The steering box was relocated to facilitate easier production for both right- and left-hand drive versions. The 4AB model was manufactured concurrently with the larger 4AD until production ceased in January 1953.
The experimental 4AC variant, produced in very limited numbers—approximately twelve units—was equipped with a larger 1194 cc engine. This engine was essentially a downscaled version of the SM1500’s 1.5-litre powerplant, reflecting Singer’s strategy to streamline its vehicle range.
Singer SM Roadster series 4AD 1½-litre 1951-1955
The last iteration of the Roadster, known as the Singer SM Roadster and designated as the 4AD, was unveiled at the October 1951 Paris Motor Show initially targeting export markets exclusively. It utilized the 1497 cc engine producing 48 bhp from the SM1500 saloon, mounted on a chassis and body that remained largely unchanged from previous models, while continuing to employ the hybrid hydraulic/mechanical brake system. Starting in 1953, an enhanced engine option featuring twin carburettors delivered increased output of 58 bhp. The 4AD can be identified by its larger, more rounded bumpers and bigger taillights mounted on extended stalks compared to the earlier 4AB.
Initially, production prioritized exports with the smaller 4AB remaining available within the UK market. From 1953 onward, the 1.5-litre 4AD was also offered domestically.
A road test conducted by The Motor magazine in 1951 recorded a maximum speed of 73 mph (117 km/h), acceleration from zero to 60 mph in 23.6 seconds, and fuel efficiency of 25.8 miles per imperial gallon. Pricing details were not provided due to its export-only availability at that time.
Singer SMX Roadster 1953
This prototype featured a body constructed from glass fibre and was presented at the Earls Court Motor Show in October 1953. Production was extremely limited, with roughly ten units built.
