1937 Riley 12/4 Adelphi 6-Light Saloon

Lot details
Registration No: BRY 752
Chassis No: 28A7362
Mot Expiry: Sept 2011

"We make far too many models of course. But then we have a pretty fertile design department, and we like making nice, interesting cars". (Riley magazine advertisement, September 1936).

Introduced in 1936, the Adelphi 6-Light saloon was destined to become the most popular 1.5 Litre (12/4) model. Based on a cross-braced steel chassis equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension and four-wheel drum brakes, it was powered by the Coventry marque's revered 1496cc 'twin cam' four-cylinder engine allied to four-speed pre-selector transmission. Surprisingly spacious despite its modest dimensions (9ft 4.5in wheelbase, 4ft 3in track), the Adelphi was reputedly capable of some 73 mph and 27 mpg. A deserved success, it acted as a direct inspiration for the later Nuffield 12hp range. Riley sports saloons of the 1930s in general featured elegant styling and the Adelphi was no exception. Buyers were the more enthusiastic and discerning motorists of the day who appreciated the good quality engineering and remarkable Riley engines as much as the cars' well-proportioned lines - which were in marked contrast to the many boxy cheap family saloons from other manufacturers on the market at that time. The enthusiasm present then has continued to the present time, when cars such as this one have a great following within the Riley Register, the VSCC, and further afield.

Finished in maroon with red upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed pre-selector transmission, electrical equipment, bodywork and paintwork. While, he rates the interior, which has reportedly been treated to new leather and carpets, as "excellent". The subject of a recent overhaul that apparently included "a new water pump, flywheel assembly, pistons and liners", the engine is understood to still require careful running-in. Though, this process should be easy to monitor thanks to the presence of a zeroed odometer.