Lot details Registration No: YY 3968 Chassis No: 6019211 Mot Expiry: Oct 2009
It is no exaggeration to say that the appearance of the 1100cc 9hp Riley at the Olympia Show October 1926 revolutionised concepts of light car design - its lower build, outstanding handling and good brakes, the products of careful detail design, were matched by the strong, light and advanced engine, which developed remarkable power for its modest size, and began a chain of development that continued until well after WWII and also spawned the E.R.A. racing voiturettes, the most successful British racing cars of their time.
Breathing efficiently through hemispherical combustion chambers and 45-degree overhead valves opened by short pushrods from twin high-set camshafts, the unit simply wanted to rev, and permitted a lowish rear axle ratio that in turn gave good acceleration. The 4-speed gearbox was a joy to use. Apart from a handful of obscure, low-volume specialised sports cars, no other light car produced in similar quantities offered anything comparable.
Exciting sports models such as the ultra-low Brooklands and then the beautiful Imp and Lynx, and a welter of competition successes carried the Riley Nine into the 1930s. Part of the initial Nine launch range, the Monaco Four-Door Saloon was updated for 1930 gaining a new full-width boot, revised roofline, bigger doors and improved Rotax headlamps. A strong seller, its cause was helped still further by the arrival of a metal panelled version a year or so later.
Finished in beige over black with brown upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "very good" condition with regard to its engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim and bodywork (while, he rates the paintwork as "good"). Riding on painted wire wheels and sporting a centre-mounted spot light, this charming Post Vintage saloon is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until October 2009.
All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.
You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:
If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035