12th Oct, 2008 14:45

Haynes International Motor Museum

 
  Lot 41
 

1935 Riley 12/4 'TT Sprite' Evocation

Sold for £21,825

(including buyers premium)


Lot details
Registration No: T.B.A.
Chassis No: 26K3245
Mot Expiry: T.B.A.

"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).

The introduction of the Riley Nine in 1926 heralded the beginning of a golden era for the Coventry marque that lasted until its acquisition by the Nuffield Organisation in 1938. Boosted by a formidable competition pedigree courtesy of Freddie Dixon, Raymond Mays et al, its road cars were held in singularly high esteem. Affectionately known as 'British Bugattis', they were noted for a turn of speed that belied their relatively small engine capacities.

Beginning life as a 1935 Riley 12/4 Kestrel (or so its quoted chassis number would indicate), 'CLD 72' is thought to have been converted into a 'TT Sprite' look-a-like during the late 1980s. Seemingly shortened, narrowed and lowered, its ladder frame chassis is equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, Andre Hartford shock absorbers and four-wheel drum brakes. Sporting a prominent boat-tail, cycle wings and twin Brooklands-style aero screens, the lightweight two-seater bodywork is held in place by a profusion of screws and rivets. While, other racy touches include the sleek front valance, truncated radiator shell, close set headlights (complete with stone guards) and louvered bonnet sides.

Fed by twin SU carburettors and boasting coil ignition, the Riley 1.5 litre four-cylinder OHV engine is allied to a four-speed pre-selector gearbox. Well-stocked the painted dashboard houses an ammeter, water temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, 0-6000rpm rev-counter and 0-100mph speedometer. Otherwise the doorless cockpit (albeit with a cutaway to the driver's side) contains little more a leather-rimmed steering wheel, prominent handbrake lever and torque tube separated seat squabs. Entering the current ownership during the 1990s, 'CLD 72' has since been treated to an extensive cosmetic restoration. Finished in Light Blue with Dark Blue leather upholstery, it rides on silver-painted wire wheels shod with Avon tyres. Part of an important private collection, the Riley has been kept garaged but seen little use in recent years.

PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle has been entered by Lady Bamford and the proceeds generated by its sale will go to benefit the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).

PLEASE NOTE 1: The vendor has informed us that the cherished registration number worn by this vehicle is not included in the sale. As such, a prospective purchaser may have to make the vehicle available for inspection by the DVLA in order to facilitate the issuing of an age-related numberplate and new V5C Registration Document etc.

PLEASE NOTE 2: Since the catalogue went to press we have been informed that this vehicle was built by Alan Clear in 1988 using a new chassis and body. The vehicle has adopted the chassis number of a 1935 Riley 12/4 Kestrel saloon. The Riley engine was apparently overhauled by Alan Clear and is to touring rather than racing specification. Whilst Leat Engineering were reputedly responsible for refurbishing the Wilson pre-selector gearbox.

PLEASE NOTE 1: The vendor has informed us that the cherished registration number worn by this vehicle is not included in the sale. As such, a prospective purchaser may have to make the vehicle available for inspection by the DVLA in order to facilitate the issuing of an age-related numberplate and new V5C Registration Document etc.

PLEASE NOTE 2: Since the catalogue went to press we have been informed that this vehicle was built by Alan Clear in 1988 using a new chassis and body. The vehicle has adopted the chassis number of a 1935 Riley 12/4 Kestrel saloon. The Riley engine was apparently overhauled by Alan Clear and is to touring rather than racing specification. Whilst Leat Engineering were reputedly responsible for refurbishing the Wilson pre-selector gearbox. This vehicle does have a current MOT certificate, however the certificate has been retained by the vendor to assist with the transfer of the cherished registration number.

 

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:

               

Auction: Haynes International Motor Museum, 12th Oct, 2008

View all lots in this sale

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