Lot details
Registration No: JK 7353
Chassis No: 38AX1021
Mot Expiry: April 2005

Before two years of serious losses forced the still independent Riley into the acquisitive hands of Lord Nuffield in 1938 for immediate resale to Morris Motors, the Coventry firm had launched two new larger models, a large capacity 4-cylinder of 2443cc capacity and a 2178cc V8 based on a pair of Nine blocks.
The so called 'Big Four', the largest British engine since the demise of the Bentley 4.5, proved to be extremely successful, producing 80bhp in single-carburetor form (100 bhp with twin carbs in a Healey) and powering several successful Rileys both before and after the war.
Noteworthy features on the 2.4 four powered cars included a new and stronger chassis as well as Hydraulic jack, Lucas hydraulic shock absorbers and 380mm Girling brakes. Four styles of saloon coachwork were offered as well a Lynx tourer body.
The vendor of this Big Four tells us that this 1938-built, righthand drive and very sporting Adelphi saloon is in as new condition having been in receipt of a total restoration. During this refurbishment, which was reportedly very expensive, the 2448cc 4-cylinder engine was uprated to Pathfinder specification and the dynamo replaced with an alternator. The chassis and bodywork, which is painted in green over black, as well as the interior, which is trimmed in beige leather, are currently described as being in A1 condition. The JK 7353 registration on the car is attractive and the current MOT applies until April of next year.