1936 Riley 9 Merlin

Lot details
Registration No: CPP 528
Chassis No: 66M218
Mot Expiry: July 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 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.

The Nine was continually developed, bodywork and detail fittings uprated as well as mechanical features, and Wilson preselector gearboxes were optionally introduced from 1934. The Merlin was a new model introduced for 1936 to replace the ageing Monaco saloon, the 9hp engine now having increased crankpin diameter and a raised compression ratio, in an entirely new chassis with Girling rod brakes. The commodious body was all steel, by Briggs Motor Bodies, and featured a sliding roof, and the Merlin was listed at a competitive price of £269.

CPP528 was issued by Hertfordshire CC in July 1936, and the vendor states that this Merlin underwent "extensive restoration in the 1980s and '90s, and has covered little mileage since". Reported to have had "only two owners in the last 27 years", the vendor adds that "some history including an old buff registration document" is available. The chassis is stated to be "excellent", the engine wheels and tyres "very good", and the gearbox "good". It is noted that a "full wiring loom" replaces the old, the interior has been "professionally restored", the bodywork is said to be "restored, good", and the paintwork "sound, odd marks".