Highlights

Presents excellent collection potential, as one of the few surviving examples in today’s market
Cherished by the current keeper since 1987, receiving excellent care along the way
Offered today in fantastic condition, benefitting from previous restoration work, and light usage
Performs brilliantly, proudly maintaining excellent mechanical health

The Appeal

Throughout the inter-war period, the Riley Nine would prove to be one of the most successful British sporting cars, spanning over 12 years of production. Within the Nine’s lineup, stood a very impressive array of different models and variants, including the Monaco. Available at launch as one of the first models produced, the Monaco offers seating for four, a rather advanced twin carb 1097cc overhead cam engine, and a delightful fabric exterior.

This particular Monaco has been beautifully preserved throughout its lifetime, benefitting from a thorough restoration, tremendous care, and dry garage storage. As a result of the current keeper’s attention to care throughout their 36-year ownership, this Riley Monaco now offers a fantastic finish inside and out, with excellent mechanical health.

If you’re in the market for a superb addition to your historic collection or look to enjoy truly classic British motoring, this cherished 1928 Riley Monaco is a superb choice.

The History and Paperwork

Originally purchased new from Hinton and Britton in Cardiff, as supported by the original plaque found upon the dashboard
Previously displayed in the Isle of Man museum, and then re-registered upon its return to the UK in 1982
Believed to retain the original registration number “UH 4649”
Cherished by the current keeper since 1987, receiving a full restoration over the course of the next ten years
MOT and Tax exempt due to historic vehicle status
Beautifully cared for, benefitting from dry garage storage and regular servicing
Includes a collection of photographs from the restoration process, the current V5C document, an original Riley manual, and a selection of previous MOT certificates

The Interior

Brilliantly preserved, with plenty of original components to show
Offers a delightfully vintage interior, with period-correct touches throughout
Features the original leather seats and door panels, with the slight exception of the front passenger seat base
Comes equipped with spring-loaded windows, and a fold-down rear seat for greater storage space if required
Presented in fantastic overall condition, with only the expected light signs of age upon original components

The Exterior

Beautifully restored between 1982-1992, receiving new fabric coverings, light metalwork fettling, and new ash woodwork where needed
The current keeper notes that the original roof ventilator was not re-fitted as they are notoriously prone to leaking, but can be included with the vehicle if desired
Comes fitted with indicators, and two carry boxes beneath the running boards
Features glossy black paintwork, completing the original factory specification 1928 appearance
Offers a very impressive finish all around, with only very minor signs of age to show, and excellent underside health

The Mechanics

Powered by a 1097cc overhead cam engine, with twin brass Zenith carburettors
Boasts considerably advanced engineering for its day, with nine horsepower on offer
Retains the vast majority of its original components, requiring only light servicing and refreshment as part of the restoration process. This includes:
- A re-bored engine, with new white metal bearings
- Renewed brake linings and clutch
- Reconditioned dynamo and magneto
- A complete vehicle rewire, with aluminium-coated wiring
Features the likes of a gravity-fed fuel system, vacuum-powered windscreen wipers, and the original rod braking system
Regularly serviced by the current keeper, and kept in excellent mechanical order
The current keeper informs us that the timing gears can be a little grumbly, and the charging cut-out occasionally doesn’t engage, requiring a little touch with the finger under the dashboard. Otherwise, the vehicle runs beautifully, boasting good oil pressure, and offering a thoroughly enjoyable drive

Summary

This Monaco is one of the earliest Riley Nine models available, and subsequently offers fantastic collection potential, being one of the few to survive the test of time. This is of course due to the tremendous care shown to the vehicle over the years, as well as a thorough restoration, and regular maintenance.

Now presented in fantastic overall condition, with excellent mechanical health to suit, this 1928 Riley Monaco presents a brilliant opportunity for collectors, and vintage enthusiasts alike.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

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