Highlights

Handsomely original with no known restoration
Engine overhaul in 2018 at the expense of £4,000
Low mileage example with only 51,700 genuine miles

The Appeal

The charming little RME was released in 1952 and was a much improved version of the earlier RMA model. It still utilised the same 1.5 litre inline four cylinder engine, and featured a fully hydraulic braking system - though production only ran for a short 3-year period making these late RME models rather rare and desirable, they’re often quickly snatched up!

This lovely example is presented in largely original condition with the owner stating no external restoration has been completed, which is extremely admirable considering the Riley will be celebrating its 70th birthday next year. The vehicle had been treated to a complete engine overhaul back in 2018 by a previous owner at an expense of £4,000, and remains in outstanding mechanical condition throughout.

The History and Paperwork

Originally registered on the 4th of January 1955
Ample documentation present with the vehicle, including invoices from previous owners, magazines, manuals and a selection of spares
V5C present and correct for the vehicle, ready for transfer of ownership
MOT and road tax exempt as it is classed as a historic vehicle
Complete engine overhaul complete in 2018
Purchased by the current custodian in late 2023, they state that although their time with the vehicle has been short, it has been an absolute pleasure

The Condition

Handsome Brunswick Green over Black coachwork, reportedly original with some gentle and charming patina as to be expected
Brightwork appears to be in fantastic order with a lovely shine and seemingly no signs of any deterioration or pitting
All external lights are functional with damage-free lenses, showing no signs of misting or water ingress
All four wheels are in very presentable condition with gentle signs of age, much in line with the bodywork of the vehicle
Vinyl roof appears to be in good condition with no rips or tears
Both front seats have been reportedly retrimmed at some point, however have been done professionally and match with the rears excellently showing some gentle signs of age
Interior woodwork all remains in handsome condition with very little attention required by any new owner
Headlining appears in good condition also, with just a small area requiring some attention around the rear window as can be seen from the images
Dials and switchgear are all wonderfully presented and all function as you would expect
Carpets all appear to be in tact and show some signs of use which is entirely expected

The Mechanics

1.5-litre inline-four cylinder engine, entirely overhauled back in 2018 at the expense of £4,000 from a previous owner.
The engine fires up at the push of a button and purrs away reliably!
Four-speed manual transmission which reportedly remains in excellent mechanical health with no unwelcome noises during use
Rear-wheel drive configuration
Ample paperwork accompanying the vehicle with invoices for any parts replaced or work carried out
A new radiator had been fitted to the vehicle alongside a new water pump kit as well as a new master cylinder in 2022
New tyres fitted to the vehicle in 2023
Underside appears in great health, with very little need for intervention. Truly wonderful for a near 70-year-old car
Low mileage example with just under 52,000 original miles on the clock, this RME is ready for many more miles to come!

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

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