1955 Riley RME 1.5 Litre
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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.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1955
- Make Riley
- Model Rme
- Colour Green
- Odometer 51,700 Miles
- Engine size 1500
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Bicester
- Location Oxfordshire
- Country United Kingdom
14
bids
from 7
bidders
- mi•••• £7,000 22/02/24
- mi•••• £6,100 20/02/24
- pe•••• £6,000 20/02/24
- Mi•••• £5,400 19/02/24
- MD•••• £5,300 19/02/24
- Mi•••• £5,100 18/02/24
- mi•••• £5,000 18/02/24
- Mi•••• £4,900 18/02/24
- bi•••• £4,800 17/02/24
- Mi•••• £3,700 17/02/24
The Gallery
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| Bid Amount | Increment |
|---|---|
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