Beskrivning
This is a rare opportunity to purchase a genuine Riley Factory made car (this is confirmed by the stamping on the chassis of the original car number which correctly starts with 60D).
Only 503 of these 4-seater Dropheads were made from 1949 to 1951. It is reported that only about 50 still exist. It is fitted with the 2, 443cc twin cam inline 4-cylinder engine, twin SU carburettors giving 100bhp at 4, 400rpm, 4-speed manual transmission, torsion bar front suspension, live rear axle & 4-wheel drum brakes. Mileage is just under 85, 000 miles.
These cars were aimed primarily at the export market and many were sent to the USA where they were very popular with Hollywood film stars and since this car is known to have been exported to the USA and has bonnet side louvres suggesting that it was used in one of the warmer, more exotic states of America including California, maybe even Hollywood?
It is recognised that Riley were a bespoke, high end, low volume manufacturer of cars that were expensive.
Following its return to UK it was found in a poor condition by a Riley enthusiast (my father) who had already restored an RME and an RHD RMD and was using them as wedding cars. The idea of having two genuine Dropheads in matching colours was too much to resist so he carried out a chassis up restoration of both the mechanics and the body including a new hood and leather. This was completed in 2006 and both cars were immediately used for a family wedding. Since then it has had little use other than weddings and similar occasions.
It runs and handles well on its radial tyres and, although not a legal requirement, it will have a new MOT to confirm its road worthiness and fitness for immediate use. Being intended as a wedding car it has a few additions to make it safer and more comfortable. These include flashing indicators, external rear view mirrors and a heater. These can all be removed easily should the new owner wish to revert it to its as sold condition. It retains the original engine, gearbox and rear axle and of course its chassis, brakes and front suspension. As it stands it is a fine car to drive even in today’s heavy traffic and would be excellent as a holiday touring car particularly on mainland Europe or the USA.
All viewings will follow strict Covid social distancing guidelines etc. Viewings in Hampshire, UK.
