Description
1954 Riley RME Saloon
This very eye-catching (spatted model) RM has been the subject of a frame up, photographic rebuild. Works briefly included bare metal respray in black over ivory, chassis and mechanical overhaul, new fabric covered roof, re-chromed, re-wired, 5 new radial tyres, s/ s exhaust, new upholstery, new headlining, plus a freshly rebuilt engine with unleaded head. Most of the work was done by the former keeper as a retirement project, to return it to it’s former elegant glory, he spent some 14 years in the process. There are bills on file totalling £10, 800 for major items, but the total cost must have been considerably higher, taking into account the hundreds of hours of unpaid labour spent burning the midnight oil by the owner and friends. It has covered only a handful of miles since completion, so now on the market due to shortage of space, Perfect for historic rallying and family touring. In fact, I would have no hesitation in leaping into it and setting off right away for the South of France.
Comes with twin spots, Mota-light woodrim steering wheel (original in boot) badge bar with club badges, flashing indicators, car heater, starting handle and roadside tools, workshop manual. MOT, Road Tax and ULEZ exempted. Car situated in Lytham St Annes, Lancs, transport arranged at £1. 60 pr loaded mile only, or drive it home - more fun. For more on this very special Riley, call John on number above. Viewing anytime by appointment, Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Marque History:-
The Riley RM series were indeed perceived as old-fashioned when first introduced. However, their design and engineering were quite advanced in their day, offering a blend of classic aesthetics with modern performance, and were praised for their stylish saloon design, comfortable interiors, and brisk performance, which impressed motoring journalists of the time. The elegant bodywork and well-appointed interiors were well-received, despite their dated appearance.
They were made from 1945 until 1955 and were the last models developed independently by Riley before its parent company, Nuffield, merged with Austin to form BMC. The RM series was produced in Coventry until 1949, when production moved to the MG works at Abingdon. Until 1952, models were marketed as the Riley 1½ Litre and the Riley 2½ Litre. the term RM has been used retrospectively to encompass models produced before 1952.
There were four types of RM vehicles produced. All used Riley engines with four cylinders in-line, hemispherical combustion chambers and twin camshafts mounted high at the sides of the cylinder block.
The RMA was a large saloon, and was replaced by the RME. Both used a 1. 5 L (1, 496 cc) 12 hp (RAC Rating), developed before WWII.
The RMB was a longer car, and was replaced by the RMF. Both cars used a larger engine, new in 1937, a 2. 5 L 16 hp (RAC Rating) "Big Four".
The RMC and RMD were limited-production cars, an open 2 or 3-seater Roadster and a 4-seater drophead.
