1951 Riley RMD

YVL933 - Genuine Riley RMD Convertible

This right hand drive Riley RMD Convertible was one of the original 507 convertibles to leave the factory and is powered by the legendary 2. 5 litre 100 HP Riley Twin Cam engine. Originally painted in Sunbronze with Red leather trim, it was destined for the official dealer in Melbourne, Australia.

In May 1954, YVL was entered into the ‘Sun Car Rally’. A gruelling 2200 mile event through Victoria. Despite the name, heavy rain was encountered across the event, washing away roads making for treacherous going.

According to Riley Club records YVL came off the road in the 1970’s when the chassis and running gear were overhauled. It remained unused in Australia until 2014, when it was brought back to the UK by the penultimate owner. A serial Riley restorer, he set about a comprehensive restoration over a 4 year period. Which included:

- A body restoration and repaint
- An engine rebuild
- New carpets
- New hood
- Brake strip and rebuild
- New rear axle bearings
- Chrome re-plated
- Wood restored
- Original ‘pearl’ steering wheel and dash restored

Sadly, he was not in the habit of keeping receipts or invoices for the work carried out, but he did keep a meticulous photographic record of his endeavours which show the complete strip and rebuild of the car. His hard work can clearly be seen in the condition of the car today.

He sold it on to fund his next Riley project in 2018 to the current owner who has had it maintained at our workshop ever since. Annual services and minor running repairs have been made to keep YVL in great condition as can be seen in the pictures.

Mechanically the car is ‘on the button’ having been lightly used for the last 6 years and well maintained. The engine has lots of compression, is smooth and delivers its 100HP through a 4 speed manual gearbox. Riley had a well deserved reputation for making cars that handled well and this RMD is a great example of that.

The roof is very simple to operate and remains in ‘just restored’ condition. When up, the thick mohair keeps out noise and rain and one could almost be forgiven for thinking it is a coupe. With the roof down it gives the full 4-seat open air experience making for a very practical family classic.

Generally the seats have a nice patina to them. The driver's seat more so, but all the seats are plump and supportive. The carpet remains in good condition as do the original door cards and chrome trim.

When the car was restored, the paint was done in a traditional 'vintage' manner. There is no rust or damage to the paint and it all presents in great condition, but it is not a flawless finish of a modern car or concourse restoration, but a nicely period style finish.

We are now handling the sale of YVL for its current owners, who has found affection for another! It is a rare opportunity to buy a faithfully restored and very collectable genuine RMD Convertible.

We have taken 40 detailed pictures of the car from on top and underneath, which we can send via Whatsapp. Alternatively the car is available to view at our Bicester workshop by appointment.