The Riley 12/4 indirectly replaced the 12/6, it gave slightly better performance but still had the same horsepower numbers of the previous models. It boasted a four-cylinder 1.5l engine with either one or two Zenith Carburetors. Boasting 55hp it managed up to 75mph back in 1935. 

When new the Riley cost a lofty £345.The Kestrel is one of the more favoured of three Riley body designs with 700-800 being built in the end. With the small numbers produced there are few survivors today, it is believed that this Kestrel is one of only 30 remaining, making her quite a rare pre-war bird.

This Riley was one of two purchased by a prominent businessman in the North East of England. His children learned to drive in them and after that they were consigned to storage.

Eventually a son inherited this car and had it restored. Subsequently it passed to his sister in Lindisfarne from where the present owner acquired it in 2014.

There is a wealth of paperwork for this Riley, all documentation from the previous restoration in the 60’s and also the paperwork for the most recent overhaul that it has received. 

There are receipts for some of the following works: Engine Rebuild, Gearbox tuning, new exhaust system and much much more. This Riley has been properly cared for by the right people and with that love and attention comes a great example of a rare car. 

The interior of this car is in great condition, and is a very comfortable classic vehicle. 

The current owner has fitted modern fuel and water temperature gauges hidden discreetly away in the drivers glove compartment, which also includes the sensor dial that the current owner installed to protect from any rear end knocks .

The boot compartment is free of rot - a rare thing in these cars!- doubtless this has been aided by the drilling of a drain hole.

The exterior of this Kestrel has been finished in two-tone cream and red paint. 

This is believed to have been done to imitate the famous Riley Red Wings of the early 20’s. This paint work is excellent and has been well looked after. It has recently received new front and rear wings, made at great expense by a true craftsman, also the wire wheels have been being sand blasted and powder coated to complement the bodywork. New period - looking Longstone tyres and tubes give a suitable vintage appearance and improved handling.

To help with modern day usability the current owner decided to fit LED headlamps with  the reflectors being re-silvered. To safeguard that rear tail, there are discreet parking  sensors too.

This Riley is 'on the button' due mainly to the time and money spent on the engine. The restoration extended throughout the whole car and the engine was no exception - work done included new crankshaft, pistons, valves and guides. 

A modern oil filter, electric fan, and modern temperature and fuel gauges are also fitted whilst the dynamo and starter motor have been overhauled too. All this has been designed to bring peace of mind to any aspiring owner.

With such care and attention being devoted to this Riley Kestrel throughout its life you can imagine that it is rather special. 

With the phenomenal amount of work carried out by the current owner you can be sure that after a running-in period you will be the owner of a car that can be used and enjoyed for many years to come.

The next custodian of this Riley will be sure to enjoy any type of motoring, be it a historic car rally or popping to the shops this is a car that will never fail to turn a head or two.