Highlights

Sprite-style Open Tourer, built in aluminium on wood in 2000
Presented in mid-blue with navy blue leather interior
Current owner for 12 years
Mechanical work history documented with invoices
Historical file including manuals, documentation and restoration photographs
French classic car registration

The Appeal

In the 1930s, Riley was among the British manufacturers engaged in competition. According to the information provided, only 55 examples of the Sprite were built, including one driven by Freddie Dixon to victory in its class at the 1936 Ulster Tourist Trophy. Four other Rileys reportedly occupied the top four places in the 1.5-litre class at the 1936 French Grand Prix.

This 1936 example pays homage to this sporting heritage. It was originally a Riley 12/4 Kestrel, transformed in 2000 into a four-seat Open Tourer in a style inspired by the Sprite. It retains a Riley four-cylinder engine of 1,496 cc with twin carburettors, paired with a Wilson pre-selector gearbox. The bodywork, crafted in aluminium over a wooden frame, is painted mid-blue with black wings and wheels. The interior is trimmed in navy blue leather.

Acquired by its current owner approximately 12 years ago, the car is accompanied by a file comprising historical documents, restoration photographs, invoices and valuation reports. Several major mechanical interventions have been carried out since 2010, notably to the engine, gearbox, carburettors, ignition, electrical system, suspension, cooling and exhaust.

Two independent valuations, carried out in 2014 and 2026, are also provided.

Key Information

Mileage: 13,973 miles indicated (22,487 km); total mileage is likely higher
Country of registration: France
MOT: not stated
Engine: 1,496 cc four-cylinder petrol
Gearbox: Wilson pre-selector
Papers: French classic car registration document, manuals, documentation, photographs, invoices and valuation reports from 2014 and 2026

Maintenance Summary

2016:

Cylinder head removed and refitted
Cylinder head inspection
Valve seats reconditioned
Valves lapped
Cylinder head gasket replaced
Radiator reconditioned
Water pump reconditioned

2015:

Dampers serviced
Alternator serviced
Exhaust system replaced

2014:

Carburettors serviced
Ignition system reconditioned
Electrical harness reconditioned

2010:

Engine overhaul
Gearbox overhaul
IMG_3806.jpeg 3.32 MB

The Details

Aluminium bodywork on wooden frame, built in 2000
Mid-blue paintwork with black wings and wheels, reported in good condition
Black mohair hood with matching tonneau cover
Hood straps and cut-off switch installed
Black spoked wheels fitted with vintage-style tyres
Underside of car presented in good condition
Four-seat Open Tourer configuration
Navy blue leather trim reported in good condition
Black carpets in good condition
Engine bay, dashboard and four-spoke steering wheel well presented
Dashboard with wood-effect trim
Professional valuation at €50,000 in August 2014
Professional valuation at €60,000 in July 2026
File comprising invoices and list of work carried out
IMG_3821.jpeg 3.66 MB

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:

✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a professional seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.

✓ We require that non-refundable fees are paid if you are the successful bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQ and terms and conditions for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is, where is" basis, and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only and it is customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or bid price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want the transaction to run smoothly, just as you do, which is why cars and motorcycles registered in the UK and sold on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to verify they have no database markers for damage or theft, and are not subject to a financial charge, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ Buyers are responsible for collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company that can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.