1931 Riley Nine Mk IV Tourer | Brightwells | Auction Ends: Wed 24th Jun

Lots of history with all the right names involved; veteran of many VSCC events; driven 20 miles to the sale; lovely example with lightweight fabric body setting it out from the crowd

'First of the superlative type of 9hp car, firmly established, regularly improved and as yet scarcely challenged in its class, the Riley Nine has a very definite appeal to those who can appreciate performance, safety, comfort and an appearance out of the ruck.' - Autocar, 16th October 1931.

Introduced in 1926, Percy Riley's 9hp, 1,087cc twin-camshaft 'four' was an outstanding engine design by any standards, various versions powering Rileys until 1957. Clothed in stylish bodywork by Stanley Riley, the Coventry manufacturer's pre-war offerings were among the world's finest small-capacity sporting cars. Right from the start it was obvious that the 9hp Riley engine possessed enormous potential as a competition unit, and at Brooklands J G Parry-Thomas and Reid Railton were the first to demonstrate just how good it was. The success of their racer led to a production version, the Speed Model, which soon became known as the Brooklands Nine.

This Nine has been owned by the current owner for approximately 2 years after about five recorded keepers since the 50s according to the buff logbook on file. Driven here over 20 miles in lovely sunshine, this lovely example comes with the fabric covered body, a leather interior and now fitted with coil ignition and a mechanical fuel pump which makes it very easy to use.

History mostly from 2012 shows parts invoices that were required for extensive engine work (completed by well known vintage car man, Derek Magrath) including cam shafts from Keith Pointing and clutch, bearing etc. All followed by a proper tune up from Jeremy Brewster. Having been used for VSCC events for many years, it does have a number of eligibility documents on file including the most recent, putting it in the Modified class due to its ignition and fuel components.

Some lovely old receipts are included from the 1950s for a new hood, repairing of wings, replaced sections of the rear body panel.

Bidders should be advised that there is also a complete engine, some spares and the original magneto/autovac available from the vendor by separate negotiation.

Contact - toby.service@brightwells.com