Registration No: FB 8604
Chassis No: 60-10530
MOT: Exempt

• Subject to restoration works during the 1980s
• Desirable fabric bodied saloon coachwork
• Well maintained with recent works to the electrical system including the fitment of flashing winkers
• Eligible for VSCC Road Events

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 would turn out to be merely the first in a lengthy series of memorable Riley sports cars. 1929 saw the introduction of the MkIV chassis featuring wider front/rear track and much larger brakes than hitherto. Models available were the Monaco saloon, Biarritz saloon, fabric-bodied four-seat tourer and a brace of coachbuilt tourers.

First registered on the 1^st July 1930, ‘FB 8604’ is believed to have been originally supplied by Western Counties Automobile Co. Ltd. Little is known about the early history of the Riley, however a green log book on file dating to 1968 shows ownership around the Somerset and Wiltshire area. ‘FB 8604’ benefitted from extensive restoration works during the early 1980s, which included replacement body covering, chassis work, and it is understood that the engine was exchanged for another, correct overhauled unit. Thankfully, the work was directed towards conservation, and much of the original green leather interior is preserved, with the rear seats retrimmed. Post restoration, the Vintage Saloon was to become part of a private museum for some thirty years, before being sold to the previous owner in 2012.

The vendor acquired the Riley in 2023 and has used the car for several trips between his home in Cornwall and Portsmouth and has commented that it has been ‘very faithful’. The vendor has installed new coolant hoses onto the car and has fitted non-intrusive LED flashing indicators. He has also fitted a brand-new electric wiper motor, further enhancing driveability during poor weather. Now described as being in ‘very good’ condition mechanically and with bodywork being to the same standard, the Riley should prove to be a very fine Vintage-era workhorse to any prospective new owner. With plenty of support from the Riley Register on offer, the Riley 9HP is eligible for all VSCC road events and their Light Car section.

For more information, please contact:
Lucas Gomersall
lucas.gomersall@handh.co.uk
07484 082430