Lot 016: 1932 RILEY 9 TOURER

The introduction of the Riley Nine in 1926 heralded the beginning of a golden era for the Coventry marque that lasted until its acquisition by the Nuffield Organisation in 1938. Boosted by a formidable competition pedigree courtesy of Freddie Dixon, Raymond Mays et al, its road cars were held in singularly high esteem. Affectionately known as 'British Bugattis', they were noted for a turn of speed that belied their relatively small engine capacities. Acquired by its now sadly deceased owner in the 1980s, this Riley 9hp was subsequently treated to a chassis up restoration. As well as being fitted with its present tourer bodywork (modeled after a 1933 Lynx), it also subject to an engine rebuild. Uprated with an Allen crankshaft, MGB big-end shells, reprofiled camshaft timing and twin carburetors, this modified unit is mated to a four-speed manual gearbox that has had its gearlever extended to promote a more positive change action. Riding on respoked wire wheels and benefiting from all-weather equipment, this handsome Riley is said to have been used for local trips up to December 2004. Off the road since then (though with periodic engine start-ups), it is currently SORN registered but carries a valid MOT certificate until November 10th 2005. PLEASE NOTE: We believe that DSK 927 is fitted with a Riley engine of 1087cc (9hp) and not 1600cc as recorded on its V5 registration document. However, we would urge potential purchasers to satisfy themselves with regard to this matter.