Highlights

One of only 507 built, and only 150 known to remain
Genuine, rare UK-market car
New hood and removable side windows replaced last year
Comes with a comprehensive history file, including the original Buff logbook and first number plate

The Appeal

Immediately post-war, Riley were clearly confident that they knew exactly what the market needed. They noted the sudden influx of American servicemen returning home with their MGs and Jaguars and decided it was just the ticket to stardom. As a result, the company looked over to their RMB and opted to lop the top off, strengthen the car up and lower its overridden bumper into what we now know as the delightfully American 'Cowcatcher'.

Only a spot over 500 were built, and ironically, didn't see much demand in the USA. The vast majority went to Australia, and a fair few to Europe - a small chunk even stayed domestic, despite their American targeting. As a result, most British customers had to make do with a left-hand-drive car, which must have been pretty disorientating at a time when the UK market was so insular. All the same, the Riley RMC's low-slung profile, decidedly British lineage and powerful 2.5-litre engine made it a bit of a sleeper sports car, and it now sits handsomely as a bit of a curio classic.

It's a pretty remarkable bit of history - that post-war optimism with decidedly prewar looks is impossible not to smile at, and thanks to its heady period-style performance, it's still a fun drive to boot. As a result, we're expecting this 1949 car to garner plenty of interest. Accompanied by an enormous paperwork file, verifying its origins, this British example of the RMC has been cherished, and even carries its original logbook and number plate for the discerning enthusiast. This isn't one to be missed!

The History and Paperwork

Registered in 1949
The DVLA records 5 previous keepers
In current ownership since 2017
MOT exempt and last tested in 2011
Original first number plate included in the sale

Comes with a comprehensive history file, including:

V5c
Buff logbook
A selection of Riley club ephemera, including rally pamphlets et al
An enormous stack of invoices, largely from the RM Riley Club
An impressive selection of old MOT certificates

The Condition

Beguiling pre-war lines with a distinctive metallic green and black two-tone colour scheme
Bodywork appears solid with no obvious signs of corrosion
No sign of any significant dents or dings - only age-commensurate wear
Paintwork has some minor imperfections and paint bubbles in a few places
Some gentle paint chips on the door and panel shuts
However, none of this is particularly intrusive
Soft top and removable side windows are in fine fettle, having been replaced early last year
Colour-matched wheels in good condition
Interior presents well with no rips or tears
The upholstery on the bench seat is sound, with a charming patina
The dashboard carries light signs of wear, but is very evocative
Light wear to the period steering wheel
All dashboard instrument clusters are reported to work as they should

The Mechanics

Powered by the venerable 2.5-litre Riley 4-cylinder engine
Manual transmission
Engine bay is in good condition with mostly original parts intact
We've no reports of any mechanical issues throughout
The told the car starts and drives well, having been driven 15-20 miles without any issues

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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