1953 Riley RME 1.5

Vendor supplied images

Highlights

Original and unrestored example
Comes with a very substantial history file
Includes boxes of spares, manuals, and Riley Club magazines
Recently had top-end overhaul and runs nicely

The Appeal

The Riley RME 1.5 was introduced in 1952, as an evolution of the RMA. In many ways, it was reassuringly familiar, while the larger rear window, improved rear axle ratio and the improved hydraulic brakes all set it apart. Sadly, the car wasn't long for the world - it was really more of a stop-gap - and production lasted only three years.

Happy, that's made the RME all the more desirable today. It could be said that the Riley RMs have seen quite the rebirth in recent years, their quintessential mid-century aesthetics and capable performance making them ideal classic event cars.

This 1953 vehicle has been with the current owner for many years and comes with a wealth of history, including old MOTs, invoices, Riley Club magazines, and various manuals. The duo-tone paintwork is a perfect match for that mid-century styling, and the interior has been very nicely kept, with only light signs of age-commensurate wear. With plenty of work completed and the car carrying a fabulous patina, we're sure this RME will attract plenty of admiration.

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History and Paperwork

Registered in 1953
Listed as 6 registered keepers by DVLA, but 3 were from one family
Masses of paperwork, old MOTs, and invoices
Riley club magazines, owner's manual, service manual, etc.
Used lightly with some wedding hire
Original and unrestored
Boxes of spares, manuals, and history
Currently indicates 07,271 miles on a five-figure odometer
The vendor notes that this isn't a reliable indication as the odometer is intermittent

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The Condition

Bodywork looks in very good order with only minor blemishes
Body panels are straight and the door shuts are precise
Paintwork is shiny and polishes up well with a nice overall patina
The two-tone paintwork beautifully matches the car
Discreet, modern indicators have been installed
Chrome work presents well
Wheels are in good condition and shod in a fine set of tyres
Underside appears in smart condition for its age
Interior is original and a delightful bit of 50s' design
Some wear is notable on the front seats where the leather has become dry in the past
Carpets are past their best in the front, as to be expected for their years
Headlining is in good age-commensurate condition
Door cards are in good order
Dashboard's veneer presents well with very evocative instruments
Other than the odometer's intermittent fault and the clock, everything is working as it should

The Mechanics

1,500cc straight-four powerplant
Manual transmission with 4 gears
All grease points are regularly serviced
Recent head work included removing the hot water transfer pipes which are prone to cause overheating and leaks
Stainless exhaust system
Additional electric radiator fan, otherwise original
Radiator muff for cold days
Recently had top-end overhaul and is reportedly running nicely
Some issues recently with the starter motor but this will be replaced
The vendor reports it's very pleasant to drive and quite responsive for its era
All gears, brakes, etc. reportedly work as they should
The vendor notes it handles well and manages fine with modern traffic

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BEFORE YOU BUY

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