1958 Riley 1.5 Series I

BMC produced the little Riley 1.5 and its sibling, the Wolseley 1500, from 1957 until 1965. They were built using the Minor floorpan, the MG Magnette gearbox and the BMC B-Series engine, but the Riley also benefitted from twin SU carburettors and an improved cylinder head which gave the model more oomph of 68hp. Girling brakes, leather seats and a full complement of instrumentation meant that the 1.5 stood out from its competitors and their popularity continues over half a century later.

FIA registered in 1990 for international rallies, this interesting Riley 1.5 is equipped with a Halda Speed Pilot and other rally instrumentation, a period fire extinguisher and full harness seat belt anchorage in the boot (the parcel shelf is hinged to allow access for the seat belts). Auxiliary lamps are fitted to the front panel and a selection of club badges are displayed on the badge bar, including one for Monte Carlo which appears to have been in place for some time. The vendor tells us that he has been unable to trace the Riley’s rally history but the registration with the FIA would suggest that the motor car did indeed participate in or was intended to be used for competitive motoring.

We are informed that the 1.5 remains mainly original and has been clearly well cared for throughout its life; the upholstery has been renewed in recent years at a cost of £1800 and the interior is very smart. The underside has been Bitumen coated and Waxoyled and mechanically, we understand all departments to be functioning correctly; indeed, the engine runs extremely well. The radiator has recently been replaced and the motor car sits of its original road wheels and correct sized tyres. Judging by the general condition of the motor car, the vendor believes the odometer reading of 46100 miles to be correct.

The history file contains information on thirty years of expenditure and maintenance, MOT test certificates from 1997 until 2016, a BMIHT certificate, an original factory operation manual, a workshop manual and the V5C registration certificate.

Auction Date: 8 March 2018