1956 Riley Pathfinder

Considered to be the last of the true Rileys, the Pathfinder was produced from 1953 to 1957. The all steel body was formed on a separate chassis and was equipped with a brake servo.

The 2.5 litre twin cam engine, known as the Big Four, was fitted with twin SU carburettors and gave a top speed of just under 100mph, very respectable for a full 4 seat family car of the period.

The Pathfinder was very well appointed with comfortable leather seats and a well-equipped instrument panel. Strangely, the manual gearbox version boasted a right hand change, with lever neatly tucked into the side of the driver’s seat, as in certain Bentleys of the period and various vintage vehicles.

This particular vehicle still stands well but the two tone grey paintwork is ready for rejuvenation. The red leather interior is quite serviceable and may well respond to a good cleaning. A replacement steering wheel is included.

Mechanically the engine starts and runs quite strongly but following the fitment of a non- standard Scimitar Ford gearbox, actual gear selection is not available and will need further fettling. Also we are told the driver’s door handle needs attention.

Although clearly in need of improvement, the vendor tells us that the underside is good and there is definite potential for such a rare classic.

Documentation includes a V5C registration certificate, a workshop manual, a heritage certificate and a large file of invoices and information.

Auction Date: 9 September 2021