1929 Riley 9 Monaco Fabric Saloon

The Riley Company's motto, “As old as the industry – as modern as the hour” summed up the product range very nicely, but their master-stroke came in 1926 when the Riley was announced. The chassis, suspension and bodywork were the work of Stanley Riley, whilst talented engineer, Percy Riley, designed the brilliant 9hp engine. This 1,087cc unit thrived on high revs, which it would happily and reliably maintain for long periods of time thanks to its clever design. Twin camshafts were mounted high in the block, making for short and light pushrods which operated valves set at 45 degrees to the head and this, coupled with a crossflow-head design, enabled a remarkable amount of power (for the period) to be extracted from this willing unit.

The Riley Monaco saloon was one of the first models to take advantage of the new engine. At first it was only available with fabric coachwork, but a semi-fabric body was soon to follow. This, absolutely lovely, early high-waisted, fabric-bodied Monaco is a joy to behold. Dating from 1929, this beautifully original and patinated car, a term that is oft used but never truer than in this case, retains so many period parts from its blue leather seats to the dash panel and from some of the instruments to the steering column controls, the Rotax lights and panel switches. The bumpers are original fitments and easily removable if required.

The car has been used regularly and has taken part in the Measham Rally (class winner) and Winter Driving Tests twice in recent years in the hands of the previous owner. Recent expenditure includes a full rewire in January 2020 and an overhaul by Blue Diamond in December 2019. There are also a few aged invoices, buff logbook and pictures that come with the car.

Gently patinated, well used, lived-in and loved this is the quintessential vintage Riley that would be welcome anywhere. Buy yourself a time-warp piece of early Riley 9 history.