1964 RILEY ONE POINT FIVE

ENGINE 1489cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 66bhp@5200rpm TORQUE 77lb ft@3500rpm TOP SPEED 82mph 0-60MPH 18.9sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 26-30mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed manual MoT April 2018 ODOMETER 39,500 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

The engine fires instantly from cold with minimal choke and delivers plenty of torque. The oil pressure gauge settles at a healthy 50-60psi and all the gauges (which were refurbished in 2010) work, though the speedometer is extremely optimistic. The smooth gearchanges show no signs of expiring synchromesh and there’s no slack in the pedal action or steering. Braking is smooth, but elicits a rattle from the nearside front corner, something the vendor says he will fix before sale.

BODYWORK CHECK

The body has recently been repainted to a good standard, apparently to restore lustre rather than to conceal rust. The sills, floorpan, wheel arches, boot floor and the original paint on the inner wings under the bonnet are all in very reassuring condition, and there’s no serious corrosion anywhere on the vehicle. Panel gaps are excellent, though the nearside rear door is sagging very slightly. There are no dents, and the brightwork is near-perfect, with only very slight pitting on the rear bumper. The wheels wear recent hubcaps and a new set of Michelin tyres.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The interior has an appealingly authentic ambience, though the door cards look too fresh to be original. The leather seats

are original, however, and remain supple – there are no splits and only gentle creasing. The carpets are a little frayed around the edges, but have been retained to maintain the car’s character. There are tiny surface cracks in the walnut dashboard but the spot-on period-style non-inertia reel three-point seatbelts are one of very few nods to modernity on this car. UNDER THE BONNET Much of the engine appears to be original and the brass radiator, glass washer fluid bottle, dynamo and (mostly original) braided wiring all are in good order. There are no signs of leaks, the oil is clean and the filler cap is free from emulsion. The extensive history file reveals thorough maintenance over the past decade and contains a hand-written letter from the previous owner describing its time in her care. The rear springs, clutch and windscreen seal have been replaced in the past seven years.

THE CCW VIEW

It’s difficult not to fall for this exceptional Riley. A judge at a recent show reportedly advised the owner not to renew anything – an indication of its authentic originality.

EXTERIOR Tidy bodywork Good panel gaps INTERIOR Lovely original leather Gently worn carpets MECHANICALS Drives extremely well Great service history