Description

As the story goes; the car was discovered having been stored in what looked to be a purpose-built building to hide the car during wartime. Whether this was to protect the car from any war damage or to hide it away from sight. Bought recently by Bridge Classic Cars to restore at leisure is our 1905 Riley 9hp. Let's face it, it is never going to happen without a new owner eager already secured and a definite date in the diary for us to start.

One of only three in existence, of this body type; one being in Gaydon Motor Museum, our one and one other. Gaydon Motor Museum was kind enough to give us access to allow us to extensively photograph their car to assist us in this relatively simple restoration project.

Simple as there is not much to it and we have as far as we can see most parts to complete. The main part known to be missing is the superb brass radiator. Which can be re-manufactured.

Amazingly, the car benefits from many brand new parts; five newly manufactured wheels, cycle mudguards, top bonnet area, crown wheel and pinion etc. The wooden body is remarkable for its age and only requires repair and sympathetic restoration. This is not destined to be a new 1905 car. It should be restored, original parts repurposed to show the history and origins of the car. We will use all existing parts that we can.

We have running lights, trembler etc and everything to make her what she was then. The engine has good compression and the gearbox appears to function as we would expect.

The interior will need to be totally renewed but we do have the original to copy and the old will be preserved and framed as a valuable part of her 116-year existence.

We have a current V5 in our name. Three folders of superb history and manuals. This is totally unrepeatable build and history has already proved that a car such as this is very valuable and a growing asset for any collector, enthusiast, but more importantly a major part of any classic collection.

This is as classic as you can get and the only thing missing (well, the main thing) is an owner. We understand that most people interested in this timeless classic will also want to follow through on the process of restoration. £30,000.00 will buy you the Riley as it is, however we encourage curiosity about this charming motor and would like to hope that an individual who's interested in purchasing it, would also want to have it fully restored with us.

Company Details

In the heart of Bentwaters, a former Royal Air Force station, lies our showroom.

Viewing strictly by appointment only. Our showroom is home to Bridge Classic Cars Competitions and our selection of the finest classic cars we’re proud to present for sale.

Office hours are Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm, Saturdays and Sundays can be arranged. To arrange a viewing please call Craig on 01473 742038 or email info@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk. Finance can be arranged by a third party. We also offer a vehicle transportation service using our own Bridge Classic Cars covered vehicle options. A 10% non-refundable deposit will be required to secure the vehicle.