LOT 41
1949 Riley RMC 2½-LITRE ROADSTER Chassis no. 59SS4033
Sold for US$39,200 inc. premium
Lot 41
1949 Riley RMC 2½-Liter Roadster
1949 Riley RMC 2½-LITRE ROADSTER
Chassis no. 59SS4033
Chassis no. 59SS4033
2.5-Liter 4-Cylinder
2 SU Carburetors
100bhp at 5,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Drum Brakes
*1 of only 507 produced
*Extremely rare sight on American roads
*Charming color scheme
*A great way to stand out from the crowd
Previewing in Bedford Hills, New York by appointment. Please contact [email protected] for scheduling.
THE RILEY RMC ROADMASTER
'As a whole, this car gives the strongest possible impression, always associated with the Riley marque, of efficient design... and honest workmanship and construction. With its high performance, its useful seating capacity and its quite exceptional luggage space, it should have an especial appeal to those... who want a car of character capable of covering big distances fast and tirelessly...' - The Autocar.
Despite producing some fine small saloons and sporting cars, and carving out an enviable competition record for itself during the early 1930s, Riley had lost its battle to remain independent by the decade's end and became part of the Nuffield Organisation. Rileys of the immediate post-war years were, nevertheless, recognizably products of the 'old firm'. Most popular of these was the 1½-litre RMA sports saloon, which came with torsion bar independent front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, Girling hydro-mechanical brakes, four-speed synchromesh gearbox and Riley's classic twin-camshaft, overhead-valve engine in four-cylinder guise. Further up the range there was the 2½-litre RMB (identical to the 1½-litre model from the windscreen backwards) which used the pre-war Big Four's 90bhp engine in a lengthened RMA chassis. Built at Coventry and introduced in 1946, the RMB was blessed with 100bhp from and in this form was good for a top speed of around 95mph. Three-seater RMC roadster and RMD drophead coupé versions were manufactured between 1948 and 1951 before the surviving Riley 2½-Litre saloon model was face-lifted in 1½-Litre RME fashion, becoming the RMF. A total of 507 RMCs and 502 RMDs had been completed by the time production of soft-top RMs ceased.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
This charming RMC 2.5-liter Roadmaster is a seldom seen model from the sought after Riley marque. The car is 1 of only 507 produced, explaining its scarcity here in the States. This beautiful example had been living an easy life in the Italian countryside, where it was on display at a winery. After stumbling across the car, the consignor fell in love and had to have it for his East Coast collection. Arrangements were made, and the car was purchased and shipped Stateside. Since its acquisition, the car has been seldom used and and carefully maintained to preserve its condition. The car is reported to be in great shape and provides all of the thrills one would expect from a Riley.
Saleroom notices
Please note, the title will be in transit.
Additional information
Looking for a similar item?
Our Cars specialists can help you find a similar item at an auction or via a private sale.
Find your local specialist
