LOT 131
1935 Riley 9HP Imp Two-Seater Sports By Blue Diamond Riley Services Chassis no. BDS1991 Engine no. M1940 Gearbox no. 9876
Sold for US$56,000 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 131
1935 Riley 9HP Imp Two-Seater Sports
1935 Riley 9HP Imp Two-Seater Sports
By Blue Diamond Riley Services
Chassis no. BDS1991
Engine no. M1940
Gearbox no. 9876
By Blue Diamond Riley Services
Chassis no. BDS1991
Engine no. M1940
Gearbox no. 9876
1,087cc, OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
2 SU Carburetors
48bhp at 5,000rpm
4-Speed Wilson Pre-select Transmission
Semi-Elliptic Leaf Spring Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes
*A marvelous Riley, known for their sporting design
*Beautifully and faithfully built by Blue Diamond Riley Services
*Constructed with a BDS reproduction chassis
*Features many original Riley components and panels
*Two-time Colorado Grand entrant
*Charming presentation in ivory over tan
*A delightful rally and tour car
*Offered from the enthusiastic care of a Riley aficionado
THE RILEY 'IMP'
Development work on a standard Riley chassis by engineers/drivers, J G Parry Thomas and Reid Railton so inspired the Riley Board that they sanctioned the design and construction of a two-seater sports car, designated the 'Brooklands'. Six-cylinder 'Brooklands' and MPH models followed, and from these developed the next generation of 9hp, four-cylinder sports cars – the Imp. The Imp's chassis featured a 7ft 6in wheelbase, sweeping up over the front axle and underslung at the rear, emulating the design which had been proven so successful with the 'Brooklands' six. The exquisite coachwork design of the Imp was way ahead of anything previously seen in an economy production sports car and twin SU carburetors and a Scintilla Vertex magneto were options. The distinctive engine had twin gear-driven cams mounted low in the block, with crossflow combustion chambers, and it was backed by a pre-selector gearbox which also enhanced the driving experience. With its long bonnet, flowing wings and short tail the Riley Imp is without question one of the most attractive small sports cars of its era.
THE CAR OFFERED
This lovely Riley Imp comes from the stable of a passionate marque enthusiast. The consignor reports this car was built over 1990-1991 by the noted Riley specialist Ian Gladstone of Blue Diamond Services in Rochford, Essex, UK. Starting with a damaged original example, the car was rebuilt with a new reproduction BDS chassis, period-correct Imp engine, Wilson pre-select gearbox, Imp suspension and brakes, a mix of new and restored original body panels, and correct fittings. A beautiful livery of ivory with matching wire wheels and a natural tan leather cockpit was chosen to brilliantly highlight the grace and sporty essence of the Imp's design. It has been in the care of just one owner since it was built, who has enjoyed it exactly as its creators intended – on casual enthusiastic drives, twice on the Colorado Grand (1991 and 1992), and the occasional on-track excursion with the VSCDA, for which it has a logbook. The seller reports that the brakes were recently rebuilt, and may require bedding in. Additionally, the seller notes the actual mileage is approximately 3,500, as the odometer is reading incorrectly.
Wonderfully presented and bristling with pre-war sporting appeal, this Riley Imp is the ideal example for continued enjoyment in rallies and tours, where its punchy and sophisticated engine, stylish body, and nimble chassis will transport you back to the glory days of British sports motoring.
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 specialistAuction Viewings
- 14 August 2024, 09:00 - 18:00 PDT
- 15 August 2024, 09:00 - 18:00 PDT
- 16 August 2024, 08:30 - 11:00 PDT
