Riley Lynx 12/4 1937

Reg No : EHT 455 Chassis No : 28K 7391 Engine No : K7391 Price : £31,000

The car on offer is a superb restoration which requires little to make it virtually concours. In just about every respect it is a Riley Lynx dating from 19th October 1937 . As was often the case the chassis started life as did the running gear as a Riley Kestrel hence the matching "K" in the chassis and engine numbers.We feel this matters little ! This and the decision to sculpt the valance under the rear wheel carrier are the few differentiating features from a Lynx and could be reversed if so desired.

The car in every other respect is a Lynx which has undergone a complete restoration from the bottom up utilising original Lynx body parts wherever possible. The former owner`s decision to carry out this task made absolute sense as the Kestrel chassis is the same as is the engine configuration and running gear (apart from the chassis plate prefix) and in addition the desirability of a "Lynx" tourer over a Kestrel fixed head is not in question,in our opinion either aesthetically or financially!

The car has been beautifully restored with no expense spared. Underneath is wonderful and the interior has been professionally trimmed to the highest standard in red leather and contrasting blue carpet. The instrument panel is of the Sprite type with 5 inch rev counter and speedo and the car comes with a full length tonneau in mohair. the brightwork is all good and a front bumper comes with the car although bumper irons or patterns do have to be sourced.

The powerful 12/4 engine,the pinnacle of Riley design in most eyes, has been overhauled according to the last owner and appears sound indeed with very good oil pressure. It is the special series version with the desirable twin SU set-up.

The Preselecta gearbox works as it should and has been adjusted but may need further adjustment as may the engine with use;don`t forget this car has just been restored and has not covered more than 50 miles in 7 years ! A hood will be made for the new owner ; this is the only item missing but the hood frame is present and correct.

All in all a chance to acquire what is 95% Lynx and registered as such but the price asked today does reflect the K chassis number although the number plate and V5c does reflect original matching numbers and a transferable plate dated 1937. many such cars have been built this way and it makes sense when undertaking such an expensive restoration as this one.

A superb touring car ready for Continental rallying or just to enjoy for trips to the pub.