1933 Riley 12/6 Kestrel Four Light
Chassis:
# 44T441
Engine:
# 12T441
Registration:
# UJ 1393
Price:
SOLD
Duty:
UK
1933 Riley 12/6 Kestrel Four Light – Compact 1930s Sporting Saloon
An exceptionally rare Riley Kestrel Four Light, understood to be one of approximately ten surviving examples. Widely regarded as one of the most attractive early sporting saloons of the early 1930s, the Kestrel combines compact proportions with genuine engineering substance.
Built on the narrow-track chassis and clothed in Riley’s compact sporting saloon bodywork, the appeal is immediately evident even before considering the 1479cc six-cylinder engine, which gives the car a level of refinement and performance well beyond many contemporaries.
Narrow-track Riley Kestrel Four Light bodywork
Engine rebuilt with Barry Gillies cast block, Omega pistons, new connecting rods, and lightened flywheel for six-cylinder performance.
Hydraulic brakes, rebuilt rear axle, and high-ratio differential for improved road handling.
Originally owned by Hugh Gardner of Gardner Engines; original Gardner oil pressure gauge remains in situ.
Professional repaint and retrim preserving original lines and presentation.
Ready for immediate use, touring, or inclusion in a serious historic car collection; worldwide delivery available.
Provenance and Early Ownership – Hugh Gardner’s Kestrel
The car’s early history is particularly interesting. The first owner was Hugh Gardner of Gardner Engines, a detail reflected in the fitment of a Gardner oil pressure gauge, which remains in situ today.
This example previously formed part of a private collection belonging to the proprietor of a leading prestige car restoration business. During his ownership, the car underwent a comprehensive mechanical and cosmetic restoration, carried out some years ago (exact dates available upon request). Structural work included repairs to the ash frame, principally along the sills.
Engineering Details – Rebuilt 1479cc Six-Cylinder Performance
The mechanical rebuild was extensive and properly engineered. The engine was rebuilt around a new cast Barry Gillies block, fitted with new connecting rods incorporating shell bearings, a rebuilt crankshaft, and Omega pistons.
Period photographs suggest the fitment of a lightened flywheel, while a tubular six-branch exhaust manifold replaced the original cast factory item. The rear axle was rebuilt and fitted with a high-ratio differential, enhancing relaxed cruising and road performance. The braking system was overhauled, with a hydraulic brake upgrade fitted (confirmation of originality versus conversion available if required).
A Usable Car with Historical Integrity.
The restoration was completed with a professional repaint and full retrim, resulting in a car that presents today in as-new condition. It is well sorted, mechanically robust, and ready for immediate use.
A rare opportunity to acquire a genuinely scarce Riley sporting saloon, restored without compromise and suitable for road use, touring, or inclusion in a serious collection.
Ready for worldwide delivery. Contact Tom for more details or to arrange a viewing.
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