1936 Riley 9hp Merlin Saloon Chassis no. 66M1159 Engine no. M1159

1936 Riley 9hp Merlin Saloon Registration no. BRU 350 Chassis no. 66M1159 Engine no. M1159 •Only four previous owners •Present ownership since 2005 •Professionally restored and upgraded 2005-2015 •Upgraded engine and alternator electrics •Superb condition Introduced in 1926, Percy Riley's 9hp, 1,087cc twin-camshaft 'four' was an outstanding engine design by any standards, various versions powering Rileys until 1957. Clothed in stylish bodywork by Stanley Riley, the Coventry manufacturer's pre-war offerings were among the world's finest small-capacity sporting cars. By the time this particular example was made, the Nine had incorporated a further series of refinements that included a lower final drive ratio, coil/distributor ignition, all-helical gearbox, box-section chassis frame, wire wheels and Hartford shock absorbers, while the Armstrong Siddeley pre-selector 'box was an option. Representing Riley's 'last word' in modernity and offered on both the four- and six-cylinder chassis, the aerodynamic Kestrel saloon was an exciting addition to the range in 1933. Similar in shape to the Kestrel, the £269 Merlin was introduced in 1935. It was the first Riley Nine to feature all-steel bodywork, while the adoption of rod-operated brakes marked another departure from the firm's customary practice. A pre-selector model, this four-cylinder Riley Merlin was purchased at auction in 2005 (invoice on file) and subsequently restored, the project occupying the next ten years. The restoration was masterminded by Raymond Ingram of Classic Motivation in Sutton Valence, Kent and cost a not inconsiderable sum, as detailed by numerous invoices on file (inspection recommended). Works carried out included fully rebuilding the engine with a Phoenix crankshaft and Carrillo con-rods; overhauling the transmission; and fully restoring the chassis, body, and interior. In addition, the engine was upgraded with twin SU carburettors and a four-branch exhaust manifold, and the electrics completely rewired and converted to alternator generation. 'BRU 350' has had only four previous owners from new and has covered a believed genuine 65,180 miles. Very nicely presented and described by the private vendor as in generally excellent restored condition, the car is offered with an owner's handbook; spare radiator cap (Merlin mascot); and a tool bag containing various tools. Accompanying documentation consists of an old-style logbook; a V5C Registration Certificate; and the aforementioned bills. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com