In Brief:

• A great, 'original-feel' example of a Riley RME
• Finished in two-tone Black over Red over a matching Red leather interior
• Owned by The Vendor for the last 36 years
• Just 1 former keeper
• Fully restored between 1989 and 1994

On the Surface:

A charmingly original-feel example of Riley’s elegant RME, this 1954 car is finished in its factory-correct two-tone Black over Red, complemented by a matching Red leather interior. The bodywork presents with light patination consistent with age, lending the car a period authenticity, though it shows no signs of significant wear or the need for immediate repair.

Maintenance & History:

Supplied new in 1954, this RME has had just two custodians in its lifetime. The Vendor acquired it from its first owner in Saffron Walden in 1989, making him its second keeper for the past 36 years. Since it's restoration, the car has been used including for wedding hire, but always maintained with care and attention. The car was restored by its long-term owner in the early 1990s, returning to the road in November 1994 after several years of careful work. More recently, the original priming pump has been upgraded to an electric fuel pump for reliability. Otherwise, it retains its mechanical authenticity, with the well-proven 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and fully hydraulic braking system.

The Model:

Launched in 1952 as the successor to the RMA, the RME retained the dependable 1.5-litre engine but introduced several improvements. These included a larger, curved-glass rear window for improved visibility, fully hydraulic brakes, reshaped front wings, and the deletion of running boards, giving the car a more modern appearance. Production of the RME ceased in 1955, marking the end of Riley’s traditional wood-frame saloon line, before the model was succeeded by the Riley One-Point-Five in 1957.

Sale Insight:

With just one former keeper and nearly four decades in the hands of its devoted owner, this 1954 Riley RME offers exceptional provenance alongside its charming period presentation. A usable yet characterful example, it represents an ideal entry point into Riley ownership, combining rarity, originality, and a delightful sense of history.

Estimate:
£3,000 - £4,000