1938 Riley Kestrel 12/4 6-Light Sports Saloon

Highlights

• Rare final series model with slatted radiator grill
• Buff RF60 log book dating back to 1953
• Post-war owner was RAF bomber pilot Flt. Lt. Geoff Probert DFC
• Well-documented ownership history
• Retains original registration number (CDG396)

The Appeal

Undoubtedly one of the most rakish sporting saloons of the inter-war period, the Riley Kestrel 12/4 was an advanced motor car for its day, featuring a compact twin-cam four-cylinder engine and an overdrive manual gearbox.
This 1938 example is resplendent in British Racing Green and presents in superb condition for a vehicle of this age. The Riley also comes with a well-known early history. By the end of the Second World War, it was owned by RAF bomber pilot Flt. Lt. Geoff Probert DFC, who would later join De Havilland as a designer.
This rare final series model from 1938 features the desirable slatted radiator grill and straight bumpers, making it a particularly sought-after variant among Riley enthusiasts.
Having been in the hands of several Riley enthusiasts who have improved it over the years, this Kestrel presents as a very well-kept older restoration of an exceedingly original car.

History and Paperwork

• First registered in 1938, retaining its original registration number 'CDG 396'
• Chassis number: 27 K7431
• Buff RF60 log book dating back to 1953
• Post-war owner was RAF bomber pilot Flt. Lt. Geoff Probert DFC (who later joined De Havilland as a designer)
• Well-documented ownership history after Geoff Probert
• Owned by several Riley enthusiasts who have improved it in recent years
• 10,679 miles indicated
• Exempt from MOT and road tax
• Numerous invoices and information included (see gallery below)

The Condition

• Very good BRG paintwork
• Minor marks on the bottom of bonnets due to careless closures, but nothing especially noteworthy
• Chrome work is good to very good, but the front bumper would benefit from some work
• Rare final series model with slatted radiator grill
• Lacks louvres on bonnet sides
• Features straight bumpers
• Original leather in good condition on rear and passenger seats
• Driver's seat leather showing its age
• New headlining in good condition
• Recently replaced door leathers in good condition
• Sporting instruments with Sprite 5" speedo and rev counter
• Additional gauges for oil pressure, water temperature, and clock

All equipment reportedly in working order, including:

• Trafficators
• Horns
• Indicators
• All lighting
• Windscreen wipers and shades

The Mechanics

• 1.5-litre twin high cam engine
• Manual three-speed gearbox with overdrive
• Zenith carburettor
• New wiring loom fitted in 2024
• Light and responsive to drive with very effective brakes, we are told
• Still capable of 80 mph says the vendor and can keep pace with modern traffic

BEFORE YOU BUY

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