983 YUF originally started life as a 12/4 Adelphi Saloon and under its original registration was first owned by Rupert Riley, the company’s competition manager. At some stage in its subsequent life it had been taken off the road and stored, it then re-emerged as a “barn find” in the late 1980’s. The Adelphi was the “family” saloon version of the Riley 12/4productrange with the Wilson 4 speed “pre-selector” gearbox and whilst it shared the same 1 ½ litre four cylinder engine, its styling was not as elegant as other cars in the range such as the Kestrel.

The car was rebodied approximately 30 years ago into a tourer, with the work entrusted to Wilkson & Son of Derby. The end result is a handsome car that belies its slightly mundane underpinnings, its styling is clearly influenced by the factory Lynx model. However, the coachwork has also taken inspiration from the first Riley 9 Lynx by only having 2 doors – despite the 12/4’s larger size this works well and does not either detract from the car’s lines nor dramatically reduce its practicality.

The car has recently undergone a complete mechanical overhaul at Blue Diamond of Bicester, the works comprising of:

· Total engine re-build with white metalling

· Repairs to the fuel tank and renewed fuel piping

· 5 new tyres

· Dynamo overhaul

· Full service and health check

· Various remedial works to ensure the car is “on the button”

It also comes with complete weather equipment and the trim is in excellent order, a previous owner has fitted 3 additional driving lights – ideal for the 2021 Monte Carlo Classique.

983 YUF offers an excellent introduction to pre-war Riley motoring, and whilst its coachwork is not original factory finish, the craftsmanship and eye for detail in creating it places it on a par with the original.

Finished in green over black, the car presents very very well & is in excellent condition throughout. The interior is pale Green leather again of recent origin & in very good condition.. The car benefits from a new radiator, Girling brakes all round and fully restored Dunlop centre-lock wire wheels shod with new 4.75×18 tyres. The engine is the correct 12/4 Riley unit, and the car comes with, tonneau cover, side screens and hood bag. Beautifully finished and ready for all manner of national and international touring, historic rallies or simply driving for pleasure.

This car has a huge folder full of old invoices and other provenance. Feel free to request further information or copies of these papers.