The Riley Motor Club of South Australia is currently conducting a display at the National Motor Museum in Birdwood, South Australia. The display is in the Museum’s ‘Club Space’ - a specially designated area in which clubs and other organisations are given the opportunity to tell the story of their members’ vehicles.

Founded in 1972, the club is one of six state based Riley Clubs in Australia. There are over 70 full members and 30 associates across South Australia with vehicles spanning the period from 20’s to the 60’s.  Club Vice President, Doug McPherson says “Predominantly our club is more social in its functions despite the Riley’s sporting heritage. In addition to its monthly runs the club meets on the third Tuesday of each month at Parkside Primary School.”

The Riley name became famous when the ‘Nine’ was released in 1926.  The light chassis was used for numerous models all based on the 1,100 cc 4 cylinder engine.  This engine was interesting for its time, being a twin high camshaft design with a hemispherical combustion chamber. This was advanced for a normal car, giving the running efficiency of an overhead camshaft engine with the serviceability of a pushrod design. The Riley cars have a strong motor racing heritage from the 1930s. During the 1934 Le Mans, Rileys took 6 places: 2^nd, 3^rd, 5^th, 6^th, 12^th & 13^th.

On show until 13th January, 2007 is an interesting selection of 4 cars from both the pre-war and post-war eras.

1936 Riley Sprite 1½ litre sports car, inspired by racing success of the Riley marque during the 30s the Sprite was based on the very successful MPH 6 cylinder racing car.  This example has a body similar to the original Sprite prototype with its distinctive open mudguards. Owner - P. Lawry

1937 Riley Falcon 12/4 steel bodied saloon.  Here is an example of the Riley Motor Company broadening its appeal by fitting a strong steel body by the Briggs Co (USA) to an existing chassis.  This example has a 1½ litre 4 cylinder but smaller & larger engines were also sold. Owner - D. Gunn

1951 Riley 2 ½ litre 4 door coach built saloon.  This model is the most numerous within the club, however what makes this example most interesting is that it was purchased new by the present owner’s father. It is shown here in very original condition, having never been restored. The Sun Bronze, paint work is fading but it is an early example of ‘metallic’ paint. Owner - S. Sweet

1950 Riley 2 ½ litre, 2 - 3 seat roadster, designed for the export (mainly US) market. This is a most sort after model now commanding much higher prices than its saloon or drophead cousins, all based on same chassis design and specification. This particular car was imported direct to Broken Hill and was restored by its present and third owner during the period 86 – 89.  Owner - J. Kilgour.

What:  Riley Club display at the National Motor Museum

When: Sunday 15th October, 2006 to Saturday 13th January, 2007
10am – 5pm everyday (closed Christmas Day)