The restoration has recently been completed in Benoni of this rare RILEY STELVIO coach-built saloon (picture below).
Built in 1930 or 1931 this is one of only eight or so examples of this model left running in the world. It was not a very common car in its heyday as it was relatively expensive at about £475. At this price it competed with cars built for, and more tailored to, the luxury market.
This particular car is powered by a 14 H.P., 1622 c.c. engine, although it could be bought with a 15 or 16 H.P. engine as alternatives. With the small engine and despite the weight of 3,500 lbs. the car is still capable of a steady 60 m.p.h. but cruises more happily at 50 m.p.h.
An unusual feature of the Riley is that almost all the brightwork is done in 18/8 stainless steel. The radiator surround, door and window handles and wheel caps are all made in this metal. During the extensive restoration following the discovery of this car in a field near Edenvale in 1960, the stainless steel components needed little more than a light buffing to restore the fine finish.
One door handle had its mild steel shank corroded off completely; when this was replaced no further attention was required – the stainless steel was quite unmarked.
The radiator cap and lamp rims are made of brass – nickel plated. No chrome. Now that these have been replated, their finish matches that of the stainless steel remarkably well.
This car is an outstanding example of the practicality and durability of stainless steel as a trimming metal for motor cars. For 35 years this car seems to have had little loving care but, after all this, the stainless steel required minimal attention to restore it. With modern luxury cars such as Rolls Royce and Bentley using stainless steel for brightwork, what better company could a vintage Riley want?
