The 1964 Riley Elf: A Classic Journey in Blue
Allow me to introduce you to a blast from the automotive past—a 1964 Riley Elf that’s not just any old ride but a right-hand-drive, Mk II gem that the current owner snagged from the sunny streets of Florida back in 2004. Coated in a sophisticated blue with a stylish white roof, this car’s interior has been luxuriously reupholstered in red vinyl, matching its bold character. Power? Oh, it’s got that covered too, thanks to a 998cc inline-four engine with a charming single SU carburetor that purrs through your drive.
Aesthetics & Features
Shifting the gears through a four-speed manual transaxle, this Riley Elf sits pretty on 10″ steel wheels. Let’s not forget the central dual-exit exhaust and those unique creature comforts like sliding side windows and a cozy cabin heater. Offered at no reserve, this classic comes with a Tennessee title under the seller’s name, ensuring it’s ready for its new home.
Did you know? The Elf was the posh cousin of the iconic Mini, boasting an elegant three-box design with a vertical grille and extra space in the boot.
The Mk II Legacy
Debuting in 1963, the Mk II Elf had some fine upgrades, notably the 998cc engine borrowed from the Mini Cooper, and a revamped braking system with twin front shoes. It’s the kind of historical DNA that sets this car apart.
Restored and Polished
Before being blessed with a vibrant blue coat and a white roof in 2008, this beauty underwent necessary rust repairs. Further enhancements under current ownership include headlight trim, body-colored door hinges, and new seals—details that ensure she shines.
- Fancy bumpers and fender flares
- Central dual-exit exhaust
- Bodywork knows no compromise
Note the character on the brightwork; photos from September 2021 reveal all the charm in the engine bay, trunk, and undersides.
Rolling On
This ride rolls on white-painted 10″ steel wheels adorned with chrome hubcaps, sporting a variety of tires. Braking? Handled by hydraulic drums on all four corners, with 2006 seeing new wheel bearings and 2021 witnessing a brake fluid flush.
The cabin, re-trimmed in vibrant red vinyl in 2021, hosts front bucket seats and a rear bench. It showcases a black dashboard with dual gloveboxes, complemented by protective black floor mats over the blue carpets. And yes, a heater is included, ready to chase away any chill.
The Steering & Dashboard
Picture yourself gripping the three-spoke steering wheel, facing centrally mounted Smiths instrumentation. With a speedometer that proudly promises up to 95 mph, you can keep tabs on fuel levels, engine temp, and oil pressure. The odometer reads 58,000 miles.
Engineering Under the Hood
The heart of this time machine is a 998cc inline-four engine, factory-rated to deliver a punchy 38 horsepower. Recent updates, such as a new water pump and valve adjustment in 2021, keep it running smoothly.
With power fed to the front wheels via a four-speed manual gearbox, this baby had a clutch fluid flush in 2021 alongside a replacement fuel pump. Photos proudly display everything, down to the underside’s character-rich corrosion.
Chassis Confirmation
Witness the numbers: chassis number RA2S2573874, which forms the sequence 573874 as seen on the current Tennessee title.
In conclusion, if you’re yearning for a vehicle that embodies history and style, this Mk II Riley Elf stands ready for its next chapter in driving enjoyment—perhaps even alongside a Peugeot or a Renault Clio.