1953 Riley RMD Drophead Coupe Project – SOLD!

February 10, 2021 Update – we confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

February 4, 2021 Update – Not only did the private seller of this very rare Riley just post a new Craigslist ad, but they also lowered the price from the original ask of $9,500 to a much more palatable $6,800.

A seller writing, “Looks better in the photos than it is” can not provide a more honest car listing to manage expectations. That’s how the current caretaker of this very rare 1953 Riley RMF Drophead Coupe originally listed in January 2021 on Craigslist in Leesburg, Virginia describes their project car in need of a complete restoration.  Despite being rough, the car appears to be complete and carries an asking price of $9,500.  The Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms the ask is only $400 less than this guide’s current #4 “Fair” (Daily Driver) appraisal of $9,900, so we believe there is likely some wiggle room for negotiation here.

If you’re not familiar with the marque, Riley started as a bicycle manufacturer in 1890 before switching to more lucrative automobiles a few years later. Riley became part of Nuffield in 1938. In 1952 Riley merged with Austin to form British Motor Corporation which eventually became part of British Leyland in 1968, shortly afterward the new conglomerate folded Riley.  The car featured here is part of Riley’s “RM” executive line of cars produced immediately after World War II through 1955 in various forms.  We hope the seller can provide a detailed history of this car as we’re sure there’s an interesting story of how and why this example ended up in the U.S.  Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1953 Riley Drophead. Rough car in need of complete restoration. Car looks better in the photos than it is. Terrible paint and bodywork. The car is complete. $9500.00 NO TITLE . Sold on bill of sale.”

Restore or Ratrod: what would you do with this very rare Riley?  Comment below and let us know!