Offered here is a charming example of the Riley Kestrel 14/6, one of the most distinctive and technically interesting British sporting saloons of the early 1930s, produced by the renowned Coventry manufacturer Riley Motors.

Introduced in the early 1930s, the Kestrel represented a move toward more streamlined, modern body design, influenced by the emerging Art-Deco aesthetic of the period.

Its sleek fastback profile was considered advanced for its time and helped distinguish the model from the more upright saloons of the era.

The model is also historically significant as part of Riley’s successful 14/6 range, which combined sporting engineering with practical saloon coachwork. The cars were known for their excellent road manners and mechanical sophistication, helping cement Riley’s reputation for building refined yet enthusiast-focused vehicles during the golden era of British motoring.

ABOUT THIS CAR

• Chassis 44T939
• Engine: 880025
• Power comes from Riley’s smooth 1.6-litre six-cylinder engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission, delivering lively performance and impressive refinement for a pre-war saloon. With around 51 horsepower and a top speed approaching 75 mph, the Kestrel was notably brisk compared with many contemporaries that struggled to exceed 60 mph. and marque enthusiasts.
• Approximately 6 owners from new - previous owner 34 years.
• This car was built in England in 1932 and arrived in Dunedin, New Zealand in 1933.
• This is a very rare car and possibly only 10 are on the Riley register in England, as most were cut up and super charged as race cars.
• Colour was originally black.
• No money was spared while being restored and whatever was required was either sourced from England or hand built.
• Note: As shown in the photos, this vehicle has undergone a thorough restoration. It runs and drives and is being offered for sale as is, unregistered and without a current WOF. The vehicle’s New Zealand registration lapsed some years ago, and reinstatement will be the responsibility of the purchaser. 

Today, surviving examples of the six-cylinder Kestrel models are increasingly rare, as many saloons were historically dismantled to create specials, making intact cars particularly desirable among collectors

Pre-war Riley saloons have seen growing interest in recent years. Well-presented examples of the 14/6 Kestrel typically command good money depending on condition, originality, and restoration.

All in all, the Riley Kestrel represents an appealing blend of pre-war engineering, elegant coachwork, and genuine sporting character. With its distinctive streamlined styling and smooth six-cylinder performance, it remains a charismatic and increasingly collectible example of British motoring heritage.

It would be nice to see this car being sold to a good home, where it can be well looked after and appreciated.

Transport / Shipping can be organised on Buyer's behalf at Buyer's cost.

Viewing Business Hours Monday to Friday By Appointment Only.

PLEASE READ: The Purchaser is encouraged to personally fully inspect the vehicle and also to have the vehicle inspected, and fully assessed by an experienced, independent, specialist garage - before committing to purchase. While the Purchaser is entitled to rely on statements given by Waimak Classic Cars as being correct, where goods such as vehicles are concerned, with so many moving parts and rust being an issue with older vehicles; a Purchaser who chooses not to seek independent professional assistance when assessing the quality of what they propose to buy is considered as buying at their own risk, and if the vehicle then turns out to be of less than the represented quality, or not up to the Purchaser's expectation, or in the Purchaser opinion not fit for purpose; then the Purchaser is considered to have contributed to their own loss and should not expect any refunds or betterment from Waimak.