Rileys not p.v.t.?
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Sir,
I must protest against that question mark after p.v.t. in the June edition of Motor Sport when referring to Bywarth’s Riley Monaco saloon in the report on the V.S.C.C. Silverstone race meeting.
A 1934 Monaco saloon with its proud radiator bearing that famous diamond, a radiator that is a real radiator and not a sham with the core hidden in the depths beyond. Its delightful roadholding and steering (1-3/4 turns lock to lock). A car which on a tortuous road will leave most moderns far behind.
A lively engine with inclined valves in hemispherical combustion chambers. Valves operated by push rods and twin camshafts set high in the block (an engine, which in 6-cylinder form, formed the basis of the power unit in the now immortal E.R.A.s). An engine which is infinitely tunable. An engine which, with very few changes, powered the famous racing Rileys.
A motor car in which one could have a choice of gearboxes according to whether one was a pre-selector or crash gearbox man.
A motor car whose chassis could be lubricated and excellent brakes be adjusted without leaving the driving seat.
A motor car of distinctive appearance, how could you, Sir, infer with that question mark that Rileys are not Post Vintage thoroughbreds?
How could a car with the above qualities not be a thoroughbred?
I am, Yours, etc.,
Cinderford. – Peter W. Hale.