Sold | Ex-Bernie Ecclestone 1935 Riley Imp Roadster

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£61,740 (Est: £59,866 - £74,832)

Ex-Bernie Ecclestone 1935 Riley Imp Roadster

United States • 31 May 2026 • Lot 47

Vehicle Details

AI Listing Summary

This 1935 Riley Imp Roadster, formerly owned by Bernie Ecclestone, boasts significant collector provenance and a history of sensitive restoration. It features a desirable black exterior with ivory wheels and red leather interior, making it a rare opportunity for discerning collectors.

Condition

7

The car is described as a 'survivor condition' and 'sensitively restored for reliability and enjoyment, rather than transformed for show'. While it has undergone restoration by D.J. Johnson in the 1990s, the description does not indicate it is in pristine or outstanding condition. Terms like 'beautiful black exterior', 'complemented by contrasting Ivory-colored wheels', and 'distinguished red leather upholstery' suggest good aesthetics, but the lack of explicit mention of 'no dents, scratches, paint damage, or curb marks' and the description of it being a 'survivor' restored for enjoyment rather than show implies it has some wear or imperfections consistent with a 'Very Good' rating.

/ 10

Transmission:

Manual

Chassis No:

6027370

Odometer:

[Odometer Reading]

Reg Number:

AJH 531

RHD/LHD:

LHD

1,087cc, OHV Inline 4-Cylinder Twin SU Carburetors Approx.

50bhp at 5,200rpm Four-Speed Manual Transmission Independent Front Suspension, Semi-Elliptic Leaf Springs Rear Four-Wheel Drum Brakes * Delivered new as a UK-market car; retains UK registration AJH 531 * Beautiful black exterior with Ivory wheels and red leather upholstery * Restored by D.J.

Johnson in the 1990s, preserving originality and integrity * Comprehensive documentation including V5 registration, auction catalog, period articles, archival registration book * Significant collector provenance, including former ownership by Bernie Ecclestone and multiple noted collectors; shown at the Coventry Rally 1984 THE RILEY IMP In the annals of British motoring history, few marques evoke the spirit of prewar sporting innovation as evocatively as Riley.

Founded in Coventry, Riley established a reputation for advanced engineering and nimble handling—attributes that reached new heights in the early 1930s as the company pursued a sp...