It is no exaggeration to say that the appearance of the 1100cc 9hp Riley at the Olympia Show October 1926 revolutionised concepts of light car design - its lower build, outstanding handling and good brakes, the products of careful detail design, were matched by the strong, light and advanced engine, which developed remarkable power for its modest size, and began a chain of development that continued until well after WWII and also spawned the E.R.A.

racing voiturettes, the most successful British racing cars of their time.

Breathing efficiently through hemispherical combustion chambers and 45-degree overhead valves opened by short pushrods from twin high-set camshafts, the unit simply wanted to rev, and permitted a lowish rear axle ratio that in turn gave good acceleration.

The 4-speed gearbox was a joy to use.

Apart from a handful of obscure, low-volume specialised sports cars, no other light car produced in similar quantities offered anything comparable.

This decidedly handsome R...