1935 Riley 9hp Kestrel Saloon
Percy Riley’s ingenious twin-camshaft four-cylinder engine design proved remarkably enduring, powering Riley models from 1926 through 1957. The 1,087cc unit became the foundation of the Coventry manufacturer’s reputation for producing exceptional small-capacity sporting cars.
Introduced in 1933, the Kestrel Saloon represented Riley’s modern interpretation of streamlined design. Its aerodynamic fastback body style was available on both four- and six-cylinder chassis, marking a clear departure from traditional upright saloon configurations.
Wire wheels, Hartford friction shock absorbers, and a box-section chassis frame contributed to the car’s sporting character, while coil/distributor ignition and an all-helical gearbox enhanced reliability and refinement. Buyers could also specify an ENV pre-selector gearbox for smoother and quicker gear changes.
Stanley Riley’s elegant bodywork, combined with Percy Riley’s advanced engineering, made the 9hp Kestrel one of the most desirable small sporting saloons of the pre-war era, offering performance and handling that far exceeded expectations for its modest displacement.
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