The Prototype Riley Sprite ?AKV 218? - 1935

This week OldCar24 presents a prototype:

AKV 218, Chassis number S26S 2429, first registered August 31st 1935

First ever built (unique) Sprite – The Prototype – on a modified, unboxed MPH chassis with the newly introduced Girling rod brakes. Works tuned 12/4 engine fitted with many racing parts. First registered by the factory and then loaned to Keith Elliott.

1935 Cecil Riley did the famous proving trip from Coventry around Europe, crossing 14 highest alpine passes in 8 days (“Before the Snows”).

It was competed by Geoff Beetson in nearly every major trial from 1936 to 1939 with high success including two Alpine Trials, 1935 Edinburgh Trial (1st Class), 1936 Colmore Trial (1st Class), 1937 RMC Winter Trial and JCC Trial (team prize), 1938 Exeter Trial (team prize), 1938 and 1939 RAC Rally (team prize), 1939 RSAC Scottish Rally (1st class – Kay Beetson).

Sold 1949 and then owned till 2014 by different people, for example Ruby and John Golder from 1976 – 1991, who used it extensively in many VSCC events.

Restoration from 1998 – 2000 through E.T. Peppercorn and J. Bruce with color change from cream to now dark blue.