Riley 9 Falcon. (1934)


1934 Riley 9 Falcon
The original Falcon 9 had been an innovative model, but the public were not impressed and less than 100 were sold. For 1934 the model was completely redesigned, and became a much more 'normal' Saloon. The opening roof-doors were removed, and the overall height of the car increased to compensate. At the rear, a small luggage boot was added, which changed the shape of the car further, losing the sweeping tale that inspired the design of the later Briggs-bodied models.
It is possible that this revised car was launched somewhat earlier than normal, to try and improve sales of the Falcon, but it was to no avail as less 1934 Falcons have been identified than 1933 cars, especially when the likely higher survival rate without the problems associated with the roof-doors is taken into account. Something like 40-50 Falcons were probably built in 1934, and the car was dropped without replacement for 1935.

ENGINE

TRANSMISSION

9hp 4 cyl ohv
Bore 60.3 stroke 95.2
compression 5.2:1
Capacity 1087 cc
42bhp at 3600rpm
Carburation Zenith
4-speed gearbox.
Top gear ratio 5.2:1

SUSPENSION

Semi-elliptic

STEERING

DIMENSIONS

Wheelbase 9' (aprx 2730mm)
Track 3'11" (aprx 1180mm)
Length / width: various bodies
Tyres 27x4.40
Weight 17cwt

BRAKES