Autovia. (1937-38)
The Autovia engine was created by sticking two Riley 1½Litre engines together, in much the same way as the Nine engine was used in the 8/90. The two blocks were mounted on a common crank, at 90°, while the rest was in traditional Riley style.
The cars were mainly sold as chassis, for outside suppliers to build the bodies - most were built by Mulliners. The two 'standard' bodies were the Saloon and Limosuine, and whilst it is known that not all of the cars were bodied by Mulliners, the only surviving bodies are to the two basic designs. One of the Mulliner saloons is termed a Sports Saloon, but the body differs from the standard saloon in minor details only.
The name Autovia was used to try and create a new brand - hoping to suceed where the Riley 8/90 failed. However, it was not to be, and after a mere 44 cars were built, Autovia was wound up in a desperate attempt to keep Riley afloat. approximately 9 complete / restorable cars appear to survive, with 2 or 3 chassis also remaining, one of which has been shortened as a special.
Link: Blue Diamond's Autovia Blog
ENGINEV8cyl ohvRAC rating 23.8hp Bore 69mm Stroke 95.25mm Firing Order 1, 5, 4, 8, 6, 3, 7, 2 Capacity 2849 cc 99bhp at 4700rpm Carburation 2 Zenith |
TRANSMISSION4-speed Armstrong Siddeley Preselector Gearboxor 4-speed epicyclic gearbox (very few, if any). Top gear ratio 4.57:1 3rd g/r 6.24:1 2nd g/r 9.46:1 1st g/r 16.25:1 Reverse 20.42:1 |
SUSPENSIONSemi-elliptic |
BRAKESGirling mechanical rod with wedge operated shoes16" Drums. |
PRICEChassis: £685Saloon: £975 Special Saloon: £995 Limosuine: £995 |
DIMENSIONSWheelbase 10'9" (aprx 3260mm)Track 4'8.5" (aprx 1420mm) Length 14'7.5" / 15'3" (aprx 4450mm / 4640mm Width 5'11" (aprx 1800mm) Fuel Tank 16galls Wheels Dunlop 3.50x19" Centre lock wire Tyres 5.50 x 19 Weight |