January 10, 2018
Posted By : Barrett-Jackson
Written By : independent automotive journalist Steve Statham

JOLLY OLD RILEY ELF: This 1968 variant of the Austin Mini packs a lot of fun into a small package

JOLLY OLD RILEY ELF: This 1968 variant of the Austin Mini packs a lot of fun into a small package

January 10, 2018
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Written by independent automotive journalist Steve Statham

1968 Riley Elf

For fun on the road or at the beach, this unique 1968 Riley Elf (Lot #1023) is just the ticket. It will be crossing the auction block on Friday, January 19, at the 2018 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction.

The popularity of the Austin Mini made it inevitable that variants of the economical everyman’s car would be built. One such was the Riley Elf, which aimed for a more luxurious presentation along with a larger trunk.

Lot 1023 - 1968 Riley Elf Jolly Convertible_sideThe Fiat 600, a car aimed at a similar market, had its own variants, including the Jolly, an open-air resort vehicle with cut-down doors, wicker seats and a fringed top.

These two good ideas were combined into this 1968 Riley Elf convertible (Lot #1023) with the full “Jolly” treatment. This unique Elf was professionally built, with top-rate work, high-quality paint and detailing evident throughout. To achieve the Jolly beach appearance, the roof and side windows were removed, then the doors were welded and cut down. The body was further cleaned up by removing the bumpers, yet the distinct Riley radiator grille remains intact. The steel fender flares created room for the Minilite-style wheels and low-profile tires.

Lot 1023 - 1968 Riley Elf Jolly Convertible_interiorThe car is powered by the standard Riley engine, an Austin-built A-series 4-cylinder, backed by a 4-speed manual transmission, both of which have been restored and detailed.

This fun vehicle – which will cross the auction block at No Reserve on Friday, January 19 – will be at home on any beach in the world. The front and rear seats are covered in striped marine-quality canvas designed to hold up to the rigors of sun exposure. The car includes a matching surfboard for those who can’t resist the lure of distant waves. “This delightful car is so well-built it was invited to be shown at the 2015 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance in a special category for Beach Cars,” the seller says.

Collector cars are supposed to be fun, and this one is a Jolly Old Elf indeed.

For up-to-date information on this vehicle, click HERE.

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