1968 RILEY ELF JOLLY CONVERTIBLE

Details

This adorable, one-of-a-kind beach car started life as a standard Riley Elf, which was essentially a more luxurious, trunked version of the classic original Austin Mini. This car was professionally built from the ground up, and given the full 'Jolly' beach car treatment. First, the roof and side windows were removed, and then the doors were welded up and cut down to emulate the classic style of the original Fiat Jolly. The fenders were flared in steel to accommodate wide Minilite-style alloys

with low-profile tires. The quality of the work is top-rate, with nice straight bodywork and excellent quality paint and detailing. The body has been debumpered but retains the distinct Riley radiator grille, along with very good-quality chrome on the mirrors and headlamp rings. It retains the standard Riley engine and drivetrain: an Austin-built A-series 4-cylinder engine and 4-speed manual transmission, which have been restored and are very well-detailed. The interior features a lacquered wood dash, a wood-rimmed Mountney steering wheel and matching custom wood rails that surround the cockpit. Front and rear seats have been covered in a stripe-pattern marine-quality canvas to hold up to the rigors of sun exposure and beach duty, while the floors are lined with natural coco-fiber floor mats. The entire project was very well-designed and executed, with factory-quality finishing and details like handy map pockets built into the side panels. It even includes a matching surfboard to complete the package. 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. It presents in great condition today, ready for fun in the sun.