Salle des Ventes du Béguinage
38
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1957 RELIANT REGAL MK IV – History:
See original version (French)
38
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1957 RELIANT REGAL MK IV – History:
See original version (French)
Estimate €2,000 - €3,000
Voluntary lot
Description
1957 RELIANT REGAL MK IV – History:
Founded in 1935 in Tamworth (Staffordshire), the Reliant Engineering Company specialised in the production of light three-wheeled vehicles, which were particularly popular in the United Kingdom where favourable tax arrangements meant they could be driven with a motorbike licence. The Reliant Regal, launched in 1953, was the model that made the brand’s name. In 1956, the Regal Mk IV appeared, recognisable by its modernised fibreglass bodywork – a material in which Reliant would become one of the pioneers of mass production.
Simple, economical and surprisingly practical, the Regal Mk IV was powered by a 747 cm³ four-cylinder engine driving the single rear wheel via a manual gearbox. Its lightweight bodywork gave it respectable performance whilst keeping running costs low. Produced until 1958, this generation is now one of the most sought-after Reliants amongst enthusiasts of unusual British cars.
Description:
The car on offer is a Reliant Regal Mk IV first registered on 24 August 1957.
This car is in a remarkably authentic condition despite having been in long-term storage. The fibreglass bodywork appears to be largely complete and retains its two-tone pale green and cream paintwork. There are some paint imperfections, dirt and various signs of ageing, but overall it provides an excellent basis for restoration.
The engine compartment appears to be particularly complete. It retains its original Reliant engine as well as its main accessories, wiring harness and manufacturer’s plate bearing the chassis and engine numbers. No attempt has been made to start the engine, and no mechanical checks have been carried out.
The interior is one of this car’s strong points. It appears to be particularly complete, featuring its two front seats, rear bench seat, original side trim, dashboard, Smiths instruments, steering wheel, gear lever and all its controls. The brown vinyl upholstery has developed a patina consistent with the vehicle’s age and appears to have been preserved from any significant alterations. A simple clean will be enough to reveal a very attractive finish.
This Reliant comes with a particularly interesting historical file comprising its former British logbook, its English registration certificate (V5), a purchase invoice issued by Vale Motors (Woodthorpe) Ltd dated 27 November 1996, several old photographs of the car, as well as various contemporary administrative documents. The numbers recorded on the manufacturer’s plate (chassis 560857 and engine 15828) match those in the documents provided.
Owing to its authenticity, the quality of its historical documentation and the rarity of Reliant Regal Mk IVs preserved with their original papers, this example provides an excellent basis for restoration for a collector of unusual British cars.
Specifications:
Make: Reliant
Model: Regal Mk IV
First registered: 24 August 1957
Manufacturer: Reliant Engineering Co. (Tamworth)
Body type: 3-wheel saloon
Engine: Reliant 4-cylinder – 747 cm³
Fuel: Petrol
Gearbox: Manual
Seating capacity: 4
Chassis number: 560857 (stamped number not found)
Exterior colour: Pale green with cream hardtop
Interior: Brown vinyl upholstery with beige fabric trim
Steering: Right-hand drive
Mileage: 12,547 miles (not guaranteed)
Keys: Yes
Registration documents: Old British log-book, English registration certificate (V5) (in the previous owner’s name; the current owner has never transferred the documents to their name), 1996 purchase invoice, old photographs and various administrative documents from the period. Please note that customs clearance and payment of VAT will likely be required to obtain a new registration in another country.
Condition:
The vehicle is being offered as-is, straight from storage.
The engine has not been started and no test drive has been carried out.
Sold as is, considered not roadworthy, without an MOT, for restoration, recommissioning or for parts.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale
Classic cars – barn finds and miscellaneous
Auction location
Auction time
09/25/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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