World Classic Autos Index > Guides Index > Reliant
Scimitar
The Reliant Scimitar was manufactured between 1964 and 1986.
1 Scimitar GT SE4 (1964Ð70) Two door coupe, engines 2553 cc I-6 (1964 - 1966), 2495 cc V-6 (1967 - 1970) and 2994 cc V-6 (1966 - 1970).
The Reliant Scimitar GT - (SE4) Scimitar Coupe was fitted with a Ford 2.6 litre straight six engine as fitted to the Reliant Sabre. About 296 straight six Scimitar GTs were produced. In 1966 Ford dropped the 2.6 l engine and replaced it with a 3 l Essex engine. Approximately SE4a/b 590 models were produced with this engine. In 1967 the SE4c Scimitar Coupe with 2.5 Litre V6 Essex engine was introduced. Around 120 of these versions were built
2 Scimitar GTE SE5 (1968Ð72) and SE5A (1972Ð75) Two door coupe, engine 2994 cc V-6.
Unlike the SE4 which was based on the Sabre coupe the SE5 was based on a completely different chassis frame. The car has a top speed of 120 mph. In 1972 the engine performance was raised to produce a top speed of over 120 mph and a 0 - 60 mph time of 8.5 seconds. The dashboard was curved rather then straight.
3 Scimitar GTE SE6 (1975-76), SE6A (1976Ð79) and SE6B (1979Ð86) Two door coupe, Engines 2994 cc V-6 (1975 - 1979), 2792 cc V-6 (1979 - 1986).
These were two door sports estates based on a longer wheelbase. The car became a proper four seater. After a production run of 543 models, a number of improvements were made and these models became known as the SE6A. Subsequently 3877 SE6As were made. Once again a change by Ford brought a change, this time the "Essex" engine ceased production in 1980. The SE6B was fitted with the German-built Ford "Cologne" 2.8l V6. 437 SE6Bs were manufactured.
4 Scimitar GTC SE8 (1980Ð86), engine 2.8l Ford V6.
The convertible was planned as far back as 1977 and launched in 1980 but with the country heading for recession they were difficult to sell. Of the 442 produced, 340 were manufactured in the first year.
5 Middlebridge Scimitar (1988Ð90) When production at Reliant ceased, Middlebridge Scimitar Ltd. acquired the manufacturing rights and produced 77 Scimitars. The company went into receivership in 1990.
Although fibreglass bodies dont rust, they will still need attention. Check carefully for accident damage and that they are securely fixed to the chassis. The engines and gearboxes are Ford tried and tested products so look out for anything out of the ordinary noise wise etc.
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