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Updated: 31-March-2026 16:06
Reliant Scimitar GTE (SE5A), 1973 | € 18.950,--
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Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5A, year 1973. This wonderful example is finished in dark red, complemented by a cognac‑brown faux‑leather interior. The car was imported from the UK by an enthusiast and subsequently underwent an extensive restoration between 2022 and 2024. The restoration is thoroughly documented. The GRP (glass‑reinforced plastic) bodywork received fresh paint, and much of the interior was renewed, including the folding sunshine roof. The powerful Ford Essex 3‑litre V6 engine, already in good condition, was fitted with a new carburettor and upgraded with electronic ignition. The four‑speed gearbox features the desirable overdrive option. During the restoration the car was equipped with new stainless‑steel bumpers, a stainless‑steel exhaust system, 14‑inch polished Wolfrace alloy wheels shod with Continental 185/70 R14 H tyres, and a Caliber retro radio. The Reliant Scimitar GTE was a groundbreaking design when introduced in 1968. It was a sporty two‑door estate car that effectively created the modern ‘shooting brake’ segment. The model was praised for its handsome styling, character, practicality, and its innovative construction, combining a steel box‑section chassis with a GRP body bolted to it. The mechanical components (engine, gearbox, rear axle and more) were derived from the Ford Zephyr/Zodiac and Capri ranges.
This is an excellent opportunity to acquire an iconic Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5A in restored and very good condition, offered at a price far below the cost of its restoration.
This Reliant is for sale at Classic Open.
Price: € 18.950, -.
Classic Open 2603 B
The Reliant Scimitar emerged in the early 1960s as Reliant’s move into the sporting GT market, beginning with the Ogle‑designed Scimitar GT SE4. It combined a fibreglass body with Ford mechanicals, giving it strong performance and relatively low weight. In 1968 Reliant introduced the Scimitar GTE, a groundbreaking sporting estate that effectively created the “shooting brake” segment for modern buyers. The GTE’s blend of practicality, speed and style made it an immediate success and earned praise from the motoring press. Princess Anne famously adopted the Scimitar as her personal car, owning several examples and giving the model a lasting association with British royalty. Throughout the 1970s the Scimitar evolved through SE5 and SE6 versions, gaining more refinement, improved suspension and a roomier interior. Reliant also produced the Scimitar GTC, a rare convertible variant that broadened the range. The cars were known for their durability, distinctive styling and strong Ford V6 engines, which made them popular with enthusiasts. Production continued into the mid‑1980s, after which small specialist firms carried on building and supporting the model. Today the Scimitar is regarded as one of Britain’s most characterful classic GT cars, admired for its innovative design and everyday usability. Many examples survive thanks to their rust‑free composite bodies and loyal following.
Technical data
Engine: 3L Ford Essex V6
induction: Weber 40 DFA-1 carburettor
cylinder capacity (cc): 2994 cc
capacity: 128-135 bhp at 4750 rpm
torque: 235 Nm at 3000 rpm
top-speed: 182-193 km/h depending on model year and gearbox
gearbox: 4-speed manual (overdrive optional) or 3-speed Borg Warner automatic
brakes: discs at the front, drums at the rear (dual hydraulic circuit, servo assisted)
drive: rear wheel drive
weight: 1200-1245 depending on equipment.
Seller: Imparts
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