Registration No: PPY 418R
Chassis No: 6K4818101860
MOT: Oct 2024

• Single family ownership since 1978
• Subject to a previous extensive restoration
• Offered with a comprehensive history file

Launched in 1968, Reliant's Scimitar GTE was the original 'lifestyle estate'. Stablemate to the Scimitar GT Coupe and designed by Ogle's Tom Karen, the GTE was also the first car to offer split fold rear seats. Following established company practice, it utilised a stiff, separate chassis to underpin its lightweight, rust free glassfibre bodywork. With independent coil and wishbone front suspension, a Watts linkage located 'live' rear axle, rack and pinion steering and disc/drum brakes, handling was a strong point. Powered by a Ford 'Essex' 3 litre V6 engine developing 138bhp and 175lbft of torque, the GTE was tested at over 120mph and could reputedly sprint to 60mph in 8.9 seconds. Progressively updated, the original SE5 GTE gave way to the SE6 in 1975. Boasting more cabin space and better fittings than its predecessor, the SE6's mild restyle also encompassed new safety bumpers. Introduced the following year, the revised SE6A brought improved dual circuit braking, revised spring / damper rates and higher build quality.

This 'Lincoln Green' Scimitar GTE with a manual gearbox and overdrive was bought by the vendor's father when it was just a year old in 1978. A professional engineer too, the seller became its custodian during 2001. The car was then restored by specialists Queensberry Road Garage (Kettering) at a cost of over £16,000. The 3 litre V6 engine was reconditioned and upgraded with lead-free cylinder heads, the gearbox and running gear overhauled and the interior re-trimmed, including the front seats, headlining and carpets, all to original specification. The chassis has been rust-proofed with Finnigan’s Waxoyl, updated periodically, and a twin stainless steel exhaust system fitted along with a stainless steel petrol tank. The original Wolfrace wheels have been professionally refurbished and powder coated to the original colour and new tyres fitted. A full braking system overhaul including new discs and pads, new calipers, new wheel cylinders, and new master cylinder was completed in 2018 with only 2000 miles having been driven since. The car comes with an Alpine radio/CD player, but the original 8-track is included and a tow bar and electrics have been fitted but not used since the rejuvenation. The vendor reports the car has only covered 12,400 since its extensive renovation and is running well on a new Weber Twin Choke carburettor and K&N air filter. It will come supplied with a comprehensive history file, service history, invoices and receipts, original Owner’s Handbook, the original ‘Autobooks’ Reliant Scimitar Workshop Manual and a current V5C, registered as a 'Historic Vehicle' so no road tax or MOT required. Although not required by law the vendor is going to get a new MOT before the auction and will be driving the car to the venue.

For more information, please contact:
Ian Cunningham
ian.cunningham@handh.co.uk
07415871189