Lot details Registration No: RRL500Y Chassis No: 5CD200155AD00282 Mot Expiry: April 2007
Conceived as a rival to the likes of the Triumph Stag and Mercedes-Benz (R107) SL range, Reliant began working on a convertible version of its popular Scimitar range in 1978. Unveiled to the public two years later, the resultant GTC model followed established company practice by utilising a rigid box-section chassis to underpin its lightweight, rust free fibreglass 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 'Cologne' 2.8 litre V6 engine developing a quoted 135bhp and 159lbft of torque, the GTC could be had with either four-speed manual overdrive or automatic transmission. One of the faster four-seater convertibles of its generation, the Reliant was reputedly capable of 119mph and 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds. Produced in 'fits and starts' from 1980 until 1986, just 442 are thought to have been made.
Finished in red with grey / black velour upholstery, this particular GTC is variously rated by the vendor as being in "good" (engine, four-speed manual plus overdrive transmission, electrical equipment, chassis, bodywork, paintwork, wheels / tyres) or "very good" (interior trim) condition. Said to have been "bought two years ago" at which time "Graham Walker Ltd who knew the car described it as probably the best example", it is reportedly "fitted with radio cassette, unleaded conversion, hard- / soft-top, power steering and Wolfrace wheels". Formerly registered as HOD 955Y, the present number was apparently obtained by a former keeper, Mr Rylance Rowe. Believed but not warranted to have covered 129,200 miles from new, this rare Reliant is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until April 2007, road tax until 31st August 2006 and "large file" (including "receipts for work carried out since 1993 + MOTs").
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