Highlights

One of only 296 SE4s built
Fully restored in 1997, with a photo record and supporting invoices
Restoration featured in the June 1998 issue of Practical Classics magazine
Appeared in the Christmas special episode of Heartbeat in 2002

The appeal

The Reliant Scimitar GT SE4 was the flagship model for the Tamworth manufacturer, combining a powerful Ford straight-six engine with an elegant fibreglass coupé body styled by Ogle Design. It retains a typically 1960s retro-futuristic look that has aged remarkably well and sets it apart from its contemporaries. With only 296 SE4s built, it is one of the rarest British GTs of its decade. It also laid the groundwork for the GTE estate that followed it, the better-known of the two.

This 1966 right-hand-drive example was fully restored in 1997, a project meticulously documented with a photo record and invoices. The work was notable enough to be featured in the June 1998 issue of Practical Classics magazine, a copy of which accompanies the car. It later made a screen appearance in the Christmas special episode of Heartbeat, broadcast in 2002, perfectly in keeping with the era of this quintessentially British series.

Finished in red with black faux-leather upholstery, this right-hand-drive car is fitted with wire wheels, a Webasto sunroof and a wooden steering wheel. Under the bonnet, the 2,553 cc Ford six-cylinder is mated to a four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. A complete history file comes with the sale, including inspection reports, an FFVE document, restoration photos, invoices and the owner's service book.

Key information

Mileage: 96,721 miles (155,657 km), stated as accurate by the seller
Country of registration: United Kingdom; English registration documents present. A French historic grey card (carte grise de collection) could be obtained
MOT: valid until 23 July 2028
Technical specifications: 2,553 cc Ford petrol six-cylinder, four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive
Documents: history file, inspection reports, FFVE document, restoration photo file, invoices, owner's service book and a copy of the Practical Classics article

The details

Bodywork in good overall condition in appearance, with some minor faults noted
Panel alignment correct, except for the front left door, which needs adjusting
Brightwork in good condition, except for the front bumper, which shows oxidation and distortion
Paintwork showing slight wear, consistent with the vehicle's age
Faux-leather upholstery in acceptable condition, with advanced wear on exposed areas, a slight tear at the base of the front right seat and sagging foam
Electronic ignition fitted
Power-assisted brakes
Stainless steel exhaust system
Cylinder head suitable for unleaded fuel
The seller states the car drives very well

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also accept the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, meaning that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by the Car & Classic terms and conditions.

✓ We require non-refundable fees to be paid if you are the successful bidder or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for the specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are provided for guidance only, and it is standard practice to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle before purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or bid price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want the transaction to go smoothly, just like you, which is why cars and motorcycles registered in the UK and listed for sale on Car & Classic are subject to an HPI check to confirm they carry no insurance database markers for damage or theft and are not subject to a financial lien, so you can bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as written off following a total loss at the time the listing is placed on Car & Classic, and we provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle's status, so it is always worthwhile carrying out a full vehicle history check before making an offer.

✓ Buyers are responsible for collecting or delivering the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third-party transport company to help. For more details and to speak with the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com.