HIGHLIGHTS

Exclusive and rare British four-seater sports-tourer
Gorgeous Trafalgar Blue metallic coachwork
Excellent original interior
Very low mileage on original Ford 2.8-litre V6
Fresh ‘Pass’ MOT valid until April 2024

THE APPEAL

Reliant launched their first fibreglass-bodied 4-wheeled car in 1961 - the open sports Sabre 4 - which paved the way for several GT models during the 1960’s and ’70’s, with the popular GTE being produced in the greatest numbers. Famously, Princess Anne has enjoyed owning no less than eight GTE’s!.

Based on the GTE, the distinctive GTC (SE8b) still retains all the practicality of a sports tourer with comfortable seating for four, decent storage space, and in this case, powered by the iconic and torquey Ford 2.8-litre V6 ‘Cologne’ engine. Poised and well balanced, the GTC is reminiscent of other classic marques, in particular, the Jensen Interceptor’s imposing quad headlight’s and vertical nose.

This fine survivor is one of a mere 442 convertibles that were hand-built at the Tamworth factory during the six years of production and is definitely an exclusive and affordable alternative to obvious contemporaries, such as the Triumph Stag.

Eye-catching, this Scimitar is cosmetically wonderful and appears to have been mechanically well maintained. A rare opportunity to enjoy the delights of a very rare British classic.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

First registered on the 1st June 1981
V5 (in previous owner’s name)
Original Owner’s Handbook
Very low mileage each year since at least 2006
Mainly stored for the last few years
Plenty of maintenance invoices from 1998 to 2022
MOT history since 1992
Recent ‘Pass’ MOT valid until the 3rd April 2024
Currently untaxed (exempt)

Always residing in the south of the U.K., this Scimitar has clearly been kept in fine fettle cosmetically and mechanically, and having been largely stored in recent years, has travelled very few miles.

THE INTERIOR

Original specification cabin in excellent condition
Excellent dash with no sun damage evident
Stylish Mountney leather/alloy steering wheel
Comprehensive range of Smiths instrumentation
All gauges and switches are said to operate
Near perfect door cards
Electric windows
Safety features include hazard warning lights
Modern Sony sound system
Luxurious velour upholstery in virtually mint condition
Folding rear seats reveal useful additional storage space
Great carpeting throughout
Immaculate boot containing a wheel brace, jack and a few spares

THE EXTERIOR

Shimmering deep shine to the paintwork
Believed to be Reliant Trafalgar Blue metallic
No obvious cracks or crazing to the body or gel coat
A couple of minor scratches (see photos)
Perfect (and extensive) lighting
Unmatched mirrors
Sabre badges and correct trim, all in good condition
Fairly new Mohair hood with clear windows
Very clean and robust looking chassis and outriggers
Suspension mounting points look reassuringly sound
There is a good even coating of underseal
Refurbished factory option 14” Wolfrace alloy wheels
Toyo front tyres and Vredestein rears with plenty of remaining tread

THE MECHANICS

Clean and presentable engine compartment
The bonnet has been coated with heat protection
Original 2,792cc Ford V6 ‘Cologne’ engine
Running on the factory-spec’ Solex-Pierburg carburettor
Believed to have Ford C3 3-speed automatic transmission
Fairly new alloy radiator, thermostat and housing
Recent spark plugs and H.T. leads
Differential is said to be quiet
Precise power-assisted steering
Triumph TR-based front suspension
Competent dual circuit disc/drum brakes
Stainless steel rear exhausts
Easy ownership and decent parts availability

The vendor is pleased to report that this GTC “drives and handles really well” with no known issues.

SUMMARY

The reliant Scimitar GTC is, without doubt, an exclusive and appreciating British hand-built classic.

Completely up together and ready to enjoy this summer, this GTC would make a perfectly capable everyday mode of transport, or clearly a fun Sunday car or interesting rarity at any car show.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

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