Highlights
- Low mileage example
- Original interior
- Original exterior
- Perfect project base
The Appeal
Produced for over 20 years, the Scimitar proved to be quite a success for Reliant and stands as a considerably underrated classic sports car. The GTE model and its iconic shooting brake body style have aged like fine wine, and now present quite an attractive platform for enthusiasts.
This particular GTE has covered an astonishingly low 48k and now presents itself in what is believed to be its original finish. As there are various visual defects and minor mechanical components that require attention this is best described as somewhat of a project vehicle.
The History and Paperwork
- Low mileage example
- Ideal project car
After nearly 50 years of existence, this Scimitar now shows just 48K on the clock, with 11 recorded former keepers. This low mileage figure is supported by previous MOT certificates from the early 90s and rather remarkably appears to be correct.
Included alongside previous MOT certificates are the old V5C document and a collection of invoices detailing previous parts & labour.
The Interior
- Original interior
- Two-spoke GTE steering wheel
- Great condition
Thanks to its shooting-brake body style, the Scimitar GTE actually offers quite a spacious and practical interior, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
This particular example shows off what is believed to be the original interior, which appears to have been very well preserved over the years. The seats all seemingly show only very minor signs of use, with the rear seats appearing to have hardly been used.
Expectedly, the interior does show its fair share of wear & tear, but nothing too major. Perhaps most noticeable, are imperfections with the door cards, minor discolouration to the rear armrest, and a few untidy carpet edges.
Defects aside, the interior certainly presents itself well for its age, and likely wouldn’t require much in the way of restoration to obtain a near defect-free finish.
The Exterior
- Fibreglass body
- Original paintwork
- Wolfrace Slot Mag wheels
- Restoration project
This Reliant seemingly presents itself in impressive condition for an original 1974 model, and now offers a fun project for someone looking to restore one of history’s most unsung sports cars.
Now, part of why so many Scimitars survived the test of time, is due to their fibreglass bodywork, which is of course immune to the corrosion that tends to plague most vehicles. That being said, this body could certainly use a few minor repairs and a new lick of paint for a perfect finish.
Whilst the fibreglass bodywork is immune to corrosion, brightwork and the underside components certainly aren’t. As such, it should be expected to find visible corrosion with the chrome bumpers, and various signs of age with external trim pieces.
Whilst the fibreglass bodywork is immune to corrosion, brightwork and the underside components certainly aren’t. As such, it should be expected to find visible corrosion with the chrome bumpers, and various signs of age with external trim pieces.
If a light restoration is on the cards, the chrome would certainly benefit from being either replaced or refinished, as would the headlight rings and the tail lights.
The Mechanics
- Ford V6 3.0 L engine
- 4-speed manual
- Engine runs
As previously mentioned, this vehicle is to be sold as a project, as it does require a bit of love to return to its former glory. However, as the engine turns over and runs, you’re presented with an excellent starting point.
Unfortunately, the car does require a new radiator, and would no doubt benefit from a light mechanical overhaul wherever possible. Upon completion, you’ll then have one of the most exciting sports cars of the 70s, ready to be enjoyed on the modern roads for the first time in quite some time.
Summary
This Reliant Scimitar offers a fantastic project for those looking to restore one of the quirkiest classic sports cars of all time. The car isn’t a million miles away from being ready, but would no doubt benefit from a thorough job, and mechanical attention.
That being said, you’re unlikely to find a better starting platform, as this is one of the lowest mileage original examples you’re likely to find. As such, it should be snapped up while the opportunity still presents itself.
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