Reliant Scimitar

GT SE4 (1964-1970) Reliant's first Scimitar was a coupé based on the Daimler SP250. It was first displayed in 1964.

In 1969, the SE4A, was replaced by the SE4B with a V6 3-litre Ford 'Essex' engine. The cheaper SE4C came with a 2.5-litre Ford engine. Just over 1000 SE4s were produced.

GTE SE5 (1968-1975) Based on the chassis of the earlier coupé, the four-seater GTE SE5 came with either 2.5 or 3 litre engines. The 3 litre engine, which gave this model a top speed of over 120mph, was more popular, and the 2.5 litre version was later dropped.

The 5a model sold more than any other Scimitar model and is often seen as the 'classic' Scimitar.

GTE SE6 (1975-1979) More of a luxury model than the SE5, the SE6 series was promoted at the executive market. These models were two-door sports estates, again with the Ford V6 3 litre engine, and were a few inches longer than their predecessor

The SE6A displayed a number of improvements, including the option of power steering.

Ford had stopped making the 'Essex' engine by 1979, which was one of the major differences with the SE6B. The Cologne 2.8 Litre V6 was used instead. Less than 500 SE6Bs were made.

GTC/ SE8 (1979-1986) The convertible version of the Scimitar GTE was known as the GTC or SE8. It was modelled closely on the SE6 and still included four seats and the 2.8L Cologne engine. Less than 500 convertible models were made.

SS1 (1984-1990) Aiming to fill a gap in the small sports car market, the Michelotti-designed SS1 was launched. The chassis was inspired by the Lotus Elan. 1300 and 1600cc Ford engines were used, and later the Nissan 1800cc Turbo engine. The car never met the sales targets and only 1500 were produced.

SS2/SST (1988-95) Restylings of the SS1 in 1988 and 1990 (by William Towns) led to the SS2 and SST. The SS2 was going to be targeted towards an American market, but never got to the production stage.

Scimitar Sabre (1991-1995) This was the last Scimitar. Based on the chassis of the SS1 and SST, it was released in 1991, with a restyle in 1993. The Rover[?] K 1.4 litre engine made this the fastest ever Reliant. Production finished in May 1995 when Reliant were taken over.

Middlebridge (1988-1990) When production at Reliant ceased in 1986, Middlebridge Scimitar acquired the manufacturing rights. This company, based in Nottingham, produced a 2.9 litre version with many modifications and modernisations.

Less than 100 Scimitars were ever produced by Middlebridge, and, in 1990, production rights went to Graham Walker, who builds Scimitars to order.

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