Lot 157 - 1974 Reliant Scimitar GTE
| Lot Number | 157 |
| Registration | PRU 550M |
| Chassis Number | 93X4179 |
| Engine Number | SC7797 |
| Odometer reading | 92,993 miles |
| Result | Sold - £11,760 |
- Beautifully restored
- Well maintained
- Photographic record of restoration
The SE5 model of Reliant’s classic Scimitar came with the 3.0 litre Ford Essex engine providing a claimed top speed of over 120mph. A Borg-Warner automatic transmission was added as an option in 1970 and by 1971, overdrive on the four-speed manual was offered. In 1972 several improvements were included in the upgrade to SE5A, including a boost in power. The extra 7hp and maximum engine speed raised performance, the GTE was now capable of 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and top speed was raised to 121mph, more of a luxury model than the SE5. These models were two-door sports estates, again with the Ford V6 engine, the wheelbase was increased by 4” and the track by 3” making the cars correspondingly longer and wider than their predecessors. The 5A model sold more than any other Scimitar, with 5105 manufactured. Princess Anne was given a manual overdrive SE5 for a joint 20th birthday and Christmas present in November 1970 by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh. It was Air Force blue in colour with a grey leather interior and registration plate 1420 H in recognition of her position as Colonel-in-Chief of the 14th/20th Hussars. Princess Anne later owned eight other Scimitar GTE’s.
Unlike most Scimitars, the car offered here has been showered in love since its frame off, nut and bolt restoration in the mid 1990’s. Seeing the car today however, you’d be forgiven for thinking the car was restored much more recently, as it still presents as new. The paintwork gleams and the interior is unmarked. First registered on 9th May 1972, this beautiful example was restored by an engineer and his attention to detail is clear throughout. He took photographs of the restoration process where the chassis and body can all be seen at their various stages of restoration. The car is fitted with an overdrive gearbox mated to the fantastic Ford Essex 2994cc V6. The vendor reports the car to run and drive as new and is only selling the car to make room for a new project.
Supplied with a V5C registration document, MoT test certificates, receipts for work carried out including four new tyres in 2018, photographic record of the restoration, original Owner’s handbook and workshop manuals. It even comes with a beautiful pastel drawing of the car. Not to be confused with your average Scimitar, this car represents the best.
Interested parties should note that the reserve on this vehicle has been lowered and the revised estimate is £10,000-£15,000.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.