Lot 001: 1977 RELIANT SCIMITAR GTE

Launched in 1968, Reliant's Scimitar GTE was the original 'lifestyle estate'. Stablemate to the Scimitar GT Coupe and designed by Ogle's Tom Karen, the GTE was also the first car to offer split fold rear seats. Following established company practice, it utilised a stiff, separate chassis to underpin its lightweight, rust free glassfibre bodywork. With independent coil and wishbone front suspension, a Watts linkage located 'live' rear axle, rack and pinion steering and disc / drum brakes, handling was a strong point. Powered by a Ford 'Essex' 3 litre V6 engine developing 138bhp and 175lbft of torque, the GTE was tested at over 120mph and could reputedly sprint to 60mph in 8.9 seconds. Progressively updated, the original SE5 GTE gave way to the SE6 in 1975. Boasting more cabin space and better fittings than its predecessor, the SE6's mild restyle also encompassed new safety bumpers. Introduced the following year, the revised SE6A brought improved dual circuit braking, revised spring / damper rates and higher build quality. In the current ownership for the last 10 years, this example was professionally resprayed in Jaguar Flamenco maroon some time ago and the chassis waxoyled. Whilst in the previous ownership we understand that the engine, gearbox, overdrive unit and steering rack were replaced and the car is now in daily use having spent 8 years in storage. Said by the owner to be "reliable with traditional endearing Scimitar faults", it is offered with Swansea V5, MoT certificate expiring January 2009, history file and some spares.