Scimitar

Scimitar is a model name given to several sports cars from the British automobile manufacturer Reliant. The first Scimitar GT SE4 was a coupe, whose styling was based on the prototype of Daimler SP250 and the chassis was based on Reliant’s other model Sabre. This 2.6 L Ford straight six installed model was first displayed in 1964. Later, two more versions of this model was released: one with a V6 3.0 L Ford "Essex" engine and the other economical version with a 2.5 L engine.

The next model released under the Scimitar label was the GTE SE5 in 1968 with the option of 2.5 L and 3.0 L model: the latter achieved a top speed of over 120mph. The automatic transmission was added in 1970, however, it was immediately replaced with a 4-speed manual. The 5A version of this model with power boost was the most popular car sold under Scimitar. The GTE SE6 was a two-door model estate engineered with Ford V6 3.0 L engine and the improved model was called the SE6A, which had better braking than its predecessor.

In 1980, Reliant introduced the GTC, a four-seater, and only 442 units of this model were produced. The SS1 designed by Michelotti was manufactured to fill a gap in the small sports car market. With the chassis inspired by the Lotus Elan, it was available in 1300cc and 1600 cc versions. Soon, they were replaced by 1400 cc and the restyled SS1 was called the SS2. The last model produced under the Scimitar name was the Sabre, the second fastest car ever made by Reliant.