1981 Reliant Scimitar GTC

Highlights

• One of only 442 Reliant GTC models ever produced
• Recently undergone comprehensive renovation with documented history
• Recently underwent unleaded conversion
• Complete with hardtop, wind deflector and numerous spare parts
• MOT valid until October 2025 with no advisories

The Appeal

In 1967, expectations were rising for the British car industry, and Reliant were having trouble standing out against the wider market. They were almost exclusively an economy car manufacturer, at a time when people expected something with a little more pizazz and flamboyance.
They company's pipe-smoking top brass began casting their eyes upon the existing Scimitar name with interest, and opted for something bolder, faster and with the flavour of a continental-style tourer. The Lamborghini Espada was in the notes list, and it was Tom Karen of Ogle Design who styled a new four-seater GT for the Tamworth firm.
The convertible was introduced in 1980, taking more than a few cues from the likes of the now-defunct Triumph Stag, which much less in the way of engine fires. For much of the car's rear profile, all the panels were new and extra bracing was added, while the roll hoop from the GTE was retained. It was a handsome set-up indeed, and the strengthening even got rid of the more 'rattly' elements of the car's hard-top counterpart.
A best-of-British, lambo-inspired, sure-footed top-down tourer? What a sales pitch - sign us up!
Sadly, the Scimitar GTC was a victim of poor timing. The country fell into a recession, and the Scimitar never quite recovered its sales figures. Only 442 GTCs were ever produced - a truly scarce, capable classic that's well worthy of your attention.

This 1981 Scimitar GTC has been sympathetically renovated, with comprehensive mechanical and bodywork restoration completed by marque specialists. With its documented history, recent unleaded conversion, and fully operational overdrive gearbox, this Scimitar presents a rare opportunity to acquire a thoroughly sorted example of this uncommon British sports car.

History and Paperwork

• First registered on 10th February 1981
• Showing 21,715 miles on the odometer
• Comes with significant documented history and a clear HPI check
• MOT valid until October 2025 with no advisories
• Comprehensive renovation recently completed with full documentation in the history file
• All parts and support sourced from marque specialists Graham Walker
• Includes hardtop, wind deflector and numerous spare parts

The Condition

• Body has undergone extensive repairs including work to the lower valance
• Gel coat repaired as required and professionally resprayed
• Chassis outriggers welded and treated for corrosion
• Underside and wheel arches protected with matt black stone chip coating
• Original-style pin stripe replaced
• Soft top poppers and webbing repaired
• Fitted with new tyres
• Comes with upgrade headlamps (included but not fitted)
• Sports steering wheel included with the sale

The Mechanics

• 2,792cc (2.8L Ford Cologne V6) engine
• Manual 4-speed transmission with fully operational overdrive
• Recent unleaded cylinder head conversion
• Timing gear inspected as part of renovation
• Full service recently completed
• Cooling system flushed and repaired
• Brake system overhauled including replacement pipework
• Overdrive switch replaced
• Appears in very good mechanical order following comprehensive renovation

BEFORE YOU BUY

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