Reliant Scimitar GTE SE6A Automatic

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Popularised by Princess Anne in the 1970s (she owned at least eight, all with the registration number 1420 H, and was famously caught speeding in one of them), the Reliant Scimitar GTE remains one of the most practical classics that money can buy.

Clothed in a handsome glassfibre body designed by Ogle and powered by the trusty Ford Essex 3-litre V6 engine and box, this sporting estate offers a huge amount of style and versatility for very little money. Indeed not only was it good enough for Princess Anne, Prince Phillip also bought one to replace his 3-Litre Lagonda, Prince Edward Duke of Kent owned one, as did Dickie Davis, Noel Edmonds, George Lazenby and Rita Tushingham, to name but a few.

Launched as the SE5 in 1968, The original SE5 was replaced by the SE5A in September 1972 which had a revised interior fascia, different rear lights with integral reversing lamps and indicators, and a slightly more powerful engine which made it good for 0-60 in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 121mph. In 1976 this was in turn replaced by the wider and heavier SE6. In 1977 it gained improved brakes and suspension and became the SE6A before morphing into the final SE6B with a less-torquey 2.8-litre Cologne engine. Production of all models came to an end in 1986.

First registered in October 1978, this particular SE6A has had just one owner since 1981 but has been mainly kept in storage for the last few years due to illness. Presented in Old English White with a blue Everflex roof, it also the unusual option of a blue leather interior, most Scimitars coming with a cloth and vinyl interior as standard.

Reputedly kept garaged throughout the current ownership, we are told that the car still starts and runs but will no doubt benefit from a thorough recommissioning before use. Coming to the sale from a deceased estate, it has a V5C and an owner’s manual and is being offered here at no reserve so the highest bid takes it.