Reliant Scimitar GT

Code Name (SE4) 

As the Sabre 6 began looking a bit dated, Managing Director "Ray Wiggin" started looking for a new design.  While at the 1962 Motor Show, Ray Wiggin saw a car called an OGLE SX250.  It had been designed by David Ogle (of David Ogle Associates, later known as Ogle Design) and it was based on the Daimler Dart SP250 chassis and running gear.  The car had been privately commissioned by a managing director of the Helena Rubenstein Company (UK) called Boris Forter, who later had another one built for his girlfriend.

Above:  Advert for Ogle Design

Daimler didn't use the design, so Reliant approached Ogle Design and asked to buy the rights for the design.  As well as some subtle changes, the body shell of Ogle SX250 was further modified to fit the existing Reliant Sabre chassis and running gear.  It retained the same straight six engine from the Sabre, but included triple SU carburettors as standard, which now produced 120 bhp and propelled the car to a top speed of 117 mph.  It was 1964 when Reliant launched their new Scimitar GT at the Earls Court Motor Show.  

Above: The first car was actually badged as an Ogle Scimitar GT (note the square badge on the bonnet).

The Scimitar GT was praised for its elegant lines and performance figures for a price of £1,292.  The price included wire wheels, a luxurious interior with comprehensive instrumentation. 

Above: The Ogle Scimitar GT interior.

Optional extras included a choice of De Normanville overdrive unit, electric sunroof and ZF gearbox.  Reliant produced approximately 296 straight six Scimitar GT's.

Above: A Concourse Reliant Scimitar GT at Curborough in 2005