The 1966 Reliant Scimitar GT SE4 remains one of the most collectible British sports cars from the 1960s. This example is one of roughly 300 SE4s produced between 1964 and 1966. First registered in Stockport, England, it was refurbished in 2007 with a new chassis and metallic blue gelcoat finish. The car arrived in the United States in June 2025, preserving both its classic appeal and mechanical integrity.
Engine and Performance Details
Power comes from a Ford Zephyr-sourced 2.6-liter inline-six engine, rated at 120 horsepower. A four-speed manual transmission with overdrive on third and fourth gear sends torque to the rear wheels. Triple SU carburetors and a stainless-steel dual-exit exhaust enhance both performance and sound. Recent maintenance included replacement spark plugs, ignition components, and rebuilt starter and dynamo, ensuring the drivetrain remains reliable.
Exterior Design and Features
The Scimitar GT SE4 showcases metallic blue fiberglass bodywork refinished during refurbishment. Chrome bumpers, dual side mirrors, flip-up fuel cap, reverse lights, and a dual-exit stainless exhaust complete the vintage exterior styling. Silver-painted 15″ wire wheels with chrome knock-off hubs ride on 165/80 Federal SuperSteel whitewall tires, contributing to the classic British look. A spare wheel is neatly stowed beneath the trunk floor.
Suspension, Steering, and Brakes
Riding on a 92″ wheelbase, the Scimitar GT features independent front suspension, coil springs at all corners, and a live rear axle with modified Watt’s linkage. Rack-and-pinion steering ensures precise control. Braking is handled by power-assisted front discs and rear drums, combining period-correct technology with practical stopping power. Recent replacement upper ball joints enhance reliability.
Interior and Driver Experience
Inside, the right-hand-drive cockpit is trimmed in black vinyl low-back bucket seats. Matching door panels and carpeting add cohesion, while woodgrain dashboard trim provides classic flair. The leather-wrapped two-spoke steering wheel frames Smiths instrumentation, including a 140-mph speedometer, 6k-rpm tachometer, and auxiliary gauges. Features such as a locking glovebox, clock, and three-point seatbelts enhance driver usability without detracting from vintage authenticity.
Heritage and Documentation
This Scimitar includes superseded UK registration documents, import paperwork, literature, service records, tools, and a clean Virginia title. Originally associated with Derek Warburton Motor Cycles Ltd., the car carries historical continuity from its UK origins. Its limited production, documented refurbishment, and provenance make it a rare example of the SE4 series.
Summary
The 1966 Reliant Scimitar GT SE4 combines Ford 2.6L inline-six performance, classic British styling, and restored mechanical reliability. With triple SU carburetors, four-speed manual with overdrive, metallic blue finish, and wire wheels, it embodies mid-1960s sports car engineering and design. This SE4 remains a rare, fully documented, and road-ready collector’s car.
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Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
