Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)
Overview: The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** was a bold move for Reliant, introducing a **convertible version** of the successful **Scimitar GTE**. It was significant for several reasons:
- **First Open-Top Scimitar** – The GTC was the **only convertible** in the Scimitar lineup, offering a **Targa-style roof** with a removable hardtop.
- **Luxury & Exclusivity** – It was positioned as a **premium grand tourer**, competing with cars like the **Triumph Stag**, which had already ceased production.
- **Royal Endorsement** – **Princess Anne**, a long-time Scimitar enthusiast, owned a GTC, further boosting its reputation.
- **Limited Production** – Only **442 units** were built, making it a rare and collectible model today.
- **Market Challenges** – Despite its appeal, the GTC struggled due to the **economic recession** of the early 1980s, limiting its sales potential.
While the **GTC** didn’t achieve massive sales success, it reinforced Reliant’s reputation for **innovative British sports cars** and remains a sought-after classic.
*****
Production Total: The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** had a total production run of **442 units**. This makes it one of the rarer Scimitar models, adding to its appeal among collectors.
*****
Price New: In **1980**, the **Reliant Scimitar GTC** was priced at approximately **£8,000–£10,000** when new in the UK. This positioned it as a premium **convertible grand tourer**, competing with models like the **Triumph Stag** and **Jaguar XJ-S**.
*****
Target Age Group: The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** was aimed at **middle-class professionals and motoring enthusiasts** who wanted a stylish, practical, and performance-oriented British convertible. It appealed to drivers looking for a **fast, versatile grand tourer** that combined the excitement of a sports car with the practicality of an estate.
Its **Targa-style roof** and **removable hardtop** made it particularly attractive to those who wanted a car that could handle long-distance cruising while still offering open-top motoring. The **Ford Essex V6 engine** provided strong performance, making it a compelling choice for those who wanted something different from traditional coupes or saloons.
*****
Sales: The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** had a tough time in the market. While it was well-received by enthusiasts and the press, Britain was heading into a **recession**, making it difficult for Reliant to find enough buyers at its **£11,360 price tag** (equivalent to around **£40,000 today**).
Only **442 units** were produced before Reliant ceased production in **1986**. Despite its limited sales, the **GTC** remains one of the most desirable Scimitar models today, thanks to its rarity and unique **convertible design**.
*****
Rivals: In **1980**, the **Reliant Scimitar GTC** faced competition from several British sports cars. Here are estimated new prices of its main rivals at the time:
- **Triumph Stag** – Around **£7,000–£8,000**.
- **Jaguar XJ-S V12** – Around **£15,000–£20,000**.
- **Lotus Elite Type 75** – Around **£10,000–£12,000**.
- **Ford Capri 3.0S** – Around **£6,000–£7,500**.
The **Scimitar GTC**, priced at **£8,000–£10,000**, was positioned as a premium **convertible grand tourer**, competing with these models in terms of performance and exclusivity.
*****
Recorded in UK 2025
As of **2025**, there are approximately **0 Reliant Scimitar GTCs** recorded as licensed for road use in the UK, with **0 listed as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)**. This suggests that while some may still exist in private collections or restoration projects, they are not officially registered for road use.
*****
COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** shares many of the same quirks as the **GTE**, but with a few unique issues due to its **convertible design**. Here are some common faults:
- **Fiberglass Body Issues** – The **gel coat** can suffer from **crazing, cracking, and fading**, especially on older restorations.
- **Chassis Rust** – The **steel frame** is prone to corrosion, particularly around the **suspension mounts and outriggers**.
- **Convertible Roof Wear** – The **soft top** can deteriorate over time, leading to **leaks and poor fitment**.
- **Electrical Problems** – Wiring can degrade, causing **faulty gauges, poor earthing, and intermittent lighting issues**.
- **Cooling System Issues** – Overheating can occur due to **blocked radiators, failing water pumps, or poor airflow**.
- **Front Suspension Wear** – The **trunnions** need regular maintenance, or they can wear out and affect handling.
- **Interior Deterioration** – The **plastic trim and carpets** can suffer from **water leaks**, leading to **damp and mold issues**.
Despite these faults, the **Scimitar GTC** remains a **durable and rewarding classic**, with good parts availability and a strong enthusiast community](https://www.hagerty.co.uk/articles/buying-guides/buying-guide-reliant-scimitar-gte-gtc-1968-1986/).
*****
Generations/Trim Levels
The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** was a single-generation model, but it did have some variations in trim and mechanical updates over its production run. Here’s a breakdown:
**Generations & Trim Levels**
- **SE8B (1980-1985)** – The only official version of the GTC, based on the **SE6B** chassis but featuring a **convertible body** with a **Targa-style removable hardtop**.
- **Engine Variants** – Initially powered by the **Ford Essex 3.0L V6**, later models switched to the **Ford Cologne 2.8L V6** for improved efficiency.
- **Luxury Features** – Offered **electric windows, power steering, alloy wheels**, and optional **leather upholstery**.
- **Limited Production** – Only **442 units** were built, making it one of the rarest Scimitar models.
The **GTC** was a unique addition to the Scimitar lineup, blending **open-top motoring with grand touring practicality**.
*****
Engine/s & Performance
The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** was powered by two different **Ford V6 engines** over its production run. Here are the key specifications:
**Ford Essex 3.0L V6 (Early Models)**
- **Displacement:** **2,994 cc**
- **Power Output:** **138 hp @ 5,000 rpm**
- **Torque:** **192 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm**
- **Compression Ratio:** **8.9:1**
- **Fuel System:** **Single carburetor**
- **Transmission:** **4-speed manual**
- **Top Speed:** **121 mph**
- **0-60 mph Acceleration:** **8.5 seconds**
- **Fuel Consumption:** **~25 mpg (estimated)**
**Ford Cologne 2.8L V6 (Later Models)**
- **Displacement:** **2,792 cc**
- **Power Output:** **133 hp @ 5,200 rpm**
- **Torque:** **159 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm**
- **Compression Ratio:** **9.2:1**
- **Fuel System:** **Twin-barrel carburetor**
- **Transmission:** **5-speed manual**
- **Top Speed:** **124 mph**
- **0-60 mph Acceleration:** **~9 seconds**
- **Fuel Tank Capacity:** **20 UK gallons (91L)**
The **Essex V6** was known for its **torquey, muscular character**, while the **Cologne V6** offered **better efficiency and refinement**. Both engines gave the **Scimitar GTC** a strong grand touring capability.
*****
Rivals
Here’s how the **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** compared to its main rivals in terms of performance:
- **Reliant Scimitar GTC** – **133 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~9.0 sec**, **top speed: ~124 mph**.
- **Triumph Stag** – **145 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~9.0 sec**, **top speed: ~120 mph**.
- **Ford Capri 3.0S** – **138 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~8.0 sec**, **top speed: ~122 mph**.
- **Jaguar XJ-S V12** – **295 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~7.6 sec**, **top speed: ~150 mph**.
- **Lotus Elite Type 75** – **160 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~8.1 sec**, **top speed: ~125 mph**.
The **Scimitar GTC** was competitive in performance, offering a strong **Ford Cologne 2.8L V6 engine** and respectable speed, though it lacked the prestige of brands like **Jaguar** and **Lotus**.
*****
Designer/Dimensions
The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** was designed by **Tom Karen** of **Ogle Design**, the same firm responsible for the earlier **Scimitar GTE** models. Karen refined the **shooting brake concept** into a stylish **convertible grand tourer**, featuring a **Targa-style removable hardtop**.
**Dimensions**
- **Length:** **4,432 mm**
- **Width:** **1,720 mm**
- **Height:** **1,321 mm**
- **Wheelbase:** **2,637 mm**
- **Kerb Weight:** **1,226 kg**
The **GTC** retained the **fiberglass body** and **steel chassis** of the GTE but introduced **structural reinforcements** to accommodate the convertible roof.
*****
Spares/Specialists NI
You’ve got some great options for **Reliant Scimitar GTC** spares in the UK and Ireland! Here are a few places to check out:
- **[Queensberry Road Garage](https://www.scimitarparts.com/)** – One of the leading Scimitar specialists, offering **new, OEM, and NOS parts** for various Scimitar models.
- **[Ultimate Styling](https://ultimatestyling.co.uk/reliant-scimitar-parts)** – A large online retailer with a wide selection of **Reliant Scimitar parts**, including wiper blades and filters.
- **[Spares House](https://www.spareshouse.co.uk/car-parts/reliant/scimitar/)** – Stocks **replacement parts** for the Scimitar, including **brake discs, fuel filters, and wing mirrors**.
Between these sources, you should be able to track down everything from **mechanical components to interior trim**.
**
There are several garages in **Northern Ireland** that may be able to service **Reliant vehicles**, including the **Scimitar GTE**. Here are a few options:
- **[Roadside Motors](https://good-garage-guide.honestjohn.co.uk/garages/r/roadside-motors/)** – Located in **Lisburn**, offering general servicing and repairs.
- **[DNA Vehicle Services](https://good-garage-guide.honestjohn.co.uk/garages/d/dna-vehicle-services/)** – Based in **Ballymena**, specializing in various vehicle repairs.
- **[Sprint Auto](https://good-garage-guide.honestjohn.co.uk/northern-ireland)** – Located in **Belfast**, offering MOT, servicing, and bodywork.
- **[Motofix](https://good-garage-guide.honestjohn.co.uk/northern-ireland)** – Based in **Donaghadee**, providing servicing and repairs.
- **[C R Morrow Ltd](https://good-garage-guide.honestjohn.co.uk/northern-ireland)** – Located in **Newry**, offering servicing and exhaust repairs.
While these garages may not specialize in **Reliant vehicles**, they could still assist with general maintenance and repairs. It’s always best to call ahead and check if they can work on your specific model.
*****
Racing
The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** wasn’t a mainstream racing car, but it did see some action in **club racing and historic motorsport events**. Like its **GTE sibling**, some privately entered **GTCs** competed in **hill climbs, endurance events, and production sports car championships**.
While not a factory-backed race car, its **Ford Cologne 2.8L V6 engine** and lightweight **fiberglass body** made it a capable performer in amateur racing circles. Some modified versions even took part in **classic car rallies** and **track days**, showcasing its grand touring potential.
*****
Valuation
The **Reliant Scimitar GTC (1980-85)** has a wide range of values in the UK in **2025**, depending on condition and rarity. Here’s an estimate based on recent sales:
- **Project Condition:** **£2,470–£5,000**
- **Good Condition (Roadworthy, Some Wear):** **£5,800 (Median Price)**
- **Excellent Condition (Restored, Low Mileage):** **£15,266 (Highest Recorded Sale)**
Prices can vary based on **originality, service history, and modifications**. The **Scimitar GTC** remains a sought-after classic, with values steadily increasing.
*****
Clubs
While there isn't a **Northern Ireland-specific** Reliant Sabre club, you can still connect with enthusiasts through broader Reliant owner groups. The **Reliant Owners Club** welcomes all Reliant models, including the Sabre, and hosts events across the UK. Additionally, the **Reliant Sabre and Scimitar Owners Club (RSSOC)** focuses on Sabres and Scimitars, offering resources and community support.
*****