Reliant Sabre Six GT (1962-64)

Overview: The **Reliant Sabre Six GT (1962-64)** was a significant step for Reliant, marking its move into more powerful, performance-oriented sports cars. It was an evolution of the **Sabre Four**, featuring a **2.6L Ford straight-six engine**, boosting power to **109 bhp** and allowing a top speed of **110 mph**. 

Reliant introduced the Sabre Six to compete with established British sports cars, refining its design with a **shorter nose, rounded rear arches, and improved suspension**. While only **77 units** were produced, it gained attention through **international rally participation**, including the **Alpine Rally, RAC Rally, and Monte Carlo Rally**, where modified versions showcased its capabilities. 

Despite its limited sales, the Sabre Six helped establish Reliant’s reputation in motorsport and paved the way for the later **Scimitar models**, which became far more successful. 

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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 Sabre Six GT, like many classic cars, has its share of common faults. Here are a few issues that owners and enthusiasts often encounter: 

1. **Chassis Corrosion**: The steel chassis can suffer from rust, particularly in areas exposed to moisture. 

2. **Fiberglass Body**: The fiberglass body can develop cracks and imperfections over time. 

3. **Electrical Issues**: As with many older cars, the electrical system can be prone to faults and may require rewiring. 

4. **Suspension Wear**: The suspension components can wear out and need replacement. 

5. **Engine Problems**: The Ford Zodiac engine is generally reliable, but issues such as oil leaks, smoky exhausts, and cooling system problems can arise. These issues are typical for a car of its age and can be addressed with proper maintenance and restoration. 

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Generations/Trim Levels 

The Reliant Sabre Six GT was produced in just one generation, from **1962 to 1964**. There were no subsequent versions or updates to this model. 

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Designer/Dimensions

The **Reliant Sabre Six GT (1962-64)** was designed by **David Page** and **Eddie Pepall** at Reliant. The design evolved from the earlier **Sabre Four**, with a revised front end and improved suspension.

Here are its dimensions:

- **Length:** 4,050 mm

- **Width:** 1,550 mm

- **Height:** 1,270 mm

- **Wheelbase:** 2,286 mm

- **Front & Rear Track:** 1,270 mm

- **Kerb Weight:** 816 kg

It was compact, lightweight, and built for agility, making it a fun but rare choice in the sports car market.

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Production Total: The Reliant Sabre Six GT had a total production run of 77 cars. This includes 75 coupes and 2 convertibles. ***** 

Price New: The **Reliant Sabre Six GT** was priced at around **£1,200–£1,500** when new in the UK in **1962**. This positioned it as an affordable yet niche British sports car, competing with models like the Triumph TR4 and MG B.

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Sales: The **Reliant Sabre Six GT (1962-64)** was not a commercial success. Despite its **2.6L Ford straight-six engine** and rally pedigree, only **75 coupes and 2 convertibles** were produced. While praised for its driving position and grand touring capabilities, it struggled against larger manufacturers with greater resources. 

Reliant’s limited budget meant it couldn’t compete effectively in the sports car market, and the Sabre Six remained a niche model. However, its participation in **international rallies** helped build Reliant’s reputation in motorsport. 

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Rivals: In **1962**, the **Reliant Sabre Six GT** faced competition from several British sports cars. Here are estimated new prices of its main rivals at the time:

- **Triumph TR4** – Around **£950–£1,100**

- **MG B** – Around **£850–£1,000**

- **Lotus Elan S1** – Around **£1,500–£1,800**

- **Jaguar E-Type Series 1** – Around **£2,000–£2,500**

- **Ford Lotus Cortina Mk1** – Around **£1,100–£1,300**

The Sabre Six, priced at **£1,200–£1,500**, was positioned as a stylish and performance-oriented alternative to these models, though it remained a niche choice.

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Here’s how the **Reliant Sabre Six GT (1962-64)** compared to its main rivals in terms of performance:

- **Reliant Sabre Six GT** – **109 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~12.2 sec**, **top speed: ~110 mph**.

- **Triumph TR4** – **105 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~11.5 sec**, **top speed: ~109 mph**.

- **MG B** – **95 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~12.0 sec**, **top speed: ~105 mph**.

- **Lotus Elan S1** – **105 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~8.0 sec**, **top speed: ~115 mph**.

- **Jaguar E-Type Series 1** – **265 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~7.0 sec**, **top speed: ~150 mph**.

- **Ford Lotus Cortina Mk1** – **105 HP**, **0-60 mph in ~9.5 sec**, **top speed: ~108 mph**.

The **Sabre Six GT** was competitive in performance, offering a strong **straight-six engine** and respectable speed, though it lacked the prestige of brands like **Jaguar** and **Lotus**.

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Engine/s 

The Reliant Sabre Six GT was fitted with a **2.6-liter, inline-six cylinder engine**. This engine was naturally aspirated and produced **109 horsepower (111 PS/81 kW)** at 4800 rpm and **137 lb-ft (186 Nm)** of torque at 2400 rpm. The engine was paired with a **4-speed manual gearbox**. 

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Performance

 The Reliant Sabre Six GT was expected to deliver the following performance: - **Top Speed**: Approximately **111 mph (179 km/h)**. - **Acceleration**: 0 to 60 mph in around **12.2 seconds**. - **Engine Power**: 109 horsepower (111 PS/81 kW) at 4800 rpm. - **Torque**: 137 lb-ft (186 Nm) at 2400 rpm. - **Transmission**: 4-speed manual gearbox. 

These figures made it a respectable performer for its time, especially considering its relatively modest engine size and the era it was produced in. 

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Recorded in UK 2025

As of **2025**, there are **no officially recorded Reliant Sabre Six GTs** still licensed for road use in the UK. This suggests that any remaining examples are either off the road, in private collections, or awaiting restoration.

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Target Age Group: The **Reliant Sabre Six GT (1962-64)** was primarily aimed at **motoring enthusiasts and young professionals** looking for an affordable yet sporty British coupe. With its **2.6L Ford straight-six engine** and rally pedigree, it appealed to drivers who wanted a performance-oriented car without the high costs of more prestigious brands.

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Influence of Target Age Group

The **Reliant Sabre Six GT** (1962-64) was aimed at **enthusiasts and young professionals** who wanted a **sporty yet affordable British coupe**. Unlike mainstream sports cars, the Sabre Six offered **fiberglass construction**, making it lightweight and relatively inexpensive to produce. 

Its **2.6-litre Ford Zodiac straight-six engine**, producing **109 bhp**, provided respectable performance, appealing to drivers who sought **spirited handling and individuality**. The Sabre Six also gained recognition in **international rallying**, reinforcing its appeal to younger buyers interested in motorsport. 

While it wasn’t a mass-market success, its **quirky styling and competitive pricing** ensured a loyal following among those who valued **performance and exclusivity**. Today, it remains a **rare and collectible classic**, appreciated for its **unique design and rally heritage**. Let me know if you’d like more details!

Parts Bin Engineering

The **Reliant Sabre Six GT** (1962-64) incorporated components from several manufacturers to enhance its performance and design. It was developed in collaboration with **Autocars Ltd. of Israel**, which originally licensed the **Ashley 1172 fiberglass body** and **Leslie Ballamy-designed chassis**. 

Reliant adapted the chassis and bodywork, integrating a **2.6-litre Ford Zodiac straight-six engine**, producing **109 bhp**, which provided strong performance. The gearbox was sourced from **ZF**, offering a **synchromesh transmission**. Early models featured an **unusual leading-arm front suspension**, but later versions adopted **Triumph TR4 suspension**, improving handling. 

These borrowed components helped the Sabre Six establish itself as a **quirky yet capable British sports car**, with a strong presence in **international rallying**. 

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Spares/Specialists 

For locating Reliant Sabre Six GT spares in the UK and Ireland, here are a few options: 

1. **Reliant Spares**: They stock a wide range of replacement parts, vehicles, and tuning accessories. Located at Woodend Farm, Cradley to Bromyard Road, Worcester WR13 5JW. 

2. **Jonniejumble.co.uk**: They offer a variety of Reliant parts in stock. You can contact them for specific parts you need. 

3. **Sporting Reliants**: They provide servicing, repairs, and spares for Reliant Scimitar and Sabre models. Located at 28 Bumpers Lane, Sealand Industrial Estate, Chester, CHESHIRE, CH1 4LT. 

As for garage services in Northern Ireland, here are a few options: 

1. **East Hills Garage**: Located at 34A Beechill Park Avenue, Belfast BT8 7PR. They offer car repair and body repair services. 

2. **McCormick’s Garage**: Located at Unit 1, Glenford Way, Newtownards BT23 4BX. They provide general repairs, servicing, and more. 

3. **Auto Services**: Located at 27 Bachelors Walk, Lisburn BT28 1XJ. They offer a comprehensive range of repairs for cars and light commercial vehicles. 

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Racing 

The Reliant Sabre Six GT did compete in racing. The car was entered in several international rallies, including the **Alpine Rally**, **RAC Rally**, **Welsh Rally**, and **Monte Carlo Rally** between 1963 and 1965. The factory cars and some privateer cars were modified for these competitions. Despite not achieving major victories, the Sabre Six GT proved to be a strong and reliable competitor. 

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Valuation 

The value of a Reliant Sabre Six GT can vary depending on its condition, originality, and provenance. Generally, you can expect prices to range from **£10,000 to £25,000** for well-preserved examples. For cars with racing history or in exceptional condition, the price can be higher, sometimes reaching around £35,000. 

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