Reliant Sabre
Reliant's first four-wheeled sports car, born from an Anglo-Israeli collaboration.
- Power
- 73 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 14.1 s
- Top speed
- 93 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$15k
About the Reliant Sabre
The Reliant Sabre 4, also known as the SE1, was the Tamworth-based company's first foray into four-wheeled sports cars. Developed in partnership with the Israeli firm Autocars, it utilised a glass-fibre body based on an Ashley Laminates design and a chassis engineered by Leslie Ballamy. The early 'long-nose' versions were controversial for their styling, leading to a 1962 redesign with a more conventional front end. Despite its rarity and rallying pedigree, including entries in the Monte Carlo and Tulip Rallies, it was overshadowed by the more powerful Sabre Six and the later Scimitar.
Reliant Sabre specs
The Reliant Sabre produces 73 bhp (54 kW) and 123 Nm (91 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 14.1 seconds and has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).
| Make | Reliant |
|---|---|
| Model | Sabre |
| Trim | Sabre 4 1.7 |
| Years | 1961–1964 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 208 built |
| Engine | 1.7-litre Ford Consul 375 inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,703 cc (1.7 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 73 bhp (54 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 123 Nm (91 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 14.1 s |
| Top speed | 93 mph (150 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 838 kg (1,847 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 87 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Reliant Sabre worth?
A typical Reliant Sabre is estimated to be worth $7,500 – $15,000 (about £5,600 – £11,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Reliant Sabre rarity in CarSpot
The Reliant Sabre is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Reliant Sabre fun facts
- The Sabre was originally developed as the 'Sabra' for the Israeli market, intended for export to the United States.
- Early models featured a distinctive 'long nose' with vertical chrome over-riders that were widely criticised by the motoring press.
- The car's front suspension was a unique leading-arm design by Leslie Ballamy, which provided excellent cornering for the era.