Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5
The innovative British shooting-brake that combined sports car performance with estate car practicality.
- Power
- 135 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.9 s
- Top speed
- 120 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$24k
About the Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5
The Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5 redefined the sporting estate, featuring a glass-fibre body designed by Tom Karen of Ogle Design mounted on a sturdy steel chassis. Powered by the robust Ford Essex V6, it offered genuine 120 mph performance and was one of the first cars to feature folding rear seats for increased luggage capacity. The SE5 is often considered the purest iteration of the GTE, praised for its compact dimensions and sharper handling compared to the later, wider SE6. Its unique blend of rust-free bodywork and Ford-sourced mechanicals makes it a practical and enduring choice for British classic enthusiasts.
Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5 specs
The Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5 produces 135 bhp (101 kW) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.9 seconds and has a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h).
| Make | Reliant |
|---|---|
| Model | Scimitar GTE |
| Generation | SE5 |
| Trim | 3.0 V6 |
| Years | 1968–1975 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Shooting-brake |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 4,311 built |
| Engine | 3.0-litre Ford Essex V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,994 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 135 bhp (101 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.9 s |
| Top speed | 120 mph (193 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual with overdrive |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,185 kg (2,612 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 114 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 Scimitar GTE SE5 worth?
A typical Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5 is estimated to be worth $9,000 – $24,000 (about £6,700 – £18,000).
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 Scimitar GTE SE5 rarity in CarSpot
The Reliant Scimitar GTE SE5 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 48 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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 Scimitar GTE SE5 fun facts
- Princess Anne was the most famous Scimitar owner, owning a total of nine GTEs over several decades, starting with an SE5 gifted for her 20th birthday.
- The Scimitar GTE was one of the first production cars to popularise the 'shooting-brake' body style with a rising waistline and a glass rear hatch.
- Early SE5 models are easily identified by their rectangular rear light clusters, which were sourced from the Hillman Hunter.