Reliant Scimitar SS1
Michelotti's final design: a lightweight, plastic-bodied British roadster.
- Power
- 96 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.6 s
- Top speed
- 110 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$9k
About the Reliant Scimitar SS1
Launched in 1984 to fill the void left by the MG Midget and Triumph Spitfire, the Scimitar SS1 was the final project of legendary designer Giovanni Michelotti. It features a Lotus-inspired steel backbone chassis and a body made of easily replaceable injection-moulded plastic panels, though its 'Lego-like' appearance was controversial at launch. The 1.6-litre Ford CVH engine provides respectable performance in such a lightweight package, aided by independent suspension all round. While often overlooked for its looks, it is widely praised by enthusiasts for its sharp, predictable handling and low running costs.
Reliant Scimitar SS1 specs
The Reliant Scimitar SS1 produces 96 bhp (72 kW) and 133 Nm (98 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.6 seconds and has a top speed of 110 mph (177 km/h).
| Make | Reliant |
|---|---|
| Model | Scimitar SS1 |
| Trim | 1.6 |
| Years | 1984–1990 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 1,507 built |
| Engine | 1.6-litre Ford CVH inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,596 cc (1.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 96 bhp (72 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 133 Nm (98 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.6 s |
| Top speed | 110 mph (177 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 880 kg (1,940 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 109 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 SS1 worth?
A typical Reliant Scimitar SS1 is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $8,500 (about £1,900 – £6,300).
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 SS1 rarity in CarSpot
The Reliant Scimitar SS1 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 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 SS1 fun facts
- The SS1 name stands for 'Small Sports 1', reflecting Reliant's ambition to create a new entry-level sports car range.
- Because of the car's low bonnet line, Reliant had to use the carburetted Ford CVH engine rather than the taller fuel-injected unit from the Escort XR3i.
- The body panels were designed to be semi-disposable; they were bolted to the chassis so they could be quickly swapped out if damaged.