Reliant Scimitar SS1 is 40 this year by Steve Phipps

Designed by Michelotti aiming to fill the gap in the small sports car market, the Scimitar SS1 was launched in 1984 at the British Motor Show. Despite plans to produce 2,000 cars a year only 1,507 cars of all 3 variants were produced in the 11 years of overall production.

All cars had a semi-space frame back bone chassis. The early cars were fitted with a steel chassis and twin wipers and later cars fitted with a galvanised chassis identified by a single wiper, although some early cars were recalled and had galvanised chassis fitted. The body panels were made of polyurethane or glass reinforced polyester making them easily removed and replaced to repair accident damage.

This SS1 was first registered on 14th February 1986 (a Valentines present maybe?). It has a 1.6 CVH engine coupled to a 5-speed gearbox and although a twin wiper model, it has a galvanised chassis. It was purchased with the optional hard top (suspended from the garage ceiling) the mileage is a genuine 51,000 miles complete with all the MOT certificates to back this up. It spent most of its life down in Kent with five previous owners. It was laid up in May 2000 for a period of 15 years until the next MOT in April 2015 being re-commissioned by a gentleman that worked for a Reliant dealership in the Kent area.

I purchased the SS1 on 21st June 2020 which was Father’s Day and my late Fathers birthday, so a sentimental day to me. During my ownership I have had the wheels refurbished, seats re-trimmed, replaced the timing belt, water pump, new carburettor, new AVO adjustable suspension all round, new clutch, new engine oil seals, re-painted engine and engine bay. I have lovingly mopped and polished the car so it`s as it is today.

During my ownership we have averaged around 3,500 miles per year regularly touring the UK for holidays, day trips, trips to country pubs and car shows with the dog sitting on the arm rest between us with mileage always increasing.

These cars are such an underrated little convertible which handle like a go kart and it brings a smile to my face every trip I take.

Most of the parts are readily available, which makes it easier to maintain. The engine is a Ford 1.6 CVH, the gearbox a Ford Sierra type 9, axle Ford Sierra, Brakes, front lights and dashboard all from an Austin Metro, switches and door handles a Rover SD1, rear lights and wing mirrors from a Mk3 Ford Capri - so a real parts bin special from the Reliant Scimitar factory in Tamworth. For the harder to find parts I am a member of the RSSOC who are a very friendly helpful club.