Reliant car books - history and models

Reliant Scimitar GTE - SE5, SE6, SE8 (1968-1986), Middlebridge (1989-1990)

Finding a classic car that offers both prestige and performance can be challenging, but the Reliant Scimitar GTE stands out. Launched in September 1968, it was the world's first sporting estate car.

The GTE evolved from the Scimitar sports car range, with a body designed by Tom Karen at Ogle and mounted on a new, longer wheelbase chassis made of rust-resistant fiberglass. Its unique hatchback design, with a rising waistline, was an automotive first.
Powered by a 3.0-litre Ford Essex V6 engine, the SE5 model was an immediate success, with over 4.000 units produced. It continued to improve, with the SE5A model in 1972 outselling all others.

This Essential Buyer's Guide covers all Scimitar GTE models made between 1968 and 1986, including SE5, SE5a, SE6, SE6a, SE6b, GTC, SE8b, and the 1989-1990 Middlebridge GTE.
It provides expert advice on where and how to buy a Reliant Scimitar, key checks to spot a bad car, choosing the right model, and evaluating potential restoration projects. It also includes advice on paperwork, values, auction buying, and club support.

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Reliant Sports Cars

Reliant, known for its three-wheelers, first ventured into four-wheeled sports cars with the Sabre in 1961. Encouraged by its success, the company introduced the Scimitar coupe in 1964. This innovative model, designed by Ogle, evolved into the most famous version - the 3-litre GTE sporting estate of 1968.

The Scimitar gained popularity for its style, versatility, and performance, selling well throughout the 1970s. It also received royal approval, with the Duke of Edinburgh and Princess Anne among its owners. Today, it remains a classic of its time.
The Reliant Scimitar is one of Britain's most distinctive and successful sports cars. From 1968 to 1986, over 15.000 were built, and it remains admired for its elegant design and practical performance.

This book, featuring a pictorial history by Don Pither, explores the origins, development, and legacy of the Scimitar and its predecessor, the Sabre. It is essential reading for owners and enthusiasts, offering insight into British sports car history.

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Reliant - The Forgotten Four-Wheelers

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Reliant is best known for its three-wheeled cars, often mocked by public figures such as Jasper Carrot and Jeremy Clarkson, and made popular through the TV series "Only Fools and Horses".
However, Reliant also produced a range of four-wheeled cars, including versions of their three-wheelers and larger sports models. These vehicles played a role in developing local car industries in countries such as Israel and Turkey.
Reliant was also involved in producing the Metrocab, a serious attempt to replace the traditional London taxi. In addition, the company supplied bodywork and parts to other manufacturers. Among its four-wheeled models, the Scimitar stands out and still enjoys a loyal following.
This illustrated book highlights the lesser-known history of Reliant's four-wheeled vehicles and presents a broader picture of the company beyond its well-known three-wheelers.

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Reliant Sabre, Scimitar and SS1 - An Enthusiast's Guide

Reliant produced a range of sports cars from the 1960s to the 1990s, alongside its well-known three-wheeled vehicles. The company's sports car history began in 1961 with a design for Israel's Autocars. This led to several successful models, including the Sabre, a basic two-seater; the Scimitar GT, a strong grand tourer; the Scimitar GTE, a pioneering sporting estate; and the SS1, a compact sports car.

"Reliant Sabre, Scimitar and SS1" examines the history, design, and development of these models. The book covers each car in detail, starting with the Autocars Sabra and progressing through the Sabre, Scimitar, Scimitar GTE, and SS1. It also includes full technical specifications for major models, as well as insights from owners and advice on buying and maintaining these unique British sports cars.

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Reliant Three-Wheelers - The Complete Story

Reliant three-wheelers, despite their reputation for being unconventional and risky, remain a key part of the classic car scene and have become symbols of British popular culture.
This book traces the history of these distinctive vehicles from 1935 onwards, covering the development and production of models such as the Regal, Robin, Bond Bug, and Rialto.

Contents include:
- The origins of Reliant and the early Light Delivery Van of the 1930s
- Post-war passenger cars and the innovative fibreglass-bodied Mark 3 Regal
- The evolution and production of the Regal, Robin, Bond Bug, and Rialto
- Reliant under new ownership and the redesigned BN Robin
- The role of Reliant three-wheelers in popular culture
- The history and activities of the Reliant Owners' Club

Illustrated with detailed photographs, this book provides an in-depth look at one of Britain's most unique and enduring car manufacturers.

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The Reliant Robin : Britain's Most Bizarre Car

The Reliant Robin was a distinctive presence on British roads for nearly 40 years. While some saw it as an oddity, many owners appreciated its affordability and efficiency.

During the economic struggles of the 1970s, this small Tamworth-built car became highly popular due to its low fuel consumption and minimal tax costs. Demand was so high that Reliant struggled to keep up with production. However, as consumer preferences shifted towards more advanced cars, the Robin's popularity declined.

This book by Giles Chapman explores the full history of Britain's most famous three-wheeled car, from its launch in 1973 to its final production nearly three decades later.

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