Reliant Scimitar SS1

Date of First Registration: 01 August 1987

Scimitar SS1 (1984–90): Aiming to fill a gap in the small sports car market, the Michelotti-designed Scimitar SS1 was launched in 1984. The chassis was inspired by Lotus's Elan. 1300 cc and 1600 cc Ford engines were used, at first, later replaced with a 1400 cc CVH Ford engine and a Nissan 1800 cc turbocharged engine. The front mounted engine drives the rear wheels through a five speed gearbox on all models except the 1300 which uses a four speed transmission. The suspension is independent all round using coil springs with semi trailing arms at the rear. The body panels are made of polyurethane or glass reinforced polyester and are fitted to a space frame backbone chassis. the panels were designed to be easily removed and replaced to repair accident damage. A removable hard top was available. The interiors of these cars were designed by Jevon Thorpe and he used the Metro switchgear. The cars had a very useable boot capable of holding 6.7 cubic feet of luggage