As is likely the case around many places, there’s a lot of rare and/or simply badass cars, hiding behind hedges, in garages, tucked away in sheds. Recently I visited a friend I’d not seen in a little while, he popped open the door of his garage and sitting infront of me were two cars of epic awesomeness. One I knew about, the other was a recent addition to another’s flock that he is currently storing.
Here is the scene that greeted me as the door was opened;
For those who can’t figure out which cars these are. I would wonder why you’d even be reading this site if I’m honest, that and your capability to read badges must be fairly slim at least for the car shown on the right hand side of the picture.
The car on the left is a 1967 Ford Mustang, notchback. The car on the right, a 1969 Reliant Scimitar. Both are in spectacular condition given their age and are fantastic looking vehicles. I’ll do a feature on the Mustang at a later date but I took a few more photos of the Scimitar, because it’s not a particularly common sight.
The Scimitar is fitted with the 3.0l Essex V6. This particular car was in fantastic condition, needing perhaps a wash and a buff, followed by a dusting for the interior and that’s about it.
Interior
Console Closeup, Lovely Old Solid Switches
Smith's gauges throughout.
Mint condition Cobra seats.
You could easily believe that the speedo was on it’s first attempt around it’s digits, you certainly wouldn’t pick it to be on it’s second rotation as investigations seem to indicate it is.
Just to give you an idea of the rarity of this car, according to Wiki (which, isn’t always correct, obviously) there was less than 2500 of the ’68-’72 SE5 produced, making this a pretty special car. Although, I have to say I personally prefer the previous coupe version (SE4) to the estate/hatch type.
Even the engine bay in this car was tidy enough to eat off (if you don’t mind a little dust and factory British oil-leaks for dinner)
Ford 3.0L Essex V6 Powerplant
The oil on the rocker cover appears to be from a misguided fill attempt, rather than an actual leak, I just don’t like to miss the opportunity to make a comment about British cars and leaking oil. It usually gets an amusing reaction from the UK enthusiasts.
Just to finish off, a few more external shots;
Appropriate badging
The front end of the Scimitar is a fairly acquired taste,
Rounded nose, quad lamps.
Keeping good company
…and one more badge shot to finish it off.
Hope you enjoyed the pictures and minor blurb as much as I enjoyed checking the car itself out (I doubt it though)
Keep an eye out for the Mustang entry, I’ll get that up ASAP.
Cheers,
-Michael.
