Car Jake Automotive Trends, Supercar, Trucking and New ReleaseThe Story of Matra Cars
Hey Jake, have you ever heard of Matra Cars? This iconic French automaker was founded in 1964 and quickly made a name for itself in motorsports. Matra won the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times and also had success in Formula One. In the 1970s, Matra decided to focus more on production cars and developed several models that are still highly sought after today.
Matra cars were known for their innovative designs and advanced technology. One of their most famous models, the Bagheera, was a mid-engined sports car with three seats and a fiberglass body. The Matra-Simca Rancho was another unique creation, combining elements of an SUV and a station wagon.
Although Matra stopped producing cars in the 1980s, their legacy lives on. Matra cars continue to be popular among collectors and enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the different Matra models available for sale and what makes them so special.
The Different Matra Models
The Bagheera
The Matra Bagheera was produced from 1973 to 1980 and was available in three different engine sizes. The car’s distinctive wedge-shaped design and three-seat layout made it stand out from other sports cars of the era. Despite its quirky appearance, the Bagheera was a capable performer, with a top speed of 125 mph.
Today, the Matra Bagheera is a rare and sought-after collector’s item. Prices for well-maintained examples can range from $20,000 to $40,000.
The Murena
The Matra Murena was introduced in 1980 as a replacement for the Bagheera. Like its predecessor, the Murena had a mid-engined layout but featured a more conventional two-seat configuration. The car’s styling was inspired by the DeLorean DMC-12, with gullwing doors and stainless steel accents.
The Matra Murena was only produced for four years and is even rarer than the Bagheera. Prices for well-preserved examples can exceed $50,000.
The Rancho
The Matra-Simca Rancho was an unusual blend of an SUV and a station wagon. It was based on the Simca 1100 platform and featured a raised ride height and plastic body cladding. The Rancho was popular in Europe during the 1970s and inspired other “lifestyle” vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf Country.
Although not as rare as the Bagheera or Murena, the Matra-Simca Rancho is still a unique and collectible car. Prices for good condition examples can range from $10,000 to $15,000.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Matra Cars
Advantages
Matra cars were ahead of their time in terms of design and technology. The mid-engined layout and lightweight construction made them agile and fun to drive. The Bagheera’s three-seat layout was particularly innovative and practical.
Matra also had a strong racing pedigree, with several victories at Le Mans and in Formula One. This racing heritage adds to the brand’s appeal among collectors and enthusiasts.
Disadvantages
One of the main disadvantages of Matra cars is their rarity. Production numbers were relatively low, especially compared to other sports cars of their era. This means that finding parts and servicing can be difficult, and prices for well-preserved examples can be high.
Matra cars also have a reputation for being somewhat temperamental. The complex mid-engined layout can be challenging to maintain, and some owners have reported electrical and mechanical issues.
The Complete Guide to Matra Cars for Sale
Model | Years Produced | Engine Size | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
Bagheera | 1973-1980 | 1.3L, 1.4L, 1.6L | $20,000-$40,000 |
Murena | 1980-1984 | 1.6L, 2.2L | $30,000-$50,000 |
Rancho | 1977-1984 | 1.4L, 1.6L | $10,000-$15,000 |
FAQs
1. What makes Matra cars special?
Matra cars were known for their innovative designs and advanced technology. They were also successful in racing, which adds to their collectibility.
2. How rare are Matra cars?
Matra cars are relatively rare, especially compared to other sports cars of their era. Production numbers were limited, and many examples were lost or scrapped over the years.
3. What is the most valuable Matra car?
The Matra Murena is the most valuable Matra car, with prices for well-preserved examples exceeding $50,000.
4. Are Matra cars reliable?
Matra cars can be temperamental and require careful maintenance. Finding parts and servicing can also be a challenge due to their rarity.
5. What is the best Matra car for a collector?
For many collectors, the Matra Bagheera is the most desirable model due to its unique three-seat layout and iconic design.
6. How many Matra cars were produced?
Production numbers for Matra cars were relatively low, with only a few thousand examples of each model produced.
7. Where can I find Matra cars for sale?
Matra cars can be found through private sellers, classic car dealerships, and auction houses. Online marketplaces like eBay and Bring a Trailer can also be good resources.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of French cars or just appreciate innovative design, Matra cars are definitely worth considering. Their rarity and racing heritage make them highly collectible, but they can also be a challenge to maintain. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, a Matra car is sure to make a statement wherever you go.
If you’re interested in purchasing a Matra car, be prepared to do your research and potentially spend a significant amount of money. But with the right care and attention, a Matra car can be a rewarding investment that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Disclaimer
While Matra cars can be a great investment and source of enjoyment for collectors and enthusiasts, there are some risks involved. Due to their rarity, finding parts and servicing can be challenging, and prices for well-preserved examples can be high. Additionally, the complex mid-engined layout can lead to mechanical and electrical issues. Before purchasing a Matra car, be sure to do your research and consult with a qualified mechanic or expert in the field.
