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Illustration Voitures Rétros Vintage France
The secret of the birth of Espace Matra

A unique automotive story awaits you in your inbox to enrich your passion for scale models from this innovative French brand.

Did You Know? Anecdotes and Curiosities about our Miniatures

What makes the Matra brand so special in French automotive history?

Matra was both a French aircraft and automobile manufacturer, founded in 1941. The brand is renowned for its technological innovations, notably the use of composite materials and tubular structures. Matra made history with iconic models such as the Djet, the 530, and the Bagheera, combining sporty performance with typically French avant-garde design.

Why is the Matra Bagheera considered revolutionary?

The Matra Bagheera, produced from 1973 to 1980, was revolutionary because it offered a three-seater configuration with the driver in the center and two passengers slightly set back. This unique layout optimized space in a compact coupé. In addition, its fiberglass-reinforced polyester body made it corrosion-resistant and allowed for sculptural shapes impossible with traditional steel.

What is the link between Matra and motor racing?

Matra dominated endurance racing in the 1970s, winning three consecutive Le Mans 24 Hours victories (1972, 1973, 1974) with its MS670 and MS680 prototypes. The brand also excelled in Formula 1, where Jackie Stewart won the World Drivers' Championship in 1969 driving a Matra MS80. This racing expertise directly influenced the development of its road cars.

What happened to the Matra brand after car production ceased?

After the end of passenger car production in 1983 with the demise of the Murena, Matra refocused on its aerospace activities. The company participated in the development of Ariane, Airbus, and numerous satellites. In 1999, Matra merged with BAe Systems to form BAE Systems, but its automotive heritage continues to fascinate collectors worldwide.

What are the technical features that distinguish Matra cars from other manufacturers?

Matra cars were distinguished by their welded tubular steel chassis, inherited from the brand's aeronautical experience. This construction offered exceptional rigidity while remaining lightweight. The early use of composite materials for the bodywork, combined with innovative technical solutions such as retractable headlights and futuristic dashboards, made each Matra a technological showcase of its time.