Description
Talbot Matra Murena 1.6 | 1982
Highlights:
– 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, petrol, 5-speed manual transmission
– Recently recommissioned after long-term storage, technical inspection passed in August 2026
– All hoses replaced, new brakes front and rear, new tyres and a full service
– Repainted in 2008 in the period Matra shade Corail metallic
– 140,900 km on the odometer
The private seller offers for sale this 1982 Talbot Matra Murena 1.6, powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Finished in the striking Matra orange shade Corail metallic, this Murena makes an immediate statement wherever it goes. The car originally left the factory in brown and was repainted in its current Matra colour in 2008, shortly before it was put into storage for a number of years. The cabin presents in its characteristic period trim, with houndstooth-style cloth upholstery, matching door cards and tan carpeting, and of course the Murena’s signature layout of three seats side by side across the front. The odometer currently reads 140,900 km.
After its long sleep, the Murena has been brought back to life and prepared for the road. The seller reports that all hoses have been replaced, the brakes have been renewed front and rear and the car is fitted with new tyres. A full service was carried out, including fresh oils, filters and a new V-belt, after which the car successfully passed its technical inspection in August 2026. It also holds historic vehicle certification and, according to the seller, is used regularly, making this an ideal opportunity for an enthusiast looking for a usable and characterful classic.
The Murena was launched in 1980 as the successor to the Matra Bagheera, and was sold under the Talbot name following Peugeot’s takeover of Chrysler Europe. Built by Matra at its Romorantin factory until 1983, it remained a rare sight even when new, with just over 10,000 examples produced across all versions. Its combination of a mid-engine layout, a fully galvanised steel chassis and lightweight composite body panels was highly advanced for a car in its class, an approach that set it apart from most of its contemporaries.
Designed by Antoine Volanis, the Murena’s wedge-shaped silhouette, pop-up rear hatch with integrated spoiler and low, sloping nose give it a distinctly exotic look, while its slippery shape delivered remarkable aerodynamic efficiency for the period. The 1.6-litre engine is mounted transversely behind the cabin, giving the car a balanced weight distribution and the sharp, agile handling that Matra was renowned for. With room for three, a practical rear luggage compartment and additional storage under the front bonnet, the Murena combined mid-engined sports car character with everyday usability.
Today the Matra Murena is increasingly recognised as a highly original and forward-thinking French sports car of its era. This 1.6 version, recently recommissioned and finished in a period Matra colour, offers an attractive entry into the world of mid-engined classics and is ready to be enjoyed on the road.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
4 — Very Good. Clean with minimal wear; might need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Condition of the interior
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
Technical condition
4 — Very Good. Mechanically solid, with potential for minor servicing.
Overall condition
4 — Very Good. Displays only minimal wear and can hit the road any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
