Description
Talbot Matra Murena 1.6 | 1981
Highlights:
– 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, petrol, 5-speed manual transmission
– 122,652 km on the odometer
– Braking system recently overhauled with new master cylinder, wheel cylinders and linings
– New stainless steel exhaust system
– Three-abreast seating with Matra-branded tan upholstery
The private seller offers for sale this 1981 Talbot Matra Murena 1.6, powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Finished in a light gold metallic, the car combines the striking wedge-shaped silhouette of the Murena with a warm period interior featuring tan upholstery with embroidered Matra logos, brown dashboard and door trims and Matra floor mats. The odometer reads 122,652 km. A valid roadworthiness inspection is in place.
The car has recently received an extensive round of technical work. According to the seller, this included a new brake master cylinder, new wheel cylinders, new brake pads and linings, a new alternator, new coolant pipes underneath the car, new engine mounts, a new battery, a new stainless steel exhaust, new tyres, a new electrical circuit board and new electric window motors. The carburettor has been rebuilt and the upholstery has been professionally cleaned. A modern Bluetooth radio with JBL speakers has been fitted. The seller notes that the exterior still requires some work, which is reflected in the condition scores and the photographs, making this an attractive basis for a buyer who wants to complete the car cosmetically.
The Murena was introduced in 1980 as the successor to the Matra-Simca Bagheera and was built by Matra at Romorantin, sold under the Talbot name after PSA took over Chrysler Europe. Like its predecessor, it used the unusual layout of three seats side by side and a mid-mounted engine, but it introduced a fully galvanised steel chassis clad in polyester body panels, a solution that was highly advanced at the time. Its low, aerodynamic body achieved a drag coefficient of just 0.328, placing it among the most aerodynamic production cars of its era.
The 1.6-litre engine was offered alongside a 2.2-litre version, and a small series of higher-performance Murena S models followed in 1983. Production ended in 1984, when Matra turned its attention to the Renault Espace, after only around 10,000 cars had been built. With its pop-up headlamps, mid-engine balance and distinctly French design, the Murena is a rare and characterful sports coupé that attracts attention wherever it goes and remains a genuine alternative to the more familiar sports cars of the early eighties.
Condition of the bodywork & paint
2 — Fair. Noticeable wear and aging; drives but has issues.
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.
