Matra Murena 2.2
The Matra Murena was one of the most unconventional sports cars of the early 1980s, and a fitting product of Matra — a French aerospace and defense company that happened to build cars. The Murena succeeded the Bagheera and retained its most unusual feature: three-abreast seating with the driver in the center-left position. The mid-mounted engine was a Chrysler/Simca unit positioned transversely behind the cabin, giving excellent weight distribution for a road car. The chassis was entirely galvanized steel — a forward-thinking measure that meant Murenas simply don't rust — while the body panels were molded polyester resin (fiberglass) that was also corrosion-proof. This makes the Murena unique among 1980s sports cars for its complete immunity to the tin worm. The 2.2-liter version offered the best balance of performance and refinement, with enough power to exploit the car's mid-engined handling dynamics. On a twisting road, the Murena was a revelation — light, agile, and beautifully balanced, with a level of driver engagement that bigger, more powerful cars couldn't match.
The galvanized chassis means rust is not a concern — a major advantage over contemporaries. Polyester body panels are also corrosion-free but can crack from impact. Chrysler/Simca engines are reasonably well-supported. Three-abreast seating takes adjustment. The mid-engine layout makes some service items difficult to access. A genuine Matra specialist is recommended.
Built by Matra at their Romorantin factory. The galvanized chassis was a first for a production car of this type. Three-abreast seating was inherited from the Bagheera. Chrysler/Talbot-Simca provided the engines. Production ended when Matra's partnership with PSA collapsed and Matra pivoted to building the Renault Espace.