The Matra Bagheera is a sporty car with a fiberglass body built on a tubular steel frame. It has a very original seating arrangement – one row of seats with 3 seats across.
Was vulnerable to rust
The Bagheera had almost everything to be a success, but the steel tube construction was prone to rust. When it rusted, the entire car could collapse. That's why it's gratifying to see that there are still some great, preserved examples. Many of the cars on the road today have had a full frame renovation.
Model history
The Matra-Simca was produced by Matra Automobiles from 1973 to 1980 with a facelift in 1976. Visual changes include bumpers that curve around the corners, wider rear side windows and larger taillights. Initially the cars were equipped with 1300 cc engines with Weber twin carburettors centrally located at the rear. In 1975 the Bagheera S was also available with a 1500 engine. Simca belonged to Chrysler Europe which was taken over by Peugeot in 1978. Then the cars were renamed Talbot Matra Bagheera.
Popular at car shows
The photos were taken at French car shows. French cars, like this one, are the center of attention for the public, especially those of us who are a little older. I am old enough to remember the Bagheera when it was new and was marketed in the car press here at home. The Bagheera must have been a great car to drive around in the South of France in the early 70s. It appears wide and low and gives a sporty impression – and relatively modern by today's standards. But the chairs in furry fabric with colorful stripes quickly place us in the 70s. I think the seating arrangement, the fabric quality and the colors are an important part of the Bagheera's identity.
About the pictures
It's not every day you see Matra Bagheera, not even here in France. The white car took part in a rally for classic cars. It was photographed in Saint Cyprien where all participating cars received a technical inspection before departure. I watched the organizers' inspection of this car to form a better impression. Everything was ok and thumbs up. The silver-grey car with black plates is pictured at a monthly car meet in Perpignan.
Brochure images
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