Lot details Registration No: FFA331Y Chassis No: VF853C4320X700397 Mot Expiry: None
Following on from the Bagheera but sleeker of style, the Murena was the Talbot/Simca empire's second bold three-abreast sportster. With a slick 0.32 drag co-efficient, the lowest for a mid-engined sportster until the Panther Solo arrived in 1988, it was built by specialist low-volume maker Matra in Romorantin between 1980 and 1983, and was the first car to use galvanised steel for all chassis parts. Based on existing Talbot group mechanical components, it was powered by either the Alpine/Solara 1.6-litre or the torquey 2.2-litre 'four' from the accomplished but angular and unloved Talbot Tagora, mounted cross-ways behind the passenger compartment, giving as the vendor puts it, 'go-kart-like' roadholding.
This left-hand drive example, one of 4560 2.2s built, was imported to the UK and registered in 1991. Although, the Talbot would apparently benefit from a repaint, the vendor describes its bodywork as "good, solid fibreglass", while he rates the engine and five-speed transmission as "very good" and the interior as "good and bright". Not currently MOT tested or taxed for road use, the Talbot has spent the past year or so sidelined by a brake issue which has reportedly been traced to the offside rear calliper. As well as an original workshop manual, parts manual, numerous Matra Enthusiast Club magazines and assorted old MOT certificates, paperwork accompanying the coupe is understood to include a maintenance file which shows that the engine has been extensively overhauled and upgraded in the past. Boasting "a lightened / balanced flywheel" and "fast road camshaft", the unit is stated to record "good oil pressure". Sporting a stainless steel exhaust, this rare three-seater sportscar is offered for sale with sundry minor spares.
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