Matra (1966-1983) and Alpine (1963-1994)
Discussion
When you think of lightweight compact and practical classic sports cars you might think Lotus Esprit, TVR 3000 and kitcar maybe...
But what about these two unsung French heroes form the 60s and 70s: Matra and Alpine.
25 May 25th 2024 > Visscher Classique collection visit
Not the Miura but the Matra Djet was the first mid-engined production car, in 1963.
Just look at it and forget a period 911 or 912... This Matra is value for money here.
Small, agile and cute to see: this Matra 530 has it all. Between 1967 and 1973 9,609 cars were built.
Just like the VW Porsche 914 the M530 holds the engine between the seats and the boot. Taunus 1700 V4!
The legendary Alpine A110 was quite an impressive car. Between 1963 and 1977 this 700 kgs coupé transformed from a 51ps sports car to a rally champ.
The Visscher collection holds Alpines and other quick French treasures in a gallery-esque attic.
The first iteration of the Alpine A310 holds a 17TS Gordini four-cylinder engine in the back. Bteween 1971 and 1976 2,340 units were built.
The legendary A310 is such an understatement: it's a small car but packs four adults if it has to. A period 911 is hardly a better driver...
Back to Matra with this hero from my youth. A Matra Murena is on par with the period Lotus Esprit fourpot. Galvanised, 3-seats (look!), fibreglass body, lightweight and smart looking. With 10,680 units built, this one should be on your list of practical classics.
But what about these two unsung French heroes form the 60s and 70s: Matra and Alpine.
25 May 25th 2024 > Visscher Classique collection visit
Not the Miura but the Matra Djet was the first mid-engined production car, in 1963.
Just look at it and forget a period 911 or 912... This Matra is value for money here.
Small, agile and cute to see: this Matra 530 has it all. Between 1967 and 1973 9,609 cars were built.
Just like the VW Porsche 914 the M530 holds the engine between the seats and the boot. Taunus 1700 V4!
The legendary Alpine A110 was quite an impressive car. Between 1963 and 1977 this 700 kgs coupé transformed from a 51ps sports car to a rally champ.
The Visscher collection holds Alpines and other quick French treasures in a gallery-esque attic.
The first iteration of the Alpine A310 holds a 17TS Gordini four-cylinder engine in the back. Bteween 1971 and 1976 2,340 units were built.
The legendary A310 is such an understatement: it's a small car but packs four adults if it has to. A period 911 is hardly a better driver...
Back to Matra with this hero from my youth. A Matra Murena is on par with the period Lotus Esprit fourpot. Galvanised, 3-seats (look!), fibreglass body, lightweight and smart looking. With 10,680 units built, this one should be on your list of practical classics.
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