Photos provided by the vendor
Highlights
- Rarely seen French sports car
- Partially restored, work having ceased only last year
- 1294cc Poissy OHV I4 powerplant with 4-speed all-synchromesh manual transmission
The Appeal
Introduced in 1973, it’s not hard to see why the road-going public was immediately enraptured by the Bagheera. With its aerodynamic lines, hatchback rear and - of course - pop-up headlights, this was a very charismatic-looking motor. Only eighteen months later, Matra-Simca announced more than 10,000 sales.
This example - blessed by the Spanish climate - is a rare survivor, and became a long-term restoration project by the owner. Sadly, last year, work came to a stop - and in order to get some room in the garage, it’s now being sold for another dedicated mechanic to take up the mantle.
Once the project is complete, you’ll be the proud owner of a truly rare beast.
The History and Paperwork
- Built in 1977 at Matra’s Romorantin-Lanthenay factory
- In July 1977 it was registered for the first time in Guipuzkoa, Spain
- From what we can ascertain, the car has always been based in Spain
- Currently indicates 97,235km - though this is on a five-figure odometer and can’t be verified
- A few years ago, the car’s restoration began
- This has included:
- Engine and gearbox tuning
- Paintwork
- New wheels
- New upholstery
- Bodywork restoration
- A year ago, the work stalled and thus was never completed
- The car is not quite ready to run, but the vendor believes only light work is required
- The car comes complete with its original 1977 Guipuzkoa registration document
The Interior
- Impressive three-abreast cabin in partially restored condition
- Newly retrimmed seats in excellent order with no rips or tears
- Dashboard has some missing areas and could do with a good clean
- However, it does have all of its original instruments with clear lenses
- Steering wheel is looking a little worse for wear and could do with a freshen up
- The doors are stripped but do look in fine fettle
- Floors appear solid throughout with no tell-tale signs of corrosion
- Headlining looks fresh and clean
- Boot is in good order with solid floors
The Exterior
- Impressive aerodynamic bodywork with hatchback rear and pop-up headlights
- Car has been repainted but is now in need of a wipe-down
- Bodywork has been subject to plenty of attention and looks in good order
- The doors are in need of being remounted as they aren’t quite in line
- Bonnet could also do with some attention to its fit
- The car’s glasswork and lenses are in decent order though do need a freshen
- As you’d expect, the fibreglass bodywork is unable to corrode
- The vehicle is sat on a new set of factory-accurate alloys
- Underneath, the car is in rare order, with only isolated wear
The Mechanics
- 1294cc Poissy OHV I4 powerplant
- 4-speed all-synchromesh manual transmission
- Both of these have been tuned and should be in good order
- The engine bay is in fine condition with age-commensurate wear
- The vendor notes that the car is not yet ready to drive
- However, we are informed that ‘very little work and investment’ is required
Summary
With some TLC and some late-stage work, this Bagheera should soon be ready to go back on the prowl. It’s extremely rare we see one of these distinctive cars, let alone one in such a solid condition. We’ve no doubt it’ll garner plenty of interest.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
