Description
As seen on the Renault Classic Car Club stand at the NEC Classic Car Show 7 - 9th November 2025.
5 former keepers since new in 2001. Extensive service history supporting this low mileage luxury vehicle. MOT March 2026.
The original ESPACE was developed and manufactured by MATRA - known more widely for Formula 1, Le Mans and sports car production. The 3 abreast Talbot-Matra Murena being the last of these.
This Espace is one of the last manufactured at the Romorantin factory before Renault moved to the In-House Series 4 model. The Series 3 steel body shells as previous, were treated in hot zinc baths, so corrosion is not a big issue. The plastic outer panels were then fitted on the assembly line. See MATRA factory video below :
- details above
Owned by a long standing Renault, Alpine and MATRA enthusiast. Purchased in 2020 with around 72000m, it has now covered just over 88000m as in daily use. This Espace was on the MATRA Enthusiasts Club UK stand at the NEC Classic Car and Restoration show March 2024 - celebrating 40 years of Espace production from 1984. They are no longer imported to the UK market.
This particular car is a very rare model of full spec. remaining in the UK. It also represents final production of the Espace 3 at MATRA before the Avantime took over using the same underpinnings. Both new and used Parts availability has been found to be very good and low cost.
I believe the images are a fair representation. The paintwork is generally original and presents reasonably after nearly 25 years. The drivers seat in particular would benefit from an alcantara retrim. Renaults Flagship Initiale Paris top of the range Grand Espace 3. 0 V6 24 Valve, Quad Cam. The same engine is fitted to the CLIO V6. This 130mph MPV has 190 BHP, weighs only 1650kg and is very rapid. Being the ultimate Grand Espace version, it is a little longer with more space at rear. Full grey leather / alcantara on seats, doorcards and dashboard which makes the interior a spectacular place to be. It is a joy to drive in town or on longer journeys using the cruise control. The digital dash and computer display with MPG and other information, along with no faults or warnings is fully operational.
Original Italian Estoril refurbished alloy wheels, recent Falken tyres, Greenstuff Discs / Pads. Ferrari Red painted overhauled front and rear calipers. Xenon headlamps. Fully operational front electric sunroof and additional 2 manuals. The entertainment system is operated manually from steering column switches or else the remote from any position in vehicle. Auxiliary and phone charge sockets have also been fitted. A roof mounted DVD screen is a factory feature. Fully operational remote central locking. Electric and heated mirrors. Captains front seats rotate around to side, and can be rear facing. Then you have additional 5 seats that can be completely removed or fitted in multiple positions using the ingenious rail system, in the floor. Excellent original carpeting.
In recent years the glorious V6 Engine has been completely removed and the front subframe painted. Cambelt, water pump, spark plugs, cam cover seals etc. were renewed before reassembling. New radiator, starter motor fitted. This work amounted to around £3000. An additional £3000 was then spent having a specialist remove the ZF gearbox. This was repaired and overhauled with warranty given. The car now runs and drives beautifully.
The complete Exhaust and Catalyst has also been renewed along with Lambda sensor.
In 2025 a full service has been carried out renewing all filters, MAP Sensor, engine oil, brake discs and pads replaced with fluid renewed. Fuel tank was removed and cleaned. The pump was overhauled, then all reassembled with refurbished straps and fuel filter.
There is so much versatility. Ideal for regular use or long family trips with dogs. Use as a Surf Van ? Alternatively remove some seats, fit the plywood floor and use as a working vehicle, loading logs, moving house, load a small motorcycle using the steel ramp to the low level rear entry. There is a towing facility. The tow ball can be detached at and the plastic silver bumper cover positioned.
Several personalised number plates have been fitted over the years. The car will come with Y500 ESP - The Y registration is correct for the first registration date of 01/ 05/ 2001.
On 15/ 10/ 25 a similar Espace sold for over £6600 inc. commission at H&H Classics Auctions - also advertised on Car and Classic.
There is a large history file along with original sales brochures and a digital Renault workshop manual. Also spare parts inc. pair of Xenon headlamps.
I hope to find an enthusiastic new owner who will enjoy this interesting piece of French motoring history. Reasonable offers are invited.
