Matra Bagheera (1973 – 1980) Review

Matra Bagheera (1973 – 1980) At A Glance

4/5

+Mid-engined sports car with three-abreast seating, baby-supercar looks

-Structural corrosion, it's crying out for more power

The Matra-Simca Bagheera was one of the most innovative sports cars produced in over a decade, and a suitably impressive replacement for the interesting M530. Featuring three-abreast seating, composite panels draped over steel spaceframe, and mid-engined power pack, the Bagheera was cheap, stylish and interesting. And it really was named after the Panther in Jungle Book.

Performance never matched its looks, but the Simca-derived power units were willing enough, if unrefined. On the road, the Bagheera could run rings around far more expensive cars. Structural corrosion has been the Bagheera’s enemy, but plenty survive, and backup from the enthusiast clubs is excellent.