Description
The Matra 530 SX, introduced in 1973, was the final and most streamlined evolution of Matra’s innovative 530 series. It replaced the earlier 530 LX and represented Matra’s effort to simplify production, reduce costs and give the car a cleaner, more modern look for the rapidly changing 1970s market. While mechanically similar to the LX, the SX featured revised styling, a lighter and more minimalist interior and a number of practical improvements. It served as the closing chapter of the 530 line before Matra shifted its focus to the all-new Bagheera.
The SX retained the core architecture that defined all Matra 530 models: a steel backbone chassis with fibreglass body panels and a transversely mounted Ford Taunus 1.7-litre V4 engine situated just ahead of the rear axle. This mid-engine layout gave the car excellent balance and stable, predictable handling. The backbone structure was light but robust, providing the rigidity needed for sharp suspension response and allowing the 530 to maintain its signature low-slung stance and compact proportions.
The Ford-sourced 1,699 cc V4 engine continued unchanged from the LX, producing around 70 horsepower and offering flexible, easygoing performance. With the SX’s lighter trim and simplified equipment, real-world performance was marginally improved. Top speed remained around 170 km/h (105 mph), and the car’s lively mid-range torque made it pleasant to drive in everyday traffic. The four-speed manual gearbox remained standard, and the car’s low weight kept fuel consumption modest.
Suspension remained fully independent: double wishbones with coil springs and dampers at the front, and coil-spring trailing arms at the rear. The SX benefitted from the stable, well-balanced road behaviour that had defined the earlier 530 models. Steering was light and direct, while braking was provided by front discs and rear drums — more than adequate given the car’s modest weight. The overall feel was friendly, predictable and comfortable, making the SX a usable everyday sports 2+2.
Where the SX differed most clearly from the LX was in its exterior design. Matra’s goal was to simplify the bodywork, reduce manufacturing costs and freshen the car’s appearance. The SX lost the pop-up headlights of earlier models, replacing them with fixed rectangular units neatly integrated into a smoother nose section. The front bumper was simplified, while the grille and indicator layout were revised for a cleaner, more modern front end. The rear bodywork also received updates, with new light clusters and a simplified bumper.
One of the most significant departures from the LX was the removal of the targa-style roof. The 530 SX was a fixed-roof coupé only, which increased structural rigidity and further reduced manufacturing complexity. Without the removable roof panel and folding rear window system, the SX was quieter inside and easier to build. This change improved durability and weather sealing but removed some of the versatility that had defined earlier 530 models.
Inside, the SX featured a stripped-back, cleaner cabin. Much of the LX’s trim was simplified or removed, giving the interior a more minimalist feel. The dashboard was redesigned with a plainer, more functional appearance, and simpler materials were used throughout. Despite this, visibility remained excellent, and the 2+2 seating layout was retained, though the rear seats were still best suited to children or extra luggage. The result was a neater, lighter cabin that aligned with the SX’s simplified exterior.
On the road, the Matra 530 SX delivered the same essential driving character as the earlier models: agile, stable and easy to drive. Its balanced chassis made it enjoyable on twisty roads, and its comfortable ride made it suitable for longer journeys. It was not a high-performance sports car, but it excelled as a light, practical and distinctive GT.
Only a short production run took place before Matra ended 530 manufacturing in 1973, with approximately 1,200 SX models built. It paved the way for the much more modern Matra-Simca Bagheera, which would take the baton as Matra’s new mass-produced mid-engined sports car.
Today, the Matra 530 SX is appreciated for its rarity, simplicity and clean styling. As the final version of the pioneering 530 lineage, it offers a unique blend of mid-engine engineering, practical 2+2 layout and minimalist French design. It remains a distinctive and historically important car — the last expression of Matra’s first generation of innovative road-going GTs.