Description
The Talbot-Matra Murena S was the ultimate expression of Matra’s final mid-engined sports car. Introduced in 1983, near the end of Murena production, it represented the most powerful, most focused and most enthusiast-oriented version of the model. While the standard 2.2 already offered strong performance and refined GT manners, the Murena S elevated the formula with factory-approved performance upgrades developed by Danielson Engineering, sharper dynamics, distinctive styling elements and a more sporting character throughout. It stood as Matra’s last true attempt at a higher-performance driver’s car before the company turned fully toward the Espace project.
At its core, the Murena S retained the same fundamental structure as the rest of the range. A fully galvanised pressed-steel monocoque provided rigidity and long-term durability, addressing the corrosion issues that had compromised earlier Bagheera models. Over this strong base Matra bonded large fibreglass-reinforced polyester panels that shaped the Murena’s aerodynamic silhouette. The long, sloping nose, wide stance, flush glazing and sharply cut fastback tail gave the S the same sleek, modern profile as the standard 2.2, but with subtle visual cues that marked it as something more purposeful.
The defining feature of the Murena S was its engine. Based on the same 2,155 cc Chrysler-Simca inline-four used in the regular 2.2, the unit was modified with the Danielson “Préparation 142” performance package. This upgrade included a revised camshaft profile, reworked carburation using twin Solex carburettors, improved breathing and optimised ignition tuning. The result was approximately 142 horsepower — a meaningful increase over the standard 118 hp and enough to give the Murena S strong performance by early-1980s European GT standards. The engine remained transversely mounted just behind the cabin and was paired with a five-speed manual gearbox that complemented its added power and broader torque band.
On the road, the Murena S felt noticeably livelier than the regular 2.2. Acceleration was brisk and flexible, with excellent mid-range strength that made overtaking effortless. Top speed approached 215 km/h (133 mph), and the engine pulled with a smooth, enthusiastic character that suited the car’s GT intentions. The chassis, already praised for its balance, responded well to the extra power. The low centre of gravity and mid-engined layout allowed the S to corner with poise and neutrality, and the suspension — fully independent with wishbones at the front and trailing arms at the rear — remained stable and communicative even under more demanding driving.
Matra made subtle refinements to the S’s suspension and damping to suit its sporting nature, creating a chassis that felt more settled at high speed and more precise through flowing corners. Steering remained light and full of feedback, enhancing the sense of connection and agility. Brakes continued to use front discs and rear drums, which were adequate for the car’s weight and performance but demanded careful maintenance to remain at their best.
Visually, the Murena S distinguished itself through discreet but effective styling touches. Many examples featured black lower body sections, sportier alloy wheels and contrasting decals or striping that highlighted the model’s sharper character. The aerodynamic bodywork remained unchanged in overall shape, preserving the car’s remarkably clean drag coefficient and its futuristic, wedge-influenced presence.
Inside, the S retained the Murena’s unique three-across seating arrangement. This layout, with the driver positioned slightly forward of the two passengers, offered unmatched practicality for a compact mid-engined coupé. In S trim, the cabin typically featured upgraded materials, sportier seat fabrics and a more purposeful atmosphere. The dashboard was simple and modern, angled slightly toward the driver with a full set of clear, functional instruments. Despite its sporting focus, the Murena S remained comfortable and usable for long journeys, maintaining Matra’s tradition of blending practicality with innovation.
The Murena S was produced in small numbers during the final year of Murena production. It stood as a high-water mark for Matra’s sports-car expertise at precisely the moment when the company was preparing to leave the segment altogether. When the Murena line ended in 1983, the S became not only the model’s pinnacle but also the last performance-oriented road car Matra would ever build.
Today, the Talbot-Matra Murena S is one of the rarest and most desirable versions of the entire Murena family. Its combination of stronger performance, aerodynamic efficiency, unique three-seat layout, corrosion-resistant structure and mid-engined balance gives it a distinctive appeal among enthusiasts. It embodies the last and most developed stage of Matra’s long journey in lightweight, innovative, unconventionally engineered sports cars — a refined, engaging and deeply original coupé that remains one of France’s most charismatic automotive creations.