Endurance - Matra - Standaard / NOOS

Matra was a French company primarily known for its contributions to the automotive and motorsport industries.

Founded in 1941, Matra originally started out as an aerospace company but later ventured into automotive design and manufacturing, gaining notable recognition in Formula 1 and producing a variety of sports cars and commercial vehicles.

In the early 1960s, Matra entered the automotive industry with an interest in producing cars. It began by creating a partnership with Renault, producing a range of sports cars and other vehicles.

Matra’s real fame in the automotive world came through its involvement in motorsport, particularly Formula 1 and sports car racing. Matra entered Formula 1 in the 1960s and enjoyed significant success in the sport. The Matra MS7 F1 car, introduced in 1968, was highly competitive, with Jackie Stewart behind the wheel, winning the 1969 French Grand Prix.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Matra maintained a close relationship with Renault, creating several successful sports cars and racing cars. The partnership culminated in the production of Matra-Renault vehicles, where Matra’s engineering and design talents combined with Renault’s resources.

In 1977, Renault purchased a majority stake in Matra Automobile to further strengthen its presence in motorsports and the sports car market. The Renault-Matra partnership would last for several years.