Tucked away in a French garage sits the world’s first rear mid-engined production car, born from a passion for speed and style. Is it a Lamborghini, a Ferrari, a Porsche? No, this space-age looking 1965 Matra Djet is ready for take-off at Osenat’s upcoming summer sale on June 25th.
Back in the early 1960s, almost every car manufacturer who had dabbled with sports cars, or who had dreamt of producing something a little sportier was releasing their latest and sometimes, greatest machines. By 1962, Enzo’s talented ladies and gents had blessed the world with the 250 GT Lusso, rocketing to worldwide success, but while this sleek cruiser was having its time in the limelight, a tiny French outfit by the name of Automobiles René Bonnet was busy designing and building their own sports car.
After a turbulent few years, Bonnet got into financial troubles, leaving Matra, who already supplied both the bodyshells and the factory for the Djet, took over René Bonnet Automobiles and its debts in October 1964, allowing them to create a sports car with more power, more refinement which will hopefully lead to more sales, and, most importantly for Matra, more money.
This particular Matra Djet 5VS MB8S from 1965 has been enjoyed by the same family for a staggering 45 years and was treated to some seriously impressive upgrades in period. Its original engine was replaced by the high-revving heart of a Renault 5 Alpine, mated to a R20 5-speed gearbox, upgrading the power substantially, as well as ensuring it is extremely durable.
In 2018 this Djet was restored, drawing inspiration from the Matra spider prototype, and was finished in the stunning Bleu de France over a ruby red leather interior, the same colour scheme the prototype wore. Incredibly, after that lengthy restoration took place, the car was never driven, and a mechanical overhaul would be advised. This unique sports car may not be one that is as instantly recognisable as other vehicles of this era, but what it lacks in fame, it certainly makes up for in character!
This unique example is set to go under the hammer, along with a collection of other lost gems at Osenat’s upcoming classic car sale, which commences on June 25th.
