1972 Matra 530LX

Highlight

A beautiful and highly original 530LX
An innovative mid-engined fibreglass four-seater
A light and agile sports car with a 1.7-litre Ford V4 engine
Very rare in this condition
Presents itself very well inside and out
Only two owners

The Appeal

France is the home of breaking every rule in motoring, of innovative and revolutionary technological leaps. But even in this context, the Matra 530 is an astonishing car.

It defied every rule, visually and in terms of engineering. It is a small four-seater sports car with a mid-engine, a removable Targa roof and a totally unconventional style.

The 530 has an important place in Matra's history because it was the first car completely designed and built by the car manufacturer. Its name, also unusual, is that of a rocket produced by the company's defence branch.

The LX version arrived in March 1970 with a slight restyling by Michelotti, including a tailgate. A total of 4,731 were built, but surviving examples today are exceptionally rare.

This is an extremely original and well-presented 530LX with a Ford V4 engine and low mileage. It has been little used since 1986, so may require some light tuning by the buyer.

The History and Paperwork

First registered on 2 October 1972 in Sicily
Remained with its first owner until 2020, when the seller acquired it
We are told it has never been involved in an accident
Used regularly until 1986 when the last overhaul expired
LX model with restyling by Michelotti
The LX was sold between March 1970 and February 1973, so this is one of the last ones built
Car always registered in Italy
Original registration papers dated 2 October 1972 in Trapani
Owner's manuals in various levels of preservation
Old invoices and receipts included
Coupon stickers visible on centre pillar of car
Currently not registered with ASI
Does not have a valid Revision Certificate

The Condition

Exhibits the unmistakable style of the 530LX with details such as the flat nose and pop-up headlights
Visibly well maintained, with yellow fibreglass bodywork in good condition
Well-maintained bodywork with some light scratches and marks shown in the photographs
Very original car, including the steel wheels which show slight signs of oxidation
Tyres are quite old but appear to be in good condition with good tread
Well maintained underbody with no problems to report
Versatile 2+2 with small rear seat
Removable targa roof
Exterior chrome is bright and complete, undamaged but original with slight signs of wear
Original interior with many interesting details, including Veglia dials and Matra 2-spoke steering wheel
Headlining looks original and well maintained with only a few light marks
Elegant wood-effect dashboard in good condition
Matra two-spoke steering wheel

The Mechanics

Ford V4 engine of 1,699 cc with 68 hp from the Taunus
4-speed manual gearbox also from Taunus
Mid-engined configuration with rear-wheel drive
Low weight and good weight distribution provide excellent road holding
Little used since last overhaul in 1986

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