1981–1982 Talbot Murena Matra Murena 1.6 Specs & Performance

The Matra Murena 1.6 offered a distinctive alternative to conventional sports coupes, combining a mid-mounted engine with three seats arranged side by side. Its transverse powertrain sits ahead of the rear axle, driving the rear wheels while preserving the car’s unusual cabin layout. Matra also used a galvanised steel structure beneath the fibreglass body, addressing corrosion concerns associated with its predecessor, the Bagheera. The result was a lightweight, individual sports car built around clever packaging rather than outright power.

Its 1,592 cc naturally aspirated four-cylinder uses an overhead-valve layout and a Weber carburettor, producing 88 hp at 5,600 rpm and 97 lb·ft at 3,200 rpm. A five-speed manual gearbox delivers power to the rear wheels. Although less powerful than the 2.2-litre Murena, the 1.6 retains the same unusual seating concept and balanced mid-engine arrangement. Listed for 1981–1982, it represents the entry-level version of the original Murena range.