Matra Automobile Space Museum

Modern, clear and warm, the Espace automobiles Matra, open since May 2000 on its current site, has become a place not to be missed. The only official museum of the famous brand, welcomes you on more than 3000 m².

You will discover a three-dimensional saga: the industrial adventure, an absolutely unique sporting record, as well as the Matra spirit of innovation symbolised by numerous prototypes. In all, some seventy vehicles are harmoniously displayed side by side.

The essential originality of this incomparable place lies in its museographic conception. Video terminals, models, photos and explanatory sheets full of anecdotes highlight each stage of Matra's rich history.

Lulled by the melodious sound of the V12 engine, you approach the MS80, the 1969 Formula 1 world champion. The 124 victories won in less than 10 years on the world's greatest circuits are also illustrated by cars like the MS670.

The wide aisles then take you to the heart of the industrial adventure. More than a million vehicles came off the Romorantin-based production lines between the early 1960s and 2003: Djet, Matra 530, Bagheera, Murena, Rancho, the three generations of Espace and the Avantime, the collection is complete.

But the best is yet to come. In the basement, you will then dive into the secret drawers of a great car manufacturer. This is the world in which women and children can get excited. The unique and extraordinary Espace F1, the world-famous racing car, the futuristic Spider Sbarro and many other prototypes, sometimes made of wood or plaster, with surprising designs, amaze many visitors.

A visit to the sumptuous engine room completes this didactic and surprising tour of the Matra Automobile adventure.