Equipment
1,108/70hp, 4-speed manual, steel wheels.
Condition
From the Petitjean collection. Some dents and scratches on panel edges and numerous cracks in the paint. Some microblistering and uneven finish in the paint as well, suggesting poor prep work. Brightwork is a bit dull. Fog lights are missing. Decent but dirty original interior with a split seam in the driver's seat and some electrical tape holding the passenger's seat together. Center cap is missing on the steering wheel. Dirty and old but complete engine bay and old driver quality underbody. A neat little French two-seater, and it would make for a straightforward, rewarding project for someone who is into eccentric cars.
Market commentary
Credited as the first mid-engine production automobile, the Matra Djet started as a Bonnet in 1962. In 1964 Bonnet came under the umbrella of Matra, which during its history has made aircraft engines, missiles, cluster bombs, rocket launchers and bicycles. In our hobby, though, we mostly know Matra for its F1 team (and engines) and its Le Mans-winning sports cars. The Djet is a more humble thing in both performance and price, powered by either base Renault 8 or Gordini-tuned four, with fully independent suspension and disc brakes under a fiberglass body. Matra built fewer than 1500 Djets (including one for Yuri Gagarin). This price is appropriate, and even on the strong side, for a solid project car that's missing a few bits.