Matra Rancho
The visionary French pioneer that defined the modern crossover SUV.
- Power
- 80 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 14.2 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$36k
About the Matra Rancho
Launched in 1977, the Matra Rancho was a radical departure from traditional off-roaders, offering rugged Range Rover-inspired styling on a budget. Built on a modified Simca 1100 VF3 commercial chassis, it featured a steel front section and a cavernous glass-fibre rear structure. Despite its 'go-anywhere' appearance, it remained front-wheel drive, prioritising leisure and utility over true off-road capability. It is now celebrated as the spiritual ancestor of the modern crossover, though extreme rarity due to rust makes surviving examples highly prized by collectors.
Matra Rancho specs
The Matra Rancho produces 80 bhp (60 kW) and 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 14.2 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Matra |
|---|---|
| Model | Rancho |
| Trim | 1.4 |
| Years | 1977–1984 |
| Type | SUV |
| Body style | Estate |
| Country | France |
| Production | About 57,792 built |
| Engine | 1.4-litre OHV inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,442 cc (1.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 80 bhp (60 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 120 Nm (89 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 14.2 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,130 kg (2,491 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 71 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Matra Rancho worth?
A typical Matra Rancho is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $36,000 (about £3,700 – £27,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Matra Rancho rarity in CarSpot
The Matra Rancho is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 30 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Matra Rancho fun facts
- The Rancho's innovative 'monospace' successor was rejected by Peugeot but later became the Renault Espace, Europe's first true MPV.
- It featured scuttle-mounted spotlights that, by design, could only be operated when the ignition was turned off.
- The rear section was constructed from glass-fibre reinforced polyester, a technique Matra adapted from its aerospace and sports car expertise.
