株式会社BINGO

2025/11/07 FRI - 2025/11/09 SUN

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BH AUCTION at CITY CIRCUIT TOKYO BAY

1971 Michelotti LASER

  • 1 of 1
  • Debuted at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show
  • In Japan since 1977
  • Based on the Matra M530
  • Part of the renowned Matsuda Collection

In 1971, the Michelotti Laser concept car captured the attention of journalists and visitors from around the world at the Geneva Motor Show. This "rolling design study" was designed by Tateo Uchida, who worked for Michelotti, one of Italy's most famous coachbuilders, and later became its chief designer.
This model appeared as a one-off prototype, built on the chassis of a Matra M530 and powered by a Ford-built V4 engine. It featured an entirely new body design with a futuristic wedge shape and gullwing doors, making a powerful impact on the audience of the time.

Its low-slung wedge silhouette, standing approximately 1,080 mm tall, foreshadowed the dawn of the supercar era emerging in the early 1970s. The proportions created by its sharp front and long rear deck embody a high level of design excellence, truly deserving the title of a “grand tourer from the future”.
The distinctive gullwing doors were extremely advanced for the time, creating a dramatic effect that captivated spectators even during entry and exit. The wide side sills offered both enhanced rigidity with improved cooling performance, balancing visual impact with functionality. Design and engineering were fused at a high level.

The mid-mounted 1.7-liter Ford V4 engine employed the same mechanism as the M530, ensuring everyday drivability and ease of handling.
Combining the nimble handling typical of Matra at the time with the lightweight body characteristic of a concept car, it was finished not merely as a display vehicle but as a fully drivable prototype. However, it remained fundamentally a concept car.
The interior is both futuristic and practical, featuring a dashboard and instrument layout incorporating unique design experiments not seen in production models.
This particular example debuted at the 1971 Geneva Motor Show, was exhibited at the 1972 Montreal Auto Salon, underwent minor updates, and returned to the spotlight. It then came to Japan to participate in La Carrozzeria Italiana held in Harumi, Tokyo, in 1977.
It was subsequently purchased by the Matsuda Collection around 1980. It was displayed at the Sports Car Museum which opened in 1983.
Its whereabouts were lost for a time, but its existence was reconfirmed when it appeared at the 2nd Concours d'Elegance held in Tokyo in 2009.
This Matra Laser is a historical artifact embodying the concept car culture of the 1970s, the freedom of design, and the passion of the manufacturer and designer.
It commands a powerful presence not only as a collector's piece but also at classic car events, design exhibitions, and museum displays. To own this vehicle, which has etched its name into automotive design history, is to hold a story that will be passed down through generations.
The opportunity to own the only existing prototype in the world is exceedingly rare.

As a highlight in automotive history, design history, and collection value, this car will undoubtedly become the centerpiece of any collection. The next owner will be entrusted with the role of carrying on the history of this one-of-a-kind Matra Laser and passing its story down to future generations.

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VIN 京[62]814京
ODO 5,873 km