The Matford logo captures the alliance of two major automakers, resulting in successful new developments. The emblem reflects French charm and American pragmatism. The car was comfortable and delighted customers with its attractive design.
Matford: Brand overview
Matford emerged from the partnership between Ford Motor Company and Mathis S.A. in 1934, during the Great Depression and rising protectionist policies in France. The venture aimed to solidify Ford’s presence in the French market. The Matford factory in Strasbourg started producing cars under the Matford brand, blending American engineering with French design.
The first models, V8-48 and V8-62, adapted American Ford V8s with Mathis-designed bodies. By 1936, the company rolled out updated models V8-68 and V8-78, showcasing modern designs and enhanced technical features. In 1937, the Alsace V8 debuted, tailored specifically for the French market, earning praise for its elegant design and craftsmanship. The lineup expanded in 1938 with the compact and affordable Alsace V8-13 and V8-17 models.
World War II disrupted the company’s trajectory. Civilian car production halted as the company attempted to shift to military vehicle manufacturing—the German occupation of Strasbourg in 1940 disrupted operations entirely, leading to the brand’s end. Ford Motor Company and Mathis S.A. dissolved their partnership, marking the company’s end.
Though short-lived, the company’s legacy lives on in the fusion of American engineering and French design, creating well-regarded vehicles in its brief existence.
Meaning and History
What is Matford?
Matford was a French automotive brand born from a collaboration between Ford Motor Company and French automaker Mathis. The brand produced vehicles that combined American engineering with European styling, known for their durability and popularity in pre-World War II France.
1934 – 1940
The company emblem is oval-shaped, featuring smooth and harmonious lines that create an impressive visual image. This shape aligns with the Ford company logo, which was key in establishing the Matford brand.
Matford is written in elegant white script in the center of the emblem, combining the names Mathis and Ford. The Americans needed additional manufacturing capacity to expand European production, and the Mathis factory was an ideal option. Ford owned 60% of the new brand’s shares, which is reflected in the name and design of the emblem, which is almost identical to the Ford logo.
The emblem signifies the American manufacturer’s extensive knowledge and engineering achievements in the project. Matford cars are noteworthy for implementing advanced technologies and meeting Ford’s high standards.