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Matador Red is a deep, bold red long associated with European performance and luxury brands, named for the dramatic, confident imagery of bullfighting. It sits toward the darker, more serious end of the red spectrum, without going all the way to maroon or burgundy.
Where Matador Red Came From
Named for the drama and confidence associated with bullfighting imagery, Matador Red has carried a deliberately bold, premium character since its introduction on European performance trims.
What Makes Matador Red a Popular Choice
It's been a signature color on specific European sport and luxury trims for decades, prized for pairing confidence with restraint rather than going as bright as a pure primary red.
Is Matador Red Right for You?
If you want the boldness of Matador Red without quite as much depth, a brighter red like Flame Red or Octane Red may read more vivid in everyday light.
How Matador Red Looks in Different Light
Matador Red holds its depth well across lighting conditions, looking rich in direct sun and still clearly red, rather than shifting toward black, under overcast skies.
Caring for a Matador Red Paint Job
As a solid or metallic dark red, it shows swirl marks somewhat more than lighter colors; regular wax or sealant protection helps preserve the depth over time.
Matador Red in Hot and Cold Climates
Performs consistently across climates, with the usual UV-fade considerations that apply to any saturated dark color over years of sun exposure.
Wheel, Trim & Interior Pairings
Pairs well with black or chrome trim and wheels for a classic, confident presentation.
Matador Red Finish Options
Matador Red has historically been offered as both a solid and a metallic finish depending on model and year; the metallic version adds noticeable sparkle in direct light.
Factory Colors Named Matador Red
21 factory colors from different manufacturers have a name that includes “matador red”. Here are the closest matches. The paint code is what you need to order matching paint; the on-screen swatch is only an approximation.
| Make and model | Factory color | Paint code | Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lexus ES | Matador Red | 3R1 | 2006–2025 |
| Toyota | Matador Red | 3R1 | 2006–2025 |
| Audi A4 | Matador Red | LY3S | 2017–2024 |
| Ford Crown Victoria | Matador Red | DT | 2002–2009 |
| Honda Civic | Matador Red | R93P | 1996–1997 |
| Oldsmobile | Matador Red | 75 | 1971–1972 |
| AMC | Matador Red | B9 | 1967–1971 |
| AMC AMX | Matador Red | P39 | 1968–1970 |
| Buick | Matador Red | 75 | 1953–1970 |
| GM | Matador Red | 75 | 1970 |
| Pontiac Firebird | Matador Red | 52 | 1969 |
| Chevrolet Camaro | Matador Red | R | 1956–1968 |
| Plymouth Barracuda | Matador Red | P | 1968 |
| Cadillac | Matador Red | 48 | 1963–1965 |
Matching Your Factory Matador Red
Confirm your exact factory code before ordering touch-up paint, since several red shades across different brands share a similar deep, bold character.
Cost to Paint Your Car Matador Red
Standard solid or metallic repaint pricing applies; see our cost guide for the main factors behind any quote.
Common Misconceptions About Matador Red
A common misconception is that "Matador" implies a specific brand-exclusive formulation; the name has been used descriptively enough that confirming the exact factory code matters more than the name alone.
Before You Commit: A Quick Checklist
- Confirm your exact factory code for your specific model.
- Decide between solid and metallic variants based on availability.
- Expect standard repaint pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Matador Red the same as maroon?
No — it's brighter and more saturated than maroon, sitting closer to a deep true red.
Which brands have offered Matador Red?
It's most closely associated with certain European performance and luxury marques; confirm your specific factory code to be certain of an exact match.
Look Up the Exact Code
Want to match matador red exactly, whether it's a factory color or a custom mix? Use the color code tool to find the manufacturer code for your specific make and model, or browse custom color options.