Berliet GR 260 STENVAL: A French giant in the service of transport
The Berliet GR 260 STENVAL stands as an authentic witness to the golden age of French road transport. This exceptional model car captures the essence of an iconic truck that marked European roads in the 1970s and 1980s. Faithfully reproduced in 1/43rd scale , it is a masterpiece for any collector passionate about the history of French heavy goods vehicles .
A true collector's item , this model car pays tribute to French engineering and the spirit of innovation that characterized the Berliet brand. It fits perfectly into the world of utility vehicle model cars, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: GR 260 STENVAL
- Brand: Berliet
- Year: 1970s-1980s
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: STENVAL livery
- Protective case included: Yes
The Berliet GR 260: French power and reliability
The Berliet GR 260 was born in the 1970s, a pivotal period for the European road transport industry. Developed by engineers in Vénissieux, this rigid truck embodied the Berliet philosophy: robustness, ease of maintenance, and adaptability to the most demanding conditions. The GR 260 established itself as a sophisticated technical solution for professional hauliers looking for a versatile vehicle.
Equipped with a high-performance diesel engine developing 260 horsepower, this heavy-duty vehicle stood out for its ability to tow heavy loads while maintaining controlled fuel consumption. Its spacious and ergonomic cab offered appreciable comfort to professional drivers, while its robust transmission guaranteed exceptional longevity on European roads.
The GR 260's commercial success was due to its adaptability to various transport applications. Whether for general goods transport, exceptional convoys, or specialized applications such as the STENVAL version, this truck met the growing demands of a rapidly expanding sector.
Berliet: A century of French innovation
Founded in 1899 by Marius Berliet in Lyon, the Berliet brand quickly established itself as a major player in the French automotive industry. From the outset, the company specialized in the design of utility vehicles, anticipating the rise of modern road transport. Marius Berliet's pioneering spirit is reflected in constant technical innovations and a pragmatic approach to the automobile.
At the time of the creation of the GR 260, in the 1970s, Berliet was undergoing a period of major transformation. The Lyon-based company, now integrated into the Renault group, benefited from new resources to develop its range of industrial vehicles . This period marked the peak of technical creativity at Berliet, with the development of high-performance engines and chassis adapted to new European regulations.
The Berliet legacy continues today through the preservation of its technical heritage and the passion of collectors. Berliet model cars bear witness to this historical richness and perpetuate the memory of a brand that shaped the history of French transportation.
The STENVAL epic: When Berliet conquers Europe
The story of the Berliet GR 260 STENVAL is part of the extraordinary adventure of the STENVAL transport company, founded in the 1960s by visionary entrepreneurs. This international transport company deliberately chose Berliet trucks to equip its fleet, recognizing the legendary reliability of the Vénissieux vehicles. The GR 260 STENVALs crisscrossed European roads, from France to the far reaches of Eastern Europe.
These trucks became the unwitting ambassadors of French know-how abroad. Their drivers, true modern-day truckers , recounted their epic journeys across Europe, transporting various goods in often difficult conditions. The GR 260 STENVAL thus helped to forge the reputation of French trucks for reliability on international markets.
The most fascinating aspect of this story lies in the mutual loyalty between STENVAL and Berliet. For nearly two decades, this collaboration has led to the development of specific versions adapted to the particular needs of international transport. The GR 260 STENVALs have become iconic figures on European motorway service areas, recognizable by their distinctive livery and imposing presence.
This collaboration perfectly illustrates the spirit of adaptation that characterized the French transport industry in the 1970s. At a time when Europe was opening up to trade, Berliet trucks and their users like STENVAL played a crucial role in the development of modern road transport, laying the foundations of contemporary logistics.
Complete your model car collection
This Berliet GR 260 STENVAL model car occupies a special place in the world of utility vehicle collectors. It fits perfectly into collections dedicated to French heavy goods vehicles and ideally complements the Berliet model car ranges. Transport history enthusiasts will find here an authentic testimony to the technological evolution of the 1970s.
For collectors looking to expand their collection, this model car fits perfectly with other utility and commercial vehicle models from the same era. It also fits well alongside other iconic French model cars , creating a cohesive ensemble representative of the national automotive industry.
This piece is particularly suitable for experienced collectors and those passionate about industrial history. It is an excellent starting point for exploring the world of model cars from the 1970s , a fascinating period of transformation in European road transport. Its historical authenticity and quality of reproduction make it a lasting investment for any serious collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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