Model Car Yellow and black Citroën 15 CV "Yvette Horner" from the 1955 Tour de France
Scale 1/43
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Discover this magnificent yellow and black Citroën 15 CV "Yvette Horner" from the 1955 Tour de France, an exceptional model car that captures the essence of a golden era of French cycling. This faithful reproduction of the accordion virtuoso's iconic vehicle perfectly embodies the festive and popular spirit of the 1950s Tour de France.
This authentic collector's item takes you back to the history of the Tour de France, when the advertising caravan was still in its infancy and Yvette Horner's accordion set the rhythm for the stages of the world's most famous cycling race.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Citroën 15 CV "Yvette Horner"
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1955
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Yellow and black
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the actual model
The Citroën 15 CV , officially called the Traction Avant 15-Six, was launched in 1938 as the top-of-the-range model in the revolutionary Traction range. Powered by a 2.9-liter six-cylinder engine developing 77 horsepower, this saloon embodied French engineering excellence with its revolutionary front-wheel drive and innovative monocoque structure.
This particular version, customized in Yvette Horner's colors for the 1955 Tour de France, represented the French art of living in all its splendor. With its elegant lines and distinctive yellow and black livery, it perfectly symbolized the joyful and popular spirit of the Tour caravan.
The success of the 15 CV in its standard version was already established, but this special version gave it a unique cultural dimension , combining automotive performance and popular entertainment in a France in full reconstruction.
Brand Description
In 1955, Citroën was experiencing a boom period under the leadership of André Citroën and then Pierre-Jules Boulanger. The chevron brand had revolutionized the automotive industry with its Traction Avant in 1934 , establishing front-wheel drive as a global technical benchmark. This innovation placed Citroën at the forefront of European automotive technology.
Citroën's history dates back to 1919, when André Citroën founded his brand with the ambition of democratizing the automobile in France. A pioneer of European mass production, he drew inspiration from Fordist methods while bringing a touch of typically French technical audacity . The brand quickly distinguished itself through its innovations: the first all-steel European car, the first directional headlights, and, of course, the revolutionary front-wheel drive that would influence the entire automotive industry.
In the 1950s, Citroën consolidated its reputation as an innovator with models like the 15 CV, already preparing the future DS which would once again revolutionize global automotive art in 1955, the very year of this model car.
The accordion that set the rhythm of the Grande Boucle
Yvette Horner and her Citroën 15 CV are inseparable from the golden age of the Tour de France. In 1955, the accordion virtuoso crisscrossed the roads of France in this elegant sedan, preceding the riders and entertaining the crowds gathered on the roadsides. Her accordion resonated in the villages she passed through, creating a unique atmosphere that left its mark on a whole generation of spectators.
This collaboration between Yvette Horner and the Tour de France would last for more than thirty years, making the accordionist a true living legend of the Tour de France . Her yellow and black Citroën 15 CV quickly became instantly recognizable, a symbol of an era when the Tour de France was as much a musical spectacle as a sporting competition.
The story goes that Yvette Horner could play up to fifteen hours a day during the Tour, belting out popular songs from her convertible car. Spectators could recognize the distinctive sound of her Hohner accordion from afar, announcing the imminent arrival of the peloton in what was still largely rural France.
This particular Citroën 15 CV therefore represents much more than just a car: it embodies the spirit of an era when France discovered the joys of mass sporting spectacle, blending popular musical tradition and automotive modernity in a unique cocktail that still fascinates fans of French history today.
Complete your model car collection
This Citroën 15 CV "Yvette Horner" naturally finds its place in a collection dedicated to Tour de France vehicles . It is a centerpiece for collectors passionate about the history of the Tour de France and harmonizes perfectly with other Citroën model cars from the 1950s.
Fans of 1950s model cars will particularly appreciate this reproduction, which sits admirably alongside other French models of the period. It is the perfect addition to a collection of French cars and complements historic advertising vehicles .
This model car will appeal to both seasoned collectors and enthusiasts of French automotive history. It is also aimed at lovers of cycling and the Tour de France, offering a unique cultural dimension that goes beyond the simple framework of automobile collecting to touch on the history of classic cars and French heritage.
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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