Discover this magnificent Citroën 2 CV 6 FRANCE 3 from 1983, a faithful reproduction in the iconic white and blue colors of the famous television channel. This SOLIDO 1/18th scale miniature perfectly captures the spirit of this unique advertising version that marked the 80s.
This collectible miniature represents one of the last models of the legendary 2 CV, in an advertising livery that showcases the omnipresence of the Deudeuche in French culture at the time.
Miniature Features
- Model: Citroën 2 CV 6 FRANCE 3
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1983
- Scale: 1/18th
- Manufacturer: SOLIDO
- Color: White and blue
- Protective case included: Yes
The story of the Citroën 2 CV 6
The Citroën 2 CV 6 from 1983 represents the culmination of four decades of evolution of the mythical Deudeuche. Initially launched in 1948, the 2 CV had significantly evolved to arrive at this ultimate version, equipped with the 602 cm³ two-cylinder engine developing 29 horsepower. This engine, introduced in 1970, offered acceptable performance for the time while maintaining the model's legendary operating economy.
By 1983, the 2 CV was nearing the end of its career, yet remained a beloved vehicle for its simplicity, reliability, and unmatched charm. Advertising versions like the one from FRANCE 3 testify to the model's enduring popularity, used as a communication medium by numerous companies and institutions.
This year 1983 also marks the last lights of French production of the 2 CV in Levallois, before the definitive transfer to the Portuguese factory in Mangualde where the model's career would ultimately end in 1990.
Citroën in the early 80s
In 1983, Citroën was undergoing a profound transformation under PSA's aegis, which had acquired the brand in 1976. The chevron firm was gradually abandoning its boldest technical innovations to focus on profitability and reliability. This period corresponded to the coexistence of the old generation Citroën, represented by the 2 CV and the GS, with new models like the BX which would launch that same year.
The partnership with FRANCE 3 for this advertising version fits into a communication strategy aimed at maintaining the visibility of the 2 CV despite the arrival of more modern vehicles. Citroën capitalized on the friendly and popular image of its Deudeuche, which had become a true societal phenomenon transcending social classes.
This period also marks the golden age of special editions and derived versions of the 2 CV, with Citroën multiplying limited editions to prolong the commercial interest of the aging model.
The golden age of advertising cars
This Citroën 2 CV FRANCE 3 is a testament to an era when advertising cars were an integral part of the French landscape. In the 80s, many companies used screen-printed vehicles as mobile communication supports, particularly effective in a context where television advertising remained limited and costly.
FRANCE 3, launched in 1975 under the name FR3, was then the regional television channel on the rise. Using the 2 CV as a promotional vehicle was a clever choice: friendly, popular, and perfectly French, it embodied the values of closeness that the regional public channel wanted to convey.
These advertising vehicles roamed the roads of France, participating in local events, fairs, and cultural manifestations. The 2 CV FRANCE 3 thus became familiar to viewers, creating an emotional bond between the media brand and its audience.
Today, these advertising versions have become valuable witnesses of a bygone era when communication was more artisanal and direct, before the advent of digital marketing and social networks.
Complete your miniature collection
This Citroën 2 CV 6 FRANCE 3 SOLIDO naturally finds its place in various collection themes. It integrates perfectly into a set dedicated to Citroën 2CV, alongside other variants and special series of the model. Passionate collectors of advertising vehicles will also find a choice representative sample of the marketing practices of the 80s.
The 1/18th scale of this miniature gives it a remarkable presence that makes it a centerpiece for fans of miniatures at 1/18th scale. It harmoniously pairs with other Citroën models of that era, such as vehicles from the 1980s, to recreate the automotive atmosphere of this pivotal decade.
This SOLIDO piece will particularly appeal to nostalgic collectors of French cars and those interested in the history of communication and media. It also serves as an excellent starting point for a thematic collection around SOLIDO miniatures, a French manufacturer known for the quality of its reproductions of hexagonal vehicles.
