Citroën 2 CV Paris - Beijing
Scale 1/43
PLEASE NOTE: the first image is a computer-generated render and may not exactly match the vehicle in this listing, so please check the photos that follow it.
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Get it between Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 November
This 1/43rd scale Citroën 2CV Paris-Pékin miniature captures the spirit of a legendary expedition that left its mark on automotive history. A faithful replica of the iconic "Deudeuche" that crossed Eurasia during the famous Paris-Pékin rally, this collectible model car stands out for its authenticity and attention to detail.
A true witness to an era when motoring adventure knew no limits, this miniature is a must-have collector's item for every car enthusiast and fan of grand-raid history.
Unveiled in 1948 at the Paris Motor Show, the Citroën 2CV was born from a revolutionary brief: build a car able to carry "two farmers in clogs, 50 kg of potatoes or a small barrel, at 60 km/h, for 3 litres per 100 km". This minimalist philosophy actually concealed remarkable engineering, with its unique interconnected suspension and robust design.
The 2CV stands out for its ease of maintenance and extraordinary adaptability. Its air-cooled twin-cylinder engine, distinctive corrugated bodywork and spartan yet functional cabin quickly made it the icon of automotive democratisation in France. More than a simple means of transport, it became the symbol of an era and a way of life.
Over the decades, the 2CV evolved while keeping its unmistakable identity. Its production run, lasting 42 years until 1990, proves the soundness of its original design and its ability to endure across the ages.
Founded in 1919 by André Citroën, the chevron-badged marque revolutionised the French car industry from its very beginnings. A visionary, André Citroën introduced mass-production methods inspired by Ford while pursuing bold technical innovations that would define the brand for decades.
In the 1940s and 1950s, the period when the 2CV was developed, Citroën went through post-war reconstruction. Under the direction of the design office led by André Lefèbvre, the company developed a unique engineering philosophy built on comfort, simplicity and efficiency. This approach came to life not only with the 2CV but also with the revolutionary DS in 1955.
The Citroën spirit of that era was defined by constant technological boldness and a determination to democratise motoring. This forward-thinking vision allowed the brand to create vehicles that left a deep mark on their time and became lasting references in automotive history.
The story of the 2CV Paris-Pékin began in 1970 with a raid organised by the magazine "L'Auto-Journal". Six crews set off from Paris in specially prepared 2CVs, crossing Europe, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India before reaching Kathmandu. This 16,000-kilometre journey over impassable terrain was an unprecedented challenge for small cars designed for French country roads.
Preparing the vehicles showcased the ingenuity of the mechanics of the time. The 2CVs received subtle yet crucial modifications: raised ground clearance, special tyres, additional fuel tanks and reinforced chassis. Despite these adaptations, the original spirit of the 2CV remained intact, proving the fundamental robustness of its design.
Throughout this legendary raid, the crews faced extreme conditions: sandstorms in the Iranian deserts, snow-covered passes of the Hindu Kush and battered tracks in Afghanistan. The 2CV revealed unexpected qualities: its light weight became an asset on soft ground, and its mechanical simplicity allowed makeshift repairs with basic tools.
Beyond the sporting feat, the Paris-Pékin raid embodied the spirit of adventure of the 1970s and the democratisation of car travel. It permanently changed the 2CV's image, moving it from popular car to icon of adventure and freedom, inspiring generations of motorised adventurers.
This 2CV Paris-Pékin miniature naturally fits into any Citroën model car collection. It pairs perfectly with other emblematic models from the brand, including replicas of Citroën DS and the various versions of 2CV available in our catalogue.
For fans of rally and motorsport, this piece fits naturally alongside rally cars and completes a collection dedicated to racing cars. It can also enhance a selection of iconic French cars.
This miniature is especially suited to discerning collectors looking for pieces rich in history, and to fans of legendary motoring adventures. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the 1970s cars and classic vehicles that left their mark on their era through exceptional feats.
Stephane Bazille
14 November 2026
Always delivered within the agreed deadlines, well-packaged and protected materials. Nothing negative to report. A constantly renewed range that, despite the intention to remain cautious, always finds new temptations...
Claude Lang
13 November 2026
I placed my second order and everything went smoothly, delivery without issues, items in good condition, and delivered on time. After this second order, I can only recommend the site to Bernardminiature, a serious person. Top delivery, thanks again to him and good for a next order.
Serge PINSON
12 November 2026
In addition to the fact that the 1/43 miniatures received are perfectly in line with the photographs and my expectations and are of great finesse, they arrived very quickly (I was even informed of the shipment) and very carefully packaged. Very satisfied, I placed a new order with Bernard Miniatures, a seller I recommend for their selection and reliability.
The scale is the reduction ratio between the real car and the model. At 1:43 scale, for example, every centimetre of the model represents 43 centimetres of the real vehicle.
In practice, a 1:18 Ferrari model is about 25–30 cm long, while at 1:43 it measures roughly 10 cm.
Our model cars mainly come in 1:43, 1:24, 1:18 and 1:87 (HO) scale. The scale is always listed on the product page.
The smaller the second number, the bigger the model (e.g. 1:18 is larger than 1:43).
Yes, every model car ships in its protective box. The box preserves its collector value and protects your model from dust and knocks.
We pack every order with great care: bubble wrap, snug padding and polystyrene. Your model car is fully secured on its way to you.
In-stock items ship within 24–48h. Allow 2–3 business days for mainland France with Colissimo, or 4–5 days with Mondial Relay.
I can't say exactly when new stock will arrive, as it comes in a trickle. Feel free to contact me and I'll let you know as soon as it's available.