Model Car Citroën Autochenille from 1931 (plexi box) WITHOUT the rearview mirror
Scale 1/43
The rearview mirror is missing
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An exceptional model car: the 1931 Citroën Autochenille
This 1:43 scale 1931 Citroën Autochenille model car represents one of the most daring and innovative vehicles in French automotive history. Presented in its protective plexiglass case, this collectible captures the essence of a revolutionary vehicle that marked its era with its avant-garde design and unique technical conception.
Intended for passionate collectors of French automobiles and fans of technical innovation, this model car is a testament to Citroën's pioneering spirit in the 1930s. It is a valuable addition to any collection dedicated to exceptional vehicles and historic prototypes.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Caterpillar
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1931
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Condition: Missing rearview mirror
- Protective case included: Yes
The real model: an avant-garde vehicle
The Citroën Half-Track was developed in 1931 as part of André Citroën's research into vehicles suitable for difficult terrain. This revolutionary prototype combined the advantages of a traditional automobile at the front with a track system at the rear, inspired by the tanks of the First World War.
The vehicle was powered by a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engine and featured a unique architecture with front-wheel steering and a rear-mounted rubber track propulsion system. This configuration provided excellent grip on all types of terrain, from paved roads to muddy or snowy paths.
Although this prototype was never commercialized on a large scale, it foreshadowed Citroën's future innovations in off-road vehicles and demonstrated the avant-garde vision of the chevron brand.
Citroën: innovation at the service of mobility
In 1931, Citroën was undergoing a period of intense technical creativity under the leadership of André Citroën, who did not hesitate to invest massively in research and development. The brand, founded in 1919, had already distinguished itself with the Type A, the first European car to be mass-produced, and continued its quest for innovation with bold projects.
The Autochenille era coincided with the years when Citroën was experimenting with Croisières Citroën , spectacular automotive expeditions that took specially adapted vehicles across Africa and Asia. These adventures demonstrated the robustness and adaptability of Citroën creations, reinforcing the company's innovative and adventurous brand image.
This prosperous period, marked by a constant search for original technical solutions, would lead a few years later to the launch of the revolutionary Traction Avant in 1934, confirming Citroën's ability to revolutionize the automotive industry.
A fascinating technical anecdote
The history of the Citroën half-track is closely linked to the research carried out by engineer Adolphe Kégresse, a former mechanic to Tsar Nicholas II of Russia. Kégresse had developed a system of rubberized tracks for Russian imperial automobiles to travel in the snow of St. Petersburg.
After the Russian Revolution, Kégresse moved to France and joined the Citroën team. His expertise led to the development of the Kégresse-Citroën system , which equipped not only the Autochenille but also the vehicles of the famous African and Asian expeditions. These "autochenilles" quickly became legendary for their ability to overcome obstacles deemed impassable.
A remarkable fact: some of these half-tracks were used by the explorer Louis Audouin-Dubreuil during the first motorized crossing of the Sahara in 1922-1923. These revolutionary vehicles covered more than 20,000 kilometers across the desert , paving the way for future trans-Saharan links and demonstrating the exceptional potential of this hybrid technology.
The Autochenille thus symbolized the spirit of adventure and innovation that characterized Citroën in the 1930s, a period when the brand constantly pushed the limits of what was possible in terms of automotive mobility.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This 1931 Citroën Autochenille occupies a unique place in the world of French model cars. It perfectly represents the pioneering spirit of French manufacturers and is the perfect addition to a collection dedicated to French model cars or Citroën model cars .
Collectors will particularly appreciate the rarity of this model, which fits perfectly with other iconic pieces such as the Citroën Traction or vehicles from the 1930s . This model car also finds its place alongside other concept cars and historic prototypes.
Whether you are passionate about automotive history , a collector of exceptional vehicles or a fan of 1/43 scale model cars , this Autochenille is a precious testimony to French technical audacity. It will also appeal to fans of vintage model cars and notable automotive innovations.
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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