The Citroën DS 19 Black miniature represents one of the most revolutionary automobiles of the 20th century. This faithful reproduction captures all the elegance and innovation of the French sedan that made automotive history with its futuristic lines and cutting-edge technologies.
A must-have collectible, this miniature appeals to both French car enthusiasts and collectors seeking iconic pieces. The DS 19 holds a special place in the world of Citroën miniature cars, symbolizing an era when the French automotive industry shone globally.
Miniature Features
- Model: DS 19
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1955-1975
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Black
- Protective case included: Yes
Real Model Description
First introduced at the Paris Motor Show in October 1955, the Citroën DS revolutionized the automotive industry with its avant-garde design by Flaminio Bertoni and exceptional technical innovations. The DS 19, the first version of the range, features a 1911 cm³ four-cylinder engine producing 75 horsepower, coupled with a revolutionary transmission and the hydropneumatic suspension patented by Citroën.
The revolutionary features of the DS include the oleopneumatic suspension, allowing vehicle height adjustment, power steering, power brakes, and a semi-automatic transmission system. These innovations place the DS twenty years ahead of its time, offering unparalleled ride comfort and exceptional road handling.
The commercial success was immediate: 12,000 orders were recorded on the very first day of presentation. The DS 19 quickly became a symbol of post-war French renewal and established itself as a global reference in automotive innovation.
History of the Citroën Brand
In the mid-1950s, Citroën was going through a pivotal time in its history. Founded in 1919 by André Citroën, the chevron-brand solidified its place as a pioneer of innovation with the Traction Avant in the 1930s. With the launch of the DS, Citroën sought to reclaim its position as a technological leader amid increasing competition.
The French company invested heavily in the revolutionary project, reflecting Citroën's DNA: constant innovation to offer vehicles that break away from conventions. The DS embodies this philosophy, marking the peak of French creativity in automotive design and consolidating Citroën's global reputation as a visionary manufacturer.
A Star of Cinema and Politics
The Citroën DS quickly surpassed its status as just a car to become a true cultural phenomenon. In cinema, it starred in numerous films, notably in the "Gendarmes" series with Louis de Funès and in "Fantômas" where it competes with James Bond’s Aston Martin. Its unmistakable silhouette makes it the heroine of memorable chases.
In politics, the DS earned its stripes during the Petit-Clamart attack on August 22, 1962. General de Gaulle's presidential DS, riddled with bullets by OAS supporters, managed to escape thanks to its exceptional road handling despite the bursting of two tires. This dramatic event transformed the DS into a symbol of the French Republic.
The philosopher Roland Barthes even dedicates an entire chapter to the DS in his "Mythologies" in 1957, calling it a mythical object of French modernity. According to him, the DS embodies "a perfectly human art of the automobile," reflecting its deep cultural impact on society at the time.
Complete Your Miniature Collection
This Citroën DS 19 Black naturally fits into a collection dedicated to Citroën DS or a representative set of iconic French automobiles. Its elegant black color harmoniously contrasts with other DS liveries or seamlessly fits into a thematic collection of classic cars from 1950-1979.
Collectors will appreciate pairing it with other legendary French models like the Citroën Traction or contemporary creations from the 1950s and 1960s. This miniature particularly appeals to automobile history enthusiasts, admirers of French design, and collectors seeking representative pieces of national automotive heritage.
