This stunning reproduction of the Citroën DS 19 in its lime green livery with a grey roof captures all the revolutionary elegance of the French icon from the 1950s. Produced by DAN-TOYS under reference DAN-082 for the Editions Atlas, this 1/43 scale miniature pays tribute to one of the boldest models in automotive history.
A true collector's item, this faithful reproduction will delight both car enthusiasts and collectors of French miniatures. Its characteristic two-tone design reflects the aesthetic refinement that made the DS a success on the roads around the world.
Miniature Characteristics
- Model: DS 19
- Brand: Citroën
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Lime green and grey roof
- Manufacturer: DAN-TOYS
- Reference: DAN-082
- Publisher: Editions Atlas
- Protective case included: Yes
The Citroën DS 19: An Automotive Revolution
Launched in October 1955 at the Paris Motor Show, the Citroën DS caused a real earthquake in the automotive industry. Its futuristic design, signed by Italian sculptor Flaminio Bertoni and engineer André Lefèbvre, completely breaks away from the aesthetic codes of the time. The fluid and aerodynamic lines of the DS anticipated the modern automobile by nearly two decades.
The DS 19 stands out for its revolutionary technical innovations: self-leveling hydropneumatic suspension, hydraulic power steering, assisted brakes, and semi-automatic transmission. These technologies, unprecedented in a production car, provide exceptional ride comfort and handling for the time. The four-cylinder 1,911 cm³ engine develops 75 horsepower, allowing it to reach 140 km/h.
Produced until 1975, the DS experienced a remarkable commercial success with over 1.4 million units produced. It quickly established itself as the vehicle of choice for officials and trendsetters, solidifying its status as an icon of French design.
Citroën in the 1950s
In the mid-1950s, Citroën went through a pivotal period in its history. Under the direction of Pierre Boulanger and then Pierre-Jules Bercot, the brand with the chevrons relied on technical innovation to stand out from the competition. The French company, founded in 1919 by André Citroën, had already made its mark on the automotive industry with the Traction Avant in the 1930s.
The era of the DS represents the creative peak of Citroën. The brand developed its avant-garde philosophy, favoring technological and aesthetic boldness over conformity. This strategy, although financially risky, forged Citroën's unique identity and allowed it to cultivate a loyal customer base, drawn by French originality in the face of standardized German and American productions.
A Born Movie Star
The Citroën DS 19 quickly surpassed its status as a simple car to become a true cultural phenomenon. From its release, it fascinated intellectuals and artists alike. Roland Barthes even dedicated a famous essay to it in his "Mythologies" (1957), comparing the DS to great Gothic cathedrals and praising its "magical perfection".
In cinema, the DS became the star of many productions. It embodies French modernity in "Fantômas" (1964) with Louis de Funès, where it spectacularly demonstrates its capabilities in chases. The film contributed to solidifying the DS in the popular imagination as a symbol of technical sophistication. Its hydraulic suspension allows for stunts that are impossible with other vehicles, turning it into a true actress.
The range of colors of the DS, notably this characteristic lime green, reflects the optimism of the Glorious Thirties. This shade, popular in the 1960s, symbolizes renewal and prosperity in post-war France. Combined with the grey roof, it creates an elegant contrast that highlights the sculptural lines of the body, transforming each DS into a rolling work of art in the French urban landscape.
More than just a means of transport, the DS 19 embodies the art of living à la française. It accompanied the social transformation of the 1960s, a period when the automobile became accessible to the middle class. Its revolutionary comfort democratized automotive luxury, allowing an entire generation to discover the pleasures of a refined driving experience, far from the spartan vehicles of the immediate post-war era.
Complete Your Miniature Collection
This Citroën DS 19 DAN-TOYS holds a special place in the world of French miniatures in 1/43 scale. It fits perfectly into a Citroën collection alongside other iconic models like the Traction Avant or the 2CV, illustrating the stylistic evolution of the brand.
Collectors passionate about 1950s automobiles will especially appreciate this reproduction, which harmonizes beautifully with other French sedans of the era. It ideally complements a selection of classic vehicles, reflecting the golden age of French automotive design.
This miniature will appeal to both newcomers discovering the world of collectibles and experienced collectors seeking representative pieces of national automotive heritage. Its careful finish and historical authenticity make it an excellent entry point into the realm of Atlas miniatures, known for their fidelity to original models.
