Citroën DS Fire Engine Red
Scale: 1/43rd
Bent and broken antenna
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.
This 1/43 scale Citroën DS fire engine red miniature represents one of the finest adaptations of the French goddess to emergency services. This specialized version showcases the remarkable use of this iconic model by French emergency services during the 1960s and 1970s.
A true piece of automotive history, this fire engine DS is a valuable addition for any collector passionate about intervention vehicles or vintage Citroën models.
Launched in October 1955 at the Paris Motor Show, the Citroën DS immediately transforms the global automotive landscape. Designed under the direction of André Lefèvre and clothed by Italian sculptor Flaminio Bertoni, this revolutionary sedan redefines the modern automobile with its futuristic lines and bold technical innovations.
The DS stands out with its revolutionary hydropneumatic suspension, power steering, and front disc brakes—cutting-edge features for the time. Its exceptional drag coefficient of 0.35 and monocoque construction provide remarkable road performance, making it a natural choice for emergency services requiring reliability and quick response.
The French fire services quickly adopt this model for their rapid response and liaison vehicles, enticed by its outstanding road qualities and legendary robustness.
During the 1950s and 1970s, Citroën undergoes a period of intense technological innovation under the leadership of André Citroën and later Pierre Bercot. The French company focuses on technical daring and avant-garde design to stand out from its European competitors, particularly Peugeot and Renault in the domestic market.
This strategy of continuous innovation positions Citroën as the most creative French manufacturer of its time. The chevron brand develops the 2CV for automotive democratization and the DS for technical excellence, demonstrating its ability to cover the entire market with original solutions. This dual approach allows Citroën to appeal to both individuals and professional users, particularly French public services that favor the reliability and performance of its models.
On August 22, 1962, the presidential DS of General de Gaulle enters legend during the Petit-Clamart assassination attempt. That evening, OAS conspirators fire at the black Citroën DS 21 Pallas transporting the President and his wife to Orly airport. Despite fourteen bullet impacts, several of which punctured the rear tires, the DS miraculously continues its course.
What strikes investigators is the extraordinary stability maintained by the vehicle despite the tire bursts. The DS's hydropneumatic suspension automatically compensates for the loss of pressure, allowing driver Francis Maroux to keep heading straight without losing control. This technical feat literally saves the life of the French head of state.
This dramatic event instantly transforms the DS into a symbol of safety and reliability for French official services. Orders flood in from ministries, prefectures, and emergency services, convinced by this involuntary yet spectacular demonstration of the exceptional road qualities of Citroën's model.
Even today, this story reinforces the myth of the DS and partly explains why French fire services massively adopted this model for their operations during the 1960s and 1970s.
This fire engine red DS naturally finds its place alongside other miniature fire vehicles or in a collection dedicated to Citroën models. It harmonizes perfectly with other French public service vehicles from the same era, creating a cohesive set representative of the institutional automotive fleet of the Trente Glorieuses.
Collectors passionate about the 1960s and 1970s will particularly appreciate this piece that illustrates the excellence of the French automotive industry. This miniature appeals to both emergency services history enthusiasts and fans of French automobiles, constituting an authentic testament to a time when technical innovation and public service harmoniously intertwined in French creations.
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.
Christian Frassinetti
11 November 2026
High-quality products, top-level shipping, we care about the customer in this house, I am more than satisfied with my purchases. There will be more...
Sold
It was the last one, and we no longer have it in stock. It may come back one day, but I can't promise. In the meantime, here are the closest matches available today.
Brown Citroën GS from 1971 (MISSING REAR-VIEW MIRROR)
20,00 €
Citroën Visa 2 Super E brown 1981 (plexi box)
25,00 €
Citroën Traction 11AL Black 1935 - Auto Plus
25,00 €
Citroën Type H long off-white/beige? from 1954 - La Chaine Paysanne
30,00 €
Citroën Traction 11CV Black - Del Prado
25,00 €
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.