Discover this magnificent reproduction of the Citroën ID 20 station wagon ambulance used by the French emergency services in 1972. This 1:43 scale model car faithfully captures the spirit of solidarity and technical innovation that characterized emergency vehicles of the 1970s.
A true testament to an era when Citroën revolutionized the French automobile industry, this collector's item will appeal to automotive history enthusiasts and emergency vehicle collectors. It perfectly illustrates the adaptation of civilian sedans to the specific needs of public services.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: ID 20 station wagon ambulance
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1972
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Version: Firefighters
- Protective case included: Yes
The ID 20: the heir to the DS revolution
The Citroën ID 20 was born in 1968 as a natural evolution of the ID range, itself derived from the revolutionary DS. This sedan retained the innovative technical architecture of its prestigious sister while offering a more accessible positioning. The estate, marketed from 1970, met the growing needs of French families and professionals.
Equipped with Citroën's iconic hydropneumatic suspension , the ID 20 offers exceptional ride comfort and remarkable adaptability to different types of terrain. Its generous interior space and spacious trunk quickly made it the preferred choice for emergency services, particularly for ambulance missions where patient comfort is paramount.
The estate version stands out for its versatility and robustness, essential qualities for emergency vehicles that must be present in all circumstances. Its avant-garde design, a direct legacy of the DS, continues to make an impression with its futuristic lines.
Citroën in the 1970s: innovation and social commitment
In the early 1970s , Citroën experienced a period of intense creativity driven by its visionary engineers. The double chevron brand continued its philosophy of technical innovation while diversifying its range to meet the varied needs of a rapidly changing French society.
This period also marks a significant commitment from Citroën to public and emergency services. The brand develops specialized versions of its models, adapted to the technical constraints of firefighters, police, and medical services. The ID 20 ambulance station wagon fits perfectly into this approach, demonstrating the French automotive industry's ability to adapt to societal challenges.
The history of Citroën, since its creation by André Citroën in 1919, is marked by technical innovations and industrial feats. Hydropneumatic suspension , the rotary engine and aerodynamic studies have constantly placed the brand at the forefront of the global automobile industry.
An ambulance like no other
The use of the ID 20 estate as a fire brigade ambulance is a testament to a time when civilian vehicles were systematically adapted to the needs of emergency services. Unlike modern, purpose-built ambulances, these vehicles retained their automotive elegance while fulfilling their humanitarian mission.
A tasty anecdote reports that patients transported in these Citroën ambulances were often surprised by the comfort of the hydropneumatic suspension . The system allowed the vehicle's height to be adjusted, greatly facilitating the loading of stretchers, while the ride quality considerably reduced jolts during transport.
These ID 20 ambulances also became symbols of modernity in French fire stations. Their futuristic design contrasted with more traditional vehicles, embodying the entry of emergency services into a new technological era. Many firefighters of the time have fond memories of these vehicles with their unique road handling.
The conversion of family sedans into emergency vehicles perfectly illustrates the resourceful spirit and ingenuity of French public services in the 1970s, a time when technical innovation was put to the service of the general interest with sometimes limited but always creative means.
Complete your model car collection
This Citroën ID 20 ambulance station wagon occupies a special place in the world of emergency vehicle model cars. It fits perfectly into collections dedicated to fire engines and is an ideal complement to other Citroën models from the same period available in our Citroën collection .
Collectors with a passion for 1970s automobiles will particularly appreciate this piece, which sits harmoniously alongside other iconic models from the decade. It also finds its place alongside the French station wagons that marked this golden era of French automobiles.
This model car is aimed at both collectors specializing in emergency vehicles and enthusiasts of French automotive history. It is also an excellent entry point to discover the world of 1/43rd scale model cars , a reference scale that offers the best compromise between detail of finish and ease of presentation in a collection.
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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