Discover this magnificent Citroën Traction 11 convertible in Bordeaux by Solido, reference 1713, capturing all the elegance of one of the most revolutionary automobiles of the 20th century. This 1/43 scale miniature accurately reproduces the timeless lines of this legendary convertible, with its deep Bordeaux hue perfectly highlighting the refinement of this exceptional model.
As a genuine collectible item, this Solido reproduction is a must-have for any lover of French automotive miniatures. It showcases the expertise of the French manufacturer in replicating vehicles that have marked the history of the automotive industry in France.
Miniature Features
- Model: Citroën Traction 11 Convertible
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1934-1957
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Bordeaux
- Manufacturer: Solido
- Reference: 1713
- Protective case included: Yes
The Traction Avant Revolution
Launched in April 1934, the Citroën Traction Avant literally revolutionized the global automobile industry. André Citroën and his team of engineers, led by André Lefèbvre, created a revolutionary car that broke with the conventions of its time. Front-wheel drive, a welded steel monocoque body, and independent suspensions make this car an absolute technological reference.
The convertible version, rarer and more exclusive, immediately appealed to a bourgeois clientele seeking elegance and modernity. Its 1.6-liter engine producing 46 horsepower allows for remarkable performances for the era, while its exceptional road handling redefined driving standards.
Produced until 1957, the Traction Avant has established itself as one of the most influential automobiles in history, inspiring many manufacturers and laying the groundwork for modern automobiles. Its commercial longevity of 23 years attests to the accuracy of its technical and aesthetic choices.
Citroën, Pioneer of Automotive Innovation
In the 1930s, Citroën established itself as Europe's boldest manufacturer. André Citroën, an indefatigable visionary, never hesitated to invest heavily in research and innovation, even at the risk of jeopardizing the financial stability of his company. The Traction Avant represents the culmination of this philosophy, concentrating in a single vehicle all the technological advances of the brand.
Founded in 1919, the brand with chevrons was already revolutionizing the automotive industry with its production methods inspired by Ford but adapted to the European market. The first Citroën Type A democratized the automobile in France, paving the way for future innovations.
The legacy of this era endures today, as Citroën maintains its reputation as an innovative manufacturer capable of offering original technical solutions and avant-garde designs, as evidenced by the Citroën miniature cars that celebrate this rich history.
The Favorite Car of the Resistance
The Citroën Traction Avant holds a unique place in France's history, well beyond its technical prowess. During World War II, it paradoxically became the car of choice for both the German occupiers and the French Resistance. This somewhat ironic situation can be explained by the vehicle's exceptional qualities.
Resistance fighters particularly appreciated its mechanical reliability and robustness, essential for their perilous missions. Its remarkable road handling allowed for spectacular escapes, while its relative discretion made it a vehicle less suspect than a sports car. Many accounts recount memorable chases where the Traction excelled thanks to its revolutionary front-wheel drive.
The irony of history is that German officers, charmed by the performance of the Traction, requisitioned numerous examples for their travels. Thus, it was not uncommon to encounter on the roads of occupied France Tractions with German official plates chasing after other Tractions driven by maquis fighters! This amusing situation perfectly illustrates the extraordinary quality of this automobile, recognized even by its most unexpected "users."
After the Liberation, the Traction continued to enjoy immense popularity. It was widely used by French police services and became a symbol of the reconstruction of the country. Its image became even more popular thanks to French cinema in the 1950s-1960s, where it epitomized the quintessential French automobile in many police films and comedies.
Complete Your Collection of French Miniatures
This Citroën Traction 11 Convertible Solido naturally finds its place at the heart of the finest collections of French automotive miniatures. It harmoniously interacts with other icons of French production, creating a coherent ensemble that tells the story of the French automobile.
Passionate collectors will enjoy pairing it with other iconic Citroën models, notably the Citroën DS that perpetuate the legacy of innovation, or the Citroën 2CV that embody automotive democratization. This miniature also fits perfectly into 1930s collections and finds its place among the most prestigious French miniatures.
Its exemplary finish and its scale at 1/43 make it a preferred choice for demanding collectors, whether they are novices looking to start with a reference piece or experts wishing to complete their collection of Solido miniatures.
