1955 Red Citroën Traction 11 Familiale - Azé Firefighters (plexiglass box)
Scale: 1/43
Box cracked at one corner (see photo)
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.
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Get it between Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 November
This stunning reproduction of the 1955 red Citroën Traction 11 Familiale from the Azé firefighters is a precious testament to the history of French emergency vehicles. This miniature faithfully captures the essence of a time when revolutionary Citroën vehicles served in all trades, including emergency services.
A true collector's item, this miniature appeals to fans of French automobiles as well as collectors of firefighter vehicles. It showcases French ingenuity and the remarkable adaptation of the Traction to the specific needs of rescue services.
Launched in 1934, the Citroën Traction Avant revolutionized the global automotive industry. The Familiale version, introduced in 1935, met the space needs of large families and organizations. With its six real seats and rear hatch, it offered unprecedented modularity for the time.
This revolutionary sedan is distinguished by its front-wheel drive, monocoque structure, and front-mounted engine. These innovations provide exceptional road handling and safe driving behavior, qualities particularly appreciated by emergency services. By 1955, the Traction had already established its reputation for reliability and endurance.
Firefighters quickly adopted this Familiale for its generous load volume and ruggedness. Its high ground clearance and front traction allow it to navigate all types of terrain, a valuable asset for rural interventions.
In 1955, Citroën experienced the last glorious years of its Traction Avant, produced for over twenty years. The brand with the chevrons was already preparing its succession with the project that would become the legendary DS, launched the same year at the Paris Motor Show. This period marks the technical peak of the Traction, perfected over the years.
André Citroën founded his brand in 1919 with the ambition of democratizing the automobile. In the 1950s, this vision fully materialized: Citroën established itself as the manufacturer of accessible innovation, capable of offering cutting-edge technologies to a broader audience. The Traction perfectly embodies this philosophy, delivering unmatched performance and comfort in its category.
The company also nurtures its privileged ties with French administrations and organizations. Police, gendarmerie, firefighters: all adopt Citroëns for their modernity and reliability. This commercial strategy enhances the brand's image of seriousness and robustness.
The firefighters' Traction have written many heroic chapters in the history of French emergency services. These versatile vehicles transported people and equipment to disasters but also served as ambulances during accidents. Their legendary reliability made them indispensable companions for firefighters.
In small communities like Azé, the Familiale often formed the backbone of the fire service. Its large trunk accommodated ladders, hoses, and other essential equipment. Its robustness enabled it to carry heavy loads without failure, even on the dirt roads of farms.
An anecdote recounts that a Traction from Parisian firefighters, trapped by the floods of 1955, continued to operate with water up to the doors. Its waterproof engine and front-wheel drive allowed it to evacuate several affected families. This exceptional resistance to extreme conditions forged the indestructible reputation of these vehicles.
Even today, some restored firefighters' Traction participate in commemorations and historical gatherings. They remind us of an era when French ingenuity shone around the world, and where Citroën embodied technological boldness in the service of social progress.
This Citroën Traction 11 Familiale from the firefighters naturally fits into several collection themes. It perfectly integrates into exceptional French automobiles as well as public service vehicles. Collectors of 1/43 scale miniatures will find a remarkable specimen.
This miniature harmoniously dialogues with other iconic Citroëns: Traction sedan, Type H, or 2CV form a coherent set retracing the brand's history. It also complements collections dedicated to classic cars of the 1950-1979 era, a golden period for the French industry.
Social history enthusiasts will appreciate associating it with other period vehicles from law enforcement or administrations. This Traction testifies to a France in reconstruction, where automotive innovation served the public interest and the modernization of public services.
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...
Herve
11 November 2026
Perfectly packaged product, arrived well and completely matches the description, I highly recommend! Thank you!
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.