The 1935 Citroën Traction 11A Coupé Long embodies one of the most significant automotive revolutions of the 20th century. This 1:43 scale miniature faithfully reproduces the timeless elegance of this iconic model in its Bordeaux and black livery, offering collectors a valuable testament to pre-war French innovation.
A true collectible item, this reproduction captures the very essence of the Traction Avant that revolutionized the global automotive industry. Every detail of this miniature pays tribute to Citroën's technical and aesthetic audacity in the 1930s.
Features of the miniature
- Model: Traction 11A Coupé Long
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1935
- Scale: 1:43
- Color: Bordeaux and black
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the real model
Launched in May 1934, the Citroën Traction Avant 11A represents a significant technological breakthrough in European automobiles. André Citroën and his team of engineers revolutionized automotive architecture by adopting front-wheel drive, permanently abandoning traditional rear propulsion.
The Coupé Long stands out with its elegant lines and self-supporting monocoque body, a remarkable innovation for the time. Powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 32 horsepower, this version offers the perfect compromise between performance and refinement. Its precise steering, exceptional road holding, and revolutionary comfort immediately attract a demanding clientele.
Commercially, the Traction Avant experiences an immediate success despite Citroën's financial difficulties. This model lays the foundation for modern automobiles and has a lasting influence on global manufacturers who gradually adopt its technical innovations.
History of the Citroën brand
In the mid-1930s, Citroën goes through a pivotal period in its history. André Citroën, a visionary obsessed with innovation, invests heavily in developing the Traction Avant, revolutionizing the French automotive industry. This period marks the creative peak of the double chevron brand, even if it just precedes the financial difficulties that will lead to Michelin's acquisition.
Founded in 1919 by André Citroën, the brand quickly establishes itself as a pioneer of automotive innovation. Inspired by Ford's production methods, Citroën introduces mass manufacturing in Europe and democratizes French automobiles. The 1919 Type A, the first mass-produced European car, initiates this industrial revolution.
The history of Citroën is characterized by a succession of bold innovations: all-steel bodies, the most advanced French cars of their time, and spectacular advertising campaigns. This philosophy of innovation culminates with the Traction Avant, which influences all modern automotive production.
The Anecdote of the Traction Avant
The Citroën Traction Avant owes its popular nickname to a revolutionary technical feature, but it is its role during World War II that truly forges its legend. Massively adopted by the French Resistance, it becomes the ultimate clandestine car, affectionately nicknamed "the queen of escape."
Resistance fighters particularly appreciate its exceptional mechanical reliability and its ability to cover long distances on degraded roads. Its front-wheel drive provides remarkable grip on all types of terrain, allowing them to escape checks and pursuits. Numerous testimonies recount spectacular escapes thanks to the road performance of this revolutionary Citroën.
Paradoxically, the Gestapo and occupying forces also use the Traction, recognizing its superior technical qualities. This situation creates absurd circumstances where resistors and occupiers travel in identical vehicles, with only the occupants differentiating the camps. After Liberation, the Traction Avant symbolizes French rebirth and accompanies the country's reconstruction.
This automobile profoundly marks the French collective imagination. It inspires numerous film noirs and becomes the archetype of the car of the 1940s and 1950s. Its characteristic silhouette, immortalized in the works of Jacques Tati or the films of that era, permanently anchors the Traction in French popular culture.
Complete your miniature collection
This Citroën Traction 11A Coupé Long occupies a central place in the world of French automotive miniatures. It represents an essential milestone for any collector passionate about European automotive history and serves as an ideal complement to iconic Citroën miniatures.
This reproduction harmonizes perfectly with other models from the golden age of French automobiles, particularly the miniatures from the 1930s. It interacts remarkably with other Traction variants and enriches collections dedicated to classic cars.
Car enthusiasts and experienced collectors will appreciate this miniature for its historical value and faithful representation of a pivotal era. It is also aimed at fans of 1:43 scale miniatures looking for authentic pieces that bear witness to French innovation in the automotive industry.
