1954 Citroën Traction 15 Six Black Taxi from the Bush in Vietnam (Plexiglass Box)
Scale: 1/43rd
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 1954 Citroën Traction 15 Six Black "Taxi from the Bush in Vietnam" represents much more than just a miniature. It embodies an overlooked chapter of French automotive history in Indochina, showcasing the remarkable adaptation of this iconic model to the extreme conditions of the colonies.
This faithful reproduction captures the essence of these robust vehicles that traversed the difficult roads of Vietnam in the 1950s, offering collectors a unique piece filled with history and authenticity.
The Citroën Traction 15 Six represented the high-end of the Traction Avant family when it launched in 1938. Equipped with a 2.9-liter six-cylinder engine developing 77 horsepower, it stood out for its elongated body and extended wheelbase, offering superior comfort and spaciousness compared to the four-cylinder versions.
This particular version, used as a "Taxi from the Bush" in Vietnam, was specially adapted to the tropical conditions and rough roads of French Indochina. These vehicles often benefited from technical modifications: increased ground clearance, enhanced chassis protection, and a cooling system suited to the tropical climate.
The success of the Traction 15 Six in Indochina can be attributed to its exceptional robustness and revolutionary front-wheel drive, which allowed it to navigate the rough and muddy terrains of the region with remarkable efficiency for the time.
In 1954, Citroën was undergoing a transition under the direction of Pierre-Jules Boulanger, who had revolutionized the automotive industry with the Traction Avant. The French company was consolidating its reputation for technical innovation, already laying the groundwork for what would become the legendary DS.
This era marked the peak of Citroën's international presence, with vehicles exported throughout the French Empire. The brand with chevrons had adapted its models to colonial markets, developing unique expertise in robust and reliable cars for extreme conditions. This export strategy allowed Citroën to maintain production volumes while perfecting the durability of its vehicles.
The "Bush Taxis" formed the backbone of civil transport in French Indochina. These Citroën Tractions, recognizable by their often dusty black body and local license plates, ensured essential connections between cities and remote villages in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.
These vehicles developed a legendary reputation for their ability to carry much more than their theoretical load: passengers, luggage, animals, and various goods were crammed into and on these Tractions which sometimes traveled hundreds of kilometers on barely passable tracks. The drivers, true mechanical virtuosos, maintained their vehicles using available means, often creating ingenious technical solutions.
History tells that some of these Traction 15 Six survived the successive conflicts that shook the region, changing hands but continuing their service tirelessly. A few specimens are said to have been found decades later, still operational, silent witnesses of a time when French automobiles shone across the globe.
This intensive use under extreme conditions helped forge Citroën's reputation for reliability, with feedback from the colonies informing the brand's future developments and influencing the design of models intended for the metropolitan market.
This Citroën Traction 15 Six "Taxi from the Bush" holds a special place in the world of 1/43 scale miniatures. It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to exceptional French automobiles, alongside other iconic models from the colonial era.
Collectors passionate about automotive history will particularly appreciate this piece for its historical authenticity and rarity. It harmoniously interacts with other 1950s miniatures, offering a unique perspective on the international expansion of French automobiles. Enthusiasts of Traction Avant models will find an exceptional variant, reflecting the adaptability of this revolutionary chassis.
This miniature is aimed at both seasoned collectors and enthusiasts of French colonial history, serving as a fascinating bridge between automotive heritage and historical memory. Its protective case also makes it an excellent choice for collectors concerned with preserving the pristine condition of their most valuable pieces.
Stephane Bazille
14 November 2026
Always delivered within the agreed deadlines, well-packaged and protected materials. Nothing negative to report. A constantly renewed range that, despite the intention to remain cautious, always finds new temptations...
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.
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.