An emblematic Citroën Traction Avant from colonial Vietnam
This model car Citroën Traction 15 Six in bush taxi version transports us to Vietnam in 1954, during the era of French Indochina. This faithful reproduction captures the essence of a bygone era when these rugged vehicles crisscrossed the dusty roads of Southeast Asia, embodying French ingenuity in the face of tropical challenges.
A true historical collector's item , this model car bears witness to the remarkable adaptation of the French automobile to the extreme conditions of the colonies, offering collectors an authentic fragment of French automotive and colonial history.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Citroën Traction 15 Six - Bush Taxi
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1954
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Version: Bush Taxi Vietnam
- Protective case included: Yes
The authentic model: a Traction adapted to the tropics
The 1954 Citroën Traction 15 Six represented the ultimate evolution of the revolutionary Traction Avant, launched twenty years earlier. This six-cylinder version, developing 77 horsepower, represented the top of the range of the Traction family with its 2.9-liter engine, offering remarkable performance for the time.
Adapted to the unique conditions of Vietnam, this "bush taxi" version benefited from specific modifications: increased ground clearance, reinforced tires, and often additional accessories such as roof racks for transporting luggage and goods. These adaptations allowed the vehicles to withstand the rough roads of the Vietnamese countryside and the heavy loads of intercity travel.
Its commercial success in the colonies was due to its exceptional robustness, ease of maintenance and ability to operate in harsh climatic conditions, qualities which quickly made it the benchmark vehicle for transport professionals in Indochina.
Citroën in 1954: innovation in the service of expansion
In 1954, Citroën was going through a crucial period of transition under the leadership of André Citroën, and then his successors after his death in 1935. The brand, already acquired by Michelin in 1934, consolidated its position as an innovator with the Traction Avant, a technical revolution that had shaken up the global automotive industry.
This period also marked the height of French colonial expansion for Citroën, which had successfully adapted its vehicles to overseas markets. The chevron brand developed specific versions for Africa, Indochina, and other French territories, demonstrating a remarkable adaptability that would help forge its international reputation as a robust and reliable manufacturer.
The epic tale of Indochinese bush taxis
The Vietnamese bush taxis of 1954 embodied a little-known but fascinating part of colonial automotive history. These Citroën Tractions, often overloaded beyond all reasonable limits, carried up to twelve passengers along with their luggage, poultry, and various goods, creating picturesque scenes on the dirt roads connecting Saigon with the remote provinces.
The year 1954 held a particular symbolism : it marked the end of the French presence in Indochina after the defeat at Dien Bien Phu and the Geneva Accords. These bush taxis then became the silent witnesses of an era that was coming to an end, nevertheless continuing to crisscross the roads of the newly divided Vietnam, adopted by the local populations who appreciated their legendary reliability.
Some of these vehicles continued to circulate for decades after the French departure , ingeniously maintained by local mechanics who had learned to repair these robust machines with whatever means were at hand, sometimes creating astonishing technical solutions that would have surprised the engineers of Javel.
Complete your collection of historical model cars
This Citroën Traction bush taxi occupies a unique place in the world of model cars , representing both French technical innovation and colonial history. It fits perfectly into collections dedicated to Citroën model cars and is an ideal complement to other models in the Traction range, particularly the Traction collection in its civil and military versions.
Collectors passionate about French automotive history will appreciate combining it with other models from the 1950s and vehicles from the same era such as classic Peugeots . This model car will also find its place alongside model car French cars and will perfectly complement a collection dedicated to classic vehicles from 1950 to 1979 , testifying to the richness and diversity of French automotive heritage from this pivotal period.
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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