A French Legend in Its British Version
This beautiful miniature faithfully reproduces the Citroën Traction "Big Fifteen Seven Seater" from 1938, produced at the Slough factory in England. With its period Bordeaux color, this seven-seater version represents one of the rarest and most sought-after variations of the iconic French front-wheel drive. This reproduction captures all the elegance and innovation of this revolutionary model that marked automotive history.
Aimed at enthusiasts of French cars and demanding collectors, this miniature is an exceptional piece to enhance any collection dedicated to French miniature cars or classics from the 1930s to 1950s.
Features of the Miniature
- Model: Traction "Big Fifteen Seven Seater"
- Brand: Citroën
- Year: 1938
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Bordeaux
- Protective case included: Yes
The Original Model: An Automotive Revolution
The Citroën Traction "Big Fifteen Seven Seater" from 1938 represented the culmination of the technological innovation launched by André Citroën in 1934. This particular model, assembled in the Slough factory in England, was specifically adapted for the British market with its seven-seat configuration and extended wheelbase. This family version catered to the needs of a wealthy clientele seeking comfort, space, and revolutionary technical advancements.
Equipped with a 1.9-liter four-cylinder engine developing about 56 horsepower, this Big Fifteen offered remarkable performance for its time. Its monocoque body, front-wheel drive, and independent front suspension were major innovations that placed Citroën years ahead of the competition. The seven-seater version was distinguished by its increased length and additional seats, making it a true rolling lounge.
This English version achieved esteem success with the British bourgeoisie, captivated by the French technical boldness and the prestige of a resolutely modern automobile.
Citroën in 1938: The Legacy of a Visionary
In 1938, the Citroën brand was undergoing a crucial transition period. After the death of André Citroën in 1935 and the acquisition by Michelin, the company consolidated its position with the Traction range, which represented the global automotive avant-garde. The establishment in Slough testified to the brand's international ambition, eager to adapt to the specificities of each European market.
This era marked the peak of Citroën innovation, with a front-wheel drive that revolutionized driving and paved the way for the brand's future creations. British production allowed Citroën to avoid tariffs while offering versions tailored to local tastes, such as this particularly appreciated Big Fifteen seven-seater.
The legacy of André Citroën lived on through these models that continued to challenge automotive conventions, paving the way for the future revolutions represented by the 2CV and the DS.
French Elegance Conquers the British Aristocracy
A delightful anecdote illustrates the success of the Traction Big Fifteen in England. In 1939, Lord Pemberton, an influential member of the House of Lords, caused a scandal by arriving at the opening of Parliament in his Bordeaux Citroën Traction instead of his traditional Rolls-Royce. This unintentional provocation stirred a lively debate in the British conservative press, which saw it as a symbol of the decadence of aristocratic values.
When questioned by the Times, Lord Pemberton quipped, "This French automobile has more technical innovations than all British production put together. That is true patriotism: to recognize excellence wherever it is found." This statement caused a sensation and ironically boosted sales of the Traction among the London elite.
The irony of history is that this very Traction Big Fifteen, produced in Slough and thus technically "British," quickly became the symbol of a certain English intellectual avant-garde. Writers such as George Orwell and avant-garde filmmakers were among many who adopted this revolutionary automobile.
This adoption by the British cultural elite helped forge Citroën's international reputation as a manufacturer of vehicles for free spirits and visionaries, a reputation that endures to this day.
Complete Your Collection of Exceptional Miniatures
This Citroën Traction "Big Fifteen Seven Seater" Slough from 1938 occupies a special place in the world of prestige miniatures. Its historical rarity and remarkable finish make it a must-have for any enthusiast of Citroën miniatures. It perfectly fits into collections dedicated to 1930s automobiles or models of historic sedans.
This miniature harmoniously dialogues with other iconic models from the interwar period, notably period Peugeots or historic Renautl. It will appeal to both collectors passionate about automotive history and enthusiasts of exceptional miniatures seeking rare, authentic models that are witnesses to a revolutionary era for the French industry.
