Model Car Jeep Willys - Nationale 7 - The Blue Route
Scale 1/43
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The Willys Jeep from the La Route bleue collection invites you to relive the epic journey of the legendary Nationale 7, the legendary road that took the French to their summer vacations. This miniature perfectly captures the spirit of the post-war years, when this robust vehicle crisscrossed French roads, witnessing an era of reconstruction and discovery.
This faithful 1/43 scale reproduction is part of the fascinating world of iconic vehicles that have marked the history of our national roads. A true concentration of automotive history for all lovers of beautiful mechanics.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: Jeep Willys
- Brand: Willys
- Year: 1940s-1950s
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Collection: The Blue Route - Nationale 7
- Protective case included: Yes
The original model: a revolutionary 4x4
The Jeep Willys MB was born in the urgency of World War II, the result of drastic specifications from the US Army in 1940. This light utility vehicle had to be able to carry four men, a machine gun, and overcome all obstacles. With its 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine developing 60 horsepower, its all-wheel drive, and its generous ground clearance, it revolutionized the concept of all-terrain mobility.
Produced in more than 640,000 units during the conflict, the Willys MB quickly established itself as the most versatile military tool of its time. Its legendary robustness, ease of maintenance and adaptability to all theaters of operation quickly made it a legend. In post-war civilian life, it naturally found its place on French roads, particularly on the Route Bleue .
The History of Willys-Overland
Founded in 1903 by John North Willys , the Willys-Overland Company reached its peak during the interwar period, becoming the second-largest American automobile manufacturer. The Toledo, Ohio-based company specialized in robust and affordable vehicles, developing expertise in simple and reliable mechanics that would prove invaluable in winning the 1941 military contract.
It was this pragmatic construction philosophy that enabled Willys to win the tender against Ford and American Bantam. The company transformed the Bantam prototype into a revolutionary production vehicle, unwittingly creating the ancestor of all modern 4x4s. After the war, Willys capitalized on this reputation to develop a civilian range that would spread throughout the world, including on the roads of France .
The French epic of the Jeep Willys
The history of the Willys Jeep in France began with the Liberation of 1944, when thousands of these vehicles landed with the Allied troops. But it was in the immediate post-war period that their true French civilian adventure began. Sold as military surplus or imported new, they quickly attracted professionals: farmers, foresters, and rural artisans discovered the joys of four-wheel drive.
On the legendary Nationale 7 , these Jeeps quickly became a familiar sight. They equipped road maintenance services, accompanied the publicity caravans of the Tour de France, and allowed the first adventurous campers to reach the still wild sites of the Côte d'Azur. Their characteristic silhouette, with its distinctive folding windshield, became inseparable from the road landscape of the 1950s.
A delightful anecdote tells of a Jeep Willys owner who, in 1953, managed to climb the Galibier hills in reverse to demonstrate the versatility of his transmission! This feat, widely reported in the automotive press of the time, helped forge the legendary reputation for robustness that still characterizes the Jeep today.
These vehicles also participated in the first adventures of mass automobile tourism. When the French discovered paid holidays and set off to conquer the Mediterranean sun, some chose the Willys for its practical and adventurous side, creating a particular aesthetic combining military spirit and civilian pleasures on the still-new asphalt of our national roads.
Complete your miniature collection
This Willys Jeep naturally finds its place alongside other iconic vehicles from the 1950s era . It dialogues perfectly with the Citroën 2CV and other icons of French reconstruction, creating a complete panorama of post-war mobility.
Collectors passionate about Tour de France vehicles and off-road vehicles will find it an ideal addition. This miniature also fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to military vehicles , illustrating the successful transition between military and civilian use.
At 1/43rd scale , this reproduction appeals to both beginners discovering the world of model cars and experienced collectors looking for authentic pieces. It is an excellent gateway to the fascinating world of model cars at 1/43rd scale, the reference scale for enthusiasts.
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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