1961 red Panhard PL 17 cabriolet of the Tour de France race commissioners
Scale: 1/43
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.
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Discover this magnificent miniature of the red Panhard PL 17 cabriolet, a faithful reproduction of the vehicle used by the race commissioners of the Tour de France in 1961. This exceptional piece perfectly captures the spirit of that golden era of French cycling, where support cars were an integral part of the sporting spectacle.
This miniature represents much more than just a model: it is a privileged witness to the history of French sport and the French automotive industry of the 1960s.
Launched in 1959, the Panhard PL 17 represented the culmination of the French brand's technical philosophy. This revolutionary sedan was distinguished by its entirely aluminum construction and its particularly lightweight monocoque body, weighing only 650 kg. Its air-cooled 850 cm³ boxer twin engine, derived from aviation, developed remarkable power for the time.
The cabriolet version, rarer and more prestigious, charmed with its elegant lines designed by Louis Bionier. This convertible body offered a particularly modern silhouette, with its sculpted sides and characteristic grille. The choice of the PL 17 for the official missions of the Tour de France testified to its recognition as a symbol of French automotive expertise.
Despite its undeniable qualities, the PL 17 only achieved a modest commercial success with about 130,000 units produced until 1965, as competition from conventional sedans and its high price limited its distribution.
At the beginning of the 1960s, Panhard was undergoing a pivotal period in its history. Founded in 1887 by René Panhard and Émile Levassor, the brand had built a reputation for innovation with bold technical solutions. The French company focused on lightness and energy efficiency, visionary concepts for the time.
This unique philosophy, embodied by air-cooled engines and lightweight alloy bodies, positioned Panhard as a cutting-edge manufacturer. The Parisian brand cultivated an image of technical sophistication that appealed to a demanding clientele, even if this approach would gradually marginalize it against the mass production strategies of its competitors. This ongoing quest for innovation explains why Panhard was chosen to accompany the vehicles of the Tour de France during the great editions of the 1960s.
The use of the red Panhard PL 17 cabriolet as the vehicle of the race commissioners during the 1961 Tour de France was part of a tradition of French excellence. That year, Jacques Anquetil won his second consecutive Tour de France, and the organization wanted the technical support to match the prestige of the event.
Commissioners, dressed in their official suits, took their places in these convertible cars to follow the peloton on the roads of France. This picturesque image, immortalized by the photographers of the time, became emblematic of the glorious years of French cycling. The bright red color of these Panhards contrasted beautifully with the landscapes traveled, from the cobbles of the North to the Pyrenean passes.
This collaboration between Panhard and the Tour de France was a testament to the time when the French automotive industry was closely linked to major national sporting events. Manufacturers like Citroën or Peugeot also participated in this technological showcase that the Grande Boucle had become.
Today, these archival images showing the red Panhard PL 17s traversing the roads of the Tour constitute a precious visual heritage, recalling a time when French automobiles shone on the international stage.
This Panhard PL 17 cabriolet naturally finds its place in several collection themes. Enthusiasts of French cars will discover a rare example of tricolor ingenuity, while collectors of 1960s models will appreciate its historical authenticity.
This miniature pairs perfectly with other period vehicles such as Citroën DS or contemporary Renault models. For motorsport enthusiasts, it ideally completes a collection dedicated to race and competition vehicles.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a car history enthusiast, this Panhard PL 17 of the 1961 Tour de France commissioners represents a choice piece that correctly evokes the golden age of the French industry and of hexagonal cycling.
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.
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.