Discover this beautiful reproduction of the Peugeot 402 Taxi in blue and orange livery, published by Atlas in the famous Dinky-Toys collection. This collectible miniature No. 24 L perfectly captures the spirit of Parisian taxis from the 1930s-1940s, a period when the 402 dominated the streets of the French capital.
A true witness to French automotive history, this miniature fits into the tradition of excellence of Dinky-Toys reproductions, offering collectors an authentic piece representative of urban transport of the time.
Miniature Characteristics
- Model: Peugeot 402 Taxi
- Brand: Peugeot
- Year: 1935-1942
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Blue and orange (Parisian taxi livery)
- Reference: No. 24 L Dinky-Toys
- Publisher: Atlas
- Protective casing included: Yes
The Peugeot 402: An Automotive Revolution
Launched in 1935, the Peugeot 402 marks a decisive turning point in the history of the Sochaux brand. With its revolutionary aerodynamic lines and headlights integrated into the grille, it breaks with the aesthetic codes of the time. This medium-sized family sedan immediately captivates with its avant-garde design, the work of Italian designer Pininfarina.
Equipped with a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine developing 55 horsepower, the 402 offers remarkable performance for its time. Its innovative monocoque construction and independent front suspension ensure exceptional ride comfort, a quality particularly appreciated by Parisian taxi drivers who adopt it massively.
The commercial success is immediate: over 75,000 units are produced by 1942, making the 402 one of the most popular Peugeots of the pre-war era. Its legendary robustness and ease of maintenance quickly make it the preferred choice of transport professionals.
Peugeot in the 1930s
During this crucial decade, Peugeot goes through a major transformation. Under the direction of Eugène Peugeot, the family business gradually abandons its diversified production (tools, bicycles) to focus exclusively on automotive manufacturing. This profitable strategy allows the lion brand to establish itself as an essential player in the French market.
The arrival of the 402 fits into a renewed range that also includes the 202 and 302, forming a coherent trilogy characterized by a unified modern design. This visionary approach positions Peugeot at the forefront of the European automotive industry, competing with the most sophisticated German and Italian productions.
Parisian Taxis and Their Urban Legend
The story of Peugeot 402 Parisian taxis remains intimately linked to one of the most dramatic pages in French history. In June 1940, during the French debacle, many 402 taxis participated in civilian evacuations, transporting refugees and the wounded away from combat zones. Their vivid blue and orange colors quickly became recognizable in the chaos of the exodus.
An urban legend tells that a Parisian taxi driver behind the wheel of his 402 traveled more than 2000 kilometers in a week to evacuate families to the free zone. Although the authenticity of this story remains unverifiable, it testifies to the popular attachment to these vehicles that became symbols of solidarity and resistance.
After the Liberation, 402 taxis resumed service in a Paris under reconstruction. Their characteristic silhouette traverses the Haussmannian boulevards, transporting a clientele eager to resume a normal life. These vehicles then embody the hope for renewal, actively participating in the economic and social rebirth of the capital.
Even today, collectors scramble for the rare preserved models of the 402 taxi, authentic witnesses of a bygone era when French automobiles shone around the world.
Complete Your Miniature Collection
This Peugeot 402 Taxi Dinky-Toys naturally finds its place at the heart of the most demanding Peugeot collections. It perfectly harmonizes with other iconic models of the brand, notably the Peugeot 204, 304, and 404, creating a captivating timeline of French automotive evolution.
Enthusiasts of Dinky-Toys reproductions will particularly appreciate the quality of this Atlas reissue, which scrupulously respects the proportions and details of the original from the 1950s. This miniature also fits into French vehicle collections and finds its place among classic automobiles of the post-war period.
Aimed at both discerning collectors and automobile history enthusiasts, this 402 Taxi is a must-have reference piece. It will particularly appeal to nostalgics of the 1930s and specialists of exceptional French sedans.
