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Peugeot 403 Cabriolet 1960 - French elegance in 1/43 scale
This superb miniature of the light beige 1960 Peugeot 403 convertible captures the essence of 1960s French automotive elegance. Reproduced with meticulous care in 1:43 scale, this collector's item reveals every detail of this iconic model that marked Peugeot's history.
A true collector's item for French car enthusiasts, this miniature stands out as a faithful testimony to the French art of living, when convertibles embodied freedom and refinement on the roads of France.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: 403 Cabriolet
- Brand: Peugeot
- Year: 1960
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Light beige
- Protective case included: Yes
The Peugeot 403: symbol of France during the Trente Glorieuses
Launched in 1955, the Peugeot 403 perfectly embodies the spirit of post-war French automotive renewal. Designed under the direction of Pininfarina, this sedan revolutionized the aesthetic codes of the lion brand with its fluid, modern lines that contrasted with the austerity of previous models.
The 1960 convertible version represents the culmination of this lineage, offering an open-top driving experience particularly appreciated by a wealthy clientele seeking escape. Equipped with a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine developing 65 horsepower, it combines decent performance with reasonable fuel consumption, essential characteristics in a France undergoing economic reconstruction.
The commercial success of the 403 was remarkable with more than 1.2 million units produced until 1966, making it one of the most popular French cars of its generation and consolidating Peugeot's position in the European automobile market.
Peugeot in 1960: the golden age of innovation
In 1960, Peugeot was experiencing a particularly prosperous period in its century-old history. With its expertise in metallurgy dating back to 1810, the family business from Sochaux established itself as one of the leading French car manufacturers , rivaling Citroën and Renault on the national market.
This decade marked a major technological turning point for Peugeot, which invested heavily in research and development. The company developed new manufacturing processes and constantly improved the reliability of its vehicles, building a reputation for robustness that would last for decades. The 403 perfectly exemplifies this industrial philosophy, combining technical innovation and traditional French craftsmanship in a remarkable balance that would appeal to generations of European motorists.
The icon of French cinema
The Peugeot 403 convertible owes much of its fame to its appearance in the television series "Columbo," where it faithfully accompanies Inspector Peter Falk in his investigations. But in France, it is in the films of the New Wave that it finds its letters of nobility, embodying the French art of living and the modernity of the 1960s.
This automobile quickly became a symbol of the relaxed elegance of the emerging French bourgeoisie. On the streets of Paris or on the Côte d'Azur, seeing a 403 convertible was synonymous with social success and good taste. Fashion photographers seized on it, using its refined silhouette as a backdrop for the haute couture collections of the time.
The story goes that several figures from the French artistic world, including actors and singers, adopted this model for their private travel. Its electric hood, a remarkable innovation for the time, allowed the car to be converted from a grand tourer to a convertible in a matter of seconds, adding a practical dimension to its undeniable aesthetic charm.
Even today, collectors are fighting over restored examples of this 403 convertible, a testament to an era when French automobiles shone throughout the world with their unique style and timeless refinement.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This miniature Peugeot 403 convertible naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to French automobiles of the 1960s. It harmonizes perfectly with other emblematic models of the era, notably the Citroën DS and the Simca Aronde which made up the top three of French automobiles during this golden decade.
Collectors passionate about the Peugeot universe will appreciate positioning it alongside the brand's other models, creating a true chronology of the stylistic and technical evolution of the Sochaux-based manufacturer. Its meticulous finish and 1/43 scale guarantee perfect consistency with other standard collector's items.
This miniature will appeal to both experienced collectors looking for rare models and novice enthusiasts keen to discover the golden age of French motoring. Its blister presentation ensures optimal preservation, allowing this technical marvel to be admired while preserving it from external aggressions for future generations of 1960s car 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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