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The Peugeot D3A miniature of the firefighters from Ouroux-sur-Saône represents a lesser-known but fascinating part of the history of French rescue vehicles. This 1/43 scale reproduction perfectly captures the essence of this iconic utility vehicle in its characteristic red livery of firefighters.

A true witness to French engineering in the post-war era, this miniature is aimed at passionate automobile collectors and local history enthusiasts wishing to preserve the memory of these public service vehicles.

Miniature features

  • Model: Peugeot D3A
  • Brand: Peugeot
  • Year: 1950-1965
  • Scale: 1/43
  • Color: Firefighter red
  • Protective case included: Yes

The original model: a symbol of reconstruction

The Peugeot D3A was launched in 1950 during a period of national reconstruction. This robust van met the pressing utility transport needs of a modernizing France. Developed on the chassis of the 203, the D3A embodied the Peugeot philosophy of the time: simplicity, reliability, and versatility.

Equipped with a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 42 horsepower, this vehicle stood out with its all-steel body and remarkable adaptability. Public services quickly adopted it, appreciating its robustness and ease of maintenance. Its production spanned fifteen years, testifying to its commercial success among professionals.

Peugeot in the 1950s: the era of diversification

During the development of the D3A, Peugeot was going through a pivotal period in its history. The Sochaux company, buoyed by the success of its 203, sought to expand its range to utility vehicles. This strategy aligned with the vision of Auguste Peugeot, who aimed to make the brand a comprehensive player in the French car market.

The lion firm, founded in 1810, had already demonstrated its adaptability by shifting from metallurgy to automobiles. In the post-war years, it focused on technical innovation and manufacturing quality to consolidate its position against competitors like Citroën and Renault. This period marked the golden age of the French automobile industry.

A lesser-known anecdote from French fire stations

The story of the Peugeot D3A in firefighting services reveals a delightful anecdote about the ingenuity of French firefighters. In 1956, during a major fire in a sawmill in Burgundy, the team from Ouroux-sur-Saône discovered that their D3A, originally designed to transport light equipment, could be transformed into a true mobile command post.

The firefighters from this small municipality in Saône-et-Loire had the brilliant idea of fitting out the back of the vehicle with a homemade radio station and a system of unfolding topographic maps. This local innovation quickly set a precedent in nearby fire stations, transforming the D3A's perception into an indispensable versatile tool.

This adaptation showcases the resourcefulness that characterized rural fire departments of the time. Far from today’s sophisticated equipment, these men had to be inventive to optimize their intervention means. The D3A from Ouroux-sur-Saône remained in service until 1973, accumulating over 200,000 kilometers in the service of civil safety.

This story perfectly illustrates how a simple utility vehicle can become the symbol of a time when ingenuity made up for limited resources, creating unbreakable bonds between local communities and their everyday heroes.

Complete your miniature collection

This Peugeot D3A fire brigade naturally fits into any collection dedicated to fire vehicles or Peugeot automobiles. It harmonizes perfectly with other models of public service vehicles from the 1950s.

Collectors will enjoy pairing it with other light commercial vehicles of the time or models from the collection of French automobiles. This miniature will particularly appeal to local history enthusiasts and collectors attached to the heritage of French rescue vehicles, serving as an authentic testimony to a bygone yet endearing era.

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.

What our customers say

Customer feedback and testimonials

PATRICK DEBEAUQUENNE Vérifié
Order delivered on time
Order delivered on time. The product is very well protected by suitable packaging. The order is tracked by the supplier until delivery. Recommended company.
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completely satisfying experience.
completely satisfying experience. no issues with the delivery which was very fast. the miniatures are impeccable and very well packed and protected.
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I am quite satisfied with the way...
I am quite satisfied with the way the whole business was conducted. I recommend your website to my friends. Thank you Vitor Barreiros
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Carefully Packaged Parcel
Carefully packaged parcel, very fast delivery. Always an email informing us of the progress of the order. And very happy with the chosen car. This is not my first order, nor the last... Thanks to Bernardminiatures for their professionalism.
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playful and simple site, very well detailed and made, a huge choice, perfect quality of miniatures, very fast and secure transport service, perfect
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Impeccable service and quality models. Very well protected shipping.
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very well packaged and protected and very…
very well packaged and protected and very satisfied with the vehicles
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As with previous orders
As with previous orders, the quality of service is on point. Packaging and shipping speed are on schedule.
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Bernard miniatures is the best
as always, order shipped quickly and purchased product is always of quality. remarkable service.
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Order delivered smoothly Good communication Personal handwritten thank you note in the box
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