The Renault 17 TS in orange finish perfectly embodies the sporty and modern spirit of the 1970s. This 1/43 scale miniature faithfully captures the sleek lines and bold character of this emblematic French coupe.
A true collector's piece, this detailed reproduction is aimed at French automobile enthusiasts who wish to celebrate one of Renault's most beautiful aesthetic achievements during this creative decade.
Miniature Specifications
- Model: Renault 17 TS
- Brand: Renault
- Year: 1971-1979
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Orange
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the Real Model
Launched in July 1971, the Renault 17 marked a decisive turning point in the history of the diamond brand. Designed to rival German and Italian coupes, it represented Renault's desire to attract a younger and more sporty clientele. The TS (Tout Sport) model constituted the most accomplished version of the range, equipped with a 1.6-liter engine developing 93 horsepower.
The lines of the Renault 17 were designed by Michel Boué, the designer who revolutionized Renault aesthetics with his fluid curves and 2+2 seater coupe profile. The bodywork adopted a resolutely modern style, with its rectangular front headlights, black grille and harmonious proportions that made it one of the most beautiful French cars of its generation.
Commercial success was achieved with more than 90,000 units produced during its eight-year career. This longevity testifies to the French public's attachment to this model that successfully combined elegance, decent performance and affordable price.
History of the Renault Brand
At the beginning of the 1970s, Renault went through a period of creative renewal under the leadership of Pierre Dreyfus. The brand was then seeking to modernize its image, long associated with utility and family vehicles. The Renault 17 was part of this upmarket strategy, alongside the Renault 12 and the future Renault 5.
Founded in 1899 by Louis Renault, the French company has established itself for decades as one of the major manufacturers in France. In the context of the Trente Glorieuses, Renault relied on technical innovation and design to conquer new markets, particularly that of sports coupes dominated by foreign competition. This strategy would pay off and allow the brand to successfully diversify its offering.
The Renault 17 Anecdote
The Renault 17 owes an important part of its fame to its appearance in the cult film "Le Corniaud" by Gérard Oury, where it accompanies Louis de Funès in his adventures. But it was especially its presence in the television series "Les Brigades du Tigre" that would definitively mark people's minds, even though this series takes place at the beginning of the 20th century!
More seriously, the Renault 17 also shone in competition, notably in rallying where its handling and reliability earned it several class victories. The prepared Gordini versions developed up to 140 horsepower and competed with the Alpine A110 on certain events of the French championship.
One of the most delicious anecdotes concerns the orange color of our miniature: this shade was nicknamed "Orange Fanta" by the dealers of the time, in reference to the famous soft drink. This bold color perfectly embodied the seventies spirit and the desire for emancipation of an entire generation that refused traditional automotive greyness.
The Renault 17 was also one of the first French cars to massively adopt light alloy wheels, then considered a luxury reserved for Italian sports cars. This technical innovation greatly contributed to its modern and sporty image.
Complete Your Miniature Collection
This orange Renault 17 TS naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to French miniature cars from the 1970s. It perfectly dialogues with other Renault models from this golden era, like the versions of the Renault 5-6-8-10-12 that shared certain stylistic elements.
Collectors passionate about French coupes will appreciate associating it with other national sports cars of the decade, while fans of classics 1950-1979 will find an authentic testimony to the evolution of French automotive design. This piece also fits perfectly into a thematic collection devoted to the 1970s, a prosperous period of automotive creativity in France.
