Model Car Renault 19 cabriolet bordeaux - Solido (boite en carton violette)

Discover the Renault 19 Cabriolet Bordeaux Diecast Model Car by Solido

Welcome to an exceptional piece of automotive miniature history. This stunning Renault 19 cabriolet in bordeaux, crafted by the legendary French manufacturer Solido, represents more than just a diecast model car—it's a tribute to 1990s French automotive elegance and the golden age of convertible design. Presented in its distinctive purple cardboard box packaging, this collectible miniature captures the essence of open-top driving culture that defined an era.

The Renault 19 cabriolet holds a special place in automotive history as one of the first compact convertibles to eliminate the traditional safety roll bar, creating a sleek, uninterrupted profile that set new design standards. This diecast model car faithfully reproduces that revolutionary design philosophy, making it a must-have for collectors who appreciate both French automotive heritage and innovative engineering solutions.

The Legacy of Solido: Nearly 90 Years of Excellence in Diecast Model Cars

Founded in 1932 by Ferdinand de Vazeilles in Nanterre, France, Solido has established itself as one of the most respected names in the world of miniature vehicles. What began as a precision foundry operation evolved into a pioneering force in the diecast model car industry, with Solido being among the first European manufacturers to champion the durability and quality of metal diecast construction.

This particular Renault 19 cabriolet model comes from an era when Solido was producing some of its finest work. The distinctive purple cardboard box is a hallmark of Solido packaging from specific production periods, adding significant collectible value beyond the model itself. Collectors familiar with vintage Solido releases recognize these purple boxes as indicators of authentic period pieces that have survived decades of collecting history.

Throughout its distinguished history, Solido has remained committed to producing affordable yet highly detailed scale models. The brand's dedication to accuracy and craftsmanship has made Solido diecast model cars favorites among enthusiasts worldwide, from casual collectors to serious automotive historians. The company's 1:43 scale series, which includes this Renault 19 cabriolet, has been particularly celebrated since its introduction in 1957, with some models selling over a million units.

The Renault 19 Cabriolet: A Revolutionary French Convertible Design

Introduced to the market in July 1991, the Renault 19 cabriolet represented a bold step forward in convertible design and engineering. Developed in collaboration with renowned German coachbuilder Karmann, this four-seater convertible challenged conventional thinking by eliminating the traditional roll bar that had been standard on virtually all cabriolets of its time.

This design decision wasn't merely aesthetic—it required extensive engineering work to maintain structural rigidity and safety standards without the visible roll bar. The result was a cleaner, more elegant silhouette that made the Renault 19 cabriolet instantly recognizable on European roads throughout the 1990s. The innovative design featured fully retractable electric side windows without deflectors and a rigid steel top cover that incorporated the rear passenger headrests when the soft top was down.

The bordeaux color featured on this diecast model car was one of several sophisticated paint options that appealed to the vehicle's target demographic. The Renault 19 cabriolet attracted buyers seeking elegance and practicality in equal measure. Unlike many two-seater sports convertibles of its era, this was a genuine four-seater family cabriolet—you could even fold down the rear seats and add a ski hatch for winter sports enthusiasts.

Under the hood, Renault equipped the cabriolet exclusively with its most capable engines: 1.8-liter units ranging from 95 horsepower in the base model to 137 horsepower in the sporting 16-valve version. The model achieved strong sales figures throughout its production run from 1991 to 1997, with approximately 29,222 units manufactured—a testament to its appeal in the competitive European convertible market.

Collecting Diecast Model Cars: Why This Solido Renault 19 Stands Out

The diecast model car collecting hobby has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with the global market valued at approximately $3.5 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $6.13 billion by 2035. This surge in popularity stems from multiple factors: nostalgia among baby boomers and Generation X collectors, the investment potential of limited-edition models, and advances in manufacturing technology that produce increasingly detailed and realistic miniatures.

Within this thriving market, vintage Solido models hold special appeal for several compelling reasons. First, their build quality has proven exceptional—many Solido diecast model cars from decades past remain in excellent condition today, testament to the durability of materials and construction methods used by the French manufacturer. Second, certain Solido models have demonstrated impressive appreciation in value over time, particularly those in pristine condition with original packaging.

This Renault 19 cabriolet in its purple Solido box represents an increasingly scarce piece of automotive miniature history. As with many vintage diecast model cars, condition and completeness significantly impact value. Models retaining their original boxes command premiums of 50-100% or more compared to loose examples, and the distinctive purple packaging adds an additional layer of desirability for collectors specializing in Solido's various packaging eras.

The 1:43 scale has long been considered the optimal size for serious collectors, offering an ideal balance between displayability and detail. At this scale, manufacturers can incorporate features like opening doors, detailed interiors, and accurate badging that bring the miniature to life. Solido's execution at 1:43 scale earned the brand a reputation for models that punched well above their affordable price point in terms of detail and authenticity.

The French Connection: Why French Diecast Model Cars Command Special Interest

French automotive design has always possessed a distinctive character, combining practicality with flair in ways that set it apart from German precision or Italian passion. This unique aesthetic translates beautifully to miniature form, and French manufacturers like Solido, Norev, and Eligor have long specialized in capturing the essence of their nation's automotive output.

Collecting French diecast model cars offers enthusiasts the opportunity to explore a rich automotive heritage that includes everything from the quirky Citroën 2CV to sophisticated Peugeot sedans and, of course, stylish Renault convertibles like this 19 cabriolet. The Renault brand itself represents one of the most important threads in European automotive history, and miniature reproductions allow collectors to own representations of vehicles that shaped French roads and culture.

This Solido Renault 19 cabriolet also represents a specific moment in French industrial history when Renault was making significant strides in build quality and international competitiveness. The real Renault 19 became the best-selling foreign vehicle in Germany from 1990 to 1994—an achievement that speaks to the model's quality and appeal. Owning a miniature version connects collectors to this success story and the optimism of early 1990s European automotive development.

Understanding Value and Authenticity in Vintage Solido Models

For collectors considering adding this Renault 19 cabriolet to their collection, understanding what determines value in vintage Solido diecast model cars proves essential. Several key factors influence both current pricing and future appreciation potential.

Original packaging remains paramount. The purple cardboard box featured with this model adds substantial value—collectors often pay double or more for boxed examples versus loose models. The condition of both the box and the model itself matters tremendously. Look for boxes with minimal wear, intact graphics, and no major tears or water damage. The model should retain its original paint, with minimal play wear, intact glazing (windows), and no missing parts.

Authenticity represents another crucial consideration. Solido models bear specific markings typically molded into the base, including the Solido name, country of manufacture, and often a reference number. Familiarizing yourself with these details helps ensure you're acquiring genuine Solido production rather than reproductions or similar models by other manufacturers.

Rarity significantly impacts desirability. While Solido produced many models in substantial quantities, certain color combinations, limited editions, or models with shorter production runs become increasingly sought-after over time. The bordeaux Renault 19 cabriolet represents a specific color choice that may have been produced in lower numbers than more conservative shades, potentially enhancing its collectibility.

The broader market for 1:43 scale diecast model cars continues strengthening, driven by demographics (aging collectors with disposable income), limited supply of vintage pieces, and growing recognition of quality miniatures as legitimate collectibles worthy of serious attention. Industry analysts project continued growth in the collectible diecast segment through 2030 and beyond.

Display and Preservation: Caring for Your Diecast Model Car Collection

Once you've acquired this beautiful Solido Renault 19 cabriolet, proper display and storage ensure it remains in excellent condition for decades to come. Vintage diecast model cars require thoughtful care to preserve their value and appearance.

Environmental factors pose the primary threats to diecast models. Direct sunlight causes paint fading and can damage both the model and its packaging over time. Display your collection away from windows or use UV-filtering glass in display cases. Temperature and humidity fluctuations can lead to deterioration of both metal components and cardboard packaging. Aim for stable conditions around 65-70°F with moderate humidity levels.

Dust accumulation gradually dulls the finish of diecast model cars. Display cases with doors or acrylic covers provide excellent protection while keeping models visible. For boxed examples like this Solido Renault, consider storing the box separately in acid-free materials if you prefer displaying the model itself, or invest in clear protective sleeves that allow the entire package to be displayed safely.

Handling should be minimized and always done with clean, dry hands or cotton gloves. The oils from skin can damage both paint finishes and cardboard packaging over time. When moving models, support them from the base rather than grasping delicate parts like mirrors or antennas.

Documentation adds significant value to any collection. Photograph your models, maintain records of acquisition details, and research their history. For vintage Solido pieces, documenting variations, production periods, and reference numbers creates a valuable archive that future collectors or family members will appreciate.

The 1990s Convertible Era and Its Significance in Automotive Culture

The Renault 19 cabriolet emerged during a golden period for European convertibles, when manufacturers recognized growing consumer demand for open-air driving experiences in practical, everyday packages. This wasn't about exotic sports cars—it was about bringing the pleasure of top-down motoring to mainstream buyers.

Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, convertible variants of popular compact and mid-size models proliferated across European markets. The Golf Cabriolet, Peugeot 306 Cabriolet, and Ford Escort Cabriolet all competed for buyer attention, each offering their own interpretation of affordable open-top transportation. The Renault 19 cabriolet distinguished itself through its bold design choices and genuine four-seat practicality.

This era also marked the last time before modern safety regulations substantially influenced convertible design. The freedom to eliminate roll bars, employ simpler structures, and prioritize aesthetics over crash test optimization gave these 1990s cabriolets a charm that later models sometimes lack. Preserving their memory through accurate diecast model cars like this Solido Renault 19 becomes increasingly important as original examples gradually disappear from roads.

For younger collectors, these miniatures offer connections to automotive designs they may remember from childhood or adolescence. For older enthusiasts, they represent a more recent chapter in the collecting timeline compared to 1950s-1970s classics that dominate many collections. The 1990s gradually gain recognition as a significant design period in automotive history, and models from this decade see increasing collector interest.

Building a Themed Collection Around French Convertibles

This Solido Renault 19 cabriolet serves as an excellent foundation or addition to a themed collection focused on French convertibles. France has produced numerous memorable open-top vehicles over the decades, and assembling a representative collection tells a fascinating story of changing design philosophies and engineering approaches.

Consider complementing this Renault with other French cabriolets across different eras. Earlier examples might include classic Peugeot 203 or 403 cabriolets from the 1950s, the distinctive Citroën Méhari from the 1970s, or the elegant Peugeot 504 cabriolet. Contemporary models could include the Peugeot 205 and 306 cabriolets, or the later Renault Mégane Coupé-Cabriolet with its innovative folding hardtop.

Multiple manufacturers produced diecast model cars representing these French convertibles, allowing collectors to choose between different brands based on availability, price point, and detail preferences. Combining Solido models with pieces from Norev, Eligor, Minichamps, or even more recent offerings from manufacturers like Spark creates variety while maintaining thematic coherence.

Scale consistency matters for display purposes. While this Renault measures 1:43 scale, that size has been standard for European diecast manufacturers for decades, making it relatively easy to build a uniform collection. Some collectors prefer mixing scales for variety or to accommodate larger display pieces, but keeping a consistent scale typically produces the most visually cohesive results.

Color coordination can enhance display appeal. The bordeaux finish of this Renault 19 pairs beautifully with other warm tones—reds, burgundies, and browns create a harmonious palette. Alternatively, deliberately varying colors throughout a collection celebrates the full spectrum of period-correct paint options and prevents monotony in larger displays.

Investment Potential: Diecast Model Cars as Alternative Assets

While primarily pursued for enjoyment and appreciation of automotive design, collecting diecast model cars has increasingly demonstrated legitimate investment potential. Market data shows certain models appreciating significantly over time, with some limited editions increasing in value by 200-400% or more within a decade.

The Solido Renault 19 cabriolet represents what collectors call a "sleeper" investment—not an obvious high-value target, but a quality piece from a respected manufacturer that may appreciate steadily as surviving examples in excellent condition become scarcer. Several factors support long-term value retention for models like this one.

First, Solido's reputation for quality means these models typically survive in good condition, but time and play wear still reduce the population of pristine examples. Second, the specific combination of model, color, and packaging creates a relatively small pool of identical pieces in the collecting market. Third, nostalgia continues driving demand for 1990s subjects as adults who grew up during that decade reach peak earning years and enter the hobby.

Comparing diecast model car collecting to other alternative investment categories reveals interesting parallels. Like stamps, coins, or trading cards, miniature vehicles combine collectibility with tangible physical assets. Unlike purely speculative investments, they provide enjoyment through ownership and display even if they never appreciate in value. The relatively low entry price points make diversification easy—acquiring multiple models spreads risk across different subjects, manufacturers, and time periods.

Market liquidity for quality diecast model cars has improved dramatically with online selling platforms. Specialized forums, auction sites, and social media groups connect buyers and sellers globally, ensuring that desirable pieces can find purchasers relatively quickly. This increased market efficiency benefits both collectors liquidating portions of their collections and investors seeking to realize gains.

Documentation becomes crucial for investment-minded collectors. Maintaining receipts, photographing models from multiple angles, noting any defects or repairs, and researching comparable sales creates an audit trail that establishes provenance and justifies asking prices when selling. For boxed examples like this Solido Renault, preserving all original materials—inserts, certificates, promotional materials—maximizes potential value.

The Technical Excellence Behind Solido Manufacturing

Understanding the manufacturing processes that created diecast model cars like this Renault 19 cabriolet enhances appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. Solido employed zamak (zinc-aluminum alloy) casting techniques perfected over decades, creating durable metal bodies with remarkable detail considering the models' small scale and affordable pricing.

The die-casting process begins with precision molds, often requiring months of development work to perfect. Engineers must account for metal shrinkage during cooling, draft angles that allow parts to be removed from molds, and gate locations where molten metal enters the cavity. For models featuring moving parts like opening doors or hoods, additional complexity enters the design process.

After casting, components undergo tumbling to smooth edges and remove excess material from gates and parting lines. Paint application varies by manufacturer and period—Solido used both spray painting and tampo printing (pad printing) techniques to achieve clean, consistent finishes. Multiple paint layers and clear coating protect the finish and create depth in the color.

Assembly brings everything together. Workers or automated systems combine cast bodies with plastic components (windows, interior details, sometimes wheels), apply decals or tampographed details, and package finished models. Quality control measures vary by manufacturer and time period, with higher-end models receiving more intensive inspection before leaving the factory.

Modern manufacturing capabilities have advanced significantly since this Renault 19 was produced, but vintage Solido models remind us that skilled craftsmen achieved remarkable results with less sophisticated equipment. The fact that these diecast model cars remain beautiful and structurally sound decades after production speaks to the fundamental quality of materials and methods employed.

Connecting with the Global Diecast Collecting Community

One of collecting's greatest pleasures involves connecting with fellow enthusiasts who share your passion. The diecast model car community spans the globe, with active collectors on every continent exchanging information, trading models, and supporting each other's hobby pursuits.

Online forums dedicated to diecast collecting provide invaluable resources. Websites focusing on Solido models specifically offer identification guides, production histories, valuation discussions, and marketplaces for buying, selling, and trading. Broader forums covering all diecast brands create opportunities to learn from collectors with different specializations while showcasing your own French car collection.

Social media platforms host numerous collecting groups where members share recent acquisitions, discuss upcoming releases, and debate the merits of various manufacturers and models. Instagram and Facebook particularly thrive with diecast content—beautiful photography of models and collections receives enthusiastic engagement from like-minded enthusiasts worldwide.

Local collector clubs exist in many regions, organizing swap meets, exhibitions, and social gatherings. These in-person events provide opportunities to examine models closely before purchasing, discover rare pieces in other collectors' trade boxes, and forge friendships with people who understand the appeal of miniature vehicles. Many clubs publish newsletters or maintain websites documenting regional collecting activities.

Annual conventions and major toy fairs attract serious collectors from wide geographic areas. Events like the London Toy Fair, Nuremberg Toy Fair, or specialized diecast shows feature vendors offering everything from new releases to vintage rarities. Attending these events immerses you in collecting culture while providing access to inventory you'd never encounter through normal retail channels.

Sharing your collection online contributes to the community's collective knowledge. Photographing and documenting your Solido Renault 19 cabriolet, along with other pieces, helps future collectors identify variants, understand packaging evolution, and appreciate the breadth of models produced. Your documentation might someday help a fellow collector verify an authentic Solido model or date a particular packaging style.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Solido Renault 19 Cabriolet Diecast Model Car

What scale is this Solido Renault 19 cabriolet model? This diecast model car is produced at 1:43 scale, which was the standard scale for Solido's main production line and remains the most popular scale among serious diecast collectors worldwide. At 1:43 scale, the model measures approximately 9-10 centimeters in length, depending on the specific variant.

When was this model originally manufactured? Based on the purple cardboard box packaging, this Renault 19 cabriolet was likely produced during the early-to-mid 1990s, shortly after the real vehicle's introduction in 1991. Solido typically released models within a few years of the actual car's debut, capturing contemporary interest in new vehicle launches.

Are there different versions of the Solido Renault 19 cabriolet? Yes, Solido produced the Renault 19 cabriolet in multiple color variations, potentially with different interior colors or wheel styles depending on production period. The bordeaux example represents one of several paint options that matched colors available on the full-size vehicle.

How can I verify this is an authentic Solido model? Genuine Solido models feature the manufacturer's name molded into the base, typically along with "Made in France" or later "Made in China" depending on production era. The weight and feel of zamak construction differs noticeably from plastic models. Reference numbers and specific castings can be cross-referenced against Solido catalogs and collector databases.

What's the significance of the purple cardboard box? Solido used various packaging styles throughout its history. The purple cardboard box represents a specific era of Solido packaging that's now considered vintage and collectible in its own right. Models retaining their original boxes command significant premiums over loose examples.

Does this model have opening parts? Specific features vary by Solido model and production period. Many Solido vehicles include opening doors or hoods, though simpler models might be sealed. The level of interior detail and moving parts generally corresponds to the model's position in Solido's product range at the time of manufacture.

How should I clean this vintage diecast model car? Use only gentle methods—soft brushes or compressed air for dust removal. Avoid water or cleaning solutions that might damage paint or cause corrosion. For persistent dirt, barely-damp cotton swabs can spot-clean specific areas, but always test in inconspicuous locations first. Never immerse vintage models in water or use abrasive materials.

What makes French diecast manufacturers like Solido special? French manufacturers brought distinctive European sensibilities to diecast model production, focusing heavily on European vehicles often overlooked by British or American companies. Solido particularly excelled at combining reasonable prices with respectable detail levels, making quality collecting accessible to broader audiences than ultra-premium manufacturers.

Is this Renault 19 model a good investment? While no collectible guarantees appreciation, quality vintage Solido models in excellent condition with original packaging have shown steady value retention and growth over time. The combination of respected manufacturer, attractive subject matter, and increasingly limited supply of pristine examples suggests reasonable long-term potential.

Where can I find other Solido models to expand my collection? Online marketplaces, specialized diecast dealers, collector shows, and swap meets all offer opportunities to acquire Solido models. Establishing relationships with other collectors through forums and social media often leads to the best discoveries, as many desirable pieces change hands through private sales rather than public listings.

Conclusion: A Timeless Piece of Miniature Automotive Art

This Solido Renault 19 cabriolet in bordeaux, presented in its classic purple cardboard box, represents far more than a simple toy or desk ornament. It's a carefully crafted diecast model car that captures a specific moment in French automotive history—when Renault dared to reimagine the compact convertible without traditional design constraints, creating a vehicle that stood out in the competitive European market.

For collectors, this model offers multiple levels of appeal. The subject vehicle itself—the roll-bar-free Renault 19 cabriolet—marked a significant design achievement. The manufacturer—Solido—brings nearly 90 years of miniature-making expertise and a reputation for quality that endures despite multiple ownership changes. The presentation in original vintage packaging adds layers of authenticity and value that discerning collectors recognize and appreciate.

Whether you're drawn to French automotive heritage, fascinated by 1990s design trends, focused on building a comprehensive Solido collection, or simply charmed by this elegant burgundy convertible, this diecast model car merits a place in your collection. It bridges past and present, connecting us to an era when French automakers competed vigorously in international markets and convertible design emphasized style and practicality in equal measure.

As the diecast model car market continues growing globally, pieces like this Solido Renault 19 cabriolet become increasingly significant. They preserve automotive history in tangible form, celebrate manufacturing craftsmanship, and provide endless enjoyment to collectors who appreciate the artistry of miniature vehicle production. Adding this model to your collection means owning a piece of that heritage—a small but perfectly formed tribute to French automotive excellence and the enduring appeal of open-air motoring.