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1950 Beige Renault 4 CV: an emblem of post-war French automotive

This 1950 beige Renault 4 CV represents one of the most iconic models in the history of French automotive. Faithfully reproduced at 1/43 scale, this miniature captures the essence of this small car that revolutionized popular transport in post-war France.

This meticulous reproduction is aimed at passionate collectors of French automobiles and history enthusiasts. The Renault 4 CV is a centerpiece for any collection dedicated to vehicles that marked their era.

Features of the miniature

  • Model: Renault 4 CV
  • Brand: Renault
  • Year: 1950
  • Scale: 1/43
  • Color: Beige
  • Protective case included: Yes

The original model: birth of a popular legend

The Renault 4 CV was designed in secret during the Occupation, in the design offices of Billancourt. Its development began in 1940 under the direction of Fernand Picard and Charles-Edmond Serre, who were already envisioning the French popular car of the post-war period. The project was codenamed "106E" before officially becoming the 4 CV when presented at the Paris Motor Show in October 1946.

This revolutionary small sedan adopted a rear-engine architecture, inspired by European trends of the time. Its four-cylinder 760 cm³ engine developed 21 horsepower, allowing it to reach 100 km/h – remarkable performance for a car of this category. The 4 CV was only 3.67 meters long, facilitating urban driving and parking.

The commercial success was immediate and lasting. Produced until 1961, the 4 CV sold over 1.1 million units, becoming the first French car to exceed one million units. It democratized the automobile in France, allowing many families to access personal mobility for the first time.

Renault in 1950: reconstruction and innovation

The year 1950 marked a turning point for Renault, then led by Pierre Lefaucheux since the nationalization of 1945. The company, which became the National Renault Factory, invested heavily in modernizing its production tools and developing new models. The 4 CV was the spearhead of this automobile democratization strategy.

Founded in 1899 by Louis Renault and his brothers Marcel and Fernand, the diamond brand had already gone through two world wars. After contributing to the war effort with its FT tanks during World War I, then with its trucks during the second conflict, Renault shifted towards mass production. The Renault collection reflects this rich history of French industry.

In 1950, the Billancourt factory operated at full capacity to meet growing demand. Renault also expanded its activities internationally, exporting the 4 CV to many European countries and even overseas, laying the groundwork for its future global expansion.

The "butter pat" that conquered France

The Renault 4 CV owes its affectionate nickname "butter pat" to its original sand-yellow color, mandated by the German authorities during the Occupation. This color, intended to identify civilian vehicles, was maintained during the first years of production for economic reasons. Ironically, this constraint became one of the most recognizable features of the model.

The sociological impact of the 4 CV far surpassed the automotive field. It embodied France's entry into the Trente Glorieuses, symbolizing the emergence of the middle class in motorized leisure. The first paid vacations in cars, weekends in the countryside, family holidays: a whole French art of living organized itself around this small sedan.

The 4 CV also marked Renault's debut in motorsport. Entered in the Monte Carlo Rally from 1949, it achieved several class victories, proving that performance and accessibility could coexist. This sporty dimension reinforced its image with a young and dynamic clientele.

In cinema, the 4 CV quickly became a star of French seventh art. From "Nous irons à Paris" with Jean Boyer to "Les Vacances de Monsieur Hulot" by Jacques Tati, it accompanied the French in their cinematic discoveries, permanently embedding its image in the national collective unconscious.

Complete your collection of French miniatures

This 1950 Renault 4 CV holds a central place in the universe of French automotive miniatures. It fits perfectly alongside other iconic models like the Renault 4CV from other years or the Citroën 2CV, forming a coherent collection representative of popular French automobiles.

Collectors will enjoy pairing it with other vehicles from the 1950s or building a thematic collection around French cars. This miniature also finds its place in collections dedicated to classics from 1950 to 1979, a golden period of French automotive innovation.

Whether you are an experienced collector or a fan of automotive history, this beige Renault 4 CV is an authentic testament to an era when French cars shone with ingenuity and the ability to democratize mobility. It recalls those years when France rebuilt its industry and dreams, one small car at a time.

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

Alain Pineau Vérifié
Many choices in the categories...of fire truck miniatures that I am looking for
Many choices in the categories of miniature models searched, super well protected packages received in good condition, impeccable professionalism
il y a 1 jour
Frédéric Grandury Vérifié
Very Satisfied
Package received in 24h, very well packaged. Matches the description perfectly. Very satisfied.
il y a 1 jour
J.J. Lammers Vérifié
A beautiful range of models
A beautiful range of models, attractive price, fast and convenient delivery
il y a 1 jour
Dominique Caillault Vérifié
I ordered two cars
I ordered two cars, I am happy and very pleased. Moreover, they are well wrapped and very well protected. I say bravo. And I recommend.
il y a 1 jour
Daniel Clodore Vérifié
Reasonable Price
Reasonable price. Quality miniature. Order placed on Wednesday evening, delivered on Saturday. Miniature well packed and cushioned in polystyrene, thick cardboard. I will recommend!
il y a 2 jours
H MARCUS Vérifié
at the top
I appreciate the Bernard miniatures site, pleasant to browse, quality miniatures, well-protected shipping, maybe a page for models before 1960 (retro model fans)
il y a 3 jours
Mari Carmen Vérifié
Everything great
Everything great. Fast shipping, very well packaged, and the items are exactly as described. Very happy, I recommend it 100%
il y a 4 jours
mariocp Vérifié
Intuitive and Easy-to-Navigate Site
Intuitive and easy-to-navigate site, with well-defined categories and packs that are easy to understand regarding applicable conditions and promotions for purchase. The only drawback: fewer available miniatures appear in the packs than the number indicated (this has happened in two orders already...
il y a 1 semaine
Tounet Vérifié
Fast, careful and personalized shipping
Fast shipping. Packaging done with great care. Nice personalized note included.
il y a 1 semaine
Lenfant Vérifié
Package as per photos and in...
Package as per photos and in excellent condition. Fast, responsive, accessible, and very nice seller. Miniatures always well packaged. I recommend!
il y a 1 semaine
CHRISTIAN GRANDIN Vérifié
respected deadlines
respected deadlines; careful packaging
il y a 1 semaine
D.M.A. Vérifié
In accordance with the order
In accordance with the order No delay Package properly packed
il y a 1 semaine