This magnificent 1952 Renault 4 CV Labourdette closed cabriolet represents one of the most refined models in post-war French automotive history. With its elegant green livery and distinguished black hood, this miniature perfectly captures the sophisticated spirit of the Labourdette handcrafted coachwork applied to Renault's popular 4 CV.
This faithful reproduction is a true collector's item that demonstrates the excellence of French expertise in both the automobile industry and the art of custom bodywork in the 1950s.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: Renault 4 CV closed convertible Labourdette
- Brand: Renault
- Year: 1952
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Green with black hood
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the actual model
The Renault 4 CV Cabriolet Labourdette was born in 1952 from the collaboration between Renault and the prestigious Parisian coachbuilder Labourdette. This convertible version of the 4 CV transformed the small, popular car into an affordable luxury model, offering the pleasure of open-top driving without the financial constraints of larger touring cars.
The original vehicle retains the 760cc 4-cylinder engine developing 21 horsepower from the standard 4 CV, but benefits from a bodywork completely redesigned by the craftsmen of Labourdette. The soft top, manually operated, blends harmoniously into the redesigned lines of the bodywork, creating an elegant profile both with the top closed and open.
This model has met with critical acclaim from customers seeking originality and distinction. Although produced in a limited series, this 4 CV convertible allows Renault to demonstrate that the democratization of the automobile does not exclude refinement and exclusivity.
History of the Renault brand
In the early 1950s, Renault was undergoing a period of reconstruction following the nationalization of 1945. Under the leadership of Pierre Lefaucheux, the diamond-shaped brand focused entirely on the 4CV, launched in 1947, to recapture the French and international markets. This strategy of democratizing the automobile was paradoxically accompanied by a search for prestige through special editions.
Collaboration with prestigious coachbuilders like Labourdette is part of this dual approach: on the one hand, Renault mass-produces to equip French families, on the other, it cultivates its brand image through exclusive creations. This prosperous period saw the creation of the foundations of Renault's international success, with the 4 CV quickly becoming one of the most exported cars in the world.
The public company Renault then developed unique expertise in partnerships with bodybuilders , foreshadowing future collaborations with designers and luxury brands that would mark the history of the brand.
The art of French bodywork
Founded in 1858, Labourdette has represented excellence in French coachbuilding since the Second Empire. Initially specializing in luxury horse-drawn carriages, it successfully transitioned to automobiles in the early 20th century, fitting chassis for some of the most prestigious European brands.
In the 1950s, faced with the increasing standardization of the automotive industry, traditional coachbuilders had to reinvent their craft. Labourdette took the bold step of partnering with Renault to create exclusive versions of popular cars, thereby democratizing access to artisanal coachbuilding. This revolutionary approach allowed the middle classes to afford a vehicle bearing the signature of a renowned coachbuilder.
Labourdette's Parisian workshop then employed around fifteen craftsmen specializing in sheet metal, leather and upholstery work. Each 4 CV convertible required nearly 200 hours of manual work , from cutting the bodywork to fitting the hood, including personalized interior finishes.
This collaboration marked an important step in the evolution of the French automotive industry, demonstrating that craftsmanship and industrial production could coexist harmoniously. It would later inspire other manufacturers to develop their own prestige collections in partnership with recognized specialists.
Complete your miniature collection
This Renault 4 CV Labourdette convertible occupies a special place in the world of French collectible model cars . It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to Renault model cars , alongside other iconic models such as the standard Renault 4CV or convertibles from other brands.
This miniature also finds its place in a thematic collection of the 1950s , a fascinating period of French automotive revival. It harmoniously interacts with other French cars of the time, testifying to the creativity and know-how of France.
Collectors with a passion for French automotive history will particularly appreciate this rare piece, which perfectly illustrates the spirit of French innovation and refinement. It is an ideal addition to classic car collections and will appeal to both Renault enthusiasts and collectors of 1/43 scale model cars .
