Model Car Renault 4 CV rally very dark grey number 17 - Tour de France 1954 (Solido reference 1919)
Scale 1/43
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This miniature Renault 4 CV in rally version takes us back to one of the most glorious pages of French motorsport. Faithfully reproducing the car that participated in the 1954 Tour de France automobile , this Solido collector's item captures the essence of an era where French audacity and ingenuity were expressed on the competition roads.
Sporting a very dark grey livery and the distinctive number 17, this replica bears witness to the pioneering spirit that animated the drivers of the time, daring to challenge the larger engine sizes with this little French car full of character.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: Renault 4 CV rally Tour de France 1954
- Brand: Renault
- Year: 1954
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Very dark gray
- Race number: 17
- Manufacturer: Solido
- Reference: 1919
- Protective case included: Yes
Description of the actual model
The Renault 4 CV, launched in 1947, represented the democratization of the automobile in France. Designed during the war in the greatest secrecy by Fernand Picard's team, this small, 760 kg sedan was equipped with a 747 cm³ four-cylinder engine developing 21 horsepower. Its revolutionary design for the time, with its rear engine and monocoque body, made it a vehicle particularly suited to competition despite its popular vocation.
In rally version, the 4 CV benefited from specific preparations : lightening of the body, reinforcement of the chassis, and optimization of the engine allowing to reach a power of approximately 35 horsepower. These modifications, combined with its low weight and favorable mass distribution, gave the small Renault remarkable agility on the winding roads of the rally events.
The commercial success of the 4 CV was phenomenal with more than a million units produced up to 1961. In competition, it distinguished itself in numerous European events, demonstrating that France knew how to design high-performance and reliable automobiles, foreshadowing Renault's future successes in motor racing .
Brand Description
In 1954, Renault was experiencing a pivotal period in its history. Nationalized in 1945 following accusations of collaboration by Louis Renault, the Renault company, under the leadership of Pierre Lefaucheux, focused on innovation and the democratization of the automobile. The 4CV perfectly embodied this philosophy, offering the French a modern and affordable automobile after the deprivations of war.
Founded in 1898 by brothers Louis, Marcel, and Fernand Renault, the diamond-shaped brand had already distinguished itself in the first motor races. Louis Renault , an emblematic figure of French industry, had built his empire on technical innovation and diversification. From the first tricycles to the tanks of 1918, including the Marne taxis, Renault had always known how to adapt to the needs of its time. This ability to adapt is reflected in the sporting commitment of the 1950s , where the brand used competition as a testing laboratory and technological showcase.
The epic of the "little French car" in the Tour de France automobile
The 1954 Tour de France remains one of the most memorable editions of this prestigious event. Created in 1951 based on the model of the cycling tour, this event offered a route of several thousand kilometers across France, combining regularity and pure speed tests on circuits. The participation of the number 17 Renault 4 CV was part of a bold approach: to prove that a popular car could compete with prestigious sports cars.
This year, the event took on a special dimension . France was gradually emerging from the post-war reconstruction period, and the automobile became the symbol of economic and social renewal. Seeing a small 4 CV challenging Ferraris, Jaguars and other Porsches on French roads was a fascinating spectacle for the public, who saw it as a kind of David versus Goliath revenge.
The crew of the number 17 4CV had to demonstrate remarkable skill to compensate for the power handicap. On the highway sections and long straights, the little Renault lagged considerably behind, but it made up for it in the mountainous sections and winding routes where its lightness and maneuverability worked wonders. The mechanics had fine-tuned every detail: special tires, adapted suspension settings, and even lightening the passenger compartment to save a few precious kilos.
This participation perfectly illustrates the French spirit of the 1950s : that of ingenuity in the face of limited means, of audacity in the face of giants, and of the conviction that talent can supplement raw power. The 4 CV number 17 has become, beyond its sporting results, the symbol of an era when the French automobile industry believed in its capabilities and did not hesitate to measure itself against the best European references in the most prestigious events .
Complete your miniature collection
This Solido Renault 4 CV rally occupies a special place in the world of French motorsport model cars. Its rarity and historical authenticity make it a particularly sought-after piece among collectors specializing in rally vehicles or historic Renault models. The Solido reproduction quality, renowned for its faithfulness to detail, gives this miniature exceptional documentary value.
It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to French automobiles or competition cars from the 1950s. Enthusiasts can combine it with other iconic models from the era, creating a veritable gallery of the golden age of French motorsport. Its understated and elegant livery contrasts harmoniously with the more flamboyant colors of Italian or British sports cars from the same period.
This miniature will appeal to both experienced collectors and automotive history enthusiasts who want to own a tangible testament to the epic journey of the little French car on European roads. It also makes an excellent starting point for a thematic collection based on French automotive heritage in 1/43rd scale , a reference scale that allows you to appreciate all the details of this exceptional achievement.
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.
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