This is a magnificent reproduction of the legendary Renault 4 CV in its gray sheet metal version, meticulously crafted by Eligor. This miniature perfectly captures the essence of the first post-war French people's car, which democratized the automobile in France. Authentic in every detail, this piece is a precious testament to French automotive history.
An essential collector's item, this miniature is aimed at both French car enthusiasts and demanding collectors looking for quality models representing the emblematic cars of French heritage.
## Thumbnail Features
- Model: Renault 4 CV
- Brand: Renault
- Year: 1947-1961
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Gray sheet metal
- Manufacturer: Eligor
- Protective case included: Yes
## The Renault 4 CV: revolution of the popular automobile
Officially launched in 1947, the
Renault 4 CV represented a major turning point in the history of the French automobile. Conceived in secret during the Occupation under the direction of Fernand Picard, this small sedan revolutionized the French automotive market with its affordable price and low fuel consumption. With its 760 cc four-cylinder engine developing 17 horsepower, it offered a top speed of 95 km/h, perfectly suited to the needs of the time.
The 4 CV stands out for its innovative architecture with a
water-cooled rear engine , a bold technical solution that optimizes habitability. Its rounded lines and monocoque body reflect a modern approach to automotive design. This little French car quickly became the symbol of the democratization of the automobile, allowing thousands of families to access individual mobility.
Produced in more than
1.1 million units until 1961, it met with phenomenal success both in France and abroad, notably thanks to its excellent quality-price ratio and its legendary robustness which made it a faithful companion for French families.
## Renault in the post-war years
At the end of the Second World War,
Renault underwent a period of fundamental reconstruction . Nationalized in 1945, the Renault company had to quickly regain its position in a rapidly changing French automobile market. The 4 CV was part of this recovery strategy, marking the diamond brand's desire to offer a car accessible to as many people as possible.
This period corresponds to the golden age of innovation at Renault, under the leadership of Pierre Lefaucheux, who was then heading the company. The brand focused on technical and commercial audacity, developing original solutions that set it apart from the competition. The 4 CV perfectly illustrates this philosophy, with its innovative technical choices that would have a lasting influence on Renault's constructive approach. This era forged the brand's identity as
a specialist in innovative popular cars , a reputation that would last for decades.
## A car born in hiding
The story of the Renault 4 CV begins in a romantic way during the German occupation. In 1940, as France was going through its darkest hours, Louis Renault and his engineers secretly developed what would become the car of the French renaissance. The project, initially dubbed the "106E," took shape in the utmost secrecy, with teams working on this revolutionary little sedan despite the restrictions and surveillance of the occupying forces.
The most amusing anecdote concerns the reaction of Ferdinand Porsche himself during a visit to the Renault factories in 1942. Upon discovering the plans for the future 4CV, the famous German engineer is said to have condescendingly declared that this small car would pose no danger to the German automobile industry after the war. A prediction that would prove to be completely wrong!
Affectionately nicknamed "the lump of butter" by the French due to its distinctive yellow color at the time of its launch, the 4CV quickly became a social phenomenon. It embodied the optimism of the Trente Glorieuses and accompanied the emancipation of an entire generation. In the 1950s, owning a 4CV represented a true symbol of social success, finally allowing the middle classes access to automotive leisure activities and family vacations.
The 4 CV also made its mark on the history of French motorsport, notably winning its class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1949 and 1950, proving that this small, popular car hid an unsuspected sporting temperament beneath its good-natured exterior.
## Complete your collection of French model cars
This Renault 4 CV Eligor naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to
French model cars . It harmonizes perfectly with other emblematic models of France, forming a coherent whole representative of the national automotive heritage. Collectors will particularly appreciate its complementarity with the
other versions of the 4 CV available.
This Eligor miniature will appeal to both those
nostalgic for the 1950s and collectors specializing in
classic cars from 1950 to 1979. Its meticulous finish and historical authenticity make it a choice piece to enrich a thematic collection dedicated to
Eligor model cars or vehicles from this pivotal era of French automobiles.
Fans of French automotive history will also find an excellent complement to the
model cars from the 1950s , allowing them to faithfully recreate the atmosphere of this founding decade for the French automotive industry.
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