This stunning 1947 green Renault 4 CV in 1/43 scale embodies one of the most significant moments in French automotive history. This collectible miniature perfectly captures the revolutionary spirit of a model that democratized the automobile in France after World War II.
With its characteristic green hue and meticulous finishes, this faithful reproduction stands as a must-have for any enthusiast of French automobiles. Protected in its elegant plexi case, it showcases the ingenuity and boldness of Renault at the dawn of the glorious thirty years.
Miniature Features
- Model: 4 CV
- Brand: Renault
- Year: 1947
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Green
- Protective case included: Yes
The Revolutionary Post-War Model
The Renault 4 CV was born in the particular context of occupied France, developed in secret as early as 1940 by the teams of Pierre Lefaucheux and Fernand Picard. This bold project aimed to create an affordable popular car accessible to the largest number of people, meeting the mobility needs of a France in reconstruction.
With its 760 cm³ rear engine producing 17 horsepower, this small sedan revolutionized French automotive codes. Its modern design prioritizes practicality with four real seats in a compact space of only 3.66 meters long. The originality of its rear doors with antagonistic opening facilitates access, a remarkable innovation for its time.
Launched in October 1947, the 4 CV enjoyed phenomenal success with over 1.1 million units produced until 1961. It quickly became a symbol of the democratization of the French automobile, allowing thousands of families to discover the joys of individual mobility.
Renault, Pioneer of the Popular Automobile
In 1947, Renault was undergoing a period of major transformation under the direction of Pierre Lefaucheux, following the nationalization of 1945. The company, now known as Régie Nationale des Usines Renault, had to prove its ability to innovate and compete with the emerging European competition.
Founded in 1898 by brothers Louis, Marcel, and Fernand Renault, the diamond brand had already distinguished itself with its technical innovations and sporting successes before the war. With the 4 CV, Renault confirms its positioning as a popular manufacturer while maintaining the technical expertise inherited from its glorious pioneering years. This model marks the beginning of a new era for the Boulogne-Billancourt firm, which will establish itself durably in the small family car segment.
A Birth in Secrecy
The story of the Renault 4 CV contains an extraordinary anecdote linked to the French Resistance. During the Occupation, while the Renault factory was requisitioned by the German occupier to produce military equipment, a team of engineers led by Fernand Picard secretly developed what would become the 4 CV.
The project, initially dubbed "106E", was disguised in the design offices under the guise of improving existing models. The plans were hidden, prototypes disassembled each evening, and tests conducted at night on deserted roads around Paris. This technical secrecy represented a true act of economic resistance.
When presented at the 1946 Paris Motor Show, the small Renault created a sensation. General de Gaulle himself, visiting the Renault stand, reportedly exclaimed upon discovering the 4 CV: "It's truly the car of the people!" This official recognition sealed the exceptional fate of a model born in the shadows but destined to shine in the spotlight.
Later, the 4 CV would even shine in competition with unexpected victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Monte Carlo Rally, proving that this "people's car" concealed a sporting soul. This exceptional versatility largely explains the lasting attachment of the French to this emblematic model.
Complete Your Collection of French Miniatures
This 1947 Renault 4 CV occupies a central place in the universe of French automotive miniatures. It fits perfectly into collections dedicated to French miniature cars and is an ideal complement to other historical Renault models available in our Renault collection.
Collectors passionate about the automobiles of the 1940s will particularly appreciate this faithful reproduction, which harmoniously interacts with other iconic models of the era like Citroën and Peugeot contemporaries. This miniature appeals to both seasoned collectors and automobile history enthusiasts looking to enrich their knowledge of French heritage through quality miniature models.
