This magnificent 1:43 scale burgundy 1964 Renault 4L represents one of the most iconic vehicles in French automotive history. A faithful reproduction of the legendary "Quatrelle," this model car perfectly captures the essence of this popular car that influenced an entire generation.
Intended for collectors passionate about French automobiles , this collector's item constitutes a precious testimony to the French industrial ingenuity of the 1960s, a prosperous period of French automotive innovation.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Renault 4L
- Brand: Renault
- Year: 1964
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Burgundy
- Protective case included: Yes
The Renault 4L was launched in 1961 by Régie Renault to meet the needs of customers seeking economical and practical mobility. Designed under the direction of Pierre Dreyfus, then president of Renault, this revolutionary automobile adopted an innovative approach with its monocoque body, torsion bar suspension, and front-wheel drive.
The model stood out for its exceptional versatility , offering a modular interior thanks to its folding seats and practical rear hatch. With its 747 cm³ 4-cylinder engine developing 32 horsepower, the 4L offered modest but sufficient performance for everyday use, while maintaining a reasonable consumption of around 7 liters per 100 kilometers.
Commercial success was immediate and lasting, with more than 8 million units produced between 1961 and 1992, making the 4L one of the best-selling French cars of all time. Its legendary robustness and ease of maintenance quickly made it the people's car par excellence.
In 1964, the year represented by this model car, Renault was experiencing a period of remarkable expansion . The company, nationalized since 1945, benefited from massive public investment in the French automobile industry. Under the leadership of Pierre Dreyfus, the diamond-shaped brand developed an ambitious strategy aimed at democratizing the automobile.
This period marked the peak of technical innovation at Renault, with the simultaneous development of the Renault 8 range and the brand's international expansion. The Boulogne-Billancourt company employed more than 100,000 people and represented a symbol of French industrial success in the post-war period.
Renault's philosophy was to offer accessible vehicles without sacrificing quality and innovation, a positioning that is perfectly reflected in the design of the 4L and which continues today throughout the Renault range .
The history of the Renault 4L is full of delightful anecdotes that demonstrate its deep roots in French culture. One of the most famous concerns its affectionate nickname, "Quatrelle," which was quickly adopted by the public. This diminutive perfectly illustrated the almost familial relationship the French had with their cars.
A particularly notable episode occurred in 1979 when Pope John Paul II used a specially converted 4L during his visit to Ireland. This improvised "Popemobile," equipped with a transparent protective bubble, allowed the pontiff to travel the Irish roads to the cheers of the crowd. This unexpected use propelled the modest 4L onto the international stage and reinforced its image as a universal vehicle.
The 4L also became the emblem of an entire generation of French students in the 1970s and 1980s. Its robustness, affordable price on the second-hand market, and ease of repair made it the ideal companion for young adults. Many stories still circulate today of these 4Ls that crossed Europe on three francs six sous, carrying guitars, backpacks, and dreams of adventure.
The myth of the 4L culminated in the creation of the "4L Trophy" in 1997, a student rally linking France and Morocco. This competition, which has become one of the largest student events in Europe, perpetuates the spirit of adventure and solidarity embodied by the legendary Quatrelle, demonstrating that even decades after its end of production, it continues to inspire new generations.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This burgundy Renault 4L from 1964 fits naturally into the world of French model cars , constituting a centerpiece for any collector keen to trace the evolution of the French automobile. It dialogues perfectly with other emblematic models such as the Citroën 2CV or the classic Peugeots of the same era.
Fans of popular cars will particularly appreciate the complementarity of this model car with the other models in the Renault 4L collection available in different colors and finishes. This approach makes it possible to reconstruct a true panorama of French automobile production in the 1960s .
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a nostalgic enthusiast , this model car Renault 4L will find its place in your collection, bearing witness to this blessed era when the French automobile shone through its ingenuity and accessibility. A must-have to celebrate our country's automotive heritage and pass on the passion for cars to future generations.
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