This 1:43 scale model car of the yellow 1961 Renault Dauphine is a true gem for any fan of iconic French cars. Faithfully reproducing the distinctive lines of this popular 1960s saloon, this collectible captures the essence of an era when French motoring shone on the world's roads.
More than just a scale model, this model car Renault Dauphine represents an authentic testament to French automotive know-how and the golden age of the democratization of the automobile in France.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: Renault Dauphine
- Brand: Renault
- Year: 1961
- Scale: 1/43
- Color: Yellow
- Protective case included: Yes
The Renault Dauphine: a popular revolution
Launched in 1956, the Renault Dauphine marked the company's entry into the era of modern mass production. Designed under the direction of Fernand Picard and styled by Renault's in-house design team, this four-door sedan was intended as a natural successor to the 4CV while offering a more spacious interior and improved comfort.
With its 845cc rear-mounted engine developing 32 horsepower, the Dauphine offered modest but sufficient performance for the time. Its monocoque body, innovative for a car of this range, gave it a remarkable lightness of only 680 kg. This design allowed for reduced fuel consumption, a significant argument in a France undergoing economic reconstruction.
The commercial success was immediate and considerable: more than 2 million units were produced between 1956 and 1967, making the Dauphine one of the best-selling French cars of its time, notably thanks to its affordable price and ease of maintenance.
Renault in the 1960s: innovation serving the greatest number
In the early 1960s, Renault positioned itself as the French champion of the popular automobile. Under the leadership of Pierre Dreyfus, appointed CEO in 1955, the Régie Nationale pursued an ambitious strategy of democratizing the automobile. The Dauphine fit perfectly with this philosophy, offering the French middle classes access to individual mobility.
This period corresponded to the golden age of the French automotive industry. Renault competed with Citroën and Peugeot to conquer European and international markets. The company focused on technical innovation and streamlined production, notably opening the Flins factory in 1952 to meet growing demand.
Renault's philosophy at the time was to offer reliable, economical vehicles adapted to the real needs of French motorists, an approach perfectly reflected in the design of the Dauphine.
The American adventure of the Dauphine
One of the most fascinating pages in the history of the Renault Dauphine takes place on the other side of the Atlantic. In 1958, Renault made a bold gamble: conquering the American market with its small French sedan. At a time when Americans favored large, chrome-plated engines, the arrival of this European compact car caused a sensation.
The American advertising campaign focused on originality and economy. The slogans "It floats at any speed" and its French counterpart "Elle flotte à toutes les vitesse" (It floats at any speed) became iconic. The Dauphine appealed to a sophisticated urban clientele: intellectuals, artists, and young New York professionals embraced this European alternative to American automotive standards.
Success was immediate and surprising: in 1959, Renault sold more than 91,000 Dauphines in the United States, a record for a foreign car of this size. It even became the best-selling foreign car across the Atlantic, outselling Volkswagen for several months. This unexpected success is a testament to the innovative capacity of the French automobile industry and its international influence.
Paradoxically, it was also in America that the legend of the Dauphine's fragility was born. American driving conditions, very different from those in Europe, put a strain on a machine designed for more urban use. This experience would leave a lasting mark on Renault's image in the United States, but in no way diminished the courage of this unique transatlantic adventure in the history of the French automobile.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This model car Renault Dauphine naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to iconic French model cars . It dialogues perfectly with other icons of French production such as the Citroën DS or the Renault 4CV , thus reconstructing the history of the democratization of the automobile in France.
For collectors with a passion for the 1960s , this yellow Dauphine is a central piece, witnessing a decade of social and economic transformation. Its vibrant, period-appropriate color brings a touch of authentic cheer to any collector's display case.
This model car is aimed at both experienced collectors and enthusiasts of French automotive history. It represents a bridge between generations, allowing the memory of an era when Renault embodied French technical excellence and the hope of mobility accessible to all to be passed on. In the world of 1/43 model cars , it occupies a special place thanks to its historical authenticity and careful finish.
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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