Renault Frégate Amiral green (cardboard box)
Scale: 1/43rd
PLEASE NOTE: the first image is a computer-generated render and may not exactly match the vehicle in this listing, so please check the photos that follow it.
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Get it between Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 November
The Renault Frégate Amiral in green livery is one of the most prestigious French saloons of the postwar years. This 1/43rd scale miniature captures the refined elegance of a model that left a deep mark on the French automotive industry of the 1950s.
A true witness to an era when Renault aimed to conquer the upper segment, this faithful reproduction is a must-have for any lover of French model cars. Its presentation in the original cardboard box makes it a particularly sought-after collector's piece.
Launched in 1951, the Renault Frégate embodied the determination of the Billancourt works to establish itself in the prestige saloon market. Developed under the leadership of Pierre Lefaucheux, this car was revolutionary for its time, adopting a rear-engine layout, a bold technical solution that set it radically apart from its rivals.
The Amiral version, positioned at the top of the Frégate range, stood out for its luxurious finish and comprehensive equipment. Measuring 4.69 meters in length, it offered a spacious, refined cabin with leather seats and carefully crafted instrumentation. Its 2.1-liter six-cylinder engine delivered respectable power for the era, allowing it to reach 140 km/h.
Despite its undeniable qualities, the Frégate achieved only mixed commercial success. Its innovative engineering, notably its unusual weight distribution, required a change in driving style that not every motorist was willing to adopt. Production ended in 1960 after roughly 177,000 units across all versions.
In the aftermath of the Second World War, Renault went through a period of reconstruction and modernization under the guidance of the French state. The diamond-badged marque, nationalized in 1945, had to win back its place in a rapidly changing car market. Led by Pierre Lefaucheux, the company focused on technical innovation and renewing its range.
This period saw the birth of iconic models such as the 4CV, which truly put motoring within reach of French families, alongside more ambitious projects like the Frégate. The goal was clear: prove that Renault could compete with European premium brands. This move upmarket was part of a long-term vision for the brand's development.
The 1950s also marked Renault's rise on the racing circuits, notably with Formula 1 cars that helped build the brand's sporting reputation. This dual approach, combining everyday innovation with sporting excellence, perfectly captures the Renault DNA of that decade.
The Renault Frégate holds a special place in the French collective imagination, thanks in particular to its many screen appearances. In the police films of the 1950s and 1960s, it often embodied the car of police commissioners and Parisian high society, a symbol of social success.
One of the most entertaining anecdotes concerns the shoot of the film "Razzia sur la Chnouf" in 1955. Director Henri Decoin had specially chosen a green Frégate Amiral for his lead character, feeling that this color perfectly reflected the protagonist's ambiguity. The car quickly became one of the film's secondary "characters", to the point that Renault used its notoriety in its advertising campaigns.
Even more surprisingly, the Frégate was also adopted by many Resistance veterans who had returned to civilian life after the war. Its sturdiness and relative discretion made it a favorite of those who preferred to go unnoticed. This dual identity, somewhere between bourgeois prestige and understated practicality, helped build the legend of this unconventional model.
Today, the rare examples of Frégate Amiral in running order fetch impressive prices at auction, a sign of the late but sincere recognition by enthusiasts of this exceptional car, which was long misunderstood.
This Renault Frégate Amiral sits naturally alongside other iconic French model cars of the period. It pairs perfectly with contemporary Citroën models, notably the Traction Avant that dominated the French market at the time.
Collectors passionate about the evolution of French motoring will enjoy comparing it with classics from 1950 to 1979, a pivotal period when every manufacturer was experimenting with its own technical solutions. It also enriches thematic collections devoted to prestige saloons.
This miniature is especially suited to enthusiasts of French automotive history, collectors of Renault models, and anyone interested in the technical innovations of the postwar years. Its relative rarity and historical authenticity make it an ideal addition to any serious collection of 1/43rd scale miniatures.
Stephane Bazille
14 November 2026
Always delivered within the agreed deadlines, well-packaged and protected materials. Nothing negative to report. A constantly renewed range that, despite the intention to remain cautious, always finds new temptations...
Claude Lang
13 November 2026
I placed my second order and everything went smoothly, delivery without issues, items in good condition, and delivered on time. After this second order, I can only recommend the site to Bernardminiature, a serious person. Top delivery, thanks again to him and good for a next order.
Serge PINSON
12 November 2026
In addition to the fact that the 1/43 miniatures received are perfectly in line with the photographs and my expectations and are of great finesse, they arrived very quickly (I was even informed of the shipment) and very carefully packaged. Very satisfied, I placed a new order with Bernard Miniatures, a seller I recommend for their selection and reliability.
The scale is the reduction ratio between the real car and the model. At 1:43 scale, for example, every centimetre of the model represents 43 centimetres of the real vehicle.
In practice, a 1:18 Ferrari model is about 25–30 cm long, while at 1:43 it measures roughly 10 cm.
Our model cars mainly come in 1:43, 1:24, 1:18 and 1:87 (HO) scale. The scale is always listed on the product page.
The smaller the second number, the bigger the model (e.g. 1:18 is larger than 1:43).
Yes, every model car ships in its protective box. The box preserves its collector value and protects your model from dust and knocks.
We pack every order with great care: bubble wrap, snug padding and polystyrene. Your model car is fully secured on its way to you.
In-stock items ship within 24–48h. Allow 2–3 business days for mainland France with Colissimo, or 4–5 days with Mondial Relay.
I can't say exactly when new stock will arrive, as it comes in a trickle. Feel free to contact me and I'll let you know as soon as it's available.