1959 Renault Frégate in Burgundy and Beige
Scale: 1/43rd
Box tarnished and worn, with damage to 3 corners
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 1959 Renault Frégate Burgundy and Cream is one of the most iconic models of post-war French motoring. This 1/43rd scale miniature perfectly captures the elegance and refinement of this upmarket saloon, which marked a turning point in Renault's history. With its two-tone burgundy and cream livery, it embodies the automotive style of the 1950s, a period when French industry was regaining its prestige.
This faithful reproduction is aimed at collectors passionate about French automotive history and fans of classic model cars 1950-1979. It is a standout piece for any collection dedicated to the great French saloons of the era.
Launched in 1951, the Renault Frégate was born from the ambition of Pierre Lefaucheux, then chairman of the Régie Renault, to create a large saloon capable of competing with American models. Designed by engineer Fernand Picard, it featured a revolutionary layout for its time, with its engine located behind the front wheels and a separate transmission, a configuration unprecedented in Europe.
This 4.87-metre-long saloon stood out for its sleek lines inspired by American design, while retaining a distinctly French identity. Its 2.1-litre four-cylinder engine produced 58 horsepower, allowing a top speed of 130 km/h, a remarkable performance for the period. The Frégate offered an unprecedented level of comfort in French production, with generous interior space and carefully finished details.
Despite its undeniable qualities, the Frégate achieved only modest commercial success, with around 163,000 units produced until 1960. It suffered from comparisons with German models and from early teething problems that tarnished its reputation for reliability.
In 1959, Renault was going through a period of major transformation. Under the leadership of Pierre Dreyfus, who had succeeded Pierre Lefaucheux in 1955, the state-owned Régie sought to modernise its image and win over new markets. The Frégate represented the brand's ambition to establish itself in the upmarket segment, traditionally dominated by foreign manufacturers.
This period also saw the launch of the Dauphine, which would go on to become a worldwide success, and the early stages of the groundbreaking R4. Renault was developing its export strategy, particularly towards the United States, where the Dauphine enjoyed unexpected success. The diamond-badged brand was asserting its vocation as a full-range manufacturer, capable of producing both popular cars and more prestigious models such as the Frégate.
The Renault Frégate holds a special place in the French imagination thanks to its notable appearances in many films of the period. It was notably the car of choice for police commissioners in the film productions of the 1950s and 1960s, embodying the authority and prestige of the role.
One of the most memorable anecdotes involves Jacques Tati, who chose a Frégate as the vehicle for Monsieur Hulot in several scenes of his films. The director particularly admired the car's distinctive silhouette, which he considered a perfect representation of the French middle class of the time. This association helped anchor the Frégate in French popular culture.
The two-tone burgundy and cream version was especially popular with affluent customers of the era. This colour combination, inspired by American aesthetic codes, embodied a certain French art de vivre. It was often chosen by professionals and senior executives who wanted to display their success while maintaining the understated discretion typical of France.
Paradoxically, while the Frégate struggled to win over the general public during its lifetime, it has today become one of the most sought-after Renaults among collectors. Its relative rarity and its status as a forerunner of modern French luxury saloons make it a particularly prized model at classic car gatherings.
This 1959 Renault Frégate Burgundy and Cream fits naturally alongside other iconic French model cars of the period. It pairs perfectly with Citroën models from the same era, notably the Traction Avant that once ruled the French roads.
Collectors passionate about French motoring will enjoy displaying it alongside other Renault releases in the range, creating a true retrospective of the brand's stylistic and technical evolution. It fits perfectly into a collection dedicated to French saloons or to 1950s models.
This miniature is especially suited to experienced collectors looking for representative models of French automotive history. It will also appeal to fans of Renault miniatures wishing to complete their collection with this historic model. Its 1/43rd scale, the reference standard for collectors, makes it easy to integrate into display cabinets and dioramas dedicated to post-war French motoring.
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.