Renault Frégate Grand Pavois Red and Cream Roof 1956 - NOSTALGIE Ref. N025 (WITHOUT cardboard box)
Scale: 1/43rd
Slightly tarnished display case
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 1956 red and beige-roof Renault Frégate Grand Pavois is a true gem for French car enthusiasts. This 1/43 scale miniature faithfully captures the elegance and refinement of this iconic model from the 1950s, a golden era for the French automotive industry.
This replica is a must-have collector's item for all fans of classic French cars, reflecting the craftsmanship and ambition of Renault during that defining decade.
Launched in 1951, the Renault Frégate embodied the ambition of the diamond-badged marque to conquer the French luxury car segment. This flagship model was designed to rival the prestigious Citroën 15 CV and other high-end saloons of the era. Its elegant bodywork and carefully finished details made it a technological showcase for Renault.
The 1956 Grand Pavois was the pinnacle of the Frégate range, offering an exceptional level of equipment and comfort for its time. Powered by a 2.1-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 58 horsepower, this saloon delivered respectable performance while prioritising ride comfort and interior space.
Despite its undeniable qualities, the Frégate never achieved the commercial success it deserved, remaining in the shadow of its direct rivals. Production ended in 1960, with roughly 177,000 units built across all versions.
During the 1950s, Renault went through a period of renewal under the leadership of Pierre Lefaucheux. Nationalised since 1945, the company multiplied technical innovations and diversified its range to win over every segment of the French car market.
This decade saw the birth of iconic models such as the 4CV, which put motoring within reach of many, and the Dauphine, which enjoyed international success. The Frégate was part of this move upmarket, demonstrating Renault's technical mastery in the luxury segment.
The legacy of this era would leave a lasting mark on the brand's identity, laying the foundations for its international expansion and its reputation as an innovator in the global automotive industry.
The Renault Frégate left a mark on the French collective imagination well beyond its commercial performance. It became a genuine star of French cinema in the 1950s and 1960s, appearing in numerous film noirs and comedies of the period.
Its natural elegance and presence made it the vehicle of choice for directors looking to embody bourgeois standing or police authority. It can be seen in several films starring Jean Gabin, where it perfectly complements the image of the police commissioner or the respected businessman.
This cinematic presence helped build the Frégate's legend, giving it a status as a cultural icon that far outweighs its commercial impact. Even today, it immediately evokes the very particular atmosphere of the golden age of French cinema.
The Grand Pavois version, with its two-tone red and beige livery, was especially sought after by the personalities of the day, becoming a symbol of social success during the Trente Glorieuses, the postwar boom years in France.
This Renault Frégate Grand Pavois fits naturally into a collection dedicated to French car miniatures. It pairs perfectly with other iconic models of the period, such as the Citroën DS or the contemporary Peugeots.
Collectors passionate about 1950s car miniatures will find an ideal addition to their collection, while fans of prestige saloons will appreciate its timeless elegance.
This miniature appeals as much to seasoned collectors as to enthusiasts of French automotive history, offering a faithful tribute to an era when the French industry shone through its boldness and craftsmanship. It is also an excellent starting point for discovering the world of Renault miniatures, and fits harmoniously into a collection of classic cars from 1950 to 1979.
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.