Simca 1300 yellow sedan from 1965 La Poste - PTT
Scale: 1/43
Please note: the first image, which is a computer-generated rendering, may not fully match the vehicle offered in this listing. Please refer to the photos that follow this rendering.
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
This magnificent 1965 Simca 1300 Saloon Yellow in the colours of La Poste PTT represents an iconic chapter of French automotive history and of its public services. This miniature faithfully captures the spirit of an era when service vehicles proudly wore the national colours and symbolised the modernisation of French government administrations.
A true collector's piece for enthusiasts of French cars and postal history, this detailed reproduction bears witness to Simca's golden age and to the evolution of commercial vehicles in the 1960s.
Launched in 1963, the Simca 1300 marked a new stage in Simca's strategy to conquer the family saloon market. Developed under the influence of Chrysler, which had taken control of the French marque, this car perfectly embodied the aspirations to modernity of the 1960s. With its clean design and taut lines, it positioned itself as a credible alternative to the Peugeot 404 and Renault 16.
The model stood out for its mechanical robustness and reliability, qualities particularly valued by public administrations. Its 1.3-litre engine delivered enough power for urban and rural travel, while its roomy cabin could efficiently carry the equipment needed by postal workers. This versatility explains why many Simca model cars reproduce these service versions.
The 1300 enjoyed notable commercial success, with more than 170,000 units produced until 1967. It helped establish Simca's reputation as a manufacturer capable of offering vehicles suited to both private owners and professionals.
In the mid-1960s, Simca was going through a period of profound transformation. Gradually taken over by Chrysler from 1958 onwards, the French marque benefited from American technology and capital while retaining its French identity. This Franco-American partnership enabled Simca to develop modern models such as the 1300, designed to rival the German and Italian makes that were increasingly present on the French market.
The period in which the 1300 was created coincided with the peak of Simca as France's third-largest carmaker, behind Renault and Peugeot. Henri Pigozzi, the marque's Italian-born founder, had succeeded in building a company capable of producing affordable and reliable cars. Public administrations, including La Poste, trusted Simca to equip their fleets, recognising the build quality and ease of maintenance of these vehicles. This institutional trust contributed greatly to the marque's prestige and explains why public service vehicle model cars hold such an important place in collections.
The choice of PTT yellow for postal vehicles was no accident. This colour, officially adopted in 1946, answered precise practical and symbolic needs. First, it ensured excellent visibility on the roads, an important safety factor for vehicles that made frequent stops in urban and rural areas. Second, it created a strong visual identity, allowing users to instantly recognise postal services.
The Simca 1300 PTT travelled the French roads every day, from the great Parisian boulevards to the most remote country lanes. These saloons carried not only mail but also inspectors, technicians and sometimes even funds. Their robustness was put to the test by the thousands of kilometres covered each year, and their longevity was a testament to Simca's build quality.
A tradition held that the most experienced postal workers were entrusted with the newest Simcas, regarded as a sign of confidence from management. These cars were often personalised by their regular drivers, who added small practical fittings or lucky charms. This close bond between man and his service vehicle created lasting ties, and many former La Poste employees still fondly remember "their" yellow Simca.
Today, spotting an authentic Simca 1300 PTT is a real feat, as these vehicles were used intensively before being retired. This is why this miniature carries a special heritage value, preserving the memory of an era when French public services flourished across the whole country thanks to these faithful yellow saloons.
This Simca 1300 PTT naturally finds its place within a collection dedicated to French vehicles of the 1960s. It pairs perfectly with other iconic models of the era, creating a coherent display that tells the story of French motoring. Collectors will especially appreciate how it complements Peugeot model cars and Citroën models from the same period.
For commercial vehicle enthusiasts, this miniature fits perfectly into a themed collection devoted to service cars. It can be paired with police vehicles, fire brigade cars or emergency vehicles to build a complete panorama of French public services.
This quality reproduction will appeal to seasoned collectors as well as newcomers eager to discover the world of French model cars. Lovers of classic cars will find a faithful testimony to French ingenuity, while enthusiasts of postal history will appreciate this nod to the evolution of public services. Its presence in a display case instantly evokes the atmosphere of the 1960s, a pivotal period of French modernisation.
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.