Simca 5 black delivery van MICHELIN
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
This Simca 5 MICHELIN delivery van in 1/43rd scale captures one of the most recognisable commercial vehicles of postwar France. This faithful replica recreates the charm of this little van that once travelled French roads carrying the colours of the famous tyre manufacturer.
Made for collectors who are passionate about French cars, this miniature is an essential piece for anyone wanting to recreate the atmosphere of the 1950s and 1960s, when these promotional vehicles were an everyday sight on French roads.
The Simca 5 van was born in the immediate postwar years, when France was rebuilding its economy and infrastructure. Developed from the Simca 5 saloon, itself derived from the Fiat Topolino, this commercial version met the pressing needs of French craftsmen, shopkeepers and businesses looking for an economical and practical vehicle.
With its 569 cm³ engine producing 16 horsepower, the Simca 5 van stands out for its **low fuel consumption** and easy handling in town. Its enclosed body and rear tailgate made transporting goods simple, while its compact dimensions let it slip through the narrow streets of city centres.
This little commercial vehicle enjoyed notable success, helping to modernise the French vehicle fleet and supporting the economic boom of the **Trente Glorieuses**.
Founded in 1934 by Henri Théodore Pigozzi, the Société Industrielle de Mécanique et Carrosserie Automobile (SIMCA) was born from an agreement with Fiat to build Italian vehicles under licence in France. From the outset, Simca had a clear ambition: to democratise motoring by offering vehicles affordable to the French middle classes.
In the 1950s, the period when the Simca 5 van was produced, the brand grew remarkably. It gradually gained independence from Fiat, invested in research and development, and expanded its range with models such as the Aronde, which proved hugely popular.
This was Simca's golden age, as it established itself as a major player in the French automotive industry alongside Renault and Peugeot, before being taken over by Chrysler in the 1960s.
The Simca–Michelin partnership for these promotional vans reflects an era when **commercial vehicles** were a favoured advertising medium. These little vans in Michelin colours, easily recognised by their yellow and blue livery featuring the famous Bibendum, travelled across France promoting the tyres of the Clermont-Ferrand company.
These promotional vehicles regularly took part in major motorsport events, notably rallies and circuit races. They could be spotted at the **24 Hours of Le Mans**, carrying spare tyres and technical equipment, helping to forge Michelin's sporting image.
The use of these vans was part of Michelin's innovative marketing strategy, which relied on closeness to its customers. Unlike large advertising campaigns, these vehicles enabled direct contact with garage owners, hauliers and private motorists, building a bond of trust that is essential in a sector where safety comes first.
Today, these Simca 5 Michelin vans have become sought-after **collectibles**, bearing witness to an era when the French automotive industry was flourishing and industrial partnerships shaped the visual identity of our roads.
This Simca 5 MICHELIN van fits naturally into a collection dedicated to French cars from the postwar years. It pairs perfectly with other promotional vehicles of the period, creating a cohesive set that traces the history of French automotive marketing.
Collectors of light commercial vehicles will especially appreciate this piece, which complements series devoted to vans and period commercial vehicles. Its Michelin livery also makes it a standout choice for lovers of miniatures with authentic advertising decoration.
This miniature appeals to seasoned collectors as well as newcomers eager to discover the world of 1/43rd scale models, the reference scale that offers the best balance between detail and footprint for a home collection.
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.