1963 gray SIMCA Abarth 1150S
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 SIMCA Abarth 1150S of 1963 is one of the most fascinating chapters in French automotive history of the 1960s. This 1:43 scale model perfectly captures the essence of this exceptional sports car, born from the collaboration between French manufacturer SIMCA and Italian tuner Carlo Abarth.
A true collector's piece for classic car enthusiasts, this faithful replica celebrates the golden age of small European sports cars that left their mark on their era with their character and elegance.
The SIMCA Abarth 1150S was born in 1963 from the strategic alliance between SIMCA and Carlo Abarth, the "magician" of Turin who specialised in tuning sports cars. This collaboration aimed to create a high-performance version of the SIMCA 1000, launched the year before.
Powered by a 1.1-litre engine tuned by Abarth producing close to 65 horsepower, this little powerhouse delivered remarkable performance for its time. Its lightweight body, subtle aerodynamic tweaks and sport suspension made it a genuine track weapon within reach of the general public.
Despite a high price that limited its distribution, the SIMCA Abarth 1150S quickly made its mark in European competition and built its reputation among enthusiasts. Today it is a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
In 1963, SIMCA was enjoying a major period of expansion under the leadership of Henri Pigozzi. The French manufacturer, founded in 1934, was then at its peak, with the success of the SIMCA Aronde and the promising launch of the SIMCA 1000. This era marked the height of SIMCA's innovation, with bold models that rivalled the best European production.
The collaboration with Abarth was part of the sporty image strategy SIMCA pursued to win over a young, dynamic clientele. This prosperous period continued until the end of the 1960s, establishing SIMCA as a major player in French motoring before its takeover by Chrysler and later PSA.
The story of the SIMCA Abarth 1150S is inseparable from a delightful anecdote that perfectly captures the spirit of the era. In 1963, at the Turin Motor Show, Carlo Abarth proudly presented his new French creation alongside the prestigious Ferrari and Maserati. The reception was lukewarm at best: how could this small French car dare to compete with the thoroughbreds of Italy?
The answer came a few months later at the Monza circuit, during a touring car race. Against all expectations, several SIMCA Abarth 1150S cars seriously unsettled much larger engines thanks to their agility and reliability. This unexpected performance caused a sensation in Italian motoring circles and firmly established the reputation of the little French sports car.
This Italian recognition had considerable repercussions on SIMCA's image across Europe. The specialist press of the time headlined: "France has found its Ferrari!" This triumph marked a turning point in how French cars were perceived abroad and inspired a whole generation of French manufacturers to dare sporting boldness.
Even today, Italian enthusiasts regard the SIMCA Abarth 1150S as one of the finest achievements of their master tuner, proof that Carlo Abarth's talent transcended national borders.
This SIMCA Abarth 1150S sits naturally alongside other gems of 1960s French motoring. It pairs perfectly with Renault miniatures from the same era, notably the Alpine-Renault sports cars that shared the same performance ambitions.
Collectors will also enjoy pairing it with other SIMCA models to recreate the brand's full universe, or adding it to a themed collection of racing cars from the sixties. Its rarity and distinctive history make it a prized addition for fans of classic cars from 1950 to 1979.
This miniature appeals as much to seasoned collectors as to automotive history enthusiasts who want an authentic reminder of the golden age of French car production. It is also an excellent starting point for exploring the world of 1960s cars, a period of creativity and innovation.
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.