SIMCA Aronde 1300 Montlhéry: A French icon in model car
This magnificent reproduction of the SIMCA Aronde 1300 Montlhéry in its superb sky blue livery captures all the elegance of this iconic French sedan from the 1950s. This 1/43 scale model car is a true collector's item for all fans of French automobiles and industrial history.
Faithful to the smallest details, this replica testifies to the French art of living at a time when the automobile represented the symbol of renewal and modernity. The careful finish and the precision of the proportions make it a piece of choice to enrich any collection dedicated to French model cars .
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: SIMCA Aronde 1300 Montlhéry
- Brand: SIMCA
- Year: 1955-1963
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Sky blue
- Protective case included: Yes
The SIMCA Aronde: symbol of the French automotive revival
Launched in 1951, the SIMCA Aronde marked the brand's entry into the modern automotive era. This family saloon, designed under the leadership of Henri Théodore Pigozzi, represented a break with pre-war models. The 1300 Montlhéry version, released in 1955, represented the top of the range of the Aronde family with its 1.3-liter engine developing 57 horsepower.
The Aronde stood out for its fluid, modern lines, inspired by the American trends of the time. Its monocoque body, integrated headlights, and chrome grille gave it a decidedly contemporary look. The Montlhéry model, named after the famous racing circuit, benefited from enhanced equipment and a sportier appearance.
With more than 1.3 million units produced between 1951 and 1964, the Aronde enjoyed remarkable commercial success . It contributed to the democratization of the automobile in France and accompanied the economic boom of the Trente Glorieuses, offering French families their first modern car.
SIMCA: the Franco-Italian alliance serving innovation
Founded in 1934 by Henri Théodore Pigozzi, the Société Industrielle de Mécanique et Carrosserie Automobile (SIMCA) was born from a partnership with FIAT. This Franco-Italian collaboration allowed France to benefit from transalpine expertise while developing its own models adapted to the French market.
In the 1950s, when the Aronde was created, SIMCA established itself as a major player in the French automotive industry. The brand relied on technical innovation and design to stand out from its national competitors such as Peugeot , Renault and Citroën .
The Poissy factory, inaugurated in 1951, symbolized SIMCA's industrial modernity. This prosperous period for the brand, marked by the success of the Aronde, foreshadowed its acquisition by Chrysler in 1963, then its integration into the PSA group in 1979.
The Aronde and the epic of Monte Carlo
One of the most glorious pages in the history of the SIMCA Aronde was written on the snowy roads of the Monte Carlo Rally. In 1954, the French crew of Poirot and Maupin achieved the feat of finishing second overall in their Aronde, ahead of much more powerful cars.
This remarkable performance propelled the French brand to the forefront of the international sports scene. The Aronde demonstrated that French reliability and ingenuity could compete with the most prestigious European brands. This moral victory made a lasting impression and reinforced SIMCA's modern image.
More than just a car, the Aronde embodied the optimism of the 1950s and the French people's desire for a better life. It accompanied the first paid holidays, family weekends, and vacations on the French Riviera. Its elegant silhouette graced films of the time and advertisements extolling the French art of living.
This cultural dimension explains the fascination the Aronde still holds for collectors and enthusiasts today. It represents an era when French automobiles shone throughout the world, driven by technical innovations and bold design that influenced the entire European industry.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This SIMCA Aronde 1300 Montlhéry naturally finds its place alongside other icons of French automotive history. It fits perfectly with the models in the SIMCA Aronde collection and ideally completes a collection dedicated to 1950s sedans .
Collectors passionate about this prosperous period of French industry will appreciate associating it with other emblematic models such as the classics 1950-1979 . This model car is aimed at both experienced collectors and novices wishing to discover French automotive history through faithful and detailed reproductions.
Beyond its aesthetic value, this model car Aronde is a precious witness to a bygone era . It perpetuates the memory of a brand that marked French industrial history and continues to inspire automobile enthusiasts around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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