An exceptional model car: The 1956 Simca Coupé de Ville
This red 1956 Simca coupé de ville model car represents one of the most elegant models of French motoring from the 1950s. Reproduced with meticulous care in 1:43 scale, this collector's item perfectly captures the refined spirit of this golden era of motoring.
A true testament to the French art of living, this Simca coupé de ville is a must-have for any collector passionate about classic cars and French industrial history.
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: City Coupé
- Brand: Simca
- Year: 1956
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Red
- Protective case included: Yes
The real model: elegance and distinction
The 1956 Simca coupé de ville was born in the context of post-war economic revival in France. Simca, then in full expansion, sought to diversify its range beyond popular models to attract a wealthier clientele seeking distinction. This coupé represents the culmination of this strategy, combining American aesthetic codes with French elegance.
Technically, this model stands out for its flowing lines and two-tone bodywork characteristic of the era. The original vehicle offered a spacious interior for two people, with particular attention paid to the interior finishes. Its engine, although modest by today's standards, offered satisfactory performance for the time, allowing for a comfortable and quiet ride.
Commercially, this coupe was aimed at a sophisticated urban clientele, doctors, lawyers, and prosperous merchants who wanted to stand out without excessive ostentation. Its limited production makes it a sought-after model among vintage car collectors today.
Simca: French industrial audacity
In 1956, Simca entered a pivotal period in its history. Founded in 1934 by Henri Théodore Pigozzi, the brand quickly established itself on the French market thanks to licensing agreements with Fiat. During this time, the company developed its own stylistic identity, gradually moving away from its Italian origins to assert a resolutely French character.
The year 1956 also marked the beginning of Simca's international expansion, with plans to establish a presence in South America and technical collaborations with other European manufacturers. This openness to the world directly influenced the design of its vehicles, as evidenced by this city coupé with cosmopolitan influences.
Simca's strategy was to offer accessible vehicles while maintaining an image of modernity and refinement. The city coupe fits perfectly into this approach, offering a successful compromise between exclusivity and relative accessibility.
A movie and prestige car
The Simca Coupé de Ville enjoyed its heyday well beyond motor shows. In the 1950s, this model quickly became a favorite of French film producers. Its elegant silhouette and flamboyant red color made it a perfect accessory to embody bourgeois refinement in the films of the time.
The most striking anecdote concerns the filming of René Clair's "Les Grandes Manœuvres" in 1955. The director, seduced by the elegance of this coupé, made it one of the central visual elements of his work. The red car thus became a symbol of French seduction and charm, helping to forge the romantic image of the French automobile.
Beyond cinema, this model was also chosen by several figures from the Parisian art world. The cabarets of Montmartre regularly saw these elegant coupés parked in front of their doors, their owners actively participating in the vibrant cultural life of the time. This proximity to the artistic world reinforced the vehicle's bohemian chic image.
Paradoxically, despite its limited production, the Simca coupé de ville left a lasting mark on the French collective imagination. It embodied the aspiration for a certain gentle way of life, far from the economic concerns of the immediate post-war period, foreshadowing the advent of the consumer society of the 1960s.
Complete your collection of model cars
This 1956 Simca coupé de ville model car naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to the golden age of French automobiles. It harmonizes perfectly with other models from the same era, notably Simca model cars or model cars from the 1950s .
Passionate collectors of French automobiles will particularly appreciate this piece for its rarity and historical authenticity. It also makes an excellent addition to collections of model car coupes or classic vehicles from the 1950-1979 period.
This model car is aimed at both experienced collectors and beginners wishing to discover the fascinating world of 1/43rd scale model cars . Its reproduction quality and rich history make it a lasting investment, capable of passing on to future generations the memory of this blessed era of the French automobile. For those passionate about industrial history, it constitutes a tangible testimony to the innovation and French know-how of vintage automobiles .
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.
What our customers say
Customer feedback and testimonials