SIMCA TALBOT LAGO Sport Black from 1959 - 1/43rd Scale Collector's model car
This black 1959 SIMCA TALBOT LAGO sports car represents one of the most iconic models from the golden age of French motoring. This 1:43 scale model accurately captures the elegance and sportiness of this exceptional coupé, which marked its era with its bold lines and remarkable performance.
A true collector's item for classic car enthusiasts, this faithful reproduction is a testament to the French craftsmanship of the 1950s and naturally finds its place in any collection dedicated to prestigious French model cars .
Characteristics of the model car
- Model: TALBOT LAGO Sport
- Brand: SIMCA
- Year: 1959
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Black
- Protective case included: Yes
The real model: An exceptional coupe
The 1959 TALBOT LAGO Sport was born in a unique context for the French automotive industry. After the Second World War, Talbot-Lago struggled to regain its pre-war splendor and sought to reposition itself in the luxury grand touring market. This sports model represents one of the brand's last creations before its acquisition by SIMCA.
Powered by a 6-cylinder engine developing approximately 120 horsepower, this French sports car stood out for its elegant bodywork with taut lines and refined interior. Its performance allowed it to reach 180 km/h, making it one of the fastest cars in its category at the time. The meticulous finish and the noble materials used testified to the high-end positioning of this exceptional model.
Although produced in a limited series, this TALBOT LAGO Sport enjoyed critical success among connoisseurs and lovers of fine mechanics, establishing itself as a symbol of French automotive refinement of the 1950s .
SIMCA and the TALBOT LAGO heritage
By 1959, SIMCA (Société Industrielle de Mécanique et Carrosserie Automobile) was already well established in the French market, having been founded by Henri Théodore Pigozzi in 1934. The company, initially a partner of FIAT in France, had developed recognized expertise in the production of popular and affordable vehicles.
SIMCA's acquisition of TALBOT LAGO in 1958 marked an important step in the brand's upmarket strategy. TALBOT LAGO, founded by Anthony Lago in the 1930s, enjoyed a prestigious reputation in motor racing and grand touring cars. This acquisition gave SIMCA access to technical expertise and a high-end brand image that it had been lacking.
This transition period between the two brands gave rise to hybrid models like this SIMCA TALBOT LAGO Sport, combining the sporting heritage of TALBOT LAGO with the industrial capabilities of SIMCA. Unfortunately, this collaboration was short-lived, with the TALBOT LAGO brand disappearing from the French automotive scene for good in the early 1960s.
The anecdote: The last breath of a legend
The history of this 1959 SIMCA TALBOT LAGO Sport is closely linked to that of Anthony Lago, a colorful figure in the French automotive world. This Italian-born engineer bought the bankrupt TALBOT brand in 1935 and transformed it into a symbol of automotive excellence. A racing enthusiast, he made TALBOT LAGO a benchmark on European circuits, notably at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
In 1959, the year this sports model was produced, Anthony Lago knew his days were numbered. Financial difficulties were mounting, and SIMCA, now the brand's owner, was already preparing to stop production of the authentic TALBOT LAGO. This car literally represented the swan song of a brand that had made its mark on the history of luxury automobiles.
An anecdote tells us that Anthony Lago himself regularly drove a black TALBOT LAGO Sport similar to this model. He liked to say that this car embodied "the French soul of the automobile," a blend of refinement, performance, and the art of living. This philosophy was reflected in every detail of the design, from the shape of the grille to the finish of the precious wood dashboard.
Today, the rare surviving examples of this 1959 TALBOT LAGO Sport are considered museum pieces and fetch considerable sums at specialist auctions. This 1:43 scale model allows collectors to own a piece of this exceptional automotive history, a testament to an era when French industry rivaled the greatest European brands.
Complete your collection of French model cars
This black SIMCA TALBOT LAGO Sport naturally finds its place in a collection dedicated to exceptional French cars. It harmonizes perfectly with other iconic models from the same era, notably the Facel Vega or the Delahaye which shared the same high-end positioning.
Collectors passionate about SIMCA's history can also combine it with the brand's more popular models, creating a comprehensive overview of the evolution of this iconic company. This model car also fits perfectly into a thematic collection dedicated to French coupés or classic cars from the 1950s to 1979 .
Intended for discerning collectors and French automobile enthusiasts, this faithful reproduction will also appeal to industrial history enthusiasts keen to preserve the memory of these brands that made the French automobile industry great. Its meticulous finish and 1/43 scale make it a reference model for any 1/43 model car enthusiast.
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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