Blue Car No. 98 Vaillante Commando (Album 5 Girls in the Race) - Michel Vaillant Comic Book
Scale: 1/43rd
The car and its plexi box are still under plastic protection, so I can't take more photos of the car
Please note: the first image (computer-generated render) does not always match the miniature exactly, especially the figures: please rely on the photos that follow this render
No. 11/50 of the collection
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.
This miniature of the Vaillante Commando blue number 981 immerses us directly into the legendary world of Michel Vaillant, specifically in the album "5 Girls in the Race". This faithful reproduction captures the essence of the racing cars imagined by Jean Graton, offering collectors an authentic piece of the history of French automotive comics.
As a true collectible item, this miniature appeals to both comic book nostalgics and racing car enthusiasts, perfectly embodying the spirit of competition and innovation that has characterized the Vaillant universe for decades.
The Vaillante Commando represents one of Jean Graton's most iconic creations in the Michel Vaillant universe. Designed as a revolutionary racing prototype, this fictional car embodies the technological innovation and sporting boldness found in every creation from the Vaillante stable. In the album "5 Girls in the Race", it plays a central role, demonstrating that automotive performance is not a matter of gender.
This imaginary racing car stands out with its aerodynamic lines and distinctive blue livery, the traditional color of the Vaillante stable. Its futuristic design for the time reflects Jean Graton's avant-garde vision, who did not hesitate to anticipate the technological evolutions of motorsport.
The success of this model in the comic book illustrates Graton's ability to create credible and appealing vehicles, capable of competing with the greatest real automotive brands in the imagination of readers.
Founded in Jean Graton's imagination in 1957, the Vaillante team has become much more than just a fictional comic book brand. It represents French excellence in motorsport, embodying the values of surpassing oneself, technological innovation, and fair play that characterize the world of competitive motorsport.
At the time of the creation of the Commando, the Vaillante team had already earned its reputation in the comic book universe. The 1970s and 1980s marked the golden age of the series, during which Jean Graton multiplied innovative models and captivating storylines. The Commando fits into this lineage of revolutionary prototypes that have built the reputation of the brand.
The album "5 Girls in the Race" marks a significant turning point in the Michel Vaillant universe, addressing the question of women's place in motorsport several decades ahead of its time. Jean Graton, a visionary, anticipates societal debates on gender equality in high-level sports competition.
This particular story features talented female drivers who defy the prejudices of the time, using the Vaillante Commando to prove their skills on the track. The plot reflects the questioning of French society in the 1970s regarding women's emancipation and access to traditionally male professions.
The blue Commando number 981 thus becomes the symbol of this quiet revolution, a vehicle of equality and pure performance, beyond gender considerations. This avant-garde approach by Jean Graton contributes to making this album one of the most memorable in the series.
Even today, this album resonates particularly with the current state of motorsport, where female drivers are gradually earning their place in the highest echelons of international competition.
This Vaillante Commando naturally finds its place at the heart of a collection dedicated to the universe of Michel Vaillant. It harmonizes perfectly with the other models of the series, whether they are from the Michel Vaillant collection or racing cars from different eras.
Collectors will particularly appreciate pairing it with other creations from the Vaillante stables, thus creating a complete miniature garage representative of the technological evolution envisioned by Jean Graton. This piece is for fans of Formula 1 and racing and competition, but also for lovers of French cars, even fictional ones.
Beyond its nostalgic value, this miniature serves as a cultural testimony of the golden age of Franco-Belgian comics and its influence on the French automotive imagination, charming both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts discovering the world of 1/43 scale miniatures.
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.
Christian Frassinetti
11 November 2026
High-quality products, top-level shipping, we care about the customer in this house, I am more than satisfied with my purchases. There will be more...
Herve
11 November 2026
Perfectly packaged product, arrived well and completely matches the description, I highly recommend! Thank you!
Sold
It was the last one, and we no longer have it in stock. It may come back one day, but I can't promise. In the meantime, here are the closest matches available today.
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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.