The Renault 4 CV, a symbol of post-war French car manufacturing, was built from 1947 to 1961. This vehicle was Renault's first full production car after World War II and quickly gained popularity. It was developed by chief engineers Fernand Picard and Charles-Edmond Serre, who first introduced this model to the public at the Paris Motor Show in 1946. The Renault 4 CV, often referred to as the "Cremeschnittchen", owed its success to its robustness, reliability, and its ability to meet the needs of the post-war era.
The Renault 4 CV was equipped with a four-cylinder rear engine and had a capacity of 747 cc, giving it a power output of 17 HP. It had a top speed of around 95 km/h (59 mph), which was impressive at that time. This model was the first French car to be produced in quantities exceeding one million units. The car had a light weight and a compact design, contributing to its agility and user-friendliness. Additionally, the Renault 4 CV was the first Renault with four doors and a self-supporting body, providing additional stability.
The design of the Renault 4 CV was influenced by the late 1940s zeitgeist. With its rounded lines and curved body, it conveyed a sense of elegance and simplicity. The paintwork of the model, found in the collection of Modelly member "TrolleyJack", is particularly striking: a deep dark green color adorned with the distinctive racing number 50 and various emblems and stickers. The front features two round, prominently placed headlights and a distinctive grille. A white stripe runs across the hood, giving the car a sporty touch.
The Renault 4 CV also achieved significant success in motorsport. In the 1950s, it participated in numerous races and could often be competitive due to its reliability and lightness. Drivers like Jean Rédélé and Louis Rosier successfully used the vehicle in various events. Jean Rédélé, who later founded the Alpine brand, used the Renault 4 CV as the base for his vehicles and competed in the Mille Miglia and the Critérium des Alpes with it.
The 1/18 scale model car was made by Otto Models and is an accurate miniature of the legendary Renault 4 CV. This detailed model, showcased by TrolleyJack on Modelly, depicts the detailed rendition of the original. The dark green paint and the striking racing decals, including the Shell logo and the distinctive license plate AA13, emphasize the car's sporting heritage. The painting and finishing are executed meticulously, making this model an exceptional piece in any collection. Collectors worldwide appreciate the meticulous accuracy and high quality that Otto Models provides.