The legendary Citroën 2CV, also known as the "Deux Chevaux" or "Duck," was first introduced at the Paris Motor Show in 1948. This model comes from the early 2nd Generation (1960-1990) of the 2CV and represents the compactness and simplicity that have made it an icon of automotive history. Engineer Pierre-Jules Boulanger played a key role in the development of the 2CV, designed to appeal to the rural French market. The Citroën 2CV has a lightweight construction, made up of simple parts, and is famous for its exceptional suspension system, allowing the car to traverse uneven roads without disturbing a basket of eggs. In 1960, when this generation was developed, France was focusing on innovation in the transportation sector, with events such as the historic flight of Sputnik 5 and the release of Elvis Presley's song "It's Now or Never" shaping the world.
The Citroën 2CV features an air-cooled two-cylinder boxer engine designed to be reliable and easy to maintain. Initially with a displacement of 375 cc (later 425 cc), it delivered around 9 horsepower to reach a top speed of just under 50 km/h (about 31 mph), later boosted to 29 hp and 115 km/h (about 71 mph). It's worth mentioning that the 2CV had an innovative suspension system with horizontal springs and dampers, providing unmatched comfort in driving. These technical peculiarities, along with its minimalist design, made the Citroën 2CV a popular vehicle throughout its production run until 1990.
The model car of the Citroën 2CV is crafted by Solido in a 1/18 scale, showing remarkable precision and attention to detail. The member "xxlgs" on Modelly has this model in their collection. The model sports a dark red paint job with a black canvas roof, faithfully replicating the original. The black and silver wheels, likely from a well-known manufacturer, are another standout feature. The interior is beige and intricately reproduced, including the iconic minimalist seats and the simple yet functional dashboard. Typical of Solido, the model is widely recognized among collectors and model car enthusiasts worldwide for its faithful replication and sturdy build.
The Solido model in a 1/18 scale not only represents the technical and design brilliance of the original Citroën 2CV, but also provides a way to appreciate the history and significance of this vehicle. These models are not just collectibles but miniature stories reflecting the evolution of automotive design and engineering. "xxlgs's" model showcases all the characteristic features like the corrugated sheet metal, round headlights, and the simple, robust style the Citroën 2CV is famous for. As such, this 1/18 scale model is a valuable addition to any collector's collection.