22 August 2019
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Solido Renault 4L F4 1975 Cream/White
Price: £45.99
Ref: 1802201
Scale: 1/18
When Renault launched its 4 in 1961, it was the first front-wheel drive family car the French giant had produced.
It was inevitable that Renault would make a small van version (Fourgonnette) and it proved to be incredibly popular with its 'high cube' body and the unique 'giraffon' (giraffe hatch) at the rear - it remained on sale in Europe until 1993.
A fabulously sturdy diecast body is the basis for this model and a lovely shape it is too. Cheaper than the similar Norev product from recent years (but without an opening bonnet or rear doors), this new tooling from Solido represents excellent value. At this scale it has real shelf presence and the cream bodywork lends itself well to the possibility of adding some customised sign writing, should you so wish.
The simple and basic interior of the real vehicle is very nicely replicated in plastic and the striping on the seats looks very realistic indeed. For some strange reason, the door bins really appeal too - we just need to find some scaled down maps and a clipboard (and sweet wrappers!) to pop in them.
The wheels and tyres are very pleasing too, with the realistic rubber tread a particular plus point, sitting perfectly mounted on pressed steel rims, just like the real thing. The cheeky 'face' of the Renault 4 is perfectly replicated with a moulded plastic front grille that features those integral headlamps of course.
The generic dealership showroom number plates look good too, although it would be easy enough to replace with customised versions if desired. A great but (not so) little model of a classic van.