Description: The Peugeot 403 was unveiled in autumn 1955 and went into production in 1956. Designed by Pininfarina, it was the first French car to benefit from the design of an internationally renowned Italian coachbuilder. Its sleek lines, spacious interior, and robustness made it a great commercial success, with over 1.1 million units produced until 1966. It served as the basis for many versions: station wagon, convertible, commercial, ambulance. In France, it is intimately associated with Inspector Maigret (the TV series).
The Peugeot 403 Sedan was introduced into the Dinky Toys France catalog in June 1956 under reference 24B, the sixth new model of the year. It inaugurated a notable technical innovation for Dinky France at the time: the presence of a separate side window deflector, with a realistic thin vertical piece. Dinky Toys France reproduced the 403 in its launch version (without front indicators, which did not yet exist on the real car). The 403 was produced until 1966, going through three major variants and two reference reworks (24B then 521). Type I — 24B (1956-1957): fully enclosed chassis, chromed convex wheels, smooth white tires. Colors: black or Nattier blue. Illustrated yellow box./ Type II — 24B (1958-1959): chassis with rear cutout for caravan hitch. Three colors: Nattier blue, light gray, straw yellow. White tires. Unchanged yellow box. / Type III — 521 (1960-1966): addition of clear plastic windows. Colors: light gray (various shades) and straw yellow. Convex then concave wheels. Yellow box with "avec glaces" (with windows) mentioned.
This model corresponds to the straw yellow/cream color, and has concave chrome steel wheels fitted with Dunlop tires. The shiny black molded chassis features the characteristic rear cutout of Type II and III. The presence of the glazing confirms that this is one of the very last versions. We regret the presence of some chips… However, this is inevitable, especially with this color. This model is uncommon! Take advantage of it!