Citroën DS 19

Four balloons instead of tyres: this Citroën DS 19 stands on large red balloons, referencing one of the brand’s most famous advertising ideas. The balloons symbolise the spherical pressure vessels of the hydropneumatic suspension system, with which Citroën promoted the exceptional ride comfort of the DS.

One photograph from 1959 became famous: advertising director Claude Puech had a DS placed on four balloons in a shallow pool, making it appear to float on the water. This image of “floating on air cushions” travelled around the world and still shapes the public perception of Citroën’s hydropneumatic models today.

The Portuguese model manufacturer Vitesse picked up this idea and turned it into a 1:43 scale model. Since the 1980s, Vitesse has been known for detailed diecast models and has specialised in unusual variants and promotional vehicles.