The French Dinky Ferrari Racing Car. In the 1956 catalogue, French Dinky Toys advertised the Ferrari Racing Car, 23J, as a new model available in July. In the October edition of the Meccano Magazine, a short article outlined the features of French Dinky’s second post-war racing car, which the company released in November and then, advertised the model, once again, in December.

In Ferrari Red, at a scale of 1/43, the 102mm long racing car had yellow race numbers, 1-6, on the rear cowling, red ribbed wheel hubs and initially, a smooth radiator grille. In 1957, French Dinky introduced variant 23J/2, which had a chequered grille and ‘chrome’ wheel hubs. The tyres were 20mm round treaded. Both versions cost 265 old francs, about 6/6. Introduced in 1956, withdrawn in 1959.

The model was based upon Ferrari’s 500, which had a 2.0 litre engine. Based on much of Lancia’s technology, the car achieved notable success in the hands of Juan Manuel Fangio, who won his third consecutive world title and, commanded five of the top eight placings for the season. Only Stirling Moss’s Maserati provided serious competition. The original price was 256Fr. . at 1:43 scale. Released as French Dinky 23J in 1956 withdrawn as French Dinky 23J in 1959.