The Ikarus 404 is a cool vehicle that was produced by the Hungarian company Ikarus in the early 1960s. This model was part of the second generation of Ikarus trucks, built from 1960 to 1970. The 404 played a big role in establishing Ikarus as a leading manufacturer of utility and special vehicles in Eastern Europe. It was specifically designed as a refrigerated truck, perfect for transporting perishable goods like ice cream and frozen foods. It followed the Ikarus 311, and its design was significantly simplified and improved for refrigerated transport. This truck became quite popular in Hungary and nearby countries, symbolizing the advanced vehicle technology of its time.
The Ikarus 404 came with a reliable diesel engine known for its fuel efficiency and durability. Its powerful cooling system was a key innovation, allowing for temperature-controlled transport in various weather conditions. Another cool feature of the Ikarus 404 was its practical design with side sliding doors, making it super easy to load and unload – perfect for quick deliveries. The chassis was built to be extremely stable, so it could handle the heavy demands of daily use. The front of the truck had a distinctive horizontal grille structure and a clean design that gave it a practical yet modern look.
The miniature model you're looking at is a precise replica of the Ikarus 404 in a 1/43 scale, made by Deagostini. This mini version is crafted from a mix of materials, with metal and plastic parts expertly combined to create a detailed and authentic piece. The standout feature is its smooth white paint, showcasing the word “fagylalt” (Hungarian for ice cream) in green-blue block letters. The front is impressive with perfectly replicated headlights, the horizontal grille elements, and even neatly represented windshield wipers. The side doors and the tiny red indicator lights on the cab have been faithfully recreated. This model is part of the collection from a Modelly member named “missa-mbl” and makes a great addition to any collection of vehicles from Eastern European automotive history.
Visually, the model encapsulates all the defining traits of the Ikarus 404. The minimalist white paint job is nicely interrupted by the turquoise letters, reflecting the typical style of the '60s. The front grabs attention with its realistic grille and detailed headlights, complete with a distinct edge. Side doors and additional roof ventilation have also been accurately mirrored, adding a high level of authenticity to the model. Even little details like the two side mirrors and the precise license plate reading “CS-35-78” have been taken into account. This 1/43 scale model from Deagostini showcases how beautifully and thoughtfully historical vehicles can be replicated for collectors.