80+ VEHICLES INSIDE! ››› THE PASSION, PRODUCTS & PERSONALITIES LARRY WOOD WE TOUR “ELWOOD’S GARAGE”! SUPER NOVAGRUMPY’SLASTAUTHORIZEDMODELS SUPERCAR COLLECTIBLES QUARTER MILE MENACES ESSENTIAL GAMER’S RIDE UBRULHSATIOLLICMOWDETARTTTHOEE AUTOart’s Gran Turismo 5 Mazda 787B 7 LEGENDARY PORSCHE GT3s STARS & CARS OWN A PIECE OF RACING RIVALRY Inside the hottest diecast show of the year Mario Andretti vs. Revson & McQueen Display until October 1, 2012 RRAERVEECAOLLELDEC! TIBLES FALL 2012 | DCXmag.com
CONTENTS DIE CAST X | FALL 2012 FEATURES OUT OF THE BOX 28 | Turn Key Racers 22 | Auto World 1966 Chevy II Nova Porsche’s factory-built race cars Sleeper time 38 | Born to Rock 24 | Supercar Collectibles 1966 “Grumpy’s Toy” Auto World “Slot Stars” 1957 Chevrolet Slot Car kit Chevy II Novas 48 | DCX invades Long Beach! Grumpy and the mouse that roared e 2012 Die Cast X Collectors Expo 34 | Hot Wheels Elite Ferrari 512S “Sebring 1970” 52 | Hangin’ with Elwood Glory days Larry Wood opens his shop to DCX 44 | Paragon 1968 Rolls-Royce Silver 4 DCXmag.com Shadow Coupe Return of the Jadi
UP FRONT QUICK LOOKS REGULARS 6 | On the Web 32 | AUTOArt Mazda 787B Stealth 54 | Hot Wheels Highway 58 | Sunstar 1960 Plymouth Fury e ultimate diecast portal Convertible Flashback 2001 62 | TrueScale Miniatures Lotus 56 8 | Editorial 60 | Driven ONLINE EXCLUSIVE! e best investment Slot car racing Behind the Scenes: 10 | Scale Mail Meet the Professor 64 | Auto Rewind Questions, answers, comments Head to DCXmag.com to read our interview with Precision Miniatures 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Greg White, owner of Designs in Motion 4-door Hardtop 12 | Inside Line 66 | Collector Profile: Meet Mr. Industry news Lucky 14 | Showroom Bob and Lori Jackman make Mississippi proud New releases & first looks Die Cast X (ISSN 1551-854X) published quarterly by Air Age Inc., 88 Danbury Rd., Wilton, CT 06897 USA. Copyright 2010, all rights reserved. Application to Mail ON THE COVER: at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at Wilton, CT, and additional offices. Canadian Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40008153. CONTRIBUTIONS: Remembering Bill “Grumpy” all materials published in Die Cast X magazine become the exclusive property of Air Age Inc., unless prior arrangement is made in writing with the Publisher. Jenkins with Supercar Descriptions of products were obtained from manufacturers or their press agencies and do not constitute an endorsement by the Publisher or guarantee Collectibles. their safety. SUBSCRIPTIONS: call (866) 298-5652. Outside the U.S.: (386) 246-3323, or go to our website: DCXmag.com. Rates one year (4 issues): U.S. $25; ON THIS PAGE: An eye- Canada, $28, including GST; all others, $32. All international orders must be prepaid in U.S. funds drawn on a U.S. bank. Visa, MasterCard, Discover and catching trio of classics American Express accepted. ADVERTISING: Advertising rates are available on request. Please send advertising materials to Advertising Dept., Air Age Inc., 88 owned by Larry Wood. Danbury Rd., Wilton, CT 06897 USA; phone (203) 431-9000; fax (203) 529-3010; email: sales@ airage.com. EDITORIAL: send correspondence to Editors, Die Cast X, Air Age Inc., 88 Danbury Rd., Wilton, CT 06897 USA. Email: [email protected]. We welcome all editorial submissions but assume no responsibility for the loss or damage of unsolicited material. To authors, photographers and people featured in this magazine: all materials published in Die Cast X become the exclusive property of Air Age Inc. unless a prior arrangement is made in writing with the Publisher. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: To make sure you don’t miss any issues, send your new address to Die Cast X magazine, P.O. Box 420235, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0235 USA at least six weeks before you move. Please include an address label from a recent issue, or print the information exactly as shown on the label. For faster service, go to DCXmag.com/cs, and click on the customer service link. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Die Cast X magazine, P.O. Box 420235, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0235 USA.
ON WEBTHE DCXMAG.COM: THE ULTIMATE DIECAST PORTAL DTCX Digital Explodes!sopffaienapsnghnltDdaaeedictetsnIsrlEphtraDnatdieen?aea-uevCCexvwsrgCnodricsXttntiAizrdconoaidirycgfogf.iheenSsnarreeWplowsnoaeletolnew.dTbaeue-pmswdishgrnaiorAicd,pPsXomWeatiegssonltt3aowRhhtactneesFhhnooGdtv,yhhoadth5d,asEasesnsdieoraestnoiatOe,cer0ceciuitaphucYtkgaraseanffefcuhic0ttbEooihaerninaychgabOlesaspahhsojyrgucrarSdPdeotsioocvtArsuerenehdU,oeocscutcouCaomtycisptgsiDaoitpsmtmPytpcr’nichlkori,p’iriAlsvaealasnevao-eoaodleIotleuaps.eeGspscegSecbludlalcfMafFalp,aalcsDttatenaeueltob?tIvDnmetAwltnhtioTgeotsysoscincceeooieidCyinerdwAteCseatraesteddeolpet…iohg,Cwe,iaconnmsmbeoonEtfLf,.iCciertoorasisongdtwelenffryoy?s’o!aBoabacohslsdmlsl’agooew,densmeirkebtWtOanptutshenovuvuwrtecfrlh,ereXeosleseodesereroreOmtXtgbditsoryutrih,rdnar’ftfDborsievp,sptas?Koafoottyeceocoliwhwieoi.hvaoevntutsgdotW.aWrneeehUoothomgsrtYag,kiilroidtlteaseao,terroeisteDoocsaShtaoumefwcricin,notcutehrntlaiellarscEhgekeeioeylEtvsmspeoayeltcnfihttolriwvnoRadtd,-mtCwhsorlooohtayecirphsegtimmrfkniiteea?whunentueipoyayi,oroveoeyaeiekwrdfseedoscuohorouczeIvdotrtnobwtentnatylrahionDnohuorouyysaknoeoryeaeuotymeooXsevi—.rnrroCtnelhtroDtdnrousws—fituNyinayehetcmoborcauXotaftfion’mhmosanerooeea,rolweuso’g,ieey—edruaifonwfevrlvcvdsCeaeaffaldodt.neiudottoweadgetdgaisad,Oeg.uh.jndcgrrmroyuheia,dsDichreraaenitu—thdtots.s-adtioioa,gmeeCleoearGtciatuasaevXsartsedkcnFXotidsodnanepnwy,eealap—almiaatiddralaleofpsscaealnathnaronnctettupaseyencdgedchdardpgbeicsstedejeneosiawuiue,to.nenw!ngclhftpttsssax-omgfroho’ariotoasotkcnkaimvcootsrramlintutedorecmmWhdodWaoisPryoinsareedaVsze,tiAeomsavrHllHeeaisdiltaaeTcu,dDnneodpal-Og.CtAatw’teGtCsd,d-nrloaosHrhyTouoXTaawemggiiidgonrttMyV’igO-lenwoSaopheaenlsehAoItlttrressrDabslhOdy-CGribhlhkhmsdcueEoohiqop.WeaeotOecFe-CtaSOfooufeit.tmnet,lrrOdti’tMiObrAamHsAeehtnsgresoMhsbyaehbl,n,agsosinieLwNeonratMktaypoetot—telyehtEennulbol’l,fi,hTwyollmiantelOcDtwadpo“RtDawtskkdhattoMnhxnhoCftcaefDeihhiu.oosveeToned!,esltXleeeaOs,SmloelEdgrit-HkCtkswhpmtsreddcitrLcseRrcfoanmeoflsAehooeyyyiuoapeesenhiboECsleoclr.eNgraltelptywctewblleeBr?uhed,AhtmD.aroXeyrcyaceisAisrec-”elnsguionyRto,roseoatecftpcitlrttmo.oGrutadonn?xhhCdhhocnrntvecdalueOeseeoaloemeeslillpsuddsiisstslfwtncOloaer-esitsitDfrgtedonsstriec,iDXrcvCnnsouomsedtvle,geisX-mn-elpiietetnredpa-fhsrsadwrvdaapryneesaeeaertusesesorerlc-nrhsiweuvhysoou.pdtonesrfsnlriacltnyco.reulndnoeeHrudcrcieedrtndtesotulnwtvhoistiesndctneoeisio-etrdgtifrremei,owweeogoap-drrcineosfuzamsfbtt,rrestp,lyaelyehya-dr,nesdeotn.tdhoudseeelvyareotveruiy-cre 6 DCXmag.com
1:18 18S068 S2527 S2530 S2535 1:18 Aston Martin AMR-One #007 1:43 Lola B 10/60 Coupe-Toyota #12 1:43 Lola Coupe HPD #33 1:43 HPD ARX 01 D #42 Le Mans 2011 Le Mans 2011 Le Mans 2011 Le Mans 2011 S1646 1:43 1:43 Tyrrell 007 #4 Belgium GP 1975 S2208 S1398 1:43 Lotus Evora #64 1:43 Triumph Spitfire MK4 Le Mans 2011 1971 S3029 S1782 1:43 McLaren MP4-26 #4 1:43 Lotus 102 #11 Winner Hungary GP 2011 Hungary GP 1990 S3416 1:43 Porsche 997 GT3 RSR #75 Le Mans 2011 S2603 S0815 1:43 Chevrolet Camaro Chaparral #2 1:43 Austin Sprite Bug Eye 1970 1958 S2086 1:43 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR #78 Le Mans 1975
Editorial The Best fall 2012 | volume 8, no. 4 Investment EDITORIAL There’s a question I get presented with on an almost constant basis—lately, two or three Editor-in-Chief Andy Goodman Contributing Editor Joe Kelly Jr. times a week. It’s a simple one, but a heavyweight: “Is all this money that I’m spending on Group Editorial Coordinator Katherine Pierpont collecting going to pay off in the future?” contributors Bill Bennett, Wayne Moyer, David Reider, It’s a good question. With the economy still recovering from a tough couple of years, people Mike Zarnock are still keeping a tight grip on discretionary spending. And collectors justifying the cash Media services Vice President Media Services and outlay for a new piece might find comfort in the notion that a buck spent on hobbies today Corporate Strategy Laurene R. Booth Creative Director Betty K. Nero could realize a return in the months and years ahead. Art Director Kevin Monahan Graphic Designer Gustavo Galicia As a father with a wife and two young children, I can understand where these thoughts Staff Photographer Hope McCall Content Specialist Joseph Arthur are coming from. Paying a mortgage, floating car payments, preparing two college funds, Web Producer Holly Hansen Traffic Supervisor Tracey Terenzi and everyday household needs are priorities that have to come first at the Goodman home. ADVERTISING That means I find it difficult to pick up every diecast car that I want. And trust me, I want a Sales Director Mitch Brian 203.529.4609 Senior Account Executive lot. Assuming that I’m like most collectors—and I am—my concerns about reaching into my Ben Halladay 203.529.4628 Account Executive Brian Vargas 203.529.4649 pocket can be reasoned away by the thought that a model bought today will be worth more, Account Executive, Canada Dean Eusepi 514.326.3102 even a little more, if I need to liquidate it tomorrow. This commonly held rationale would Sales Coordinator Julie Wolvek 203.529.4630 seemingly turn every purchase into an investment, and every new addition into a potential consumer marketing source of positive income. Consumer Marketing Manager Mike Valanzola Newsstand Director John Morthanos I’m not a financial analyst, and I can’t guarantee that any of the rosy images above actually Marketing Manager Barbara Begley Event Manager Emil M. DeFrancesco apply to our world. But I can put forth my opinion that there will always be an automotive Social Media Coordinator Devang Patel enthusiast base. Cars, and all that goes along with them, are an embedded part of our culture. PUBLISHING Group Publishers LOUIS V. DeFRANCESCO JR., YVONNE M. DeFRANCESCO If, and when, you’re ready to sell, Wherever there are wheels on roads, an turning your items back into liquid enthusiast’s choice of vehicle defines who they are as an individual. funds won’t be difficult As car buffs, we spend money on our passions; sometimes more, sometimes less, but generally in keeping with what we can reasonably afford. Whether it’s a new set of wheels, a specialty tool for our 1:1 driver, a family day trip to a car show, or the hunting and gathering of collectible diecast or resin models for our shelves, there will forever be a market populated by folks at the ready to drop a few bucks on the things that make them happy. New collectors are taking part in the collectible model hobby, and it’s a trend that is picking how to reach us up. One reason? Collectibles offer auto enthusiasts the opportunity to partake in the automotive editorial MAIL 88 Danbury Road, Wilton CT 06897 USA culture at an affordable price point. They can cruise the car shows, read all the magazines they Phone (203) 431-9000; Email [email protected] want (including, we’d hope, this one), and then take home that gotta-have car, in scale, and put subscription CUSTOMER SERVICE (866) 298-5652, it on the shelf. Like classic iron? Got it. That new Ferrari calling your name? No problem; grab it in +(386) 246-3323 (outside the U.S.) or DCXMag.com/cs any color they make—and probably a few that you’ll never see on the streets. 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED So—will every car in your collection increase in value? Hard call to make. But if and when If you are ever dissatisfied, you may cancel your subscription and receive a full refund for all you’re ready to sell, turning your items back into liquid funds won’t be difficult. Treat your unmailed issues. DCX is always a great gift idea! Just call us, or go online, and give a gift today. models well, keep the packaging, and hold on to them for a time, and chances are that if you can find the right collector to sell to, you may even make a few dollars. There’s no guarantee. But ask yourself this: how can you put a dollar figure on the fun you’ve had with that old model—or hang a price tag on the joy of spending time with your collection? As you sit down to read the Fall issue, think about those you know who are automotive enthusiasts. Pass them this magazine—after you’ve read it ragged, of course—and let them know about DCXmag.com Tell them about our new digital format, and the easy download of the DCX app. Show them a few cars. Get them interested and engaged. It won’t cost you much—and it’s the best investment in the hobby you could ever make. Magazine Publishers RCX.com of America Editor-in-Chief PRINTED IN THE USA 8 DCXmag.com
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Scale Mail YOUR FEEDBACK | WRITE TO US AT DCX AIRAGE.COM WE WANT TO HEAR Where’s the Lightning? ultimately lead me to where I can purchase one for my wife – FROM YOU! she is a huge Betty Boop fan and novelty collector. Hey guys, great magazine—I really appreciate how you have Jack Strausberg Tell us what you like, what expanded your coverage of the 1:64 scale segment. With Chicago, IL you don’t and why Die Cast X limited space to display my collectibles, and an appreciation Jack, you (and your bride) are in luck. We know exactly what is the best diecast maga- for many vehicles, I’ve found that I can get the most for my you’re describing. Danbury Mint released a 1959 1:24 Cadillac zine ever! Send snail mail to dollar at the 1:64 scale. Yes, I know the attention to detail is Series 62 Convertible “Betty Boop” edition, complete with “Letters,” Die Cast X, Air Age not the same as on a 1:24 or 1:18, but for a $2 - $5 cost, I am figures of Betty Boop and her pals Bimbo and Pudgy. You Media, 88 Danbury Road, more than satisfied. I have to ask, though, as a Johnny Light- can order one from Danbury Mint through their website at Wilton, CT 06897 USA, or ning fan: why don’t I see any coverage on Johnny Lightning danburymint.com, or by calling 1-800-822-6143. According email us at [email protected]. products? to Danbury Mint, the item number is 0976—0034. - AG We'll edit letters as needed, Steven Coso and though we will read them Hi Steven, and thanks for the kind words. We know there is a Where’s the New Meat and Potatoes? all, we don't have room to huge community of collectors who appreciate diecast in 1:64 answer or publish every one. (I am one of them). We also agree with your logic concerning I really like where the magazine has gone over the last few the cost factor; though they don’t have the operating features issues—the new team of reviewers has really brought the of the larger scales, collectors can bring home and display text to life, and your website is amazing. I am not usually one many more models in 1:64 than they could in 1:18 or larger. to comment, but I have to share my disappointment in some- Even better, a recent trend of adding ever more detail to the thing that has nothing to do with the magazine, but rather models in this scale is drawing more collectors. Companies with the manufacturers. I am sick and tired of all the repaints. such as M2 Machines and GreenLight have really raised Why are we seeing such limited new offerings lately? I don’t the bar with their lineups, as has Johnny Lightning. Bottom mean to sound like a drag, and I know there is a huge cost fac- line: we try to reach out to as many companies as we can to tor when creating new products, but don’t the manufactur- request samples that we can review and include in our pages; ers understand that there is a world of collectors out there? unfortunately, Johnny Lightning has not yet responded to our Don’t they know that if they make the right vehicles they will inquiries. Hopefully, your letter will move them to do so. - AG sell, and that they will make the needed profits? James Right Please Help Me Find Betty! As collectors ourselves, we hear you loud and clear, and agree—we want more, too. e thing to take into account is After 40 years of marriage, finding something unique for my that in addition to a downturn in the economy (though that’s wife’s birthday is a bit difficult, so I am reaching out to you starting to turn up), much of the recent crop of problems is for some help. I recently saw a photo online of a Betty Boop coming from the manufacturing plants. Many of the factories that produce diecast are battling with the Chinese govern- model car. It was a ment and their workers over taxes, materials, wages—you Cadillac convert- name it. e trouble has caused more than a few factories to ible; the color was close their doors for good —and several companies around black with stickers the world have had to go through miles of red tape just to get all over it, and it their paid-for molds back from behind padlocked doors. It’s had a Betty Boop tough out there right now, but after speaking with insiders character inside. I at many of the companies based in the United States, we’re thought writing to convinced they’re doing everything they can to keep their an expert might product lines flowing. We’re watching. Hang in there. – AG lead me to finding out the specific details about this vehicle, and On the Fence—Off the Fence ank you for the detailed re- Hello, Jamal, and thanks for writing. at Ghostbusters piece was truly view in your summer issue of one of the better movie models we’ve ever seen, and you’re not alone the Hot Wheels Elite Ghost- in the opinion that it was a better image overall than the A-Team van. busters Cadillac “Ecto-1”. To We’re betting that once stripped of the TV truck’s distinctive pieces and be honest, I was on the fence paint job, the A-Team model’s molds will see limited use, if any, going about buying this one, be- forward—there just isn’t much of a market for that kind of replica (and cause I was a bit disappointed Highway 61 already did a killer series of 1:18 vans a while back). Mattel’s in the final product of their been around the block a few times; it knew that given the popularity of recently released A-Team the 1959 Caddy in just about any form (especially if connected to van. ere were some rather a successful movie license that can yield up to three different noticeable differences from models from the same base tooling), it could lavish more detail the actual A-Team van that and finesse on the Ecto-1, make collectors happy, and still took away from the truck’s make a profit. We’re glad we could help out. Be sure to authentic feel in my opinion, check out the video we did of the model on but after reading your de- DCXmag.com- and stay tuned; there’s a new tailed review of the Cadillac, “Ecto” due to drop in soon. - JK and seeing the pictures you provided, I ordered one. When I got it in hand, your opinions were confirmed as facts; this one is a beauty for sure. Jamal Brown 10 DCXmag.com
INSIDE LINE EVENTS & INDUSTRY NEWS DIECAST FUN IN THE WINDY CITY EVENTS e second annual 1:43 Scale Model Car Expo was held in Chicago, on March 25. Attendees included a consider- able amount of collectors from across the United States. Among them were most of the scale’s major Stateside 3RD QUARTER 2012 vendors, and at least a couple of long-distance persons of note, including Steve Overy (Mini Marque and Midlan- tic Models) and fellow Brit Charles Barnett. July Left: Another line that’s back—and better—is the great 1/43 scale 15 Stanton, CA Motor City USA series. ey’re under new ownership, and are Rack & Cue Hot Wheels and preparing the long-awaited 1956 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer Matchbox Die Cast & Toy Show, for distribution in North America Rack & Cue through Dominion Models. Right: mikethediecastguy.com Steve Overy (Mini Marque and 20 – 22 Syracuse, NY Midlantic), with samples of Mini Syracuse Nationals, New York State Fair Grounds Marque’s 1933 and 1955 Pack- rightcoastcars.com ards, hand-carried all the way from England. Right: B&G Models had the Below: Route66model 21 Houston, TX castings and hand-built carstore.com displayed Space City Hot Wheels Collec- prototypes for its new Due- the “Official Model” tors Club, Bayland Community senberg SJ (black) and J (red) of the Expo, this gor- Center Historic Line models. With geous 1959 Pontiac “El [email protected] over 240 parts (38 for the Catalina” show car by trunk alone), these will be the Madison. Speaking of August most highly detailed 1/43 scale cats, those attending Duesenberg models we’ve seen. the Saturday afternoon 1 – 5 Anaheim, CA get-together at Route Magical Weekend of Cars 2, ose great Western Models are back, 66 got to meet Cor- Hilton Anaheim and they’re painted and detailed to a nelius, the cat shown diecastspace.com much higher level than the originals. New curled up in “El Cat-A- models will be added to the line; Route- Lina’s” bed. 11 Jay, OK 66modelcarstore.com displayed these 7th Annual Hot Wheels Show prototypes of new 1959 Edsels. and Swap Meet, Jay Commu- nity Center [email protected] 16 – 19 Warwick, RI Summer Smash 5, Crowne Plaza Hotel [email protected] September 16 Noblesville, IN Yogis Vintage Toy Diecast Show, Hamilton County Fair- grounds yogistoybox.com 29 Valparaiso, IN Diecast Collectors Super Show, Porter County Expo Center [email protected] Master craftsman In addition to the new models pictured here, 30 East Meadow, NY Greg Gunn displayed the castings Automodello announced plans for a 1:43 scale Sunbeam Cruise to the Show, Car Show and finished examples of his hand-built Tiger, a 1966 Fitch Sprint, an Intermeccanica Italia Convert- and Parade, Eisenhower Park 1958 Buick Wagon, 1950 Roadmaster ible (Fall), and a 1934 Graber-bodied Duesenberg Model cruisetotheshow.com Convertible, and 1959 Cadillac 4-door J to be released later this year. Automodello will also be 30 Bridgeton, MO hardtop models. expanding its 1:24 scale roster with a 1935 Duesenberg Toy Man Show, Machinist Hall Special “Mormon Meteor,” a 1930 “Brooks Stevens” Cord L-29, and a [email protected] Dietrich-bodied 1934 Packard 12 Victoria. With new releases planned and an eye to the future, a good time was had by all. — Wayne E. Moyer 12 DCXmag.com
SHOWROOM NEW RELEASES & FIRST LOOKS Audi You Do KING’S CAR KYOSHO’S HOT WHEELS 2011 Audi A8 Elite “Presley” Dino 308 GT4 1:43 | $45 1:18 | $90 Audi displayed its fourth-generation (Type D4) all-wheel-drive A8 Sedan in late 2009, but it didn’t It comes in a window box, but Hot Wheels’ get marketed here until November of 2010, as a 2011 model. Audi also frequently markets 1/43 scale Elite model of the black 1976 Ferrari Dino 308 promotional models built by select manufacturers; Kyosho first released this image of the mighty Teu- GT4, a vehicle that was once owned by Elvis ton in “Phantomblack” and Ice Silver Metallic for sale through Audi dealers. After a few months, other Presley, all but disappears against its black authentic colors were released to hobby outlets. With the company so closely involved, you’d get the packaging. No worries; this one comes alive feeling that these promo models would be right on, and they are: this A8 in authentic Glacier White once it’s been pulled out and put on the table. Metallic has the shape nailed, and its dimensions scale precisely to 1:43. e thin chrome leading edges of the massive grille, the LED “checkmark” in the detailed headlight buckets, the exquisitely e crisp wire wheels have disc brakes behind, thin chrome mirror and lower body stripes, and the visually perfect translucent taillight lenses are and realistic tires around them, and the shape intricate; delicate photo-etched Audi rings on the rear deck literally round out the details in scale. e of the Bertone-bodied 2+2 is right on beneath interior is just as good, with realistic upholstery, a fully detailed dash and console, and woodgrain trim a smooth black finish. e brightwork is a where it should be. Roll it, and steel discs rotate through fixed calipers behind the realistic wheels; flip combination of hard chrome and foil trim; it for good chassis detail, too. —Wayne Moyer add-ons like the photo-etched wiper arms carvillemodels.com and “Ferrari” script on the rear deck easily bring this $90 car into $120-plus territory on Double-Duty display. e Dino’s opening doors and boot Duesenberg and two hinged rear deck panels work well on tight hinges; the rear trunk is scarcely big TIN WIZARD’S enough to fit a fried banana sandwich, but the other panel covers a highly detailed, labeled 1935 “Mormon Meteor” and wired-up 3-liter V8. e dash is possibly HWE’s best to date, and the rest of the cabin 1:43 | $290 is just as sweet, with photo-etched buckles David Abner “Ab” Jenkins had set many speed records at Bonneville in 1933 and ’34 with a Pierce Arrow, and textile seat belts; under the louvered boot when Duesenberg offered to build him a new “record” car for 1935. With Augie Duesenberg’s help, the lid, a cabled-in and labeled battery, a wind- Duesenberg Special (never given a factory number) was built and fitted with a slender Herb Newport- shield washer reservoir, and a be-clamped designed, two-seat body with a laid-back grille, open-top fenders, and a long tapering tail. In 1935, the radiator hose are impressive inclusions, even Duesenberg Special (now tagged “Mormon Meteor” by the press, in reference to Jenkins’ faith) covered if the spare is MIA. What makes this neat 3,523 miles in 24 hours at an airplane-like average speed of 135.5 miles per hour. Tin Wizard’s white metal little Dino Elvis’s are the driving lights and model of the car shows it as it appeared after its 2007 Pebble Beach-winning rebuild. e shape and every Tennessee plates—issued, curiously enough, detail of this hand-built beauty are exactly right; its cream paint is flawless and everything from the grille in February, 1978... six months after Elvis and fender trim to the handles and hubcaps are chrome-plated pieces (and some references show the supposedly shucked off his sequined cape for big “DUESENBERG” signage on the hood should be, as well). Ab’s name, the windshield wipers, and the good. Can we expect a signed edition soon? “Duesenbird” mascot are photo-etched; the seats and inner panels are painted red, while the black dash is Highly recommended. —Joe Kelly, Jr. filled with detailed instruments. All the pedals and shift and brake levers are here; the sight of those grips, hotwheels-elite.com steps and controls, as well as the nigh-on-magical assembly and scale fidelity, has us thinking Tin Wizard is very aptly named. —Wayne Moyer JMmodelautos.com 14 DCXmag.com
Rock with ‘Brock M2 MACHINES 1956 Ford F-100 1:24 | $25 Most classic truck enthusiasts agree: the 1956 Ford F-100 is one of the most recognized and respected pickup trucks of the 1950s. Its aggressive nose, wide body, and even wider wheel wells made it tough-looking back then—and these days, those same features make it one of the most desirable platforms on which to build a pro mod, rat rod or modern day custom. Never one to pass up on an opportunity to trick out a casting, M2 Machines teamed up with Edelbrock and tweaked out its ’56 F-100 with original Edelbrock logos on the doors, and a copy of the newer-version Edelbrock logo on its tailgate. Covered top to bottom in bright red paint, and boasting blacked-out windows, the not-so-little terror screams “Here I am!” from every angle. Look closer at the custom louvered hood, and tilt it up for a peek at the big-block lurking beneath. Chrome bumpers, a flashy grille and 5-spoke torque thrust-style wheels with classic red line tires add show to the truck’s go. —Andy Goodman m2machines.com RAPTOR OUS JADA TOYS Ford SVT Raptors 1:24 | $20 each It’s a good bet that Ford had mayhem in mind when its SVT division designed the Raptor back in 2009. Based on the F-150 platform, the Raptor takes that classic workhorse to a new level, with a full menu of off-road goodies that give the testoster- one-injected beast capabilities most enthusiasts can’t wait to explore. Exploring Jada Toys’ all new Raptor is easy in 1:24; the size allows collectors a chance to hold a piece of hi-po history that’s been kissed with the custom flair that Jada’s long been known for. In addition to the stock truck’s countenance, the model is loaded with a plethora of aftermarket parts, including a push bar, a full-size spare in the bed, and enough auxiliary lighting to send Morse code into space. Featuring opening doors and hood, and a moderately detailed interior and engine bay, this is a low-buck, high-fun way to get your hands on one of Ford SVT’s finest creations. —Andy Goodman jadaclub.com Hard Boiled AUTOART Koenigsegg CCX 1:18 | $205 With twin superchargers, 800-plus horsepower, undeniable style, and the kind of exclusivity that only cars in its price class can carry, the mid-engine CCX from Swedish car manufacturer Koenigsegg (say KER-nig-zegg) can roughhouse with any of the top supercars on the road today. AUTOart’s slick black model of the car is finished off to perfection, and brings all the flair of this real-life dream machine out in scale. e opening panels work flawlessly and align perfectly; pull off the Targa top to reveal a well-replicated, carbon fiber-accented interior, a well-detailed dashboard and center console, and a laundry list of photo-etched parts. e twin-scroll 4.7 V8 and its environs are exquisite too, and the landscape includes a real aluminum suspension with yellow springs, a carbon-fiber intake (which aligns perfectly to the carbon-fiber bonnet scoop it sits beneath), and detailed plumbing throughout. More of the ersatz (but believable) carbon appears on each of the one lug wheels, and the model comes with a COA - as well as a semi-hefty price tag. Fear not. As a member of AUTOart’s “Signature” line, this swoopy super is worth every penny—even if you can’t pronounce the name.—Andy Goodman autoartmodels.com FALL 2012 15
SHOWROOM TALBOT TO GO Veni, Vidi... Veloce SPARK MINICHAMPS’ 1937 T150SS Teardrop Coupe 2009 Lamborghini LP670-4SV 1:43 | $65 If Spark’s “Teardrop” Talbot-Lago doesn’t 1:43 | $60 reach out and grab you on some level, Take the latest all-wheel-drive Murcielago, add a big wing and some aero tweaks, pump the V-12 en- you’re just not a car guy/gal. Only 12 gine up to 670 Italian-born stallions, and you’ve got a 200-plus mph hot rod Lambo capable of reach- of the low-slung Talbot-Lago T150SS ing 60mph in just 2.8 seconds. at’s what Italians call “Super Veloce”. Minichamps’ new 1:43 diecast chassis were fitted with this body, à la model is an exceptionally precise scaling of the car, wearing the same bright yellow color worn by the Figoni et Falaschi; every curve of this SV featured on the cover of the November 2009 Road & Track, minus the cover beauty’s Euro-spec incredible design flows cleanly into amber side reflectors. Its rounded-wedge shape is dead on from every angle, and the flawless paint another—so much so that Sir William is set off by crisply printed black window moldings and silver “Lamborghini” and “SV” badges. Trim Lyons —who approved the sensuous details on the V-12 can be seen through the unique rear deck windows, and the upholstery patterns, Jaguar D-Type and XK-E shapes—called instrument faces, and console details are accurate, as well. ere are asymmetric-tread tires on each authentic star-pattern wheel, and black carbon-ceramic disks with correct yellow Lambo-badged the F&F body “positively indecent” (in the calipers are visible behind them. Cap all this off with well-done, relief-molded chassis detail on the best possible way, of course). We agree; baseplate, and you have a superb model of a true supercar. Bellissimo. – Wayne Moyer like many works of art, several of these cars carvillemodels.com survived WW II and are now in museums, and their presence makes verifying the accuracy DODGE DELIGHT of Spark’s resin body all the easier. e high-gloss, mirror-smooth silver and blue AMERICAN EXCELLENCE 1959 Royal Lancer colors are crisply separated by a thin chrome molding, and the delicate photo-etched grille 1:43 | $90 and intake screens, the thin bumper blades, Virgil Exner’s finny 1957-1959 “Forward Look” Mopar louver trim, and window moldings, plus the designs were instantly recognizable from any angle, and flush handles and “trafficator” signals behind though restrained in comparison to contemporary Caddys, the doors, are all chrome-plated, and right Dodge’s take on Exner’s visionary styling for 1959 sported in scale. Partly open windows make it easier traffic-stopping tailfins and headlight trim. American Excel- to see the authentic upholstery patterns, lence has just released this gorgeous resincast model of plated handles, and legible instrument faces the top-line Custom Royal Lancer Hardtop. Its eye-grabbing recessed into the 3D photo-etched dash. high-gloss black and Canary Yellow paint matches color And yes, there are photo-etched wire wheels chips, and the shape and details check out perfectly. e behind those flowing fender skirts. Work- plated grille floats on photo-etched mesh, with legible manship is literally flawless; this resincast “DODGE” letters inset; the optional twin antennas, “Jet Talbot-Lago by Spark is a great addition to Trail” taillights, and other trims are done with perfectly any collection. —Wayne Moyer fitted 3D-etched parts. Tiny gold “Lancer” badges have diecasm.com authentic red and black segments, while equally eye- scrunching “D-500” fender badges indicate Dodge’s version of the legendary Hemi. Interior details are just as complete, with accurate upholstery, painted relief handles and window switches, and a fully and accurately detailed dash. Virgil would be proud. —Wayne Moyer jmmodelautos.com 16 DCXmag.com
Lovely Aston e clean lines of the Aston Martin DB2 made the Jaguar XK-150 look positively pudgy whenever they shared the road. e DB2 was SPARK 1959 Mk. III DB2/4 introduced in 1950, with the “stretched” DB2/4, featuring two child- size “occasional” rear seats, appearing in ’53. By 1958, the DB2/4 (or 1:43 | $60 DB2-4, both seem to be used) had a smoother body, with the final iteration of the classic Aston Martin grille and 202 horses (up to 267 in competition trim) from its six-cylinder engine. Spark’s new resincast DB2/4 Drophead Coupe is a real beauty. Lines and details are precise from all angles, and the flawless resin body has deep, crisp panel relief. e hand-rubbed dark red paint is equally fine, and it’s set off by plated bumpers, jewel-lensed light bezels, and photo-etched grille, wire wheels, hood trim, windscreen surround, and vent window frames. e tiny Aston wings on the nose are espe- cially well done; if you must have a nit, the relief-cast coachworks badges on the flanks are painted over. Upholstery patterns are accurate, the dash has a full set of detailed instruments and a correct open glove box; the interior handles are chromed, and the wood- grain door sills and black steering wheel are correct, too. – Wayne Moyer diecasm.com Aging Bull PREMIUMX 1989 “25th Anniversary” Countach 1:43 | $60 No, 1989 wasn’t the 25th anniversary of the Countach—it was Lam- borghini’s, and a virtually all-new Countach body was created to celebrate the event. While the 25th Anniversary car had a new front bumper, side skirts, wider rear fenders, and an integral rear bumper, the most obvious change was to the rear air scoops and vents, which were canted back and fitted with longitudinal strakes. PremiumX has ac- curately recreated all these features in a flawless resin body with smooth and glossy red paint. Details are correct down to the pinhead-size (yet legible) “25th Anniversary” badge on the tail. Later models added a wing, but the original 1989 version was just as PremiumX has it; all the scoops and vents have black-painted openings, and all the light lenses are the correct clear, amber, or red color plastic. in black photo-etched window moldings are somehow attached without a trace of glue—neat—and inside, upholstery patterns and console details match reference photos. ough they’re hard to see, all the instruments are detailed, as well. Tiny decals in the center of the very well done two-piece wheels are pleasing, as is the crisp relief detail in the baseplate, with the suspension arms neatly pad-printed in aluminum. is one’s very accurate in all respects, and it’s a real beauty. – Wayne Moyer diecasm.com Your Grandfather’s Olds BROOKLIN 1937 L-37 Convertible Coupe 1:43 | $120 e redesigned 1937 Oldsmobile 8-cylinder L-37 had the same long, low body as the more expensive LaSalle and smaller Buick and Cadillac models. e result was Oldsmobile’s best, by far, pre-war sales year. Brooklin has departed from its usual meat and potatoes models in releasing this very well done white-metal model of the top-line L-37 Convertible Coupe; while the body shell is the same as its earlier ’37 Buick Convertible (as in life), it has the correct and elaborate 8-cylinder Oldsmobile grille with flanking chrome intake screens, Olds hood vents, beltline- mounted taillights, and right-side gas cap. Side-mount spares, a thinner beltline molding, and a correct dash and sun visors are also new with this model. Vent windows are chromed, but home detailers might want to put some flash onto the unchromed beltline molding, the thin windshield frame, and the “Speedlines” on the side-mounts. e metallic “Delmar Gray Poly” paint is very good, and the deeply pleated red seats and door panels contrast beautifully, but there are no inner door handles or cranks. Both the lines and details match properly from all angles, and dimensions are right on 1:43 scale. —Wayne Moyer brasiliapress.com FALL 2012 17
SHOWROOM Mo’ DeSoto Batteries Not Included BROOKLIN 1954 Firedome Hardtop XCO Lexus GS450h 1:43 | $125 Since the entire DeSoto line had gotten new bodies in 1953, the 1:64 | $25 ’54 models got just a mild facelift, with fewer teeth in the grille ere’s a lot that makes this wee Lexus GS450h from XCO Models (distributed through and a new side spear incorporating the “Firedome” name on He- mi-powered top-line cars. Brooklin has virtually re-mastered its Daboxtoys.com) so interesting. For one thing, the little model replicates the first Hybrid- earlier 4-door DeSoto sedan in order to make a 2-door hardtop drive car to be entered into the Macau Grand Prix, in 2010. ough the GS didn’t come coupe using their new one-piece, chromed frame “birdcage” for across as a winner, its 3.5 liter V6/electric motor driveline had it munching its oats after the the windshield and all window surrounds. is is clever, because race while much of the remainder of the gas-only field was still out on the road course. e when the contrasting color roof is fitted, the result is a very replica is a high-tech piece, too, and the resincast body is finished in white, tattooed nicely accurate and good-looking pillarless hardtop model. Obviously, with high-quality decals, and sits atop six-spoke wheels and clearly marked Yokohama they’ve also correctly changed the door panel lines and length of Advan race rubber. Between those wheels is a resincast chassis that terminates in sweet the side spear for the 2-door, and also scaled down the earlier hollow-point exhaust tips. Take note: for around $25 U.S., you get a seriously detailed model’s oversized V-8 rear fender badges. All exterior trim, piece; individual lenses have been fitted into the front and rear, and good glazing affords except the relief-cast DeSoto nameplates, is done with carefully views of a race-gutted interior with a full-on roll cage, a detailed dash, a safety net be- fitted separate plated white metal pieces—no decals or photo- hind the glass, and a race harness with a photo-etched hasp. e inclusion of a piece etched parts on Brooklin models, ever—and inside you’ll find like that, particularly in a spot where it can easily be missed, makes the model all the accurate upholstery patterns and relief-cast dashboard details, more intriguing. e good news is that thanks to Daboxtoys, unexpected pleasures like but an area that’s lacking inner handles or armrests. e shape this relatively exotic, out-of-left-field piece, are available worldwide. —Joe Kelly, Jr. and dimensions are accurate; with all that chrome setting off daboxtoys.com the glossy red and black paint, Brooklin’s ’54 Firedome 2-Door Coupe will really stand out in any collection. —Wayne Moyer brasiliapress.com MEAN MUDDERS Poor Man’s Cobra JADA TOYS LANSDOWNE 1966 Sunbeam Tiger Big Time 4Wheelin Wave 4 1:43 | $125 Often described as the poor man’s Cobra, the Ford V8 - powered Sunbeam Tiger had a more 1:64 | $4 each modern suspension, unit-body construction, and wind-up windows than comparable vehi- Jada Toys’ “Big Time 4Wheelin’” series 4 offers a 6-truck cles of its time. at made it much more suitable for midwest American climates. Lansdowne lineup that will instigate immediate salivation. e series has modeled the lines, look, and almost all the details of a mid-production Mk.1A exactly consists of Jada’s most popular truck and sport utility ve- right. Brooklin makes the white-metal Lansdowne line, and it shows; the Midnight Blue paint hicle castings, including a’57 Chevy Suburban, a ’99 Chevy is excellent. e most obvious change to the 260-powered Mk.1A was the soft cover over Silverado “dually”, a 2003 Ford Excursion, a Hummer H2, a the top well, and Lansdowne has that right, along with the relief-cast “SUNBEAM” name ’08 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and the new kid on the on the hood and trunk. Small details, like the rounded and square corners on the hood and street (okay, the dirt), a 2011 Ford F-150 Raptor— doors seem to be a mixture of 1 and 1A, but many details were liquid during 1A production. a brand-new casting from Jada which puts a Lansdowne has somehow omitted the characteristic “Tiger” script that was inset into the fresh face on its previous F-150 mold. Each sits side trim, just in front of the doors, and the “Ford 260” badge below it. Interior details include on a raised and moderately detailed chassis, and authentic upholstery, an accurate wood-grain dash with an open glove box, and relief-cast features an oversized wheel and tire combination. inner handles and cranks. Dimensions are correct, too—the hairy little Tiger really was this Every truck in the series includes alloy wheels, rubber tires and an extremely well-proportioned small, and this good looking. – Wayne Moyer stance. Here’s our stance: grab ’em while you can. jmmodelautos.com —Andy Goodman jadaclub.com 18 DCXmag.com
SHOWROOM A Little Grumpy Building Passion SUPERCAR COLLECTIBLES KYOSHO 1972 Chevrolet Vega “Grumpy’s Toy IX” Ferrari Formula 1:18 | $80 Car Kits In 1972, the late Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins traded his 1970 Camaro for a ’72 Vega. Substantial chassis work was done to modify the new Vega for drag racing; subframes were added 1:64 | $9 each to the unibody Vega to support the front and rear suspension, the car was “tubbed” to A case of the giggles is what we got when accommodate the huge rear slicks, and a complete roll cage was installed. e radical, but we opened up the large box containing all of Kyo- fully NHRA-approved “Grumpy’s Toy IX” was introduced at the 1972 NHRA Winternationals, sho’s 1:64 Ferrari Formula cars (series III)—mostly because we toting a 331 cu.in. small block Chevy engine, and a Borg-Warner T-10 transmission. Jenkins didn’t know at the time that this lineup of exacting little buggers won the event, clocking in the 9.6’s and taking home his first Pro Stock Championship. Auto is made up of do-it-yourself, pre-decorated kits. ere are 20 World’s model of the mini-monster is nicely turned out, with a red and white paint scheme, models in the series, and each mini-racer comes mounted to a a simulated gold-leaf “Grumpy’s Toy” side deco, and all of the appropriate sponsorship card with instructions printed behind; the cars average around 10 decorations. e chassis features a tubbed pan, wheelie bars, Centerline wheels and the pieces each, and include exquisite wheels, beautifully painted and biggest set of slicks seen anywhere on a stock-bodied racer; under the “Grump Hump” decorated bodies, soft tires (wearing remarkable decos, where sits two monstrous four-barrels feeding the small block Chevy. True, there were compro- applicable), and even a small screwdriver to aid in getting the tiny mises made to the roll cage and headers - necessary to accommodate the dog-leg door beasties all together. ere’s a base inside the box, but no clear hinges of the original Ertl Vega tool—but this model represents a very important step in the cover. ough each box is externally identical to every other box evolution of Pro Stock, and does so well. Recommended. -Bill Bennett (yes, we checked, and no, we don’t read Japanese), the lineup is supercar1.com stellar, and includes notable racers like the 126 CK, the F1-90, the 412 T1, the F10, F60, F310, and F92 A, as well as the more modern F2001, F2007, and F2008 (pictured). And here’s the rub: thanks to a pipeline through Daboxtoys.com, these Asian-market-only pieces (marked for sale at 750 yen) have found a way to the States. Gentlemen, start your screwdrivers. ese things are sweet. - Joe Kelly, Jr. daxboxtoys.com Happy 45th GREENLIGHT COLLECTIBLES 45th Anniversary Camaro 1:64 | $8 each General Motors recently unveiled the new Special Edition Anniversary Camaro, celebrating 45 years of the classic muscle car - and following right behind this announcement comes this scaled version presented by GreenLight Collectibles. e concept was to take one of America’s favorite sports cars and all of its anniversary features – the special red stripe badging, the body color ‘sharkfin’ an- tenna, the Carbon Flash Metallic paint and unique rally striping—and condense it down to 1:64. ey’ve done a great job, and the model echoes every nuance of the real car, offering Camaro fans a chance to own a replica that’s worthy of this special edition vehicle. Muscle car collectors will love it; Bow-tie folks, too. – Andy Goodman greenlightcollectibles.com TRUCKIN’ WITH A TWIST Roam, Baby, Roam M2 MACHINES Auto- entics Release 19 MINICHAMPS 1948 Land Rover 1:64 | $6 each 1:18 | $125 e 1950s was a landmark decade for truck enthusiasts. Designs went ese days, Land Rovers are comfy— all frills, fine leather, and modern tech, they from simple to stylish, as manufacturers began to see that trucks of all sizes coddle occupants with heated cup holders as they bravely venture to Starbucks. were more than just workhorses to those who drove them. M2 Machines But beneath the frou-frou, these trucks have been strong off-road performers gets the idea, and Release 19 of the “Auto-thentics” series includes since 1948. ose early Rovers were far more basic and bare-knuckled–and repaints and first releases of some styling machines. e 1957 Dodge 700 Minichamps’ 1:18 model of the seminal mudslinger is proof. is thing is a blast, COE, 1951 Studebaker, and 1956 Ford F-100 are joined by a new 1958 GMC right out of the box; everything attachable—the door tops, the spare tire, and the Suburban Carrier with a V-8 Engine, painted in Cape Blue with a Dover lift-off metal hood—comes cleverly folded into the styro clamshell and snicks on White top, and a 1959 Chevrolet Apache small window step side in Yukon effortlessly. e olive green paint is flawless, as is the fit and finish; real hinges Yellow with a white top. All five of these models follow up the precision and are on the doors and the fold-flat windshield, and the pinpoint detailing on the accuracy we’ve gotten used to from M2 Machines—and the sixth is even dash and wired engine continues beneath to a full-metal frame hosting driveline dearer to our hearts. It’s a light gray 1956 Ford F-100 stake bed, wearing our and (static) suspension detailing. Work the steering—gently— and the idler arm very own Die Cast X logo on its doors. If only we’d been around back then! plays along; the tailgate is cast shut, but the grille is photo-etched and the overall Look for these on the pegs at your local store. – Andy Goodman effect is spot-on. e only thing this knobby little brawler is missing is a scale m2machines.com pith helmet. Outstanding. - Joe Kelly Jr. 20 DCXmag.com minichampsna.com
out of the box by Bill Bennett Sleeper Time Auto World 1966 Chevy II Nova 1:18 | $80 T hough the popular wisdom of the time held that Hemi drivers faced competition only from other Hemi drivers, many a street Hemi owner got his butt handed to him not by another, more powerful car, but rather by elephant hunters who whistled past in a boxy, low-profile sleeper called the Chevy II Nova. Chevy was almost as surprised by the Nova’s street stones as those thunderstruck Hemi pilots; first introduced in 1961 as a 1962- year offering, the car had been intended as a meek, reliable, downsized grocery-getter: functional, economical, and a little bit boring. But what street racers (and, ultimately, Chev- rolet themselves) soon realized was that this little box could be made to go very, very fast. Looking the part weak against the Falcon’s sales entry-level Ford and its upscale Though its prowess against success. So, Chevrolet regrouped, Mercury Comet cousin. Project larger foes was hard to ignore, and introduced a more conven- approval to product introduction the Chevy II was initially targeted tional front-engined, rear-wheel- took a short 18 months, and the directly at another, far humbler drive vehicle to compete with the cute, but uninspiring, Chevy II car: the Ford Falcon. Chevrolet wanted to have a player in the compact market, and the in- novative, quirky, and ultimately embattled Corvair had proven Auto World’s remake of Ertl’s 1966 L79 Nova SS shows the car at its best, with rich metallic red paint, Super Sport trim with a black vinyl interior, bucket seats, and a wicked little L79 mouse motor grinding through a Muncie “rock crusher” 4-speed. 22 DCXmag.com
debuted with four and six cyl- Holding its own inder engine options, offering That reputation for tough run- competitive fuel economy with ning and swift speed made a modicum of crisp styling and a the L79 Chevy II a legend, and reasonable price. In ‘63, souped- attracted more than a few pro- up “SS” Novas looked the part, fessional drag racers into the and offered enhanced amenities, Nova club. Auto World’s Aztec but only offered six-cylinder Bronze (deep metallic red) Nova power in top trim. SS captures the look and feel of the showroom-stock version The meanest mouse beautifully. The model shows the A 195-horse 283 V8 option ap- car in top-option trim, with big peared for ‘64 and ‘65, and a SS wheel covers and red-line 300-horse 327 could be had in the tires, a black vinyl interior with latter year, too. But for the 1966 folding bucket seats, carpeting, model year, things got decidedly and a chromed console sporting better. Chevy gave the Chevy a Muncie 4-speed shifter. The II a new design, and offered an metallic paint is nicely done and even plusher Nova Super Sport comes alive under direct light; Coupe as the top trim option, with exterior chrome is a mix and bucket seats, a center console, match of painted and plated SS hub caps, a floor-mounted parts, and is further accented shifter, and SS badging. But this by tamped-on badging. The ride car had something the others height is right on, and the shut didn’t: a chance to check off RPO lines, on dogleg hinges, are rea- L79 in the options box. For $198, sonably tight—especially consid- that pen stroke on the order form ering the 12-year-old Ertl mold’s got the buyer Chevy’s mean- age. That vintage really shows in est mouse: a 350-horse 327 V8. the trunk and the engine com- With its four-inch bore, 3.25-inch partment; though nicely cast and stroke, and its high-performance painted, the engine has chrome hydraulic cam, the L79 was reli- valve covers and an un-stickered able, powerful, and could rev to chromed air cleaner, and there a 5,800rpm redline. In concert are no ignition wires—even with the Chevy II’s small size and though the distributor looks like light weight, it pushed the little it was tooled to include them. The grocery-getter’s performance raw plastic trunk features a hub- well into the muscle car range, capped spare. surprising disbelievers with a Deal breaker? Nope. The car power-to-weight ratio equal to Auto World has chosen to repli- some of the most feared big- cate, the top-end Nova SS, is the block stockers being manufac- best looking ’66 Chevy II Nova SS tured at the time. made in diecast, and this piece will see only 402 produced. If you’re a fan of the early gen- Top: The scale mouse is vintage Ertl—lots of bright chrome with some basic plumbing and a clean build. Center: The interior’s black bucket seats and center console sit above a flocked floor. Bottom: The trunk opens, too, and features this full red-line spare with wheel cover. erations of the Chevy II, this is in an enthusiast’s hand, as one of a car to have; for the price, this the sweetest sleepers ever made. model holds its own nicely, and Unless, of course, you’re a Mopar displays with the best of other fan. models from this era and manu- facturer. Like the real Nova, it’s Sources understated—but pays off when Auto World autoworld.com fall 2012 23
out of the box Grumpy and the Sleepers Grumpy’s Toy was painted red and white with a candy-striped roof, and the intimidating livery extended to the “666” on the rear fender. No- nonsense steel wheels and traction bars—repli- cated nicely here—got the Hemi-humbling power to the ground. Supercar Collectibles 1966 “Grumpy’s Toy” Chevy II Novas 1:18 | $80 each Above: The Toy’s interior is stock, except for the Sun Tach riding the dashboard. Snow White? Not even close. But a towing accident—but it donated Below: The little race-prepped 327-cube L79 put out much more than the rated 350hp. this fairy tale—about a wonderful its still-viable internals to a second little L79 Chevy II Nova that went to Nova, the all-white “Grumpy’s Toy II,” live with a guy named “Grumpy”— that ran in the Super Stock/C class had a happy ending for race fans into 1967 with continued success. who appreciate a knockout punch Jenkins went on to build a suc- delivered in a bow tie. cession of Camaro, Vega and Monza Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins left Cornell “Grumpy’s Toys” to compete in University, where he was studying match races and various NHRA and Mechanical Engineering, to help run AHRA classes. He also worked with the family farm. But it wasn’t long Jack Hart at NHRA to develop the before he’d developed a thriving class that came to be Pro Stock. Jen- sideline business building and sup- kins retired from driving in 1976, plying drag racing engines for the passing that responsibility over to local hot shoes. Within his first few Larry Lombardo and Ken Dondero, years, he’d wrenched on 30 cars that so he could focus on the engineer- had become national record holders, ing and engine building part of his and in the process, Jenkins himself enterprise. Twenty years later, he became an East Coast drag racing was inducted into the NHRA’s “Top icon. Anyone could make big blocks 50 Drag Racing Drivers of All Time,” honk—but Bill Jenkins made small taking home a number eight ranking. blocks sing. Auto World acquired Ertl’s tooling Jenkins’ personal hit parade began for the 1966 Chevy II Nova, and it has when he laid eyes on an L79 Chevy worked with Supercar Collectibles to II Nova. Realizing that cubic inches bring out those first two history- were great, but power-to-weight ra- making cars. Grumpy’s Toys I & II tios won races, the Grump reasoned both wear crisp, accurate graphics, that running the lightweight but and Supercar has added the neces- powerful 350-horse Chevy II against sary tweaks to the stock mold set, larger, more powerful cars might hammering in a tach, headers, a be a winning proposition. That first double-pumper Holley four-barrel “Grumpy’s Toy” Nova was painted carburetor with a velocity stack, plus red and white - and it blew by the traction bars and scuffed slicks on competition, setting East Coast drag stock, silver-painted steel wheels. racing on its ear. A small-block- Inside, the cars have correct bench powered Chevy II beating almost seats, and on these versions, every Mopar Hemi was the stuff that the mouse motor gets wired and got crowds into the stands, and the plumbed, and even sports additional Grumpy name soon spread nation- paint detailing on its parts. As they ally. The red car ultimately lost—to did on the real cars, the tweaks 24 DCXmag.com
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out of the box have really paid off, and the added They’ll also be remembered as the drag racing fans for the innovation details make the models all the more last models to be authorized by the and direction that he brought to the “Grumpy’s Toy II” was built with the authentic; though made of the same man himself. Shortly after approving sport, and by scale collectors for the remains of the first Grumpy’s Toy, and dogleg-hinged Ertl tool as the street the designs and signing the licensing colorful models of his historic cars was Bill Jenkins’ ride of choice until he L79 model, these are respectable papers for their manufacture, Bill that he worked so hard to present in switched to a Camaro. It’s another great- mementos of one of the greatest “Grumpy” Jenkins passed away on all their glory. Godspeed, Grumpy. looking model for drag fans. drag racers. March 29, 2012. Bill will be missed by Sources Supercar Collectibles supercar1.com
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TURRANCKEERYS IN 1998, after winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans (overall) for the fifteenth time, Porsche shut down its factory-backed race effort. e official word was that the move had come in the name of saving some sorely needed cash. ough the years of victory had been sweet, the race program had proven hellaciously expensive. BY BILL BENNETT But the tale wasn’t over; far from it. at same mainland and Japan, by winning their class in all events year, Stuttgart decided to play the part of Santa, and where they have been entered. In addition, they have began an effort to provide factory-built race cars won, overall, the 24 Hours of Nurburgring six times, the available for sale to interested buyers. ese cars would 24 Hours of Spa twice, and the 24 Hours of Daytona. give privateers a shot at racing, and allow further development of the breed, while freeing the factory Not all the victories have been on the track. In from footing the bill for their care and feeding. e a hearkening back to the days of the 356, some of Porsche GT3, in its different versions, came from that these models are approved for street use as well. decision, and Porsche has been making these works- Not that the cars are what you’d call comfy; GT3 built glory machines for their customers since 1999. road cars arrive in the owner’s driveway minus their rear seats, rear speakers, air conditioning, e GT3 series of sports cars includes the GT3, sunroof and any sound deadening. Bigger brakes, the GT3 R, RS, and RSR; the GT3 Cup, and the GT3 RS manually adjustable racing seats, roll cages and 4.0. ese are serious pieces, and come (depending 6-point harnesses are also available. Porsche’s goal, on version) with fuel cells, modified suspension and obviously, wasn’t plush motoring—these cars were brakes, special lightweight body panels and glazing, roll built to meet the performance expectations of every cages, and fire bottles. Powered by either a 3.6 or 4.0 player, from professional racing teams all the way liter flat six (based on the engines used in the Porsche down to the “gentleman racers” who use their GTs for 962 and 911 GT1 endurance racers), these normally transportation, between full chat track days. aspirated, water-cooled machines are built to conform to the rules of the various sanctioning bodies where e goal has been met, and the Porsche GT3 RSR, in they race, including FIA, ACO, SCCA, and the JAF. particular, has been a popular car for 1:18 scale diecast manufacturers such as AUTOart, PMA/Minichamps, GT3s have shown their mettle when being raced in Hot Wheels, Welly, Norev, Bburago and Sunstar. We’ve the United States, Europe, the Middle East, the Asian picked three makers. 28 DXCMag.com
The 996 version of the 911 GT3R was built between 1999 and 2005. AUTOart’s version is as nice as they get. AUTOart’s Porsche GT3 R & GT3 RSR This irregular-shaped headlight AUTOart has manufactured both the 996 (1999-2005) rates as among the best in the hobby, and the paint identifies this 911 GT3 as an and the 997 (2005- 2011) versions of the 911 GT3 R and applied graphics are just amazing. The glazing and earlier 996 version. & RSR and, typical of AUTOart’s work, both of these lensing are also top-notch. cars are magnificent. And there are a slew of them; The oval-shaped headlight was AUTOart is a prolific manufacturer, building many of AUTOart uses tons of photo-etched pieces to fitted to the later 997 version of the cars that raced in series’ worldwide, as well as non- represent latches, windshield clips, and aerodynamic the 911 GT3. liveried models in versions of the car dating back to its supports, and these add a great deal of realism to the introduction. models. Cockpit and engine detail, as well as the detail under the front bonnet, is also at a very high level. The Of course, there’s an element of consistency among tires are scuffed and lettered, and wheels wear a satin all of the Aa pieces, and the stance of the cars and the metallic finish that looks just like the real thing. That shut lines in the castings are exceptional. The metal top-to-bottom realism is a hallmark of this maker—and finishing of the bodies and of all of the pieces used makes these pieces breathtakingly collectible. This white 997 can be adorned with custom decals or admired in pure, non- liveried form. summer 2012 29
TURN KEY RACERS AUTOART’S PORSCHE GT3 R & GT3 RSR Opening the hood on AUTOart’s 997 Flying Lizard GT3 reveals the center-mounted fuel tank and some ancillary equipment. is 997 GT3 ran in the 2006 Porsche Michelin Supercup se- ries, supporting the FIA Formula One World Championship. is VIP car, sponsored by Porsche Engineering, was loaned to celebrities and dignitaries to compete in the races. Flying Lizard is one of the truly successful teams racing the GT3 in the ALMS GT2 class. e racer is beautifully executed in scale by AUTOart. e GT3 is a historically important car ... it’s available in 1:18 scale at just about every price point MINICHAMPS PORSCHE GT3 RSR PMA/Minichamps also makes liveried and non-liveried versions of the Porsche 996 GT3 RSR, and one of the nicest is a model of the wildly decorated “Flying Lizard” racer. Everywhere you look, the car is meticulously crafted and decorated—and, tellingly, so are the non-liveried versions, which are polished and perfect, wearing rich, mile-deep paint on castings with pin-straight shut lines and seams. Overall, the cars’ bodies are view. On the PMA/Minichamps cars, beautifully represented. these are all bundled and incredibly So are the cabins: in these comp realistic, especially the eye-grabbing machines, a mass of exposed wires and plastic and stainless-sheathed cable cables that would normally be hidden running from the upright shifter back to underneath the carpeting come into the constant-mesh transmission. Under the bonnet is the fuel cell and all of its associated plumbing; there are also brake and clutch master cylinders, hoses for the brakes, and air lines for the front pneumatic jack. ey’re a little heavier than is is the Minichamps version of the 996 Flying Lizard GT3 that contested the 2006 24 Hours of Le Mans in the LMGT2 class. Note the the AUTOart versions, nicely done photo-etch rear wing uprights. too— and overall, these models are about as good Lift the Minichamps Flying Lizard 996’s hood for good look at the car’s as it gets. fuel system and detailed wiring. 30 DXCMag.com
MINICHAMPS PORSCHE GT3 RSR No matter what your price range, there’s one for you Above left: Opening the driver’s door on the Minichamps 996 exposes loads of wonderful detail in the stripped-to-the-bones interior. Above right: Not much to see here—but that’s just how the real thing looks; the engine is covered with carbon fiber and alloy shrouds, leaving only the air intakes and some plumbing to be seen. is non-liveried Minichamps 996 is absolutely breathtaking, with “mile deep” blue metallic paint. BBURAGO this mass-market-targeted piece is a very nice model, FINISH LINE PORSCHE GT3 RS particularly for sharing with the untrained hands of Keep an eye out, and an non-collectors ... or as an entry car for a new, younger open mind, and you’ll As a reasonably priced alternative, Bburago’s GT3 RS collector. come away happy. e does a nice job of capturing the essence of the GT3. e GT3 is a historically smooth white paint, accented by the bright red wheels, important car—and graphics, rear view mirrors, grille “lipstick” and wing thanks to the efforts of end-plates makes for an attractive combination. It’s a the above manufacturers, durable finish, as well, but the downside is the paint’s it’s available in 1:18 scale thickness, which obscures some of the details of the at just about every price door handles and body seams. point, and in several collectible liveries. So, no is is a road car with a roll bar, and it has a full-boat matter what your price interior with racing bucket seats. e doors hinge inside range, there’s one for the fenders— a nice touch—but the areas under the you, whether you’re a bonnet and boot are plastic “plate” castings, and they hardcore collector who have a negative impact on detail. Still, price considered, demands the finest in detail—or you just want to play Santa to a new collector. Now, that’s a race worth running. ■ Bburago makes a nice version of the GT3 for those young collectors or those not demanding the highest levels of detail. An excellent value for the price. SUMMER 2012 31
quick LOOK by Bill Bennett AUTOart Mazda 787B Stealth 1:18 | $245 Top left: The rear of the model is simulated carbon-fiber body, and crisp white graph- a plethora of plumbing, wiring, AUTOart’s new Gran Turismo 5 Mazda 787B ics—done to a digital turn—being the only changes. From accessories and suspension “Stealth Model” marks the building of a bridge a distance, the car sits about as low as you can go; the components. The compact but between the world of diecast collecting and that body is sleek and racy, with tight shut lines, and it rolls on powerful engine with all of its of video gaming—and it’s a bridge that AUTOart is hoping scuffed Dunlops. The doors swing up nicely, revealing a shrouding is almost lost among enthusiasts raised on video might cross. Holding out hope purposeful interior consisting of a single racing seat, fabric all of this busy—yet accurate— that on-screen car lust might become real-time, in-hand and photo-etch seatbelts, and the most realistic photo- detail. collecting constitutes a gamble; for that alone, we applaud etch and plastic steering wheel we’ve seen in a while. the company. At this level of detail, and at this price, that’s Give the nose and tail the heave-ho, and the car’s Top right: The driver is sur- a bold step to take. intense detailing becomes visible. The whole tub, and rounded by all of the instru- most of the secondary structural components, are done in ments and controls that made In real life, the Mazda 787B was an amazing com- simulated carbon fiber; the little stuff, like the photo-etch the 787B a winner. The cockpit, petitor. It was the first Japanese car, and the first rotary pieces in the radiators and the “Gurney flaps” and riveted along with the rest of the car, is engine-powered vehicle, for that matter, to win Le Mans clips holding the windscreen and side windows in place is executed at AUTOart’s highest overall. It goes without saying that this was no mean feat. impressive. In contrast, the engine is rather indistinct, hid- levels. The odds seemed stacked against this relatively small den from view by all of the carbon-fiber cooling shrouds manufacturer, which elected to use a controversial engine that surround it, but the visible plumbing and wiring are Below: Although never actu- design in an endurance race where conventional motors amazing for their complexity and realism. So is the highly ally raced in this livery, this expired by the boatload. But Mazda prevailed in 1991— detailed—but static—suspension, with real, fixed-in-place hyper-Mazda is real enough to winning not only with speed, but also with rock-solid coil springs. gamers who have spent hours reliability. It may have been born and tested on the boards and piloting it around the virtual race Polyphony Digital’s Gran Turismo 5 driving simula- circuits of the gaming world, but in every real sense, courses of the world. Decorated tor, for the Sony PlayStation 3, provides the gamer with AUTOart’s imaginative reboot of the winning Mazda is in carbon fiber with white let- a way to upgrade his or her cyber ride by trading points tering, it’s certainly menacing in won playing the game for one of three “Stealth Models” jammed with noble materials and top shelf the flesh. in black carbon fiber, topped by white Gran Turismo execution. It’s expensive, graphics. The 787B is one of these cars. In 1:18, the hard-copy replica of that hard- won virtual reward is based on all of the same tooling as AUTOart’s heavily detailed Le Mans winner, with the addition of a stealthy too, as is befitting a model in the high end of the quality and detail continuum. Listen up, player: this is one of the finest pieces on AUTOart’s current roster. Sources AUTOart autoartmodels.com 32 DCXmag.com
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OUT OF THE BOX BY BILL BENNETT GloryHOT WHEELS ELITE FERRARI days512S “SEBRING 1970” 1:18|$100 34 DCXmag.com
Sebring, FL, March 31, 1970: Hollywood couldn’t have staged the events of this day any Fast Diet better, and even the most imaginative screenwriters would have been hard-pressed to develop the plot twists. Nobody needed to. e 1970 running of the 12 Hours of e Ferrari 512S was new for Sebring had it all – Peter Revson, a talented driver who was also the heir to a cosmetics 1970, and featured space-frame fortune, shared a Porsche 908/02 with a handsome, real-life movie star, Steve McQueen, aluminum and steel construction, who possessed a rugged determination to gain respect for his skills behind the wheel, and powered by a detuned (for reli- who showed up that day hobbled by a broken clutch foot. It was the classic David and Goli- ability in endurance racing) Type ath scenario—and the part of Goliath, among the field full of cutting-edge machinery from 261 5-liter V12 engine, derived around the world, was a legend in the making; a tough immigrant driver (Mario Andretti) who from Ferrari’s Formula 1 program. had fought his way to the top, one virtuoso performance at a time, driving the odds-on fa- At Sebring that day, Ferrari was vorite Ferrari 512S Spyder that sat on pole after a record-breaking qualifying lap. facing equally new Porsche 917s—with 580 horsepower, flat e stage was stark; set on long straights, but had irregu- on that day, Andretti and his twelve engines, and a close- the sun-baked service roads, lar joints in its concrete that co-driver Arturo Merzario to-200 pound weight advantage. taxiways, and runways of hammered away held the lead, while the unfor- Porsche had overwhelmed Fer- a former U.S. Army airfield, steadily at race giving surface and grueling rari at Daytona with top speed; Sebring Regional Airport’s cars. e green climate crippled upstarts. Ferrari hoped to use superior 5.2 mile road course featured flag dropped; as It then started claiming the handling and lightened “Spyder” some very wide sections and the race wore best and brightest of the field, bodies to get things even again mercilessly breaking top- on Sebring’s many curves. seeded factory Porsche 917s and Ferrari 512s alike. With the 908/02 that had soldiered scarcely two hours left on the on through all of the drama, in clock, Andretti’s race-leading second, behind the #15 917 of Siffert and Rodriguez. number 19 Spyder (driven at the time by Merzario) en, Sebring claimed the joined the casualty Siffert/Rodriguez car, and list with a failed Revson was suddenly in clear gearbox bear- air, followed by another 512S— ing. at put a coupe—driven by Vaccarella Revson, in and Giunti. Cut to the pits: Mario Andretti, who by all accounts was ready to pilot his plane home to Pennsylva- nia, is instead seen huddling with Ferrari team manager Mauro Forghieri; when the second-place Ferrari hauls in for a driver change, instead of Giunti, Andretti jumps into the car—number 21—and roars off into the night, with 90-odd minutes left to run. Cut back to the track: Mario is at 10/10ths, each lap is faster than his last; on a padded seat, in a car fitted for other drivers (Mario is shorter than both Vaccarella and Giunti) Andretti’s fearlessness and skill—and the immense power of the Ferrari—get him past Revson, and into the lead. An- dretti stops for fuel; the 908 regains the lead— but Andretti re-emerges to pass a fatigued Revson yet again. is time, there’s no stopping Mario, and when the 12 hours are over, he’s won by a 23.8-second margin. By the time the credits rolled that day, scribes and witnesses alike had coined the race the “Greatest Sebring of All Time,” and now, we’ve got a token to remember the contest: a 1:18 model of the FALL 2012 35
Left: When laid bare, the detailed me- chanical workings of the coupe become readily visible, though Mattel has tooled the suspension more for rugged durability than for delicate detail. Model Behavior winning #21 Ferrari 512S of equipped with photo-etched a few wires and hoses, the Mario Andretti, Ignazio Giunti Dzus fasteners and hood castings and decorated bits You have seen a Sebring 512S and Nino Vaccarella. latches, and these, as well as hold enough weight to be con- before in this magazine; four the sponsor and event livery, vincing without wrenching collectors from around the U.S. MOLTO BELLO add the correct touch of real- every nuance out. Up front the (this writer included) contributed Hot Wheels Elite has tooled ism. Although the car rides a details are all there (except for their skills as builders and decal up a sweet little car in this bit too high, the lensing and the Group 5-required spare) makers, and made a project of release, and not only has it glazing are quite nice, with and in the rear rudimentary modifying and converting an bumped up the base castings chrome trim rings and neatly suspension and chassis de- earlier version of the car—the for their 512S, but it has even integrated headlight covers tails are on display. model of Pink Floyd drummer re-considered the packaging included. Nick Mason’s 512S—into the the model comes in. is new Overall, the model is a sat- car that Andretti and Merzario screw-and-clamp arrange- e cockpit is well-detailed, isfying mix of comprehensive started the race in. ment is far better than the with fabric seat harnesses, a detailing and mass-market dreadful wires it used to use, well-gauged dash, and more manufacturing know-how. Below: e nose on the model features a and the set-off nose and tail photo-etched pieces for the battery, fire extinguishers, air ducts, and allow a full-on view of the seat buckles and shifter gate. ere are discrepancies, for hydraulics. Some racing venues would denuded chassis, engine, and Cast-in rivet detailing adds a sure, and if this were a $500 have required a spare in here. suspension detail, all while lot to the authentically sparse model, they’d be an issue. At Below right: Pop off the engine cover, and the car’s still in the box. Once metallic look of the cabin; this price point, they hardly the race-ready V12 comes into view. With set loose, the model feels the switchgear and such are register, and with the piece’s nicely executed headers, and rudimentary just right. e paint is a rich, extremely well done and col- great finish, more than ad- wiring and plumbing, the Sebring win- smooth Rosso Corsa (rac- orful. To a lesser degree, so equate detailing, and polished ner is a moderately priced replica of an ing red) and the contrasting is the engine compartment; look on display, it is well worth important piece of race history. white, black and silver make with the engine cover and its MSRP. e low cost on it very handsome indeed. e nose removed, what you see these pieces has to do with gold-painted Cromodora race is a very nice representation sheer production volume; wheels mounting Firestone of the Lucas-injected five- HWE states on the box that Goldline racing tires look liter, 550-horse V12. ough “up to” 5,000 will be made. right, too. e body is liberally simplified for mass manu- Given the drama and historical facturing, and while missing importance of that race, that’s a full house—and an audience well entertained for the cost of this ticket. Highly recom- mended. SOURCES Hot Wheels Elite hotwheels-elite.com 36 DCXmag.com
RockBorn to Auto World “Slot Stars” 1957 Chevrolet Slot Car Kit 1:25 | $50 Before the nearly supersonic “thingies” became the rulers of the neighborhood track, build-your-own slot car kits from companies like K&B, Monogram, Strombecker, Revell, and Cox (to name only a few), gave slot heads like us the thrill of assembling, tweaking, and running our own cars on a track. BY JOE KELLY JR. e models usually followed the same formula—a glue- the car’s Bel Air body is a direct lift from the AMT 3-in-1 build body over a screw-together metal chassis— and if kit that we’ve all built at least once, and below, Auto World you were handy with a tube of cement, and could use a includes a uni-fit pan frame and all the accouterments screwdriver,the result was a car that ran fairly well, and needed for an honest-to-gosh slot car, all wrapped in an looked good doing it. old-fashioned window box that positively smacks of days gone by. e bait was taken; we gathered up our modeling Few feelings could match the pride of watching your chops, and swore on our old Professor Motor controller that latest build circle the banks of the local rent-a-lane, we’d keep the build as close to box stock as we could. which, because we’re such nostalgic softies, made the idea of tackling Auto World’s retro-feel 1:25 slot kit all but We’ve boiled down about a week’s worth of nighttime irresistible. building and painting - around 15 hours, all told - into a few photos; check out DCXmag.com and our Facebook page Auto World makes a few kits in 1:32 as well as 1:25, and for a more complete set of detailed shots. we decided on the ‘57 Chevy, just for old times’ sake. Up top, 38 DXCMag.com
e kit's complete, from the plastic You’ll need: body and trim to the full-metal chassis, running gear, and 12V motor. ■ Model cement ■ Instant glue ■ Small Phillips screwdriver ■ Needle-nose pliers ■ Modeling knife ■ Emory board and file ■ Dremel and cutting wheel (optional) ■ Safety glasses ■ Ruler ■ Pencil ■ Mallet ■ Paint (optional) ■ Bare Metal Foil (optional) ■ Clear lacquer (optional) Clean the completed body, let it air dry, then paint it. We shot bronze on the main body, then masked the top and shot it with ivory. e build starts by cutting away the inner filing away all the mold lines and flash on the body. fenders, then... Once the body’s smooth, fit the hood and glue it into place, and let it dry. Once secured with fun-tack, the wheels got a shot of matte metallic silver. FALL 2012 39
Slip the tires on with a touch of instant glue, then... . .. use a ruler to set the exact length of the bush- ings you’ll need to cut for each axle. e chassis screws together, starting with the motor and gears, then the front half with the pickup shoe and braids. Use the body as Once you’re sure of the a guide to set the measurements, carefully wheelbase and tap the completed wheels the width of the onto the ends of the axles. side rails, then.... Don’t go too far, or they won’t spin. ... tighten all the nuts and screws before locking them down with instant glue. 40 DXCMag.com
If all went to plan, you’ll have a completed chas- sis. Now is a good time to run it and make any adjustments. Once you’re happy with the rake, mark the inside of the car where the chassis will mount. Bare metal foil adds a lot of realism; so do the included decals. Adding clear-coat to the body before adding the bumpers, windows, and final trim bits will make it more likely to survive a bump or two. e kit comes with double-sided foam tape; cut it to size and stick it on the marks; peel the other side once the body’s lined up, and press it into place on the frame. Use blocks and coins to experiment with ride height to see how you’ll be mounting the completed body All in all, the model was a good challenge, and a rewarding to the frame. build that’ll see some track time, soon. e plastic part’s got to be at least 40 years old; prepping the body took a bit of time. So did getting the chassis locked down. If we had decided to step outside the box and build the car in our own way, we’d have used alternative methods and parts for the wheels and gears; and the body (originally designed to be glued to a plastic chassis, not screwed to a completed frame, like some other re-purposed slot kits) might have gotten attached with clips, or pins. But as a box-stock build, the occasional frustration was more than offset by the hands-on fun of building a scale race car. And for most of us, that’s the kind of fun we’ll take, any chance we can get. SOURCES Round2Models round2models.com 42 DXCMag.com
48460.indd 1 6/6/12 4:31 PM FAST & FREE SHIPPING! 1965 Austin Healey 1968 Dodge Charger 1964 Ford Galaxie 500 in 2011 Dan Wheldon RIP 2011 Dan Wheldon #98 3000 MK III Road R/T From the Movie Black from the Movie Men Lionheart Tribute 1:18 Indianapolis 500 Win Version Blue 1:43 Car 1:18 Scale Diecast Scale by Spark S0817 Bullitt 1:18 Scale In Black 3 1:18 Scale by Scale Diecast by Greenlight 12839 Greenlight 12850 Greenlight 10908 Greenlight 10926 $64.00 $69.00 $55.00 $59.00 $59.00 1968 Ford GT40 MK1 2011 Matt Hagan DieHard 1971 Darrell Waltrip #95 Shelby Cobra 427SC in 2011 Jason Meyers Gulf #9 24h Le Mans Championship Funny Car Terminal Transport 1:24 Scale Guardsman Blue w/ WOO Back To Back Winner 1:43 Scale by 1:24 Scale Diecast by Diecast by University of Racing White Circle 1:18 Scale Championships 1:18 Spark 43LM68 Auto World CP6051 Signed Unsigned by Kyosho 0845GB Scale Sprint Car by $59.00 $69.00 $99.99 $74.99 $118.00 R&R 181114 $89.00 Free Ground Shipping for U.S. Orders! Call for Free Catalog! We have thousands of diecast cars in stock and many other automotive gift items and accessories to choose from. www.KCAUTOACC.com or call us at 913-422-5126
OUT OF THE BOX BY JOE KELLY JR Return of thePARAGON1968 ROLLS ROYCE SILVER JadiSHADOWCOUPE 1:18 | $150 Awhile back, a company called Jadi (not to be confused with Jada, or, for that matter, “Jedi”) came into the U.S. with a solid, if mildly detailed, line of British sports cars like the Triumph TR4, Triumph Stag, Lotus Elise, and even a TVR or two. e models were cleanly built, and nice for the price, but most collectors were left wondering what would happen if Jadi bumped up its game a bit. 44 DCXmag.com
PARAGON HAS FINESSED THAT MIX OF FORMALITY AND UNCLUTTERED, MID 1960S STYLE INTO A CASTING WITH PERFECT SHUT LINES, PIANO SMOOTH PAINT, AND AN OVERALL FEELING OF QUALITY Well, we can stop wondering … Royce Silver Shadow Mulliner- and Ghosts. is same crowd had is a stunning piece of manufac- and start grinning. Jadi’s opened Park Ward (MPW) LHD coupe is gnashed their dentures when tured modeling, and few cars that up a new division—Paragon—and an image taken from a pivotal era Rolls-Royce started installing V8 we’ve seen this year emerge from the upmarket models it’s putting in Rolls-Royce history. engines in the late 1950s. their boxes with such knockout forth not only match that lofty appeal. Yes, we’d agree that most moniker, they represent a lot SHADOW BOXING But the upside to the progres- of that is due to the MPW coupe’s more than just a bump in detail In 1966, Crewe had shucked off sion was that the cars were fresh- beautiful shape and countenance, or overall appeal. As if to prove its body-on-frame car building in looking; lower, sleeker and tighter but Paragon has finessed that mix mettle with metal, Paragon has favor of unit construction. is on the road, the new Rolls-Royce of formality and uncluttered, mid- pursued, and obtained, a license meant that the core of the car had an athleticism and solidity 1960s style into a casting with to make replicas of the big ka- would become lighter and stron- that was all new, even though the perfect shut lines, piano-smooth huna— e Finest Motorcar In e ger. It also meant that the days of cars were marginally slower than paint, and an overall feeling of World—the Rolls-Royce. It has custom-bodied, coachbuilt Roll- their immediate predecessor. e quality. also picked a pretty hip Roller to ers were all but over. is caused bodies may have been lighter, but start the party. is 1968 Rolls- some rattling of the umbrellas the understressed, over-muffled It’s a relatively heavy piece, amongst purists who remem- 380cid V8 was built more for too, and it goes hands-on straight bered climbing up into their giant grace than pace. e good news away; once pulled from its tissue- old custom-built Wraiths, Clouds was that a Rolls wasn’t bought to lined clamshell and unscrewed outgun the neighbor’s Mustang. from the lower base, it’s up to Pounds of sound-deadening, the new owner to attach the SOE electronic gadgetry (like an all- on the nose, and the side-view new self-leveling suspension, mirrors to each door. Don’t be acting on the equally new IRS out scared—it’s a painless exercise, back) and the usual R-R ameni- thanks to the precision of the ties (and commensurate price) mounting pegs and holes. You can made driving the Silver Shadow use a spot of white glue (or not), MPW coupe a pleasure that very and if something goes wrong, few —571, to be exact—could afford don’t sweat it; there’s a full set to enjoy. e Rolls-Royce name of spares in the box. oughtful was known and appreciated chaps, these Paragon fellows. around the world, but the oppor- tunity to watch that little winged Like the real car, the model has lady atop the radiator shell from some subtleties that take a few the driver’s seat wasn’t in the minutes to sink in. e fitment cards for everyone. of the windows and trim bits is remarkable; the seams between ON WINGS the body and glazing are perfect, at little lady (officially deemed and the areas where the doors meet the fixed quarter windows is “ e Spirit of Ecstasy”) looks pret- nearly so. But what really grabbed ty happy to be sitting on the nose us was the precision of the panel of this debut release from Para- fit: the opening doors, hood, and gon. We’re happy to see her. is trunk operate on seams that are FALL 2012 45
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