Gone Girl “Eleanor” Mustang in 1:18 FACTORY BACKED ››› THE PASSION, PRODUCTS & PERSONALITIES Manufacturers STREET Do Battle AND STRIP GMP 1970 AutoWorld 1964 Phil Bonner Plymouth Hemi Ford Thunderbolt Road Runner 65+ HOT NEW MODELS! PLEUXELLCESELGGUAABSCNRIYCEVEDEOTA!FHTRLSREUUOTXNURUGO5RHM1Y0TOHRSTEOTAYRCALEIGENRE&GSS Elite Ferrari F355 Spider Display until March 3, 2015 Inside the SPRING 2015 $6.99 US $8.99 CAN L.A. Collector Convention DCXMAG.COM
contents die cast x | Vol. 11 | issue 2 features 22 22 | Factory-Backed Track battles that fueled brand loyalty and legendary rivals 36 | Legacy of Luxury A century of exclusivity and excellence 52 | Workforce High and Mighty: YCC Models Liebherr LTM 1400 All-terrain mobile crane OUT OF THE BOX 36 52 18 | The Return of a Petty Blue DCXmag.com —The ultimate diecast community Powerhouse What’s on the web this time around? Well, models — lots of them. It’s true: we can’t fit all the cars we’d GMP 1970 Plymouth Hemi Road Runner like into every issue, and several of the releases appear at our doorstep between printings. Thanks to the DCXmag.com website and the Die Cast X Facebook page, we can keep putting those cars at the top of our 28 | A Lightning-Quick Bolt from list, with on-the-spot reviews, photos, and the occasional video up for you to enjoy. Just click over to the the Blue (Oval) site, or “like” our Facebook page to join the coolest community of collectors on the web! AutoWorld Phil Bonner 1964 Ford Thunderbolt 32 | One Small Car, One Giant Racing Legacy RetroMotoring & Co. BRE Datsun 510 40 | Personal Luxury on the Grandest Scale Kyosho Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé 44 | Plush and Plus-size Luxury Sun Star Platinum Series 1958 Lincoln Mark III Continental Hard Top 48 | Halo Hybrid AUTOart Lexus LS600hL UP FRONT REGULARS QUICK LOOKs 6 | Editorial 56| Hot Wheels Highway 62| CMC 1938 Alfa Romeo 8C No. 19 Something old. Something new. Something Blue Box International Packaging Le Mans Special borrowed. Something Petty Blue! 66 | Rear View 63 | GreenLight Collectibles Gone in 60 28th Annual Hot Wheels Collectors’ Convention Seconds “Eleanor” 1967 Mustang 8 | Scale Mail 64 | Hot Wheels Elite Ferrari F355 Spider Questions, answers, comments on the cover:WewelcomeGMPbackto premium1:18diecastmusclewiththeir 65 | Die-Cast Promotions Peterbilt 379 awesome new ’70 Hemi Road Runner. AutoWorld’s Phil Bonner ’64 Ford Thunderbolt is with MAC Trailer 10 | Showroom one of the reviews that accompanies our big Factory-Backed feature. And along comes New releases & first looks a Spider (F355) to add to Hot Wheels extensive collection of Elite series Ferraris. Die Cast X (ISSN 1551-854X) published quarterly by Air Age Inc., 88 Danbury Rd., Wilton, CT 06897 USA. Copyright 2014, all rights reserved. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at Wilton, CT, and additional offices. Canadian Post Publications Mail Agreement No. 40008153. CONTRIBUTIONS: 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. Descriptions of products were obtained from manufacturers or their press agencies and do not constitute an endorsement by the Publisher or guarantee 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; 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 American Express accepted. ADVERTISING: Advertising rates are available on request. Please send advertising materials to Advertising Dept., Air Age Inc., 88 Danbury Rd., Wilton, CT 06897 USA; phone (203) 431-9000; fax (203) 529-3010; email: advertising@ 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 420134, 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 420134, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0235 USA.
EDITORIAL King Richard returned to the Plymouth fold with a Petty Blue ‘70 SPRING 2015 | VOLUME 11, NO. 2 Road Runner. GMP roars back into 1:18 diecast with one too! EDITORIAL Something old. Something new. Executive Editor Something borrowed. Something Petty Blue! Matt Boyd ›› [email protected] Editorial Director/Surface Group S ure, it’s a saying associated with a happy wedding ceremony, but as it turned out, Peter Vieira ›› [email protected] it holds true for the union of a successful issue of Die Cast X as well! And I hope Deputy Managing Editor you’ll agree this issue has all the makings. We certainly cover all the bases. We Katherine Pierpont ›› [email protected] have some old favorites renewed and reunited for 2015. e GMP brand is back and on the throttle in 1:18 scale. We get to see some familiar castings significantly reworked and CONTRIBUTORS reintroduced (AutoWorld’s underbolt), and even Bill Bennett, Peter Celona, Wayne Moyer, our old friend and contributor Dan Townsend Alan Paradise, Dan Townsend, Mike Zarnock returning to Workforce. Our buddy — and resident Hot Wheels maven — Mike ART Zarnock looks back on some classic Creative Director Betty K. Nero Hot Wheels international releases Art Director Kevin Monahan from the 1990s. Photographer Peter Hall We have lots of “New”: tons of new DIGITAL MEDIA products all throughout the issue, starting Web Producer Holly Hansen with 25+ new releases in Showroom. We even introduce you to a couple entirely new brands: RetroMotoring & Co. and YCC. ere is big news ADVERTISING from Bburago (snagging the Ferrari license) and even an entirely new product concept: a Advertising Director Mitch Brian ››203.529.4609 virtual model assembly app for your mobile device from Monzo Digital. To make sure we have Senior Account Executive Ben Halladay the absolute latest to show you, we borrowed quite a few prototypes from the manufacturers: ››203.529.4628 RetroMotoring’s BRE Datsun 510s, the Kyosho Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupé, and Sun Star’s ’58 Account Executive Lisa Kittrell ››203.529.4628 Lincoln Mark III among others. CONSUMER MARKETING But when we get to that “Something Blue”—well, that’s where we tick off all the boxes. e e Media Source, a division of TEN, e Enthusiast GMP brand is an old favorite of course, as is their spectacular 1970 Road Runner casting. e first release in five years qualifies as new, as does this configuration: a Hemi hardtop 4-speed Network car in stunning Petty Blue! No wonder then that it won a spot on the cover and in our hearts! MARKETING & EVENTS e hardest part is deciding what to leave out — there’s always so much more fantastic Associate Creative Director Leslie Costa product than we can fit in the pages of a single issue. But luckily, we have a bunch of Event Manager Emil DeFrancesco supplemental platforms to bring you even more of the best that the PUBLISHING diecast world has to offer. Follow us on Facebook and check out our Group Publishers Louis V. DeFrancesco Jr., website DCXMag.com. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for our Yvonne M. DeFrancesco free e-newsletter so that you receive all the latest info in between print issues, plus cool videos and multimedia extras that we can’t do here in HOW TO REACH US print! EDITORIAL Matt Boyd MAIL 88 Danbury Road, Wilton CT 06897 USA Executive Editor Phone (203) 431-9000; Email [email protected] [email protected] FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE AND 6 DCXmag.com SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS, such as Renewals, Address Changes, Email Preferences, Billing and Account Status, go to DCXMag.com/cs. You can also call (800) 827-0323 or + (386) 246-3323 (outside the U.S.) Magazine Publishers RCX.com of America PRINTED IN THE USA
$4 95PLToFnUoHlrySBBEaIAtsMmGTsoETbMOuiTleHeVAIfS#rINoEm1TM Free shipping included! TM & © DC Comics THE MOST AMAZING COLLECTION OF BATMAN VEHICLES EVER ASSEMBLED! The greatest collection of Batman Vehicles Hand Painted, precision die-cast, Officially Authorized Replicas from DC Comics 1:43 scale and Warner Brothers Free Collectos Magazine with each model Movies Animated Series Comics TV Shows Start your collection today at: www.batman-cars.com/dcx 60-day money-back guarantee. Join us on www.Facebook.com/Batmobilia
Scale Mail YOUR FEEDBACK | WRITE TO US AT DCX AIRAGE.COM WE WANT TO HEAR Your magazine looks like so much fun to muscle cars, some sports cars, lots of classic American cars FROM YOU! work for! Do you accept article submissions — mostly 1:18. What is the best way to sell them?” from outside authors? How do I become a —Leo Guzmán Tell us what you like, what contributor?—Jack W. A lot depends on how much work you are willing to put into you don’t and why Die Cast X the process and whether your priority is speed or best profit. is the best diecast maga- Hi Jack. 1) Yes, it is! 2) Yes, we do! 3) e best way get into the Selling them individually or in small batches on eBay and zine ever! Send snail mail to DCX fold is to come up with a great article concept and pitch similar auction sites will earn you the best prices, but that is “Letters,” Die Cast X, Air Age it to us. Send us an email to [email protected] outlining your more work-intensive and can take time if your collection is Media, 88 Danbury Road, story idea. Remember that just important as the words to large. Selling them in bulk can be faster, but the prices will be Wilton, CT 06897 USA, or your story is the photos. Will you be shooting new photos for lower. Sometimes you can find an interested buyer that just email us at [email protected]. the article? Does it use supplied imagery? Do you have photos happens to be in your area, but this is rare. More often it will We'll edit letters as needed, of sufficient resolution? (Minimum for print is 300dpi at about be a business — like an estate sale company or a pawn shop. and though we will read them 4 inches.) Do you have the rights to use supplied imagery? Another option is to have someone sell them on consignment. all, we don't have room to All of these things go into making a good article, and if you Consignment shops and eBay resellers (either stores or answer or publish every one. can reassure an editor that you can deliver a complete article private individuals) will sell them for you in exchange for a package you are much more likely to get your article accepted. percentage. is can be the easiest, but just be aware that the Good luck, and we look forward to hearing from you! —Matt selling agent will limit their time investment, so they may not chase the absolute top dollar. And, of course, they will keep One of the most common questions we get from their portion of the sale price. DCX readers is about selling collections: Regardless of the method, the most important element in \"How do I go about selling my diecast collection?” successfully selling a collection is to first know what you have —Brent Champion, via Facebook — accurate appraisal. You can research them yourself or you “My dad was a collector and passed away a few months ago. can hire someone to do it for you. I have personally appraised My dining room is now overflowing with hundreds of diecast a number of collections over the years, and while it may seem all in original packaging. Would you be able to point me in the like an added expense, having accurate assessment of the direction of someone who might be interested in buying?” collection’s value upfront can pay off later in terms of reduced —Katie Elizabeth, via Facebook frustration and peace of mind that you won’t get taken “I’m about to move overseas for a job and I’m looking to advantage of.—Matt downsize my collection. I have a mix of types of cars — some I loved the review of the TSM Ayrton Senna McLaren MP4/6. It’s a great model, but I don’t understand why it can’t have the proper “Marlboro” sponsor decals on it? I know cigarette brands can’t advertise on cars anymore, but why isn’t the model allowed to be historically accurate? - Kevin W. We're often asked about the best way to sell a sweet collection like this. Read above to get some basic is one gets debated a lot on diecast forums and the like. pointers. Even the short answer isn’t that short, but it basically involves two factors: #1—the 1998 Tobacco Master Settlement 8 DCXmag.com Agreement, whereby the major tobacco manufacturers agreed to suspend advertising on consumer products, and most particularly those pertaining to children. And #2 — that diecasts, even high-end collectibles like the TSM McLarens, are technically classified as “toys,” and therefore displaying cigarette logos, sponsorships or trademarks is forbidden. It’s odd to think of a $235 replica as a “toy” but that is how the law presently views all model cars. And in general, model manufacturers aren’t in a position to expend the financial resources or risk the PR backlash to get their products reclassified. It’s unfortunate, but I don’t think it detracts from the overall quality of the model.—Matt
SHOWROOM NEW RELEASES & FIRST LOOKS Japan’s First Supercar Toyota’s sleek 2000GT exploded onto the automotive scene on 1967, and virtually single-handedly redefined the image of the Japanese performance car. Built in a joint venture with Yamaha, the AUTOART TOYOTA 2000GT 2000GT was as capable as it was beautiful — a potent inline-6 engine, mounted back in the long nose, 1:18 | $163.90 short deck two-seater chassis, it was akin to a Japanese Jaguar E-Type. AUTOart has released an updated, upgraded 1:18 version of the 2000GT, distinguished by its wire spoke wheels and numerous other improvements. Functional pop-up headlights, a well-appointed interior, and lots of technical detail on the gorgeous 2.0L DOHC straight-6. Just 351 examples were built over the car’s 3-year production run, making them among the most valuable collectible Japanese cars ever built. AUTOart offers theirs in black and several other colors. autoartmodels.com A Movie Mopar We’ve BRASS ERA BEAUTY All Been Waiting For! MINICHAMPS MULLIN COLLECTION AUTOWORLD DIRTY MARY CRAZY LARRY 1902 PANHARD & LEVASSOR TYPE 1969 DODGE CHARGER R/T B1 REAR ENTRANCE TONNEAU 1:18 | $89.99 1:43 | $99 Here’s one you’ll surely recognize: the 1969 Dodge Charger made Brass-era models were not uncommon in famous by the small-time hood and would-be NASCAR hero title 1:43 when diecast collecting started in the character in 1974’s Dirty Mary Crazy Larry. Together with tagalong 1960s, but in recent years they’ve become hitchhiker Mary and ace mechanic Deke who keeps the Mopar running exceedingly rare. is Minichamps’ 1902 fast enough to evade the law (if not a certain train. AutoWorld has par- Panhard & Levassor Type B1 is simply the ticularly good sensibilities when it comes to choosing vehicles to add best of its type I have ever seen. Its resin to its impressive list of Silver Screen Machines. Larry’s Curious Yellow body has crisp louvers, deeply cushioned Charger has long been on collectors’ short lists of cars most wanted seats, and excellent lower engine detail, in diecast, and AutoWorld has adapted its excellent 1:18 68-70 Charger casting to the while the photo-etched fenders had to task. Deke’s handiwork is on full display under the hood, with a tuned up 440 4-barrel have been stamped to get their correct sporting an open-element air cleaner, aftermarket ignition wires and chrome valve bent and twisted shape. e paint is excel- covers. Inside, the twin buckets are separated by a console-mounted 4-speed. It’s lent, and every piece of trim, including the been a long time coming, but this model is definitely worth the wait! separate handle for the rear-entry door autoworldstore.com and the latches for the wicker baskets, is brightly plated in brass. Artillery-spoke wheels, brass-plated controls, and the delicate chain-drive mechanisms are all right to scale, and there’s even wood plank detail on the underside of that tall top. is one’s a beauty! —Wayne Moyer Minichamps; distributed by carvillemodelsshop.com 10 DCXmag.com
Modeling without SPIED! the Metal One of the best things about Monzo Digital Model Kits working for Die Cast X is the Here’s an interesting product we opportunity to see models came across that melds the model- before they are officially released. ing world with the proliferation of There are a bunch of cool models that will be mobile media technology. The idea is hitting the market in the coming months, and to take the hobby of model making we managed to snag some behind-the-scenes into the virtual world by adapt- sneak peeks of a few of them. ing it into an interactive app to run on popular mobile platforms like The Nitty Gritty on the Filthy Forty! Android and Apple’s iPad. Monzo has used Revell’s plastic kits as the ACME Diecast S&S Filthy Forty Gasser basis for the models in the app. It’s 1:18 | $149.99 an interesting concept, and our pre- ACME has been teasing us with the archival pic of their forth- liminary tests of the press sample coming 40 Ford Gasser for a couple of months, but we got were quite promising. Mastering the this spy shot of the early prototype just before press time. It’s precise alignments necessary takes nowhere near final yet, but we can already see this is going some getting used to, but the builds to be a real winner. Several recent ACME products have sold are quite linear and easy to follow. out in pre-sale before the first production piece ever saw the And the system is infinitely expand- light of day. We’d able with new models, which you bet that’s the fate purchase individually. Some are a of the Filthy Forty little pricey, but the graphics support too, so get on at least as much detail as found in acmediecast.com the Revell plastic glue-together kits or out to your on which they are based. If model favorite dealer building anywhere you can carry and sign up for your tablet, and without the mess yours! of glue or paint, is something that acmediecast.com appeals to you, check out Monzo’s site for more info. GL Has The Hookup! monzoapp.com GreenLight Hitch & Tow Series Terrific Toronado 1:64 | Price to be Announced Spark 1968 Oldsmobile The guys at GreenLight have a cool new series of trailers 1:43 | $75 paired up with tow vehicles in 1:64, and they sent us a few Oldsmobile’s Toronado, the first American front-wheel-drive car since the 1937 Cord, was every- prototypes to check out. The red Dodge Ram 1500 Sport body’s “Car of the Year” when it was introduced in 1966. But sales slumped in ’67, so for 1968 the Quad Cab will come with the enclosed car hauler — the per- Toronado got a whole new front end with Harley Earl’s “Hi-Low” bumper surrounding a mesh grille fect way to transport a Hollywood series Fast & Furious ’70 with hidden headlights and flanked by big wraparound signal/parking lights. Adding to the appeal was Charger! The Wrangler Rubicon will come with a small cargo the W34 option; a 400-horse, 455cid V8 driving the front tires. Spark’s new resincast ’68 Toronado trailer, but this flatbed car hauler looks pretty good hustling is simply gorgeous with a crisply detailed flawless body and excellent red paint which, while it doesn’t around the Gremlins VW Beetle, also from the Hollywood match actual color chips for that year, is attractive. If you want to talk about scale fidelity — the legible series. photo-etched Toronado scripts are only 0.14 inch long and the door key cylinders are even smaller! greenlighttoys.com Window surrounds, rocker panel moldings, and wheel arch trim are all printed in bright chrome while everything else, including the door handles, is done with separate plated pieces. Upholstery patterns A to Z in Scale Precision match photos, as do the fully detailed rectangular instrument cluster and the wood-grain panel below it. Narrow whitewalls were “in” by ’68 and Spark has those and the rather massive wheels right, too. CMC Aston Martin Zagato Underneath, Spark has included decent relief-cast chassis detail in the baseplate. The big body “looks 1:18 | $498 right” from all angles and dimensions are right on the money. Thanks to Wild About Wheels for this Just as we were going to press CMC released this very first look at Spark’s terrific Toronado. — Wayne Moyer photo of the painted prototype of its forthcoming 1:18 Aston spark-models.com Martin DB4 Zagato. What a beauty! We have no specifics on the model, other than it will be designated Item no. M-132, it will be released very early in 2015 and is currently available for preorder. But given that it’s CMC’s take on one of the most stylish and exotic Astons of the classic period, we’re confident it’s going to be as amazing as these first shots suggest! cmcmodelcarsusa.com spring 2015 11
SHOWROOM SINGULAR SIX WHEELER An 88mph Blast into the Silver Screen Past TSM 1977 MONACO GP HOT WHEELS ELITE BACK TO THE FUTURE DELOREAN TIME MACHINE TYRRELL P34 NO.4 1:50 & 1:18 | $20 & $160 1:18 | $210 Speaking of movie cars … has a film franchise ever done more to renovate a car’s reputation than the Back to the Future trilogy did for the One look at the legendary DeLorean DMC-12? In a flash of time-traveling lightning the DeLorean went from a maligned automotive misadventure to a nuclear- Tyrrell 6-wheeled P34 and you powered time-hopping hotrod. Mattel delivers DeLoreans wearing temporal displacement regalia in almost every scale imaginable. Here know that it’s one of the most are two near opposite ends of the size and price spectrum. e little car is a Mattel Elite One 1:50 scale replica of Doc Brown’s crowning groundbreaking and distinctive achievement from the first film. is new scale version gives a lot of bang for the buck detail-wise. Of course, the truly impressive piece race cars in Formula 1 history. is the 1:18 Hot Wheels Elite series as it appeared in the second film — complete with Mr. Fusion reactor to power the flux capacitor and a Ken Tyrrell was a fearless in- scale copy of Marty McFly’s Mattel hoverboard! Detail is what we’ve come to expect of Elite series cars, and the Hot Wheels brand as- novator and engineer, and the sures collectors that value will only appreciate over time. idea of using four small wheels hotwheels-elite.com in front in place of the conven- tional large two French Curves was driven by MINICHAMPS MULLIN COLLECTION 1939 DELAHAYE 165 CABRIOLET sound engineering principles— 1:43 | $99.95 reduced aerodynamic drag, reduced rolling resistance, and e French built the sexiest cars in the world in the pre-WWII years; increased grip. Patrick Depailler those who doubt need only to look at Minichamps Mullin Collection piloted the car at the 1977 1939 Delahaye 165 with its Figoni & Falashi cabriolet body. After sell- Monaco Grand Prix, where ing the first one at the 1938 Paris Salon, a second was built so quickly it qualified a respectable 8th for the 1939 New Your World’s fair that its Type 165 V-12 engine and showed flashes of speed, was only a hollow shell. Interned by customs during the war, it was but the mechanical gremlins sold in 1946 to a Californian who replaced the engine with (what that plagued the car all season else?) a Cadillac V-8. Over the next 45 years, the car was lost, found (mainly unrelated to the again, and passed through several owners before being completely unusual wheel arrangement) restored, reunited with its original engine which was made functional, reared up again in Monaco, and wound up in the Mullin Collection. Ixo modeled this car several forcing the car to retire with years ago but Minichamps’ new version is better in every respect, gearbox failure. We’ve been with excellent dark red paint that’s set off by a wealth of plated, impressed with TSM’s recent photo-etched, and bright printed chrome trim. e spectacular releases of historic F1 models body’s lines are reproduced perfectly—that includes the skirted front (check out the review of fenders which are wide enough for the wheels to reach full lock. In- Senna’s McLaren in the Winter terior details are as complete as the exterior, with very thin piping on 2015 issue) and this Tyrrell the authentic white upholstery, plated interior handles, and pedals, looks to continue that trend. handbrake, and shifter all tucked up under the dash, which has cor- It’s a fascinating engineering rect white gauges with red numbers and needles. — Wayne Moyer exercise, a great conversation Minichamps; distributed by carvillemodelsshop.com piece, and a distinctive piece of racing history. And with just 300 pieces slated to be produced, it should be quite collectible as well. 12 DCXmag.com
THIS JUST IN! e Mustang Italian manufacturer at Wasn’t Bburago just shared some huge news about another MATRIX INTERMECCANICA 1965 MUSTANG STATION WAGON Italian brand—a little com- 1:43 | $89.95 pany that goes by the name Ferrari! Bburago has When the Mustang was unveiled in April 1964, New York ad agency VP Barney Clark decided that Ford should build a Mustang Wagon just secured licensing to do with his agency handling the advertising campaign. To show FoMoCo how easy it would be, he hired Bob Cumberford to draw up a set of an exclusive line of Ferrari plans and sent those, along with a Mustang Coupe, to Italian coachbuilder Intermeccanica. When he got the completed Mustang Wagon replicas under Bburago and (Ponycart?) back in 1966 he drove it to Detroit. But Ford, who’d just added the 2+2 to the Mustang line and was cranking out every its sister brand Maisto. Pony they possibly could, nixed the idea, missing the chance to invent the sports wagon. Car and Driver then did a month-long test and More than 100 models are featured the car on the cover (October 1966) but Ford wouldn’t budge. Matrix released a good-looking model several months ago in the slated to hit the shelves by correct dark green and has followed it with this spectacular version in bright red with gold Shelby stripes. e overall shape is perfect and mid-2015! (We told you it the finish, trim, and detail work are excellent. e only problem is that neither version is the Intermeccanica Mustang! e hood scoop, 5.0 was a big deal …) We don’t emblem on the fenders, front bench seat with folding armrest, wheels, and rear lift gate all identify it as a near clone built a few years ago know which cars will be by enthusiast Joe Kamp; this color scheme is correct for his car which can be seen on the ‘net. Interior details include the correct ’65 dash done and in what scales with detailed instruments, authentic Mustang upholstery (but with Kamp’s bench seat) with silver-painted relief handles, and nicely done yet, but rest assured there steering wheel. Accurate chassis details are cast in relief on the baseplate, too. — Wayne Moyer will be a mix of Modena’s matrixscalemodels.com modern machines as well as some classic all-time favorites. As soon as when know what and when, so will you. But for now, we’re waiting in excited anticipa- tion right there with you! bburago.com; maisto.com Middle-Class By 1955, the clean body made famous by the “hot rod Lincolns” of Mexican Road Race fame were Our friends at Automod- Lincoln dated, so the ‘55s got a simplified grille, all-new side trim, and longer rear fenders with new taillights, ello have just announced and a new 225-horsepower, 341cid Y-block V-8. While everyone else has modeled the top-line Ca- a dealer arrangement BROOKLIN 1955 LINCOLN pri 2-Door Hardtop, Brooklin has released this good-looking white-metal model of the Capri 4-Door with Kyosho (in Japan) and CAPRI 4 DOOR SEDAN sedan, of which only 405 fewer than the classy coupe were sold. is is the first time that Brooklin Kyosho’s China/Hong Kong 1:43 | $138.95 has made the roof of a 4-door sedan a separate drop-in piece which allows easy two-tone paint but partner Gaincorp Develop- ment. is is the first time which has caused a slight problem. at top is about 0.1 inch (4 scale ones) too Automodello is entering the long and overhangs the windshield frame instead of fitting flush behind it. huge Asian market. Why Aside from that, Brooklin has really nailed the lines and details. e that matters to us collec- authentic glossy Turquoise and Ermine White paint is set off by no tors is that the additional less than 31 separate, in-scale chrome-plated pieces that in- volume will accelerate the clude pinhead-size Capri emblems. All window moldings, number and diversity the vent window frames, and “LINCOLN” hood of models the company letters are painted over and tiny Capri fender produces—meaning more scripts are missing. Interior details are choices for good stuff for typical Brooklin; accurate upholstery us here in the domestic and dash with authentic relief details market too. One of the first but without inner handles, armrests, models to be released un- or gauge face details. ere’s good der the new arrangement high-relief chassis detail in the will be the Noble M600—a metal baseplate, too. — Wayne British-built supercar that Moyer is very popular in the Asian Brooklin; distributed by brasiliapress.com market (Photo courtesy of Noble Automotive) Awesome Alfa automodello.com TOP MARQUES COLLECTIBLES 2014 ALFA ROMEO 4C 1:18 scale | $220 e last Alfa Romeos sold in this country were small but sporty sedans whose focus was definitely utilitarian. After a two-decade absence, Alfa has returned, this time with a two-seat sports car powered by a 240-horsepower turbocharged double-overhead cam four cylinder engine. Its composite body is wrapped around a carbon-fiber and aluminum chassis reportedly weighing a mere 143 pounds, and whose styling makes it’s German and English competition look, well, stuffy. Top Marques Collectibles is a new line of top-quality 1:18 scale resincast models by BBR and built for them “overseas.” e 4C is one of their first models and there are loads of photos and road tests to show that they have every curve, dip, and bulge of the voluptuous body (there isn’t a straight line on it!) exactly right. Its heavy body is flawless and the silver metallic paint is as fine as you’ll find anywhere. e only trim on the 4C are the seven (one’s on the steering wheel) scale-size Alfa badges, all with four distinct colors and legible chrome letters. Even the pinhead-size side marker lights have clear lenses! It’s curbside; nothing opens, but the interior and engine upper surfaces are clearly visible through thin, clear “glass.”. Big ventilated disks and calipers are visible behind the authentic and unusual wheels. anks to Wild About Wheels (215-322-7593) for this early sample. — Wayne Moyer Top Marques; distributed by bbrmodels.it SPRING 2015 13
SHOWROOM Pretty Plymouth Elegant English GTs CONQUEST/JMMODELAUTOS KYOSHO ASTON MARTIN DB9 AND VANQUISH 1941 PLYMOUTH STATION WAGON 1:43 | $98 1:43 | $285 Aston Martin is having a pretty good year with its stylish main line grand tourer the DB9 being joined by the ultra-perfor- e Special Deluxe series was Plymouth’s top-line offering for 1941 and at the very top was the mance Vanquish. Kyosho, in signing on to produce both in 1:43 4-Door 7/8-Passenger Station Wagon. Plymouth offered buyers a choice of wood colors for the first in a host of colors, is poised to enjoy the halo effect of these time in 1941; all white ash or the traditional white ash framing with mahogany insert panels. Conquest gorgeous coupes. e DB9 is not exactly a wallflower with its has made this stunning “Raleigh Tavern Rust” version exclusively for JMModelautos and the color seductive lines and its 510hp V12, but the extroverted Van- matches online samples very well. It contrasts beautifully with the traditional two-tone wood (with quish, with its carbon-fiber roof, aggressive ground effects very nice grain detail for the inserts) and the optional ivory-colored canvas top. Overall lines match and integrated rear deck spoiler, easily overshadows its more available photos very well and Conquest has the ‘41’s new heart-shaped grille and all other details stately sibling. ey are clearly related (like Cain and Abel!) exactly right. e tiny Plymouth scripts and hood badge are crisply printed decals while all other and Kyosho captures well the essence of both cars. Even the exterior trim is done with in-scale separate plated parts. Note that the “speed lines” on the fenders interior differences are accounted for, with the DB9’s more were really stamped stiffeners and were not plated. A peek inside shows the wood-grain dash with sumptuous accommodations nicely visible with the white its silver instrument panel and rectangular instrument panel are correct, as is the simple uphol- car’s red upholstery. Both are beautiful, and they look great in stery. Conquest has given the model a smooth, cream-colored headliner whereas the real cars had side-by-side display! varnished wood planks. Inner side panels were also varnished light ash, not tan, but they do have Kyosho; distributed by Minichamps; carvillemodelshop.com separate plated handles and cranks. Wide whites with authentic dog-dish caps and red Plymouth scripts finish off a very accurate and attractive model. — Wayne Moyer jmmodelautos.com Big Beautiful Buick BROOKLIN BUICK COLLECTION 1939 CENTURY CONVERTIBLE PHAETON 1:43 | $129.95 Although Buick’s new 1937-38 bodies were very well received, they surprised the automobile industry by introducing completely new bodies again in 1939. e mid-level Century series updated straight-eight actually produced more power than Cadillac’s V-8, while standard-equipment turn signals were an industry first. Buick built only 269 top-line Century Convertible Phaetons, a true 6-passenger, 4-door convertible, but it’s the subject of Brooklin’s latest Buick Collection model and it’s a beauty. ere are plenty of photos to confirm that Brooklin has the overall shape and all the details right any way you look at it. Its authentic Casino Beige paint is smooth and glossy, and contrasts nicely with the dark red interior, black running boards and top boot, and wide white tires. is model has plated vent window frames so all the exterior trim except for the beltline moldings and stripes on top of the headlight bullets is done with separate chromed metal cast- ings. Brooklin has included more interior detail than usual too, with good-looking seat and inner door panel upholstery, separate plated door handles (but no window cranks), and a new plated “banjo” steering wheel with the column shifter included. Accurate relief-cast dashboard and instrument details are a little difficult to see under the authentic faux wood paint. ere are nicely done “rubber” floor mats, too, along with Brooklin’s usual accurate relief-cast chassis detail. It’s a big model, but dimensions are precisely 1:43 scale. — Wayne Moyer Brooklin; distributed by brasiliapress.com 14 DCXmag.com
SHOWROOM Mini Muscle, Contrary to popular assumption, the importance of presentation does not diminish with size. is is a principle that the folks at Castline Max Detail clearly understand, and take full advantage of with their line of 1:64-scale Detroit-Muscle M2 Machines. Given that each comes with a molded diamond plate base (with a stenciled plaque identifying the car and its release number) that mates with an acrylic dust cover to M2 MACHINES DETROIT form a classy display case, these cars have already set the tone as something special even before you consider the car itself. And when MUSCLE SERIES 26 you do, you will recognize the handiwork of true muscle car enthusiasts—they choose the right cars and they pay attention to details! e 1:64 | $6 ’66 Corvette comes as either a 327ci small-block or a 427 with side pipes. Ford fans will admire the ’68 Mercury Cougar duo, which are dif- ferentiated by wheels, interior color, vinyl versus tin top, and even distinctive engine inserts to represent both a 302 and a 390. Drag race fans will get a kick out of the ’69 Nickey Chevrolet 427 Camaros — there’s a road-going version, but the star is a COPO strip warrior with sponsor billboards on the doors and a set of drag tires mounted on steel rims out back! m2machines.com More Excellent French Curves Excellence MINICHAMPS 1936 TALBOT LAGO T26 SS “GRAND PRIX” IXO 1960 FACEL VEGA EXCELLENCE 1:43 | $99.95 1:43 | $44.95 Minichamps Mullin Collection Talbot-Lago T26-SS (Super Sport) is one of only three of these cars, When the subject of sleek, low-slung European basically their Grand Prix race car with a widened chassis and two-seat bodywork. Two were built for GT cars with American engines comes up, most the 1936 Le Mans but this one (chassis 90203) wasn’t seen until the 1939 24-Hours. of us think of the many Italian-American hybrids, It re-surfaced after the war to finish third in the Torino Grand Prix, which definitely or the English Cad-Allards and later, Cobras. But wasn’t an F1 race but may account for its designation. Peter Mullin regularly brings surprisingly, the first to be offered in both Europe this car to Historic Automobile races, so photos are easy to find and they all show that and the U.S. was the 1954 Vega, built by the French Minichamps has nailed the flowing lines, teardrop fenders, long tail, and dozens of company Facel and powered by the new Chrysler tiny louvers perfectly. Its Navy Blue paint is excellent, with printed numbers and rivet 276 cubic-inch Hemi. A succession of Facel Vegas heads; everything else (and it’s all there) is done with plated or photo-etched parts. e cycle fender struts are very thin, the tiny (1.1 by 1.6 mm) hood badge is beautiful, but the delicate door handles/latches are most impressive. — Wayne Moyer Minichamps; distributed by carvillemodelsshop.com www.DiecastMusclecars.com (all Chrysler-powered) culminated in the 1960 Excellence, a beautiful 4-door pillarless hardtop with We specialize in 1/18 Scale Diecast center-opening doors and a VERY hefty $12,500.00 Musclecars from Acme, Auto Art, Auto World, price tag. Tom McCahill called the Excellence “sexier Greenlight, GMP, Sun Star & More. than the Place Pigalle and throatier than a Russian Call (715)874-6037 for more info or visit basso.” Ixo has the Excellence’s clean lines right www.DiecastMusclecars.com from every angle and every detail is there in perfect scale; the legible photo-etched “Excellence” on All cars are packaged very carefully and shipped out the trunk lid measures just 0.17 in.! e authentic within 24 hours via UPS. pale metallic green paint is absolutely flawless and We accept Mastercard and Visa on our Simple-Secure there’s a LOT of chrome; some of which, like the wide Online Order Form. lower body moldings, appears to be printed in very bright chrome. Looking inside, the leather-colored “Mention this ad for a FREE SHIPPING OFFER upholstery’s seat and door panel patterns are cor- on your first order” rect, with relief handles and cranks over-printed with silver. e authentic wood-grained dash is nicely Serving the World Wide Web with Quality Service Since 1999 done and has a full complement of accurate instru- ments. e only item missing is the long, thin shift lever. — Wayne Moyer jmmodelautos.com 16 DCXmag.com
OUT OF THE BOX BY MATT BOYD The Return of a Petty Blue Powerhouse GMP 1970 PLYMOUTH HEMI ROAD RUNNER 1:18 | $169.95 You know that feeling you get when you rediscover a long-lost personal treasure — an irreplaceable keepsake or memento you were sure was lost forever? e wave of joy and nostalgia and maybe even a little relief — it’s one of the best sensations ever. at’s how I felt when this prototype GMP Road Runner landed on my desk — the first of its kind. e glee with which I tore into the box had my coworkers looking at me askance. Sure, I had known for several weeks that GMP would be sending it, and technically speaking it isn’t something I personally lost. Rather, GMP’s hiatus from the diecast market was a loss to all of us, and the announcement that they would be resuming manufacture after all this time was cause for celebration. But only when the box arrived did it actually become real to me that GMP is back. ey’re really back! 18 DCXmag.com
And what a way to come back! it. ere are separate polished it going straight at stoplight e 1970 Plymouth B-body metal castings for the door battles. e dash features a full handles, mirrors and window instrument cluster and opening casting (which they released as and grille surrounds of course, glove box, but the rest of the both Road Runners and GTXs as well as body-colored castings dash is representative of a no- in hard top and soft) was one for the rear-quarter and hood frills performance car. It features of GMP’s last, best muscle cars. vents. Panel gaps are straight hand-crank windows of course, It incorporates the technical and tight, with the single but before you move on, stop wizardry, astute car-guy exception for the trailing edge and take another look. I don’t sensibilities, and knack for of the hood, which is wider than mean that the model portrays collector appeal that made GMP the others. As mentioned, this hand-crank windows; this scale such a beloved brand. No wonder is a prototype — the prototype replica’s windows actually roll then that certain versions of in fact — as at press time there up via the hand cranks! is this casting still trade in the was just this single sample in has always been one of my secondary market at four to five the continental U.S. I’ve seen the favorite of GMP’s engineering times their original selling price! hood gap vary on this casting, tricks — the B-body and the Ford but hard to say how it will be on Fairlane both feature them, and is latest ‘Runner ticks all the production units. It’s the single they are so much fun to show right boxes for a no-nonsense knock against an otherwise off — people cannot believe their street-and-strip screamer: world-class casting. e long eyes the first time they see them 426 Hemi backed by a pistol- road this particular Road Runner work! Production Road Runners grip 4-speed and wrapped in a has run making its rounds with will have drop-in rear quarter hardtop body bathed in what is the press accounts for a slightly windows to match the roll-ups officially known as “Corporate tweaked mirror and a scuff mark but this prototype didn’t have Blue” (hence the license plate!) on the otherwise outstanding them yet. e trunk features a but will forever be known to paint. I don’t fault the model for nice trunk mat, jack and full-size the legions of Mopar faithful as road rash from rough handling, spare. “Petty” Blue! Honestly, this car and you can bank on GMP’s could have been any color and I’d customer cars being pristine. GMP has always delivered have been stoked to see it — but While you’re admiring the the horsepower—and the scale GMP wasn’t going to let anything finish on yours, check out the power—under the hood and this less than a stone-cold stunner functional Air Grabber hood Petty Blue beauty is no different. herald its return, and that’s what scoop and flip-down rear license A giant orange oval air cleaner we get. plate fuel filler door. is emblazoned with the Road Runner’s Warner Bros. cartoon BLUE MENACE Swing open the door to see namesake next to a “Coyote e contours on the GMP B-body the archetypical street and Duster” decal, and what lies strip warrior. Nothing extra beneath can effectively dust are exquisite as ever; big and in here that doesn’t make the just about any other animal out square-shouldered with that car faster. A split bench seat there too. ere’s no mistaking frowning grille, it’s kind of necessitates 4-on-the-floor the iconic 426 Hemi, or GMP’s menacing — just as Plymouth rather than a console mount handiwork in replicating it. wanted its competitors to see for the pistol grip shifter. Basic Scale-gauge plug wires thread rim-blow steering wheel keeps down through the center of the SPRING 2015 19
GMP delivers scale horsepower under the hood. I love the metal brake lines sprouting The interior is all business. A split bench, a rim-blow steering wheel and a pistol-grip from the booster and the shroud to channel cold air from the vacuum-operated Air Grab- 4-speed all look great, and are perfect for the Road Runner’s no-frills performance im- ber scoop down into the ”Coyote Duster” decorated air cleaner. age. immense black crackle-finish still does muscle motor detail as valve covers, and another well as anyone out there! tracing from the ignition coil to Carefully flip the ‘Runner over the battery. Metal brake lines (watch out for those mirrors!) trace out from the brake booster to examine one of the better on the firewall. Heater hoses diecast muscle car chassis you’ll go through the firewall on the ever see. The geared differential other side. Radiator hoses, a fluid and revolving driveshaft are reservoir bottle, a battery with great. The subtle paint work with accurate terminals and cables its numerous accurate tones is are all present. The solitary nod better. But the clincher is the to convenience is a power- suspension. Functional coil steering pump — just try to springs up front settle under wheel an elephant-motor Mopar the heft of the model (about 3.5 on the street without it! All this pounds worth!), and out back fantastic detail is visible thanks are functional, multi-piece to sprung scissor hinges. GMP metal leaf springs — so cool! The guys at GMP have a genuine enthusiasm Body-colored steel wheels with dog-dish hubcaps — attached magnetically! You can also for cars and car culture that is authentic as the spot a glimpse here of the scale, functional multi-piece leaf springs! models they produce, and it is palpable in this Petty Blue Road Runner Wheels are body-colored steel been wrong! The company (remember, this car is all about has always done consistently Hand-crank windows on a car like this. no-frills performance!) with excellent work, and this car picks No, really. The model’s actually roll up and dog-dish hubcaps — which are up right where they left off. More down when you turn the scale crank! magnetically retained so you than that, the guys at GMP have can flick them off if you’d rather a genuine enthusiasm for cars reduce the rolling weight for your and car culture that is authentic next bracket run! Those steelies as the models they produce, and are wrapped in appropriately it is palpable in this Petty Blue decorated F60-15 Goodyear Road Runner. It delivers on all Polyglas GTs. cylinders — detail, workmanship, desirability, prospective collector WELCOME BACK, GMP! value. If premium 1:18 muscle If you had asked me when GMP cars interest you at all, there is first stepped away from the simply no reason not to order diecast world whether someday one. If you’re a fan of GMP, you probably already have — but if by we’d see new models some oversight you haven’t yet, from them I would put down this magazine and do it have been skeptical. now. These will sell out. You don’t We’ve watched several want to be left out of GMP’s big storied brands close homecoming celebration! up shop during the last few years, and I SOURCES thought GMP was done GMP distributed by acmediecast.com too. I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to have 20 DCXmag.com
FACTORY-BACKED Track battles that fueled brand loyalty and legendary rivals BY ALAN PARADISE | PHOTOS BY ALAN PARADISE, AND COURTESY OF GM, FORD, AND CHRYSLER W hat Wins on Sunday Sells on Monday.” at impossible to say “Ford” without also thinking “Chevy.” As fate old adage is forever etched in the minds of would have it, the connection between the two on the track automotive marketing teams and the hearts of started before Louis Chevrolet even created the car company motorsports enthusiasts — especially those of that bore his name in 1911. Chevrolet was first a racecar driver. the Baby Boomer generation. While it is a message we largely What was good for the goose (Henry Ford) was also good associate with Detroit automakers, it is a global ideal. In fact, for the gander (Louis Chevrolet). Early on, certain European the reality of how victory on the track boosts sales is deeply automakers had a profound impact on the link between racing rooted in the European auto industry. However, when General and the general-use car. Auto Union, Opel, Mercedes and Alfa Motors, Ford and Chrysler discovered the formula, the entire Romeo were early proponents of racing to promote sales, as notion was elevated to a completely different level. well as to develop technology and safety. After World War II, Aston Martin, Jaguar and upstarts Porsche and Ferrari entered Factory supported racing can be traced by to the turn of the the fray. In America, stock car racing was becoming a force in 20th century. e second car Henry Ford built was designed the southern states while sports car competition was gaining specifically to race. e 1901 car won its only race by outlasting popularity in the eastern and northern states. Out west it was its sole competitor. His next car was the famous “999” racer. a blend of the two. However, it was time trials on old airstrips With that came another high-profile win. ese two victories and desert dry lakes that soon captured the hearts of a restless ultimately attracted backing and propelled Ford to create generation of West Coast racing enthusiasts. his own car company in 1903. When it comes to racing, it’s
Even as manufacturers promoted THE POST-WAR BOOM a ban on factory-supported racing, AND THE RISE OF NASCAR there was no denying the connec- tion between the showroom and Right after WW II here in the the track – as can be seen in this U.S. it was stock car racing — 1963 Chevrolet promotional photo mainly in the form of a fledgling for the new Corvette Sting Ray. NASCAR — that benefited from early factory interest from Ford, Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Hudson, Dodge, Plymouth and Mercury brands — mostly by default. This was because Detroit had not yet created a sports car and had not fully realized yet how big drag racing was about to become. Stock car drivers began by tapping local dealerships for sponsorship in the form of replacement parts and gas money. This led to access to factory pre-production or experimental engine equipment. This loose association provided drivers with performance advantages and manufacturers with stress data outside of its own controlled environment. Sports car racing was not impacted by the Corvette when it first appeared in 1953. It wasn’t until the 1955 Ford Thunderbird and 1956 Corvette came along that American-made two- seaters were given any real respect. However, just as American sports cars were starting to become a factor, an event occurred that changed the face of virtually all factory-backed racing in the U.S. Ironically, that event wasn’t even in the States. It happened in France: the 1955 24-Hours of Le Mans — the scene of the horrific accident that sent a Mercedes-Benz 300SLR into the grandstands on the front straightaway. The wreckage and fire killed nearly 85 people and injured more than 100 more. The major Detroit automakers, fearing legal exposure and governmental scrutiny, created a gentlemen’s agreement in 1957 to publicly back away from direct involvement in any form of racing. Of course, most had no real intention to actually stay completely out of motorsports, but public support was forbidden, and none would admit to having a covert plan to promote via the track. There was one rebel in the automotive ranks, however. Pontiac thumbed its nose at the idea of a racing ban and created the “Super Duty Group.” Concerned with the survival of the brand, Pontiac chief Bunky Knudsen created a program SPRING 2015 23
Factory-Backed Left: The battle between Ford and Chevy goes back to the early 1900s. Henry Ford’s first car was a racer that won its one and only race. Arthur and Louis Chevrolet were into racing as a means to promote their automotive venture as well. This no. 8 entry is from 1916. Right: Ford competed on a worldwide basis. This 1937 Monte Carlo Rally entry proved how cost- effective a racecar built using factory components could be. that fed stock car drivers with racing. Likewise, many of the and Plymouth divisions were on Monday. The Muscle Car era components to create more performance parts became more interested in the no-holds- was on the horizon and it had horsepower than anyone else. available to racers of privately barred sport of drag racing as a significant effect on another Pontiac was soon the dominant owned Corvettes through special many of the young stars of the automotive adage: “You Are What brand in NASCAR and set its dealership programs. This was sport had embraced Chrysler’s You Drive.” At the dawning of sights on drag racing as well. factory support in all but name. Hemi engines. the Muscle Car era the market Ford had developed a similar was ripe for the all-American Chevy was still hard at arrangement that extended to sport of drag racing. It was here work too — albeit behind the NASCAR car owners/drivers. where Chevrolet fired the first scenes. In 1958, Bill Mitchell Chrysler had no interest in sports IMPACT ON THE STREET — salvo in the form of the Impala and Zora Duntov created some car racing, but did create “Heavy AND STRIP SS – first with a 348-cid W-block “experimental” Corvettes Duty” performance parts for engine and shortly thereafter that quickly became a force NASCAR. However, the Dodge In the early 1960s GM, Ford and with the legendary 409. The in endurance sports car Chrysler were making direct correlations between what won on Sunday and what sold With “assistance” from Ford, Carroll Shelby de- buted his Cobra at Riverside Raceway in California in June of 1962. 24 DCXmag.com
Left: Despite the American automakers’ self-imposed ban on factory-supported racing largely due to the crash of a Mercedes-Benz that killed over 80 spectators at Le Mans in 1955, a team of Corvettes showed up at that same historic event in 1960. Right: Shelby wasn’t the only racer Ford was lending a hand to. In 1963 Mickey ompson burned up the quarter-mile in his slingshot dragster powered by a new Ford 427 fitted with a blower and running on nitro. old handshake agreement was would become better known as the Mattel, Don “the Snake” series began in 1966 with two cast aside (so to speak) and the the “Funny Car.” A few years Prudhomme and Tom “the classes – under 2.0-Liter and gloves came off. Detroit was soon later, again with help from Ford, Mongoose” McEwen deal in over 2.0-Liter. e idea was to selling essentially full-on race Chrisman and Don Nicholson January of 1970. allow smaller-engine European cars — complete with lightweight created the first “flip-up” sedans to race heads-up while bodies, super-high compression fiberglass bodied Funny Cars. TRANS AM: FACTORY larger cars, such as the Mustang, engines, and competition-grade Nicholson ran the new Mustang DOORSLAMMERS THAT Falcon and Dart, would run in suspensions — out the back while Chrisman stayed loyal to TURN! the larger class. Alfa Romeo doors of dealerships! Words Mercury, now using a Cyclone GTA coupes battled Ford Cortina such as Hemi, Max Wedge, body. Chrisman’s Kendall Oil If ever a racing series was made entries the first year and even GT-1 Cyclone Funny Car was for factory-support it was beat out the larger-displacement underbolt, COPO, Posi- the most popular machine in SCCA’s Trans-American Sedan cars. e popularity of the series Traction, dual-quad, and Rat drag racing until the advent of Championship, better known as prompted Porsche to lobby the Motor became common in the the legendary Trans-Am. e car-guy vernacular. Ford pulled out all the stops to dominate world-class racing when And while Chrysler was it created the GT40. A team of cars the clear engine choice, it was debuted at Le Mans in 1964 and soon Mercury that may have had the after took over the event, winning biggest effect of the popularity four straight from 1966 to 1969. of the sport. In 1963, Ford’s Fran Hernandez made offers to a select number of accomplished drivers. Among this group was Jack Chrisman. Chrisman was sold (at a greatly reduced price) a new Mercury Comet for the expressed purpose of building a racecar. But months went by and Chrisman had not touched the car. When Hernandez pressed the talented driver/builder for an explanation, he replied, “if I can’t run a blower on nitro, what’s the point?” Hernandez then told Chrisman, “ ere are no rules here. Do whatever you want to the car, just get it on the track.” He was given access to the new 427 Cammer engine. To make it work, he altered the engine’s position and the Comet’s wheelbase at the rear. e result was the first of what SPRING 2015 25
FACTORY-BACKED Left: Jack Chrisman is considered the father of the Funny Car. His vision and innovations led to the first flip-top Funny Car in 1966. His association with the Mercury brand made him the most popular driver of his day. is 1967 Cyclone was the blueprint for Funny Cars for the next two decades. Right: 1970 was a banner year for factory-racing in Europe as well. Ford created a buzz with its Capri rally cars. same. Factory support in the SCCA to reclassify the 911 as Javelin models soared. When NHRA drag racing. e popularity form of Ford, Chevrolet, and a sedan. ey dominated the Datsun entered the game with of the Funny Car and Super Stock Toyota Racing divisions keep smaller class in 1967 while Ford – the 510—headed up by Pete classes allowed fans to directly NASCAR at the front of the pack. with massive input from Shelby, Brock’s Brock Racing Enterprises identify with their favorite makes New purpose-built factory won the over-2.0L class. is team, they quickly dispatched and models, which was precisely Challenger and Camaro offerings was also the year that Chevrolet, more established teams from the association that benefited have been built for NHRA Super Pontiac, Mercury and American Alfa Romeo, Opel, BMW and Fiat Detroit most. Ford, Oldsmobile Stock class. Not to mention the Motors would begin to make a in the newly renamed the Two- and Chevrolet also supported support Dodge heaps on the Pro mark in the series. SCCA’s rules Five Challenge (for the upgrade American open wheel racing. Stock, Funny Car and Top Fuel (with lobbying from the majors) in engine size to 2.5L). Two years However, the lack of brand classes. limited wheelbase to 111-inches later, SCCA disbanded the class, recognition of the cars and engine size to 5.0-Liter as all other manufactures had themselves made this (302 cubic inches). By 1970, the conceded to the unbeatable BRE mainly a bragging- biggest name drivers in racing 510s. rights venture. It was were regulars on the circuit as now NASCAR and manufacturers threw massive THE MODERN ERA NHRA where the big support to the supposedly support was being When widespread factory “independent” teams. What won support for Trans-Am began to sent. on Sunday sold huge on Monday be phased out in 1972, the Big Fast-forward 40 as the popularity of Mustang, Camaro, ‘Cuda, Challenger and ree and Little One (American years and the song Motors) put more effort into remains nearly the Muscle Car Marketing 101 Dodge quickly mastered the art of strip-to-street marketing. With factory-assisted programs, a special division created alliances with racers such as the Ramchargers, Sox & Martin, Dick Landy and others to pump up its street image. Using showroom stock sheet metal and tweaked versions of factory-issued engines such as the Max Wedge and Hemi, the Super Stock classes supplied a massive lift during the early days of the Muscle Car era. 26 DCXmag.com
out of the box by matt boyd One Small Car, One Giant Racing Legacy RetroMotoring & Co. BRE Datsun 510 1:18 | Price To Be Announced T he story behind the Brock Racing Enterprises (BRE) Datsun 510s is one of pride, personality, and perseverance. The pride element came courtesy of Datsun’s arch rival Toyota. Founder Pete Brock had inherited an inroad to Toyota when the Japanese firm bought the Hino brand — which BRE had done design work for — in 1967. Brock created one design for Toyota, and a preliminary deal was struck to have BRE campaign the new Toyota 2000GT coupes in 1968. However, at the last minute, Toyota decided to go with Brock’s former employer Shelby American. Feeling jilted, Brock wanted to exact revenge on Toyota — and kick a little dirt in the eye of his old boss in the process. So he started looking around for a suitable vehicle to beat the 2000GT with. The ideal solution presented itself in the form of rival Datsun and its strangely unsuccessful 2000 roadster. Brock was convinced he could win with it — if only he could convince Datsun to let him try! The boxy little Datsun 510 may have seemed like an unlikely racecar, but with full factory support and BRE’s engineering know-how it This was harder than it might was the class of the field — and a fantastic way to launch the new RetroMotoring line! seem. Datsun’s factory racing effort in the U.S. was being 32 DCXmag.com headed up (poorly!) by the son- in-law of a Datsun executive, so Brock’s inquiries quickly hit a dead end. But he persevered, and in a stroke of coincidental good fortune, Brock’s former boss at Hino just happened to be an old schoolmate of Datsun U.S.A. President Yutaka Katayama — Mr. K himself! Brock made
his pitch to Mr. K, who agreed the 2.5 Trans-Am, or Two- any other team in Two-Five MAKING A NAME FOR ITSELF and quietly had BRE shipped Five Challenge. The little 510 BRE managed to take the title Like BRE itself did, a pair of roadsters from Japan. sedan was selected by BRE with lead driver John Morton, RetroMotoring is making quite When the BRE-prepared cars to fly the Datsun flag. At Mr. supported by Mike Downs. The a dramatic entrance with the showed up on track at the start K’s insistence, the American- team defended in 1972, adding 510. They’ve chosen to launch of the ’68 season, no one was market 510 had been imbued a third “guest” car to the team. the project with two versions: more surprised than the Datsun with sporty attributes from its Over the course of the season, Morton’s championship-winning factory team — particularly introduction: an independent guest drivers included Bob Sharp, no. 46, and the guest car no. 85 when they got beat! In following rear suspension, even weight Peter Gregg, Sam Posey, Hershel as driven by Bobby Allison in the seasons Mr. K’s baby — the 240Z distribution, light weight and a McGriff, and for the final two races final two races of the ’72 season. — was introduced, and BRE was potent (and tunable!) engine. The at Laguna Seca and Riverside, What you see here are the very put in charge of the factory race boxy little body concealed quite NASCAR legend Bobby Allison. first two RMC prototypes. They program, dominating in SCCA a nimble little performer, Guest drivers won several races are resin, with tons of surface club racing. and with a level of factory and Morton easily took the title detail molded into the sealed By 1971, imports were backing that exceeded for the second — and, as it turned body shells and nice crisp panel becoming hugely popular in out, final — year of the Two-Five edges. The seemingly simple the U.S. and the SCCA decided championship. The BRE 510’s three-box shape features quite to expand its Trans-Am series success was key to establishing a bit of subtly sporty styling in to include small-displacement Datsun’s performance image in the form of character lines and imports. They established the U.S. Brock’s striking livery contours, further enhanced by became the face of the brand for BRE’s flared fenders to clear up- many enthusiasts. It’s a car that sized racing rubber — all of which deserves to be modeled, and it’s RMC renders beautifully. The the perfect choice for TrueScale models feature separate castings Miniatures new spinoff brand or etchings for all of the trim, — The RetroMotoring Collection from windshield and backlight (RMC.) reinforcements, to wiper blades, to window surrounds. The photo- etched hood and trunk pins are amazingly delicate. The rear valence features an external fuel filler and a safety kill switch. RMC even got the notches in the rocker panels where the racing jacks lift the car during pit stops! It should be noted that the 46 car wears 1971 spring 2015 33
livery, while the no. 85 carries The fine detail on the etched trim gives these models a really upscale feel. 1972 colors with its Simoniz and I particularly like the delicate hood pins and tethers. Coca-Cola sponsorship. The A Singular Talent: placement of sponsor decals restored and now run aluminum the big-bore ceramic-coated evolved slightly race to race, Libres painted dark gray to exhaust tip which you can see Pete Brock but both models are extremely resemble the raw magnesium when the car is upright. authentic to period photos — color. It is this version that RMC’s Pete Brock started his career at the RMC really did their homework. replica depicts to excellent effect. FINAL THOUGHTS Art Center College of Design in Los The doors do not open, but Brake detail — discs in front, Peter Brock is one of those Angeles as a walk-in straight off the tall greenhouse and open drums aft — is visible through automotive legends who had the street. He had been studying windows give an excellent view the spokes. The wheels need a a hand in many famous and Engineering at Stanford, but felt of the stripped-out race interior. slightly wider stance to perfectly memorable machines: the a school more singularly focused A low-back racing bucket seat match the way the real BRE 510’s Corvette Sting Ray, Shelby’s on automotive design would be a and slim 4-point roll cage were Goodyears filled its wheel wells, Cobra Daytona Coupe, and better fit. The problem? Art Center considered top-notch safety but otherwise the rolling stock is Datsun’s 240Z to name a few. But was a school for art professionals, equipment in 1971-72, but spot-on. There is some modest his greatest racing achievement not inexperienced kids with no work look pretty dicey by today’s chassis detail; the highlight is may have been in taking the experience or formal training. But standards. Good detail though! fight to the racing establishment what Brock did have was a singular There’s a nice woven 4-point For the 1972 season BRE added the no. — specifically Alfa Romeo and talent — and the gumption to walk racing harness as well, but I got 85 “guest” car to the team. The model BMW — with the mundane in and try. Fortunately for him, the a good chuckle from the scripts depicts the car as appeared at the end of little 510 sedan and whipping admissions director was impressed on the shoulder straps: I’ve never the season when NASCAR legend Bobby them at their own game. In with the former and not put off by heard of “Sinpson” racing belts! Allison drove it.. doing so, BRE put Datsun on the latter. Brock was accepted. While That’s ok. Like I said, these are at Art Center he honed his skills and the first prototypes — plenty of the performance map in the made connections that soon landed time to help the overseas factory U.S. and made legions of him a job as a designer; at the tender tune up their spelling. There’s a fans in the process. age of 19 he became the youngest transmission-tunnel-mounted Many of those fans designer in the history of General switchbox just aft of the shift doubtlessly collect Motors! His tenure at GM was fairly lever, and the dashboard has diecast, and they will brief — but he stayed long enough been replaced with a flat panel be thrilled with this to sketch an outline for the Corvette housing racing gauges with very new RetroMotoring that Bill Mitchell selected to become legible faces. Datsun duo. And ’63 split-window Sting Ray. Not bad The hood and trunk are collectors of all types for a 21-year-old kid! sealed, so the fuel cell should be happy to see But Brock’s passion was racing, and engine are left to this new brand, as their and with GM’s corporate ban on the imagination. In factory-backed racing still in effect 1971 the BRE 510s ran choice of subjects and the he decided to move back west to hopped up versions of craftsmanship with which pursue his racing career. His design, the L16 1595cc inline-4, they have executed both driving, and engineering skills got bolstered by a host of bode extremely well. Prices, him noticed by one Carroll Shelby, factory–tuned parts to push production numbers and most who was preparing to open his own output to an estimated 190 other details had not been driving school. Brock became his horsepower — double the stock finalized at press time (such very first official employee, hired figure, and pretty fierce for a car are the perils of exclusive first to run The Carroll Shelby School weighing barely 1,700 pounds! looks at prototypes!) but the of High Performance Driving. As Goodyear racing tires mounted importance and the quality of Shelby branched out into vehicle on tiny 13x5.5-inch American these models are undeniable. design, Brock got back to his Racing Libre magnesium wheels They’ll be worth it. passion. He helped craft the visuals put the power down and kept that distinguished the GT350 from the nimble little 510 stuck to mundane Mustangs, but his crowning the track. The cars have been design achievement was surely the beautiful Cobra Daytona Coupe! As SOURCES Shelby mothballed the Daytona RetroMotoring & Co. 510models.com Coupe to concentrate on running the GT-40 Le Mans program, Brock The tall greenhouse and open windows left to start his own firm: Brock afford an excellent view of the race- Racing Enterprises, designing racing prepped interior. The dash was replaced concepts for Hino, De Tomaso, and with a flat panel housing a full comple- Triumph before connecting up with ment of highly detailed instruments. Datsun. The rest, as they say, is history! 34 DCXmag.com
Luxuryl e g a c y o f A CENTURY OF EXCLUSIVITY AND EXCELLENCE French manufacturer Bugatti was among the most BY MATT BOYD prestigious brands in the world, and its Type 41 Royale was among the most exclusive and expensive machines ever offered. Just six were made. is is the Coupé Napoleon offered by Bauer. Its 1:18 but looks much larger! From the automobile’s earliest days, the concept of luxury Below: Even as late as the 1950s custom coachbuilders has been a part of its DNA. e idea of the car as pure utility gave way sold high-end, limited- almost immediately to an accommodation of comfort and convenience, as production luxury machines manufacturers sought to set themselves apart from competitors and offer appeal like this 1956-58 Dual Ghia, that might garner their product a premium price. e engineering was evolving just reproduced by Automodello as quickly, so a premium was also placed on performance. But there were more than those in 1:43. market forces at work — the car was a cultural phenomenon, and inevitably it began to reflect aspects of image and social status. Consumers with wherewithal wanted a conveyance that made it clear they were a cut above. And manufacturers were happy to oblige — for a price. Within 20 years of Karl Benz introducing the first “Motorwagen,” such luxury brands as Duesenberg, Rolls-Royce, and Cadillac had entered the market, and brought with them ever-increasing levels of comfort, speed and exclusivity. And style! Luxury cars were a statement, and the craftsmanship — much of it designed and hand-tooled by custom coachbuilders — transformed them into rolling modern art. 36 DCXmag.com
VINTAGE AND PRE WAR Right: Rolls-Royce kept the spirit of “personal Above: Edsel Ford personally ERAS 1920 1941 luxury” alive with the two-door Silver Shadow, commissioned the original Lincoln even as it embraced contemporary, squarish Continental in 1939. It proved so e segment exploded and lines in 1965. is is Paragon’s beautiful 1:18 popular that FoMoCo hand-built diversified during the economic version. 400 examples for 1940, including a and cultural boom of the Roaring few hardtops. Twenties. Every type of coupe, GM Design icon Harley Earl was toying with Left: e V16 roadster was perhaps sedan, cabriolet, phaeton, and themes in the 1939 Buick Y Job that had the most extravagant personal speedster imaginable was to be postponed until after the war to be luxury vehicle ever offered by rolled out by literally dozens implemented. Cadillac. Danbury Mint produced of manufacturers. Stately a 1932 model in 1:24 and a 1930 limousine-like big cars thrived, version in gigantic 1:12 scale! but the “personal luxury” vehicle also came to prominence, with SPRING 2015 37 extravagant and sporty two- seaters capturing much of the imagination of the automotive audience. Some of the most stylish, recognizable and beloved automobile designs of all time hail from this period, and with them some of the most collectible diecast models. And then … crash! October 29, 1929 —“Black Tuesday” — would signal the beginning of the end for the Golden Age of luxury automobiles. e stock market collapsed, and in the following years many fortunes followed suit. Businesses folded, unemployment soared, and suddenly shelling out several times the cost of a middle-class home for a lavish luxury limo seemed fiscally irresponsible, to say nothing of the tackiness of having to dodge bread lines as you drove around town. Manufacturers tried to weather the storm, but as the Great Depression wore on year after year, it began to claim casualties among the luxury brands. Stutz, Auburn/Cord/Duesenberg, Pierce-Arrow and numerous others closed their doors during this time as the market continued to shrink. Ironically, the marques that survived were producing some truly exceptional automobiles — and all the more impactful for the relative scarcity of competition. Plenty of good diecast replicas come from this era where flowing lines, striking colors and opulent trim give model companies lots to work with. POST WAR AND CLASSIC ERAS 1945 1969 When WW II broke out, the surviving luxury brands were in the midst of envisioning what the next generation of top- echelon vehicles should look like. Legendary design gurus like GM’s Harley Earl and Chrysler’s Virgil Exner were pushing the
Many of the features of the 1951 LeSabre concept car made it into production later in the decade at Cadillac and other GM brands. limits of style and technology. was upon us. Bigger was better Right: You can see more reserved. Caddy and But production of their visions when it came to fins, engines, the demographic Lincoln now ruled the U.S. would be put on hold while the chrome and overall presence— Cadillac was market largely uncontested. world waged war. It wasn’t until and nothing more singularly targeting with its German giant Mercedes-Benz 1949, four years after the war personifies the decade than the 1953 sales brochure! continued to be a major player on ended, that the industry was iconic ’59 Cadillac. Europe was the world stage, while the British able to usher in the next age productive as well — particularly in 1:43, with brands serenely pushed forward of automotive luxury. Cadillac the Brits — although their styling selective models increasingly with their traditional style and and Lincoln moved to the fore was predictably somewhat common in 1:18. e now defunct hand-built charm. Economics led as the two most prestigious more conservative. Products “Mint” brands covered dozens of the Americans to move slightly American luxury brands, while from Rolls-Royce, Bentley and American models in 1:24 — many down-market to appeal to a smaller companies like Packard Jaguar exuded old-world class still available on the secondary more populist audience, and for and Studebaker dabbled. And and charm. Numerous models market — while white metal a couple of decades in the 80s as the Fabulous Fifties got into from this era are available. e and resin manufacturers offer a full swing, the era of the tailfin European brands are plentiful selection in 1:43. But the biggest domestic impact is in 1:18. MODERN ERA 1970 Fins and chrome were dialed back during the 1960s and all American car shapes became AUTOart depicts the iconic ’59 Caddy beautifully in 1:18. Just look at those fins! 38 DCXmag.com
Perhaps the purest example of modern automotive extravagance is the Bugatti Veyron. It costs $1.5 million dollars, has a 1,000-horsepower turbocharged V16 and goes 250+mph! AUTOart’s 1:18 version is slightly more affordable. and 90s they lost some of their Right: In recent years, several classic luster before roaring back in the British marques have been bought 2000s with world-class style up by larger firms and their assembly and performance. Mercedes and business practices modernized. has soared, and is now joined by Volkswagen snatched up Bentley, which BMW and Audi as the undisputed now builds thoroughly modern vehicles like this Continental Flying Spur using kings of upper-middle class certain Audi-sourced parts. Minichamps transportation. Japan has does this nice version in 1:18. even gotten in on the action, introducing upscale sub-brands in every way. And that brings Lexus (Toyota), Acura (Honda) us to today, where across the and Infiniti (Nissan) to challenge entire luxury landscape the Germans. the vehicles enjoy e personal luxury coupes unprecedented levels and cabriolets of previous years of performance, dwindled, while an unlikely comfort, reliability, new breed — the luxury SUV technology and utility. — grew rapidly. British icons Rolls-Royce, Bentley and Jaguar were bought up by foreign firms (BMW, Volkswagen and Ford, respectively) in order to stay economically viable, and those parent companies modernized their designs and their business practices quite successfully. France’s most prestigious halo brand from the Vintage era, Bugatti, rocketed back onto the scene with the Veyron — a 1,000hp, $1.5-million-dollar Above right: e third in Lincoln’s special “Mark” series, the MkIII, uber-exotic that set new bridged the gap between classic and modern. Automodello’s 1:24 standards of outrageous excess replica illustrates nicely why it was so special. Above left: In the 70s, 80s, and 90s Cadillac moved slightly down-market to try to appeal to a broader audience. Sales numbers were good on the smaller Caddys, like this Eldorado from Sinclair. Above right: An interesting offshoot of the modern luxury vehicle is the sport utility. is brutish Mercedes G55 AMG (depicted in 1:18 by AUTOart) was both luxurious and sporty, with all the amenities plus a supercharged 500hp V8! SPRING 2015 39
OUT OF THE BOX BY MATT BOYD KYOSHO ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM COUPÉ 1:18 | $259 N o brand more singularly personifies the lavish zenith of luxury automobilia than Rolls-Royce. Life is good from behind a steering wheel with an “RR” emblazoned on the center button, and even better from the back seat while your Man Friday handles the driving duties. Of course, certain captains of industry prefer to helm their land yachts personally; on these alpha-type tycoons depends the “personal luxury” segment. Once upon a time, the automotive landscape was replete with opulent 2-door chariots designed to impress as they whisked their occupants to the next board of directors meeting or polo match. In recent decades that market has given way to luxury sedans and SUVs, and now only a few such extravagant coupes remain. Rolls still represents the pinnacle though, and its top executive express is the Phantom Coupé. Kyosho’s 1:18 Phantom captures the elegant lines and lavish ac- commodations of Rolls-Royce’s premier personal luxury coupe beautifully. Personal Luxury on the Grandest Scale 40 DCXmag.com
The Phantom’s paucity of combinations. (Yes, you read lovely, with just the slightest is clearly “Walnut Burr.” Both entry portals should in no way that number correctly.) If hint of metal-flake that gives it are rendered immaculately; the suggest that it is less impressive you’re a diecast manufacturer its “diamond” quality. The fine seating is a very convincing — or less massive — than its like Kyosho that might seem paint is accented by modest soft-touch plastic, while the sedan sibling. It tips the scales daunting, but actually it means brightwork; badges, door simulated walnut is hard- at a stout 418 stone (that’s 5,850 pretty much any paint they handles and the famous Spirit polished plastic. All that finery pounds to us “Yanks”)— one choose will be authentic! For this of Ecstasy hood ornament. This might cause one to miss some CEO shy of three tons, and model Kyosho started with a is a preproduction sample, but of the clever technical touches more than Cadillac’s Escalade stately Diamond Black primary aside from some slight fogging in in this model; that would be a SUV! Phantoms are essentially color, to which they added the between the chrome grille bars shame. One of the often-touted custom-built to order, so a contrasting windscreen and and a front license plate left over features is the pair of umbrellas base price figure is rather bonnet done in Platinum with a from the convertible “Drophead” that deploy from the door jams. meaningless, but suffice to say, nice satin finish. The model also version there is little indication. They do so here in scale as well, they weigh rather heavily on sports a coachline — in Cornsilk Kyosho’s model is a Series I, as although it must be conceded one’s bank book as well. You can I think, although it could be indicated by the round driving that they don’t actually unfold. keep the price down to $450,000 traditional Tan. The two-tone lights. This was the configuration The center console does though, (or about six Escalades) … if emphasizes the rake of the from its 2008 introduction revealing additional switchgear, you’re frugal with the options. Phantom’s windshield while the through the 2012 model year. The a storage bin — and is that a Among those options coachline highlights the sweep Phantom received square lights cup holder? The armrest in the is a choice of 44,000 color of the beltline, both conspicuous as part of a facelift in 2013 and rear seat folds down (it does departures from the ultra- became the Series II. not have cup holders) but it is square Rolls-Royces of yore devilishly hard to coax open; the that add up to an improbably PHANTASTIC DETAIL tool Kyosho provides to open the sleek profile. Kyosho’s paint is Swing open the rear-hinged various panels is a tad too short “coach” doors (“suicide” is an to reach it — even with the seats unseemly term for a Rolls) to slid forward on their functional reveal accommodations befitting metal tracks! I reached it with a king. Every surface not draped a coffee stirrer stick (gauche in leather is clad in wood. There of me, I know!). That’s literally are a couple dozen leather the only quibble against an choices, but I believe Kyosho is otherwise stellar interior depicting “Cashmere.” The wood presentation. You can measure the panel gaps on the Phantom with a micrometer, so Kyosho thoughtfully provides buttons on spring 2015 41
the bottom of the chassis to pop the bonnet and boot. The trunk is a two-piece affair, opening clamshell-style to reveal ample storage space for golf clubs, polo mallets, a couple hundred pounds of gold bullion — you know, the usual Rolls cargo. There’s also a platform that folds out to produce a flat surface across the lower portion of the trunk and bumper area. Believe it or not, Rolls refers to this as a picnic bench, and it complements the optional trunk-mounted picnic silver-, flat- and glassware set. The bench is depicted nicely in the model, but the picnic set was not present — at least on our The simulated leather and wood surfaces in the Phantom Coupé are very convincing. The center consoles open up, and note the polished pre-production sample. It would metal umbrella handle in the door jam on the lower left. It slides out – just like on the full-size Phantom! be a cool addition for Kyosho to consider down the road though. Tap the hood-release button of the masses, and now publish 3D engine block, but given the FINAL THOUGHTS to hoist the platinum bonnet the specifications of their Phantom’s engine and under- The Rolls-Royce Phantom and view the engine. Rolls used BMW-designed 6.75L V12. Or tray layout that’s no serious vice. Coupé presents an interesting to describe the output of its maybe they’ve decided that You could flip a quarter into a dichotomy. The design and engines as simply — somewhat 453hp and the silky surge of real Phantom’s tightly packaged technology are thoroughly enigmatically —“sufficient,” 531 lb.-ft. of torque isn’t quite engine bay and it would never modern, but the company’s almost as if the very subject as vulgar a display of power as hit the ground. The finely molded tradition of hand-building of horsepower was reserved originally supposed? Kyosho’s intake plenums, runners, throttle vehicles — tailoring each to its for less civilized automakers scale representation of the bodies and associated plumbing buyer’s tastes and needs using and their less couth clientele. V12 is quite urbane as well. It really sell the presentation here. artisans and craftspeople more They’ve since bowed to the is a drop-in plate molded in The engine is not what defines than factories and automation vulgar technological curiosity relief rather than a fully-cast a Rolls-Royce, but collectors — is distinctly old school. won’t be disappointed — this That’s fitting of a personal Striking visuals, outstanding execution, and one is certainly more than just luxury coupe — a segment that sheer size give this model exceptional presence “sufficient.” harkens back to a time when Chassis detail is mostly automotive sensibilities were hidden by that full-length much different. The Phantom’s under-tray, although Kyosho blend of anachronism and does a nice job with the exhaust aspiration makes it unique — system. The suspension is and an excellent flagship for independent multilink front Kyosho’s 1:18 line. Striking and rear. Up front the lower visuals, outstanding execution, links are partially visible, and sheer size give this model but out back the assembly is exceptional presence. While uncovered, showing the lower it’s not cheap at $259, it doesn’t control arms and lateral links require a 7-figure asset portfolio more fully. The Phantom uses an to afford, and it certainly delivers electronically controlled, self- quality and detail more than leveling air suspension which commensurate with its price tag. Kyosho substitutes with hidden I highly recommend. but functional metal springs, SOURCES Kyosho is distributed by allowing the car to remain scale carvillemodelsshop.com and also settle nicely over its kyosho.com 21-inch satin finish Star Alloys. The tires lack sidewall markings, but the tread and shape are true to the Goodyear Eagles the Phantom comes on. The detail on the big BMW-built V12 is considerably more than “sufficient.” The signature Rolls-Royce ‘Spirit of Ecstasy’ hood ornament and vertical grille also look great. 42 DCXmag.com
out of the box by matt boyd SCounntSitnaernPtalaltHinaurdmTSoepries 1958 Lincoln MARK III 1:18 | $100 T he year was 1958 and big cars were big — really big. GM had the upper hand in the luxury segment with its Cadillac brand throughout the early ’50s, and in 1956 Ford answered back with a machine unlike any it had produced before: The Continental Mark II. The spiritual successor to Edsel Ford’s 1940-1948 Lincoln Continentals, the Mark II was not badged as a Lincoln, and was produced for just two years. It eschewed the chrome and fins that were the fashion of the day, embracing instead a decidedly European flavor — in keeping with the name. It was an uncompromised attempt to set a new standard in American luxury. Each was hand built, and despite the astronomical $10,000 window sticker (twice the price of the most expensive Caddy) Ford lost money on every one it built. So when it came time to craft a successor, Ford took a slightly more practical approach. The 1958 Mark III Continental was folded back into the Lincoln line. The Mark III Continental is the largest unit-body Lincoln has ever built — making for a truly impressive piece of diecast in 1:18! 44 DCXmag.com
It shared a number of parts with than a Cadillac Eldorado! And at “Dagmar” bumpers were are truly outstanding touches; I regular production models, and 5,700 pounds it outweighed the another nod to convention. love the hinged, poseable wiper was built on an assembly line. Eldo, too. blades! e badges reveal this to e canted double headlights be an example of an early Mark at allowed Lincoln to price it But size was only half the bracketing the egg-crate grille III, as the front fenders carry a at a more reasonable $5,800, equation; in order to truly be were distinctive, as were the “Continental III” script. is is a but that is not to say it was in the biggest dog in the luxury wide fenders with scallops that pre-production model that had any way a regular production segment the car had to have flared out from the front bumper. made the show and demo rounds Lincoln. Like its predecessor, it style. And while the Mark By far the most distinctive but the fit and finish is still quite utilized unit-body construction III’s styling is somewhat feature, both stylistically and good, with one minor exception rather than the more typical controversial, it definitely gives technologically, was the reverse- of a missing tine on the driver’s body-on-frame. And it was Sun Star a chance to shine. angle “breezeway” power rear side C-pillar cross emblem. big — the largest unit-body Rather than follow the example window that could be lowered vehicle ever built, in fact. It rode of the Mark II, the III moved into the bulkhead between the LAP OF LUXURY on a continent-sized 131-inch back toward the conventional rear seat and the trunk. Sun Star Luxury is all about the wheelbase and stretched 229 by adding chrome and fins — does a nice job with individually occupants, so the interior design inches in length — more than 19 albeit in a more restrained way cast chrome window surrounds, was crucial to the success of feet, and some 6 inches longer than its Detroit contemporaries. rocker trim and photo-etched the Mark III. To this day it holds badging. And here and there the record for all standard- wheelbase Lincolns in terms of passenger room! Sun Star has chosen the black-with- white accents leather interior, Plush and Plus-size Luxury SPRING 2015 45
The Mark III’s “television screen” dash which it depicts Believe it or not, in the mid- much detail, but there is some was advanced stuff in 1958! All of the effectively with 50s Lincolns were considered to be seen on the front and rear instruments were integrated into its single a mix of soft and something of the hotrods of coil-spring suspensions. anodized metal panel, which Sun Star hard plastics. the luxury world. They looked faithfully depicts. Fine flocking to maintain that performance FINAL THOUGHTS simulates advantage with the Mark III, The Mark III — and its nearly carpeting. Doors introducing an all-new 430 identical twins the Mark IV and swing out on cubic-inch V8. It produced a Mark V from 1959 and 1960, hidden hinges to healthy 375 horsepower and respectively — were somewhat reveal a switch- a mountain of torque to get controversial due to their more panel on the the Mark III moving, tempered modest presentation relative armrest for the somewhat by the car’s sheer to the Mark II. That and an Mark III’s various girth. The hood swings forward economic recession just as the power functions. to reveal the big MEL (Mercury- Mark III debuted conspired to The highlight of Edsel-Lincoln) V8, finished in limit its sales success — just 2328 the dashboard metallic blue with pale yellow coupes were built in 1958. But as is the futuristic highlights. This car is equipped a technological innovator and as anodized with optional air-conditioning, a foundation for mainstreaming “television so there is lots of nicely rendered the “Continental” nameplate that screen” plumbing to admire. The engine has been so intrinsic to Lincoln’s integrated sits quite far forward in the identity over the last 75 years instrument bay (it’s not like space was an there can be no doubt. And as cluster with issue!) so you can also see a bit a spectacle of sheer size it is all of the gauges, switches and of the exhaust manifolds and something to behold — even at radio controls collected on that transmission in the gap in front 1:18 this model is nearly 13 inches single panel — just below is an of the well-appointed firewall. long! Sun Star has used this opening glovebox. Out back the Rolling stock is pretty casting before, but continues to traditional Continental-style standard; tall-sided whitewalls make strategic improvements to vertical spare tire hump was riding on wheels with finned enhance appeal. If you’re a fan nixed for the Mark III. Open the wheel covers. Fender skirts of the ‘50s classics and luxury in trunk to find the spare’s home, partially cover the rears, but they size XXL, mark down Sun Star’s along with a checkered trunk are hinged to flex outward — a Mark III on your must-have list! mat that is nicer than the interior cool bit of realism Sun Star gives on many lesser-brand models! us. The chassis doesn’t have Sources Sun Star sunstarmodelcars.com 1/2H.indd 1 9/5/14 1:56 PM
OUT OF THE BOX BY MATT BOYD halo hybrid AUTOART LEXUS LS600hL 1:18 | $235 We think of the luxury segment as being steeped in tradition, but when we look back we can see that high-end amenity-laden flagship sedans have often been the vehicle for automotive innovation. It makes sense: there is less financial risk in pushing the envelope with cars whose business plan already involves low sales volume and comparatively high building cost. And the market advantage of being seen as the most advanced in a segment where image, comfort and convenience trump price and practicality can translate to more buzz and more sales. And what’s more, the halo effect of the technology in your flagship model may translate to more sales among your lesser models. And, of course, if that technological innovation ends up working well, it can trickle down to those more affordable models and elevate the entire brand. is is what happened in previous eras with innovations like the automatic transmission, power steering, air-conditioning, anti-lock brakes, airbags, traction and stability control, navigation systems … the list goes on and on. 48 DCXmag.com
The LS600hL combines a host bringing hybrid technology into 2012-present car, and it has gone rear fasciae, you cannot tell of cutting-edge technical the mainstream with its semi- to some difficulty to represent by the finish. This does raise a innovations of its own plus one economical, semi-ecological the various Lexus innovations word of caution though; plastic that bucks the usual luxury compact Prius. In a reversal of in this model, making it an is more porous than metal — be trend: the feature that accounts the usual technology trajectory, interesting engineering study as sure to clean fingerprints off for the ‘h’ in the name and the Toyota used what it learned well as a beautiful scale replica. right away lest they become silver trim panels on the lower with the lower market car in permanent. The headlight door skins emblazoned with the LS600hL, which has been TECHNO-MARVEL buckets deserve special kudos the “HYBRID” badges. Lexus on sale since 2007. And while The current Lexus design for accurately replicating the parent Toyota was the brand the hybrid factor is surely its architecture is dominated by rather complex full LED lighting most directly responsible for most conspicuous technical the “spindle” grille design, system, including high- and feature, it’s far from the only which AUTOart renders with low-beams, fog lamps and turn one, or even the most advanced. its usual precision. The rest of signals, plus infrared sensors AUTOart’s version depicts the the body is classy and relatively for the crash-avoidance system significant update enjoyed by the understated by comparison. all in the one assembly. The For the record, the ‘L’ in the Advanced Pre-Crash Safety name denotes that this is the system, as it is called, also long-wheelbase version of the incorporates a pair of cameras LS — the only configuration (they are the rectangular gaps that the hybrid version comes in the tinted visor across the top in here in the U.S. AUTOart’s of the windshield on the model) paint and trim are stellar, and to constantly guard against while the diecast metal body potential collision, and will uses plastic for the front and trigger warnings, boost brake sensitivity or even automatically apply the brakes in certain circumstances! The cameras can also detect oncoming headlights and trigger selective shuttering Taut and reserved except for the “spindle” grille brand design language, the Lexus is cool and precise, just like AUTOart’s replica. Superb execution conveys the technophile appeal. spring 2015 49
of the LEDs headlights as a Panel gaps fit so precisely that you’ll want to open the rear doors first to give the fronts more clearance. Wood trim and leather simula- courtesy to oncoming drivers. tion captures the numerous subtle tones of the interior. That’s a lot of tech in a headlight! Plenty of tech inside too. As A peek behind the curtain panel removable. Lever it up FINAL THOUGHTS you would expect, the LS600hL Popping the hood with its to see a bewildering nest of When upstart Lexus debuted in has power everything, including simulated pneumatic supports electrowizardry atop (what I 1989 was considered something an adaptive temperature control might seem underwhelming have it on good authority is) a of a pretender in the luxury system that varies cabin, seat at first glance, but be patient! 5.0L V8 engine. You can’t see car market dominated by and steering wheel temperature Like with so many modern cars, all that much of the V8 with all the German manufacturers. to maintain optimum comfort. Lexus hides the powerplant the hybrid goodies in the way, That impression was quickly It even monitors humidity, and under a “modesty” panel. but it’s good for 389 fossil fuel- dispelled, and within a few short injects nanoparticles into the air But AUTOart thankfully burning horses, augmented by a years Lexus had become a system to moisturize your eyes gives us a peek behind the pair of electric motors that boost status-conferring image backed and skin after being exposed curtain by making their scale total system grunt to 438hp. by build-quality that eclipsed its to prolonged periods of air conditioning! (That last feature AUTOart’s market sensibilities are not unlike those of Lexus, and they is just a little creepy!) AUTOart’s render the LS600hL with their usual cool precision. technical acumen shines in the interior as well, with subtle tones depicting the various leather and wood surfaces. One word of caution: both front and rear doors open, and AUTOart’s panel gaps are so narrow (a good thing!) that the doors can occasionally interfere with each other slightly. Rather than tug on the handle and risk damaging something, simply open the rear door first to give the front door more clearance. When you do open up the rear doors you’ll notice that the rear seats have a center console. Take a moment to flip up the center armrest lid to reveal additional switchgear. Kudos to AUTOart for making the engine’s modesty panel removable. Under it you see I’m an engine geek, so I really target brands. Fast-forward 25 the nest of hybrid electronic wizardry that bumps the power system output to 438hp. appreciate the care with which years: Lexus is a coveted marque AUTOart replicates the power with an intensely loyal following 50 DCXmag.com system — even if, in this case, I in its own right—every inch the don’t fully grasp all the bits I am equal of its European rivals. looking at! The LS600hL is the flagship Flipping the Lexus over of the brand; it’s packed with gives a look at a nicely rendered technology and luxury, showing exhaust system and a glimpse of both the engineering acumen the gearless CVT transmission, and acute market savvy of but nothing of the engine, which parent Toyota. From a collector’s is shrouded by an under tray. standpoint, it is compelling both You can see the air-sprung from a technical standpoint independent suspension as well as an aesthetic one. though, with half-shafts at all AUTOart’s market sensibilities four corners (the LS600hL is are not unlike those of Lexus, all-wheel-drive.) The model and they render the LS600hL wears the optional larger split with their usual cool precision. seven-spoke 19-inch wheels I’m a little bit surprised with and 245-series tires. AUTOart’s how engaging I find this model. rolling stock continues to be Certainly it isn’t everyone’s some of the best in the business, cup of tea, but if it does appeal with excellent tread and texture to your tastes, this model will in the soft-touch rubber and deliver on your expectations and an authentic alloy finish on the more. wheels. SOURCES AUTOart autoartmodels.com
Search
