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Model Auto Review News

April 2003

Editorial By Rod Ward

COMING HOME TO ROOST?

What goes around, comes around, they say.

In recent years many Western economies have been accused of 'exporting jobs' to Far Eastern and Third World countries. The perceived wisdom was that it is unprofitable to make consumer goods in the developed countries that buy them.

If it helped Western firms to avoid problems with strict labour and social security regulations, that might be a bonus, but never a prime reason for moving jobs away from their original bases. Multinational corporations saw disadvantages in manufacturing in just one country, where they could be held hostage by local strikes, penalties for factory closures, or fluctuations in exchange rates. They no longer owned the means of production, but instead they employed sub-contractors, who could be played off against one another to get the best prices. A more recent version of the shift east has been the movement of consumer call centres to India and other countries. The call centre (a version of the chicken processing factory where instead of fowls, humans are crammed in, with headsets and computer screens) was a growth area in the UK economy. As personal service businesses closed (bank branches, local insurance offices, even shops) customer contact has shifted to the call centres. But now it is cheaper to relocate call centres in India, where there is a large pool of well-educated English speaking staff. This has led to protests in Britain, but that is to forget what we were told when call centres first appeared. The big financial institutions argued that everyone could access their account details online, cheaper than operating bricks and mortar branches with living, breathing employees. But the take-up for online banking and insurance would be slow, so in the meantime they would introduce telephone access, using call centres. The move of call centres to India is just the first stage in the dismantling of phone banking, to move to the final stage, where we all go online.

Similarly, when the first wave of manufacturing jobs, largely in clothing and electronic goods, departed for the Far East, pundits argued that eventually the work would return to the consumer countries. Costs would rise as new producer countries became more developed, and production would have to move to other countries to maintain low producer prices. Eventually quality would fall, prices rise, and the costs of transporting goods around the world (as well as the time taken to do so) would make the process untenable. New machines and systems, as yet not invented, would in time enable production to be automated, so that production could be done closer to the target markets. The West's toy and model companies, struggling against falling markets, rising costs and stiffer legislation, followed the other industries to the Far East, leaving very few firms still making diecast or plastic toys and models in the consumer countries.

Concentration of manufacture in these countries, especially China, has left the industry vulnerable to supply line problems (dock strikes, oil prices, wars) and to dependence on a few suppliers who don't always share an agenda with their toy industry clients. The Chinese companies now also find that their dependence on fragile Western markets, especially the USA (experiencing a deep downturn), is threatening their future viability. Everyone is now taking a little breather and looking round to see what is happening elsewhere. What do they see? They can see the first few shoots of a new growth in industrial production closer to home, but in other industries.

The clothing industry was one of the first to export jobs, but now finds that long distances, long lead times, and 'pile them high, sell them cheap' philosophies do not always work so well.

If you are selling fashion clothes, you want the stock now, not in six months time, and you want to be able to revise the order to replace slow-selling colours with better sellers, or to adjust your stock ofdifferent sizes. So the fastest growing fashion clothes companies in Europe are now establishing high-tech 'just in time' operations to make clothes within the EU, closer to their retail outlets. This development is being watched closely by toy and model companies. They are also frustrated by having to place large orders in China, booking production slots years in advance, and being unable to adjust colours or variants in light of sales experience. In the last couple of years, many companies have suffered due to production hold-ups, delivery delays and then congestion of releases as lots of new products arrive on the market at the same time. Let's hope they can find their version of the clothing industry's big idea, for the sake of the healthy future of the toy and model industry.

CONTRIBUTIONS FLOODING IN

It hasn't gone undetected that I have been dropping hints about more contributions needed for future issues of MAR. The hints have been noted by many of our regular contributors, and a lot of new ones as well. New material has been flooding in. Some really interesting pieces are prepared for the print version of the next few issues, but don't let that put you off if you are one of our readers who hasn't taken the hint so far. More material is always wanted!

CLUB NEWS
collated by Rod Ward

Maidenhead Static Model Club: On the first Clubnight after Christmas Restored Models was the competition subject. The judges awarded three prizes and two recommendations, the latter were for Derek Boxall's Mettoy coach and Alan Simpson's Dinky Mobilgas Foden tanker, whilst the prizes were: third prize to Ray Jefferies for his USA Civil War troops, John Bennett for his Dinky Toys Bedford Vega six wheel coach, and first prize to Robert Newson for his Taylor and Barratt trolleybus (right). Robert also produced a photograph to show how far from mint (or even structurally intact) was his starting point. A number of MSMC stalwarts are standing down from positions of responsibility this year; Vic Davey, Michael Edwards, Gary Hames and Mike Forbes, opening the doors to a new crew to try to fill their positions. An unnamed member of the MSMC suffered a break-in to his garden shed, where many models were damaged and others stolen, including a rare Citroen DS pedal car, various Solido Citroen H vans and resin models. Anyone seeing such unusual items on sale should contact the Police. I wonder if I guessed the member's identity correctly?

Who would store lots of valuable Citroen models in a garden shed? For more information about the MSMC or their next Slough toy fair, on Saturday 14 June 2003, ring John Garside on 0772 991 0632.

Coventry Diecast Model Club: The Club's 'Roland Parry Chop Competition' 2002 (named in memory of a Club founder member) took place in December 2002. The competition is divided into five categories with three special prizes for Best Bus, Best Fire Engine and the Most Unusual Model. The most prolific winner was Mick Russell, in three categories. John Print won one category and a special prize. Chris Sweetman won the diorama category. Darren Gloyns won the Most Unusual Model, and Bob Lovegrove won the Best Bus prize. Coventry Diecast Model Club
Roland Parry Chop Competition 2002 Results
Chop Section

1 Mick Russell AEC Tractor Carrier (Matchbox)
2 Roy Morris Bridge Carrier (Matchbox)
3 Mick Russell AEC artic tanker Fina (Dinky cab - Corgi trailer)
Repaint
1 Mick Russell Leyland Comet Ferrocrete (Dinky)
2 Barry Dodd Roadrunner Coach (OOC)
=3 Mick Russell Studebaker Tanker 'Fina' (Dinky)
=3 Bob Lovegrove Virgo Coach (OOC)
Conversion
1 Mick Russell 'Time Machine' Show Truck (Tekno)
2 John Print Land Rover Silverstone Fire Tender (Corgi)
3 Mick Russell ERF 'Sabrina' Cement Mixer (Matchbox)
Kit Built
1 John Print Leyland Metz TL fire appliance (Fire Brigade Models)
2 Darren Gloyns Gene Simmons KISS (Polar Lights)
3 Bob Lovegrove Midland Envoy Double Decker
Diorama
1 Chris Sweetman The Camp Site
2 Mick Russell Exploded View (Matchbox)
Best Bus
Bob Lovegrove Midland Envoy Double Decker
Best Fire Engine
John Print Leyland Metz TL Fire (Fire Brigade Models)
Most Unusual Model
Darren Gloyns Gene Simmons KISS (Polar Lights)

The CDMC meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 7.30 pm at the Midlands Air Museum, Baginton, Coventry. Further details available from John Print 024 764 57968 or Chris Sweetman 01509 853561.

Oxford Die-Cast Collectors Club: If you re-join this club for fans of Oxford vans and buses, you get the choice of a free keyring, badge or torch, as well as the choice of one free vehicle from the range. For more details, either as a new member or rejoining, write to PO Box 62, Swansea, Wales SA1 4YA.

Wessex Model and Toy Collectors: Barry Lloyd, Editor of WMTC publication Smalltalk, notes that more members eeem to be interested in full-size vehicles than in models these days. He feels that maybe the name of the club should be amended to reflect this, and invites suggestions, whilst retaining the WMTC initials. Perhaps they can follow the line of reasoning adopted by Chairman Doug Male, who is a collector of fire appliance models. He now refers to himself by the term used to describe folk like him by professional firefighters. No, not that. Apparently they call members of the public who are interested in fire apparatus 'Firecrackers'. So, the answer is to ask non-members what they call model car collectors, and adopt that as the new club title. Suggestions under plain brown cover please. The 2003 special WMTC model produced by Brooklin will be a special version of the Lansdowne Hillman Avenger, a 1971 GLS with twin headlights, vinyl roof, different dashboard, Rostyle wheels etc in a special colour. This will only be available to members, so join the WMTC as soon as you can if you want this model. The GLS will eventually appear in the Lansdowne range, but it is very likely to be different when it is released. One can't help feeling that the influence of WMTC member and Brooklin advisor John Roberts is being felt here. He is a lifelong fan of the Hillman marque (well, somebody has to be), and he cannot understand why the Model Auto Review shorthand for 'boring car, never likely to be modelled', is Avenger. Just to prove us wrong he has ensured that there is a Lansdowne model of it, in as many minute variations as possible. Whenever Brooklin release a new model they send out a news release to the collector press, describing the real car and their model. The press release describing the Avenger was about three times as long as usual, eliciting the response when it arrived here, 'It is possible to know too much about Hillmans'. I'm sure JR wouldn't agree. So, if you want a GLS, join now. Contact Chairman and Membership Secretary Doug Male on 01225 755043. Oh, yes, and you'll also get Smalltalk every month, and the chance to go to Clubnight meetings and other Club events.

South Hants Model Auto Club: As they complete their second year editing the SHMAC magazine, Stu and Sue Leake can be proud of their achievements and of the work they have pushed through. They have a good stock of articles on file from members, from which they are able to choose to assemble a balanced magazine each time. For instance, Chris Derbyshire (who featured recently in a very unflattering cover photo alongside Murray Walker) tells the story of how he assembled his collection of Bandai tinplate Sunbeam Alpines in an assortment of colours. Ah, you say, that must have been years ago. You can't do that nowadays. But you're wrong. Chris hadn't even heard of them until just over a year ago, and within three months he had bought three of them! The SHMAC model shop listing has been augmented by John Kinchen, who contributes seven shops in the Portsmouth area, all still in business, plus one on the Isle of Wight. Other articles cover Porsches, tractors, trucks and, of course, competition cars (well, this is the SHMAC). If you'd like your share of the reading matter, contact Secretary Dave Painter on 01264 366048.

Natal Diecast Model Collectors: NDMC Chairman Geoff Sear notes that the value of the South African Rand has risen dramatically against the Dollar and the Pound, so he expects model car prices to drop, so that everyone can afford more for the collection. Let this be advance warning to collectors worldwide; expect hordes of prosperous South Africans, arriving soon, buying up everything in sight.

The first person to benefit should be Terry Morgan, who advertises in the NDMC magazine, 'Dinky and Corgi Toys: please supply me with a wants list and I'll try to find you good quality models'. It would be a brave man who offered such a service in any other country. He'd spend so long answering mail and telephone messages that he wouldn't have time to go out looking for the models. I'd better not give his number here, or he won't get any sleep, either, with all the international calls. You'll just have to join the NDMC (you don't have to live in South Africa to be a member) to read Terry's advertisement. For membership details, contact Secretary Donald Marshall at 6 Scone Place, Westville 3630, South Africa.

Book Reviews
by Rod Ward and Hans-Georg Schmitt

VENTURE TRANSPORT of CONSETT by G E Hutchinson, (Prestige Series edited by John Banks), Published by Venture Publications, 128 Pikes Lane, Glossop, Derbyshire SK13 8EH, 64 pages, softbound, 240 x 170mm, ISBN 1 898432 87 2. £8.95

Consett is almost 900 feet above sea level in the Derwent Valley, County Durham, in the North-East of England, a town once famous for steel-making. The author has inside knowledge of the local bus operator, of which he was a senior executive. Venture Transport was formed in 1938 by amalgamating two earlier firms, Reed Brothers and Venture Bus Services. The name came from a famous local four-in-hand horse drawn coach 'Venture'. The bus routes linked various colliery villages and connected Consett to Newcastle, the major regional city. From the 1960s, increasing car ownership and declining local industry led to more difficult trading for the company, and in 1970 it was sold to the biggest local operator Northern General Transport. At the time it was operating over three million miles annually with its fleet of 84 modern buses in their smart yellow, maroon and cream livery. This book is packed with evocative pictures from the earliest days up to the end. Even if you have no idea where Consett is, any bus enthusiast will find this little book fascinating. RCW

Du Chocolat des Images et des Jouets, by Serge Defradat, French text, 208 pages, over 700 pictures. Hardbound with dust jacket. 220 x 290 mm. ISBN 2-8410-2068-1. Published by Du May, 92641 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France. Available from ETAI, 20, rue de la Saussiere, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France.

In the 18th century chocolate became popular in Europe and an impressive industry grew up, which soon found children its main customers. In the late 19th century chocolate makers used popular colour prints to promote their products. Later, moving pictures, such as rotating discs, lithographic tin toys and cut out sheets, were used. From the 1930s the model vehicle was used, initially vans carrying names and adverts. After the Second World War many new products appeared, in France by Clé, Minialuxe, JRD, Solido, and Dinky, and in Britain by Corgi, Matchbox, Dinky and others, including Corgi's VW van with 'working headlights' in Toblerone livery. 'Surprise' eggs now sometimes contain interesting little model car kits. The author collected pictures, toys and model cars to produce a very interesting book, highly recommended. H-GS

Tanks of the World: Pocket book of Tanks, Edition 8, Edited by Wolfgang Schneider, English text. 896 pages, 682 photos and 241 drawings. Hardbound. 130 x 190 mm. ISBN 3-7637-5984-0. Pub by and available from Bernard & Graefe Verlag GmbH 8. Co KG, Heilsbachstr. 26, D-53123 Bonn, Germany.

This book covers all armoured fighting vehicles in service worldwide, including locally modified variants. Each machine gets a photo, many a drawing as well and 1:87 drawings give main dimensions. These countries are included: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, China, Croatia, Czech-Slovakia, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Guatemala, Hungary, India, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea , Mexico, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Netherlands, Russia, Singapore, Saudi, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Turkey, Ukraine, USA, Yugoslavia. H-GS

Lastwagen Jahrbuch 2003 by Bernd Regenberg, German text. 144 pages, 326 photos. Paperbound 170 x 240 mm. ISBN 3-86133-303-1. Pub. and available from Podszun Motorbucher GmbH, Elisabethstr. 23-25, D-59929 Brilon, Germany.

Every year truck fans eagerly await the new truck yearbook from Podszun. The sixth volume includes municipal vehicles by Streicher, Alfa Romeo trucks, trucks of Leuna-Werke in East Germany from 1916 to 1989, glass transporters, photo albums, and Reichsbahn heavy transport in the 1930s. H-GS

Da ging die Post ab lll: Die Geschichte der Motorisierung der Post history of motorising of the German Post by Konrad Buschmann, German text 240 pages, 310 photos, hardbound with dust jacket 230 x 210mm. ISBN 3-935 28147-2 Published by and available from Verlag Michael Weyand GmbH, Friedlandstrasse 4, D-54293 Trier, Germany

In the past handcarts were used to deliver mail, then in the 19th Century horsedrawn vehicles were added, and in cities special trams transported mail to outer areas. At the dawn of the 20th Century the Post discovered the motor car and took its first automobiles into service. The postmaster general was also responsible for the telephone system, so a fleet of vehicles for this purpose had to be purchased and maintained, some of them rather eccentric. Many were fitted with four wheel drive for cross country operations. The author describes developments from the early 20th century to 1945 as German Reichspost, from Imperial Post to Third Reich, then from 1945 to 1990 this development was divided into German Federal Post in the West and German Post in East Germany. From October 1990 they re-combined to form the German Federal Post, and now the privatised German Post AG. H-GS

Faszination 356: Eine Typologie des Porsche 356 (A typology of Porsche 356) by Achim Kubiak, German text, 279 pages, 460 photos. Hardbound with dust jacket 240 x 270 mm.ISBN 3-7688-1355-X. Published by Delius Klasing Verlag, available in bookshops, or from publisher, Siekerwall 21; D-33802 Bielefeld, Germany.

The Porsche 356 was a milestone in German sports cars, and this lavish book describes the vast number of technical and construction changes, and special versions like the Speedster and Carrera. There are many rare contemporary illustrations from sales literature, operating instructions and photo archives. H-GS

A View back into the Automobile Year 1962, Published by Schrader Verlag. Available from Motorbuch Verlag; Olga-strasse 86; D-70180 Stuttgart, Germany.

Here we see the highlights of the motor shows around the world at the time. Data, facts, the spirit of the era, contemporary history and more about the automobile are in this book, the first in a new range of books by Motorbuch Verlag. This first volume was donated by the publisher for their 40th anniversary, at the Frankfurt book fair in 2002. 2003 should see the volumes for 1963, 1973, 1983 and 1993. H-GS

Renault: des automobiles de prestige (The Renault Luxury Cars) by Claude Rouxel, Marc Griselhubert, Claude Gueldry, Jaques Dorizon, French text. 432 pages, 600 photos. Hardbound with dust cover. 270 x 260mm. ISBN 2-7268-8616-7. Published by and available from ETAI, 20, rue de la Saussiere; 92641 Boulogne-Billancourt Cedex, France.

Early in the 20th Century, Louis Renault started to build luxury cars, first the 40 CV then Reinastella, Nervastella, Suprastella, competing with Delaunay-Belleville, Voisin, Bugatti, Delage, Horch, Daimler-Benz, Rolls-Royce and others. Some customers liked cars to be factory bodied, others were bodied by Binder, Kellner and others. Many photos show Renault's prestige cars and their competitors. H-GS

MINICHAMPS FOR 2003

Sorry, folks, here it iFormula 1

1:8 scale

1:18 scale

1:43 scale

PIT STOP
1:8 scale

1:43 scale

FORMULA 1 CLASSICS
1:18 scale

SETS: 10 years of Jordan
1:43 scale

McLAREN COLLECTION
1:12 scale

1:18 scale

1:43 scale

Canada 71

AYRTON SENNA COLLECTION
1:18 scale

1:43 scale

FORMULA 2
1:43 scale

HELMETS
1:2 scale

1:8 scale

CLASSIC RACING CARS
1:43 scale

SUNOCO DONOHUE-FOLLMER DAYTONA1973

SCHICKENTANZ-KREMER MONZA -1973

HEYER-KELLER IMOLA 1974

WALLYS JEANS, SIEWERTSEN RING1975

KELLENERS-HEYER-WOLLEK

JOEST-WHITTINGTON-NIEDZWIEDZ, LM1981

LUDWIG-NIEDZWIEDZ-SOPER RING1987

SPEEDWARE, LUDWIG - DTM 88

BRITISH GT CHAMPIONSHIP -1999
LE MANS AND ALMS 2002
1:43 scale

LE MANS AND ALMS CLASSICS
1:43 scale

CHAPARRAL COLLECTION
1:43 scale

DAYTONA-SEBRING 2002
1:43 scale

DTM 2002
1:43 scale

RALLY CARS
1:43 scale

RACING CARS
1:43 scale

ROAD CARS
1:18 scale

1:43 scale

TRUCKS & BUSES
1:43 scale

MINICHAMPS BOND COLLECTION
1:43 scale

1:6 scale

1:12 scale

MOTORCYCLES - STREET
1:12 scale

1:18 scale

MILITARY
1:35 scale

The Minichamps advance list of new releases seems to be as long as in previous years.

All models are made in China for Germany, and will be released over the next twelve months (they are not available now). We have not noted the date of expected release this time, as in previous years this has sometimes turned out to be changed by later events.

BUS STOP
EFE 1:76 UPDATE
By Frank Joyce

So that 2003 will be a good year for collectors, we have added interesting vehicles and liveries from across the UK and some truck models to our new releases, which are as follows:

Leyland Olympian three windscreen variations. Bristol RELH coach modified from the RELL, complete with the characteristic high-backed seating.

Plaxton Panorama Elite modified to Bristol version with the Bristol Dome on the roof and front destination display moved from below to above wlndscreen.

Leyland TD1 the piano front modified to create the higher destination area as on Southdown and Western. The truck range will be expanded and revitalised with the introduction of new cabs and other new features. Models released in January, February and March 

27809 AEC STL Bus LONDON TRANSPORT
24902 Plaxton Minibus FIRSTCITYBUS
16523 Leyland Atlantean SCOUT GAY HOSTESS
2670DL Plaxton Paramount FIRST UNITED WELSH
80002 1938 Driving Carriage A BAKERLOO LINE
80102 1938 Driving Carriage D BAKERLOO LINE
80202 1938 MotorTrailer Carriage BAKERLOO LINE
80302 1938TrailerCarriage BAKERLOO LINE
28901 G.M. Standard Atlantean MAIDSTONE & DIST
28805 Leyland Titan READING BUSES
25105 Bristol RELL SOUTHERN VECTIS
10132 AEC RT Bus LONDON TRANSPORT
17213 Leyland National MKI long WEST MIDLANDS
23205 AEC RF MkII Bus GREEN LINE
27610 Wrights Volvo Renown Ulsterbus-TRANSLINK
20904 Leyland Windover SOUTHDOWN
15633 RM Routemaster RM6 GOLDEN JUBILEE
25512 AlexanderY Type WESTERN BUSES
12804 Atkinson Flatbed BRITISH ROAD SERVICES
29002 G.M. Standard Fleetline LANCASHIRE UTD
Forthcoming releases
28806 Leyland Titan EAST LONDON BUSES
13702 Atkinson Tanker TEXACO
12115 Harrington Cavalier SOUTH WALES NBC
23402 Bedford TK Flatbed FREMLINS BEER
20630 Plaxton Pointer Dart FIRST CAPITAL
23315 AEC RF MKI Bus LONDON TRANSPORT
80401, 80501, 80601 & 80701 1959 Tube CENTRAL

Pearson RT buses in green

Pearsons Departmental Stores based in North London have commissioned 100 Lincoln Green RT buses for their Centenary, decorated with adverts for the store, and features RT1023 on route 396 to Bishop Stortford. The model priced at £21.00 is available to callers at Pearsons Stores, 11/14 The Town, Enfield. 175 High Road, Wood Green, 5/7 Church Hill, Barnet. 15/17 North Street, Bishops Stortford. Alternatively by mail, cheques only, priced at £22.75 from; S. Alderman at: 7 Heath Farm Court, Watford, WD17 3TT.

TRUCK STOP

VISCOUNT MODELS 1:50 diecast, refinished in UK: Morris LD van Jay Miller's Circus, in their red 2003 livery. On sale from the box office and souvenir stand in side the big top. The Toy Exchange has a few for sale at £6.00 inc UK postage, Tel (UK) 02380 787913 email Garyhames@lineone.net. Jay Miller's Circus starts its 2003 tour at Lymington in Hampshire and will travel across the south of England over the season. The 2003 production is an all-new show that includes an array of international circus artistes from Bulgaria, Hungary, Moldavia, Romania and the UK.

JOAL FROM SPAIN

Joal continue to extend their range of diecast models of construction equipment and other commercial vehicles. Apart from the 1: 50 Scania Irizar coach shown elsewhere in this issue, among other new items in their 2003 catalogue include: 

Komatsu PC1100L tracked excavator + magnet 1:50
Komatsu PC1100L tracked excavator + grab 1:50
Komatsu HD605.5 dumptruck 1:50

AGRITEC TACKLE

Agritec is the firm which makes and markets the ex-Ros range of tractors and construction machinery. Recent and new releases include: 

Merlo telescopic bucket loader 1:32
Fiat Kobelco W190 Evolution wheel loader 1:32
New Holland W190 Evolution wheel loader 1:32
Fiat Kobelco EX125 tracked excavator 1:32
Fiat D180 tracked bulldozer with ripper 1:32
New Holland D180 tracked bulldozer with ripper 1:32
New Holland TK95 tracked tractor 1:32
Kassbohrer Pisten Bully 1:43
There is also a series of 1:25 trailers and implements, to team up with
the 1:25 scale Steyr tractor.

NEW CONRADS FOR 2003

New diecast models promised from Conrad of Germany for 2003 release: 

2785 Linde H20/25 forklift 1:25
2849 Case CX130 tracked hammer excavator 1:50
40128 MB Actros Putzmeister concrete pumper 1:50
2436 Komatsu WA 470-5 wheel loader 1:50
2437 Komatsu WF 450-3 compactor 1:50
4005 MB Actros 2+3 axle Talbert artic flat lowbed 1:50
40131 MB Actros Stetter 4 axle concrete mixer 1:50
5513 Goldhofer Fraport AST-1 aircraft tractor 1:50
6412 International 5600i Talbert artic low load 1:50
4002 MB Actros 4 axle heavy tractor 1:50
40125 Scheuerle-Nooteboom module trailer 1:50
2909 Leonard K8000 tracked excavator 1:50
2734 Liebherr LR 1280/1 tracked lattice crane 1:50
2911 Fuchs-Terex MHL 350 wheel loader grab 1:50
2098 Terex-Demag AC 500 telescopic crane 1:50
66002 MAN TG-A XXL four axle heavy tractor 1:50
66134 MAN-Nooteboom 2+5 axle combi trailer 1:50
2912 Case CX 800 tracked excavator 1:50

NEWS FROM BRITAIN
NEW FROM SMTS

New 1:43 kit or handbuilt releases from Scale Model Technical Services: BP5 Mercedes 300 SLR,RL80 Lotus 21 and RL81 Lotus 18/21 are available now, others later 

BP5A 1955 Mercedes 300SLR MM 55 winner
BP5B 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Le Mans
BP5C 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Tourist Trophy Ist
BP5D 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Targa Florio lst
BP5E 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Mille Miglia 2nd
BP5F 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Kristianstad 1st
BP5G 1955 Mercedes 300 SLR Eifelrennen Ist
RL80A 1961 Lotus 21 Innes Ireland US. GP 1st
RL80B 1961 Lotus 21 Jim Clark French GP
RL80C 1961 Lotus 21 Moss-Walker Italian GP
RL81A 1961 Lotus 18/21 Moss-Walker Germany 1st
RL81B 1962 Lotus 18/21 Moss UDT Goodwood
RL88A Lotus 19 Moss UDT
RL88B Lotus 19 Gurney Arciero Bros
RL89 Lotus 19B Gurney Pacesetter Homes
RL90A Lotus Cortina Clark Team Lotus BSC Ch. 64
RL90B Lotus Cortina Team Lotus Clark Sebring 1964
RL90C Lotus Cortina Frank Gardner Willment 1964
RL9OD Lotus Cortina Whitmore Mann Euro Ch. 65
RL9OE Lotus Cortina Adamowicz Gp 44 TransAm 67
RL91A Lotus Cortina RAC 66 1st Soderstrom-Palm
RL91B Lotus Cortina RAC Rally 1966 Clark-Melia
RL91C Lotus Cortina Road Car
RL92A Ford Galaxie Sears Willment BSC Champ 63
RL92B Ford Galaxie Clark Brown Brands 63 winner
RL92C Ford Galaxie Gurney Holman Moody Riverside
RL92D Ford Galaxie Lorenzen Holman Moody Atlanta
RL92E Ford Galaxie Roberts Holman Moody Southern

SMTS say they have completely re-tooled their Lotus 49 models, which now also include: 

RL30B Lotus 49 Clark's last win S. African GP 68
RL31B Lotus 49B Mario Andretti US GP 1968 Pole

SMTS will also be introducing two 1:12 scale models, each limited to 100 built models. 

12-1 1938 Alfa Romeo 2900B Mille Miglia winner
12-2 1930 Bentley 4.5 Litre Supercharged Le Mans

These are priced at £450.00 and £600.00 each respectively, but high rollers will want to note that SMTS have been commissioned to produce two highly detailed 1:12 scale 1967 Eagle Weslakes. The customer has agreed to a limited production run of ten of these models to be manufactured, so SMTS have seven available for sale at £7,000.00 each.

MORE FROM OXFORD

Latest releases from Oxford include these models, diecast in China for Wales: 

Bullnose van The Life Guards
           (the first model in a new Guards series)
Ford A van Martell cognac
Bullnose van Clipper cigarettes
Routemaster open top bus Minehead
Routemaster open top bus Eastbourne
Regent bus Reading Corporation Transport
Ford T van Beezer comic
Set: Bedford bus and trucks: in the livery of  Butlins holiday camps

TINPLATE MILLERS
By Frank Joyce

At Exclusive First Editions we recently introduced some tinplate Miller racing cars. The response to our new venture seems to have been well-received by enthusiasts, the few who were lucky enough to receive a model from the first small consignment have been full of praise for the model.

Because of the complexity of the models, which are hand built, they are slow to complete and we are currently looking at ways to increase the production rate and increase the availability.

MODELEX 03 UPDATE
By Mike Kennington

Thanks to everyone who supported ModeleX 2002. Judging by the comments from exhibitors and visitors, and press reviews, the event was a success.

Attendance was slightly up from the 2000 event, which was encouraging, particularly as we changed the venue.

The venue was generally liked, especially the on-site hotel.

The hall was the right size, and the single room gave better circulation and overall presentation. The downside was that, for the organisers, ModeleX 2002 lost money. However, after carefill thought, and looking at all the possibilities, Ray Strutt and I have decided to launch ModeleX 2003. We both feel that the event should not die, but that there must be changes for it to survive.

The proposal is that ModeleX 2003 should be held at the same venue, in the same Warwick Hall, but as a one day event on Sunday 19 October 2003.

Our stand build-up will be on Saturday evening, and exhibitors will set up from 6:30am on Sunday morning. The event will open to the public from l0:00am to 5:00pm. There will not be a 'Trade' access period. Stand costs, which were held at the 2000 rate for 2002, will be increased slightly. The cost of admission will rise to a more realistic level. These changes will reduce the venue costs, and increase revenue, allowing the event to become viable and give us more scope for promotion.

ModeleX 2003 will be run by Greenwood Exhibitions, as part of our classic motoring calendar of events. As such, it will be included in mailings and our advertising during 2003.

ITALY
ART MODEL FOR 2003

New 1:43 models for 2003 release from Art Model of Italy: 

122 Ferrari 250P Reims 1963 #10 (below)
123 Ferrari Dino 246S Bridgehampton 1966 #3
124 Ferrari 225S MM 1952 #622
125 Ferrari 250 Spider California Bridgehampton #9 (above)
126 Ferrari 250P Ring 1963 #110
127 Ferrari 206S Spa 1966 #12
128 Ferrari 500TR Sassi-Superga 57 #256
129 Ferrari 250P TF 1963 #174
130 Ferrari 225S MM 1951 #610
131 Ferrari 500TR Vienna 1956 #4
132 Ferrari Dino 206S TF 1967 #198
133 Ferrari 315S - 335S 1957 test
134 Ferrari 315S Ring 1957 #5
135 Ferrari 275P Sebring 1964 #22
136 Ferrari 250P LM 1963 #23
137 Ferrari 500TR Aspen #12
138 Ferrari 225S March-Riverside 1952 #60
Future: Ferrari 375 Plus and 275P - 330P 1964


NEW BBURAGOS FOR 2003


A swift update on some of the new models proposed in the extensive
diecast ranges of Bburago from Italy:


1:18 scale

BMW Z4, Aston Martin V12 Vanquish, Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG, Mercedes-Benz
300 SLR MM #722 Moss, Giugiaro Prima Speedster, Maserati GT Spyder,
Smart Roadster, Smart Coupe, Mini Cooper (old) Monte Carlo, Chrysler
Crossfire, new Dodge Viper, VW Touareg, Lamborghini Diablo 'Fujitsu',
Dodge Viper GTS Coupe 'IQuest', Bugatti EB110 'TV Monte Carlo', VW Old
Beetle race #8.

1:24 scale: Lamborghini Murciélago, Ford Street Ka, VW Touran mpv, Mini
Cooper 1960, Land Rover #273, Ford SVT Lightning pickup, Smart Roadster,
BMW Z8, Dodge Viper SRT/10, Shelby 427 anniversary, Ford focus WRC #5,
Land Rover Freelander Safari, Land Rover Aziza, Smart Coupe, Ford F-150
pickup various versions, Dodge Viper GTS Coupe, VW New Beetle cup,

Peugeot 205 rally
1:43 scale: Dodge Viper SRT/10, Ford Street Ka, Giugiaro Prima
Speedster, Fiat 500 street, Fiat 500 sport #95, #188, #308, #336, #5 or
#57, Mini Cooper 60, Lamborghini Murciélago,
Kits: These continue to be available in 1:18, 1:24 and 1:43 scales.
Disney Series: Many models available, new releases include Mercedes-Benz
SSKL Goofy (1:18), Mercedes-Benz SSK Mickey Mouse (1:18), Lancia Aurelia
B24 Mickey (1:18), Alfa 8C 2300 Monza Donald (1:18), VW New Beetle Buzz
Lightyear (1:18), VW New Beetle Donald (1:18), Porsche 356B Coupe Pooh
(1:18), Mercedes SSK Mickey (1:24), VW New Beetle Mickey (1:24), Shelby
Cobra Donald (1:24), Lamborghini Countach Donald (1:24), Corvette 1957
Daisy Duck (1:24), Dodge Viper Goofy (1:24), Porsche 356 Cabrio Uncle
Scrooge (1:24), Corvette Buzz Lightyear (1:24)



BRUMMS FOR 2003


Here are the plans for the Brumm range from Italy for this year, all
1:43 diecast:


AS26 Auto Union C type streamliner 1937 Rosemeyer
AS30 Jaguar C type winners LM 51 and 53 (2 in set)
B00 Milan Brougham (no horses) with driver
AS00 Milan Brougham with horses and driver
AS28G Ferrari 126C2 1982 Pironi-Villeneuve duel
R352 Auto Union C-type streamliner record car Frankfurt-Darmstadt
Autobahn 1937 Rosemeyer
R353 Auto Union C-type Avus 1937, Rosemeyer #31
R353B Auto Union C-type Avus 1937, Fagioli #33
R142CH Ferrari 126C4 Belgium 84 Alboreto
R142CH Ferrari 126C4 1984 Arnoux
S056 Lancia B20 MC 54 #69
S057 Alfa Romeo 1900 MC 55 #374
S058 Porscheh 356 MC 59 #56
M001 Lancia Aprilia (Nicolis Museum)
R354 Fiat 1100C van Agip fuel
R355 Fiat 500C van Telefunken assistance
R356 Jaguar C-type Le Mans winner 1951 #20
R356B Jaguar C-type Le Mans #22
R356C Jaguar C-type Le Mans #23
R357 Jaguar C-type Mille Miglia 1952 #619
R358 Jaguar C-type LM 1953 #18
R358B Jaguar C-type LM 1953 #17
R358C Jaguar C-type LM 1953 #19
R359 Jaguar C-type LM 1953 #20, yellow



MORE BANGS FOR 2003


New 1:43 models from Bang of Italy for this year:


7279 Ferrari 250 GTE street metallic red February
7284 Alfa 2600 Sprint white Scarfiotti February
7246 Mercedes 300SL coupe LM 52 #21 February
7280 Ferrari 250 GTE street metallic blue March
7281 Ferrari 250 GT SWB LM 60 #19 March
7299 Ford Mk IIB LM 57 #57 blue March
7282 Maserati 450S Cuba 58 #2 April
7291 Ferrari 250 GTO TdeF 63 #165 April
7238 Alfa Romeo 2000 Sprint 1960 met greyApril
7302 Ferrari 250 GTE Polizia 1964 May
7354 Mercedes 300SL coupe LM 52 #22 May
6003 Ferrari 250 TR (2 models: 'Bang book') May
7300 Ferrari 250 GTE Paris show 60 white June
7283 Maserati 450S Ring 57 #1 June
7300 Ferrari 250 SWB Montlhéry 60 #19 June
7301 Ferrari 250 GTE street 60 red July
7298 Ford GT40 Monza #5 white July
7244 Mercedes 300SL spider Ring 52 #24 July
7297 Ferrari 250 GT SWB gold NY show September
7292 Cobra Riverside 63 #96 September
7306 Ferrari 330P3 spider LM66 #27 September
7296 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Turin show white October
7289 Ferrari 250 GT TDF street 58 yellow October
7290 Ferrari 250 GTO TF 65 #27 October
7295 Ferrari 250 GT SWB Paris show red November
7304 Alfa Romeo 2000 Sprint Polizia November
6003 Mercedes 300SL (2 models: 'Bang book') Nov
7307 Maserati A6 GCS street 1955 red December
7288 Ferrari 250 GT SWB TdeF 60 #164 December
7294 Alfa Giulietta Sprint MC 87 #78 December
7309 Maserati A6 GCS street 1955 green Jan 2004
7293 Cobra open, Daytona 63 #97 Jan 2004



THE BEST 2003 NEWS


Best Model of Italy have these 1:43 models proposed for 2003 release:


9224 Lancia Beta Montecarlo LM 82 #65 Jan
9225 Porsche 908/2 flounder LM 70 #29 Jan
9226 Lola T70 spider Laguna Seca 67 #11 Jan
9227 Ferrari 312P spider Monza 69 #1 March
9228 Ferrari 308 GTS Frankfurt 77 red Mar
9229 Alfa Romeo TZ2 ring 66 #77 March
9230 Lancia Beta Montecarlo Ring 81 #31 May
         (above)
9231 Lola T70 Coupe Brands 67 #2 May
9232 Ferrari 308 GTS metallic blue 1978 May
9233 Ferrari 330 GT Spider 66 met grey May
9234 Lancia Beta Montecarlo Ring 81 #17 Aug
9235 Ferrari 308 GTB Vasco Navarro 84 Aug
9236 Ferrari 308 GTS yellow 1978 August
9237 Lola T70 spider Riverside 67 #16 August
9238 Porsche 908/2 TF 69 #270 September
9239 Alfa Romeo TZ2 TF 67 #124 September
9240 Jaguar E Type Coupe LN 62 #9 Sept
9241 Lancia Beta MC Silverstone 81 #28 Sep
9242 Ferrari 308 GTS silver 1978 November
9243 Ferrari 312P spider Spa 69 #8 November
9244 Ferrari 250LM Sebring 65 #31 November
9245 Ferrari 308 GTB QV 1982 red November
9246 Ferrari 250LM Kyalami 66 #7 December
9247 Lola T70 Coupe LM 68 #12 December
Future:  Ferrari 512BB 1976, Alfa Romeo 33.2 1968 long, and Ferrari
512BB LM 79.



News from North America

ONE43 NEWS

By Phil Alderman


Here is an update on my new range of 1:43 scale models One43. The first
three models are all in production, and the first two should be
available in May.

The intial list of models is:

1 1910 Brooke Swan Car
2 1936 Mercedes-Benz 540K custom
3 1935 Duesenberg SJ Bohman & Schwartz Town Car, built for Ethel Mars


There will be photographs in MAR as soon as I have the first samples.
Anyone interested can contact me at Phil Alderman AutoFare 39 Paerdegat
12th St Brooklyn, New York 11236 USA 718 241-2190 email autoFare@aol.com
www.AutoFareModelCars.com


LEGENDARY MOTORCARS


The latest 1:43 handbuilt from Legendary Motorcars is the 1969 Lincoln
Continental Mark III a rare subject not widely seen in any scale. The
production run is 100 of each colour. The first two colours are maroon
with dark red interior and black top, and medium blue with dark blue
interior and black top. When first introduced, the maroon was very
popular, at $259.00. Legendary have also added two new colours to its
1956 Chrysler Crown Imperial Limousine model line. In 1956 this stylish
limo was produced in only four colours: raven black, crown maroon, crown
blue and crown green. Legendary has now made all four colours with its
recent release of crown blue and crown green. The retail price is
$279.00. See Legendary Motorcar's advertisement in this issue.


FRANKLIN VIA ARMOUR


The Armour Collection was one of the brands launched by CDCof Italy. The
1:64 afvs and 1:43 Detail Cars have been disposed of elsewhere, but the
diecast aircraft range has been acquired by Franklin Mint of the USA.
Production will continue in China, but in a new departure for the Mint,
they will supply the models through the retail chain, not just by direct
sale to the public, in the previous Mint manner. An interesting
development is that as they have a 'trade' catalogue and price
structure, Franklin will offer certain items from their own ranges via
the trade for the first time, through the Armour Collection. Road
vehicles include:


Shelby Cobra 427 S/C 1:24
Bentley S saloon 1:24
Cadillac Coupe de Ville 1949 1:24
BMW Z8 1:24
VW New Beetle 1:24
Auburn 851 Boat tail speedster 1:24
Corvette 1997 1:24
Mercedes-Benz 300SL roadster 1960 1:24
Rolls-Royce Corniche IV 1:24
Bugatti T35 1:24
Agajanian Special 1:16
Mack Elite CL613 artic tractor unit 1:32
Pierce Arrow Silver Arrow 1933 1:43
Isotta-Fraschini Landaulet 1928 1:43
Hispano-Suiza H6B Town Car 1928 1:43
Mercedes-Benz 770K Grosser open 1939 1:43



JADA'S way to San José?

By Ben van Roode


Do you remember when the customising of cars started in Southern
California, the music of Bacharach and the Beach Boys? Personalising
cars to your own taste was a craze which began in California and spread
over the USA. Californians love their cars, so it is not surprising that
another car craze started there, in the Hispanic-American community of
California about 25 years ago. First they put very large sound systems
in their cars, progressing with hydraulics, now called hoppers, on to
candy colours and fancy interiors.

In 2001 Jada Toys introduced their Lowriders and Dubcity models in 1:24
scale.

Since then Jada Toys have introduced their first 1:18 scale model, a big
car, the 2002 Cadillac Escalade. In 1:24 scale there are models of  2000
Chevy Suburban, 2001 Astro Van, 2001 Chevy Avalanche and many others.
Think of Caddies, El Camino, 1950s Chevy pickups and much more. Find out
at www.Jadatoys.com.  The Road Rats are sets of 1:24 and 1:64 models of
the same car in special versions.

The European importer is at www.toms.nl and he also handles the
Modifiers from X-Concepts, cars that are hot can be modified in 1:64 or
1:43 scale, including the Civic and the Eclipse from Mitsubishi are very
popular, as are the Ford pickup or GMC Yukon Denali.


NEW Hot Wheels CARS

By Ben van Roode


Remarkably, Hot Wheels have announced that they intend to make the
yet-to-be-introduced 6 Series BMW and the Maserati Quattroporte as well.
The real car will not be launched until September.


News from France

ALEZAN ALFA ROMEOS


The latest 1:43 models from the Alezan range of Michel Ducleux are both
Alfas, available as kits, pre-painted kits or handbuilt models. 252 is a
the Alfa-Osi Scarabeo from 1966, based on the Giulia. 253 is the Alfa
147 GTA V6 2002.


ELIGOR PLANS


Eligor plan these 1:43 models for 2003 release:


Citroen C15 fire van Ardennes
Ford V8 van 'God Bless America'
Mini Cooper Police Panda 1960s
Peugeot 203 saloon Michelin with Bib on roof




Solido FOR 2003

By Ben van Roode


Solido has always had a strong commitment to make models of European
cars, in particular French ones. At one end of the time scale new
releases include a Peugeot 203 from 1954., at the other end a concept
car from 2002 the Carreau. A few years ago Solido took over the Spanish
range of Mira, mainly 1:18 American cars, now integrated into the Solido
range. They also incorporate the now-defunct Detail Cars range from
Italy. Solido is reissuing some old castings in new colours. There will
be a fuller analysis of Solido and Majorette releases for 2003 in the
next issue.


LE MANS MINIATURES


News from Le Mans Miniatures of France mostly concerns their 1:24
releases. They say, 'If you noted that a few new items we announced did
not actually materialise as planned in 2001, the results for 2002 seem
to be better. Of 21 new items announced last year, 19 are on the market.
But these 1:24 items are in addition':


PORSCHE 917K Le Mans 1970
124058.0: #20 + Jo Siffert standing without helmet
124058.1: #21+ Pedro Rodriguez sitting, no helmet
124058.2 : #22 + John Wyer standing near the car
AUDI R8 Le Mans 2002 124062 : #5 "Team Goh"
PANHARD CD Le Mans 1962
124059 : #53, #54 or #55
PORSCHE 917K Le Mans 1971
124063 : #22 Winner + Helmut Marko figure
124064 : #19 + John Wyer standing figure
PANOZ LMP 900 Sebring 2002 124066 : #00


(The projects for the Renault Etoile Filante in 1:24 scale and the Ford
Mk IV are in process.)


They add, '80% of our old items are still available, 11 years later in
some cases. We have


seen an increase in sales of 1:24 models, with more sold of each new
item. From 2003 we add a new scale, 1:32, in resin with photoetched
parts, decals, hubcaps, and vacforms. They will be sold under our Soft
Line brand, as they are particularly aimed at slot car lovers who may
wish to motorise them using parts by Ninco, Fly, SCX or other makers.
Also, just like our 1:24, 1:43 and 1:87 ranges, we will offer the 1:32
models as kits or pre painted kits, and in the Gold Line range, a
complete model car with engine, including all mechanical and electrical
components, with a ready-to-run model made to special order. Like in our
other ranges, we are developing a series of 1:32 figures to enliven slot
racing. Here is our total 2003 Programme':


Reissues:

124003 Jaguar XJR 14 Le Mans 1991 1:24
124007 Jaguar XJR 14 Le Mans 1991 1:24
143015 Dauer Porsche #35 Le Mans 1994 1:43
124027 Rondeau M379B #16 Winner LM80 1:24
124028 Rondeau M379B #15 Le Mans 1980 1:24
124019 Ford GT 40 #9, 10 & 11 Winner LM68 1:24




AUDI

124052 Audi R8 #1 Winner Le Mans 2002 1:24
187087 Audi R8 #1 Winner Le Mans 2002 1:87
187085 Audi R8 #1 Winner Le Mans 2001 1:87
187086 Audi R8 #2 Le Mans 2001 1:87
187088 Audi R8 #2 Le Mans 2002 1:87
187089 Audi R8 #3 Le Mans 2002 1:87
BENTLEY
124068 Bentley EXP Speed 8 Le Mans 2002 1:24
187090 Bentley EXP Speed 8 Le Mans 2002 1:87
PORSCHE
124069 Porsche 908 #24 2 Le Mans 1969 1:24
FORD
187084 Ford Mk IV #1 Winner Le Mans 1967 1:87
132001 Ford Mk IV #1 Winner Le Mans 1967 1:32
MATRA
GTS22.0 MS 630 #29 Le Mans 1967 1:43
GTS22.1 MS 630 #30 Le Mans 1967 1:43
RENAULT
124042 Etoile Filante Speed Record 1956 1:24
GTS87001 Etoile Filante Speed Record 1956 1:87
GTS04 Renault 12 Gordini Metge 1:43
These 1:87 models are cancelled:
187079 Panoz LMP-1 Roadster S-Ford #11,12 LM99
187080 Panoz LMP-1 Roadster S-Ford  #11,12 LM00
187081 Panoz LMP-1 Roadster S-Ford #22,23 LM00



World News


MAISTO 2003 NEWS


Maisto's ranges just grow and grow, all diecast in China for Hong Kong,
in various scales:


1:18 scale
Audi R8 Infineon LM 02 #1 or #3
Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM 02  (three versions)
Mercedes-Benz SLR  .  Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG
Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift . Dodge Viper SRT-10
Chevrolet Nomad wagon 1955  .  Lexus SC430 Coupe
Chevrolet impala 2001 NYPD   .  Mini Cooper sunroof
Chevrolet impala 2001 Military Police  .  Jeep Sahara
Hummer Tenth anniversary edition      .  Jeep Rubicon
Corvette Guldstrand Signature edition
Studebaker Hawk Coupe 1953  .  Smart City car green
Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Coupe 03  .  Dodge 330 '63
Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Convertible 2003 . BMW Z4
Porsche Cayenne S 4x4   .  Cayenne Turbo 4x4
Speedway motorcycle      .  Ice-racing motorcycle
Honda VFR motorcycle  (Also various items in kit form)
1:24 scale
Dodge Viper SRT-10  .  Chev impala 01 Military Police
Buick Rivera Gran Sport 1965 (1:25)  .  Nissan 350Z
VW New Beetle cabriolet     .   Lexus Concept vehicle
Harley-Davidson motorcycle 1903 (Centenary)
Harley-Davidson with sidecar (various bikes)
(Also various items newly released in kit form)
1:43 scale: Mercedes-Benz S-Class facelift
1:12 scale: Espada futuristic bicycle
Marvel Comics series: A new series of 1:18 and 1:24 models, fully built
and kits, in liveries related to Marvel comics characters, Hulk, Dr
Doom, Spider-Man etc.

SIGNATURE MODELS
By Ben van Roode

These were introduced in 2002, a remarkable choice of models in 1:18 scale, mainly US cars from the 1930s to the 1960s, and in 1:32 scale mostly the same subjects.

1:18 scale: 1939 Lincoln Zephyr convertible, 1917 Reo touring, 1963 Studebaker Avanti, 1930 Packard Brewster, 1936 Cord 810, 1936 Pontiac Delux coupe, 1934 Duesenberg, 1930 Packard LeBaron, 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged ,1949 Jaguar XK 120 coupe, 1920 Cleveland Model 40, 1937 Cord 812 with flames (ugh), 1931 Ford model A pickup and tow truck.

1:32 scale: 1917 Reo touring, 1963 Studebaker Avanti, 1934 Duesenberg, 1937 Cord 812 Supercharged, 1941 Plymouth four door, Chrysler Airflow 1936, 1926 Ford T fire truck, 1936 Packard, 1920 White truck and 1932 Chrysler LeBaron

JADI MODELCRAFT

It has been a while since Jadi of Hong Kong was mentioned in MAR, so it is time for an update. In 1:43 scale they make the BMW V12 LMR 1999, New Mini Cooper, Audi A4 Quattro STW 99 Abt, Alfa 156 Superturismo 99 Giovanardi, Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI WRC 99 Makinen, Peugeot 206 WRC 99 Delecour, Peugeot 206 WRC 2000 silver, Swedish rally, and BMW Z8. There is also a 1:18 scale range, which includes the New Mini Cooper again (five colour choices), Lotus Elise 111S 2002 (three colour choices, April 2003 release) and BMW 503 Coupe or Cabriolet 1956 (June 2003 release).

KYOSHO JOTA SVRs
By Heather Rose

Kyosho have released diecast models of the Lamborghini Jota SVR in red, with rear spoiler.

It is available in both 1:18 and 1:43 scales.

GUILOY FROM SPAIN

Guiloy appear to have decided on supercars and show cars as the future main theme for their 1:18 scale range. 2003 sees the release of the Mercedes-Benz C-112 (1991) in three colours, as well as new colours on the Mercedes C-111, Pininfarina Mythos and Aston Martin DB-7. Guiloy's extensive motorcycle range expands, with many new releases in 1:6 and 1:10 scales.

AUTO ART AND GATE
By Ben van Roode

Auto Art's prototype Impala 510SS from the Detroit Auto Show is black, but if my memory serves me right, the real car was red.

There are lots of Corvettes from Auto Art for the anniversary year, including 1953, 1959, 1978, 1959 and 2003. Start saving now, Vette fans. Alongside the Maybach short wheelbase model there will be a long version, a big car and a huge model. Some say that the Maybach looks like an extra-large copy of the Rover 600 series, which could be true, but the Maybach is much more expensive, costing from 550,000 Euros. But you do get a lot of car. The smaller one is 5.20 metres long, and there is also a 6.20 metre version. 1:43 and 1:18 versions are now available from Auto Art. The big one is a really big model. But beautiful. Just like the real thing it is two tone, inside and out.

Manufacturers overlap subjects now and then, such as the same BMW 635 CSI coupe made by Minichamps, available from Auto Art in six colours. This year sees the launch of the New Beetle convertible, full-size and in 1:18 scale.

The following are proposed in 1:18 scale: 

Ford Escort RS 1600 Mark1
Ford Sierra RS Cosworth
Jaguar E type convertible series III V12
Lancia Delta Integrale 16V Evolution  .  Lotus Esprit V8
Mercedes Benz G-wagon 1990s     .  Maybach 62 LWB
1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1  .  Lancia Fulvia 1.6 HF
Toyota 2000 GT convertible and coupe
Mercedes Benz 190E 2.5 16V DTM 1990
Chevrolet Corvette 2003 and coupe
Mazda RX 8 2003 LHD
New Beetle convertible
Ford Focus 2003 WRC MCRae
Peugeot 206 2003 WRC in four different rally liveries.

There will be 1:43 MGB GTs and MGB roadsters. Everybody is fishing in the same pond!

There is a new Auto Art 1:64 range called Junior and there are new slot cars, using Fly chassis.

The Gate brand returns with a much smaller range than its parent company, at a good price level for the quality, but the choice of models is not very exciting. There is even a 1:24 range of remote controlled vehicles.

Under the Auto Art Design label they offer a range of products from wall clocks to key rings, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Corvette.

IXO FUTURE PLANS

Ixo have not yet given us much detail on their plans for 2003 releases, but they will continue much as before with their present series. Their main themes will be WRC rally cars and MotoGP bikes, for which they hold the licenses. There is a new license from the AC de l'Ouest, so a series of Le Mans winners since 1923 is under way, incorporating various models already in the range, such as the 1937 Bugatti T57G Tank.

Additional Ixo Notes
By Ben van Roode

After the demise of Vitesse, Ixo appeared, so many collectors thought they had taken over the Vitesse range. European Sales Manager Guy Raemakers clarifies that a subsidiary company, Sonic, used a number of Vitesse dies. But all Ixo models are new, though some are subjects that Vitesse used to make. This year they promise the Maserati collection, to include the 3200GT Spyder and Coupe, plus famous names from the past like the Mistral, Ghibli, 250F and 3500GT. The series begins with a Maserati Spyder 2000, their promo model for Nuremberg Toy Fair. In France Altaya publishes part publications on taxis and Pinder circus in cluding models made by an Ixo subsidiary. The taxi series is also published in Spain, where a subscription also gets a 1:43 1970s Lincoln Continental stretch limo, to be released by Ixo this year in an upgraded version.

ALEF 1:43 MASERATI
By David Sery

The first release of Alef Models from Israel is a 1:43 Maserati 3500GT Sebring Series I in metallic dark blue, metallic light blue, silver metallic, or bordeaux metallic. They are made to BBR quality level, with photo-etched parts, and come in a clear box with velvet stand. The retail price is $199, payments via Western Union or MoneyGram money transfer, or in Registered Airmail letter in USD cash. You can email us for details: greyt@bezeqint.net

JOY CITY AUTOMAXX

The Joy City Automaxx range from Hong Kong (the double-X seems to feature more nowadays) includes 1:60, 1:87 and 1:72 scale diecast toy vehicles, many of them respectable replicas. They make lots of livery and colour variants on a 1:72 New Mini, for instance, as well as Mercedes-Benzes, BMWs and Pajeros. Their 1:87 trucks are widely used as the basis for promotional liveries at economical prices.

1:18 SCALE WELLYS
By Ben van Roode

Welly only entered the 1:18 field recently. For 2003 they announce 1969 Cougar XR 7 and Eliminator, plus a 1968 Mustang, a neglected car, only GMP makes a fairly expensive model. The 2003 Range Rover is truly a beauty, and if you have been waiting for a Chevrolet Borrego, now's your chance.

News from Germany
SCHUCO NEW FOR 2002

Schuco have an extensive list of new releases for 2003, under various range titles: 

SCHUCO CLASSIC Tinplate etc
00200 Schuco Feuerwehr Turntable Ladder
01028 Studio 1 with opening bonnet
01039 Examico 4001 yellow-black
01122 Ford Model T polished 100 years of Ford
01744 Studio IV Bugatti T35B with figures
06040 Studio VII Mercedes-Benz W196
SCHUCO CLASSIC MOTORCYCLES 1:10
06516 Zundapp KS 750 +sidecar, figures, camouflage
06539 Heinkel Tourist scooter
06560 BMW R75 with sidecar, desert sand
06570 DKW RT 350,
06675 DKW RT 350 with sidecar
06580 Horex Regina with extra seat
06585 Horex Regina with sidecar
06590 Zundapp Bella scooter R204
06595 Zundapp Bella scooter R204 with sidecar
SCHUCO CLASSIC PICCOLO
01495 VW Karmann Ghia cabriolet
0152B Golden Sixties MB 170V Erdal
01660 Piccolo starter kit 4 models + book
01665 Piccolo folder (CD, update, Piccolo MB L319)
01839 Golden Sixties Mercedes artic Barenmarke
05115 Golden Sixties set Maggi
05116 Golden Sixties set Rama
05155 Golden Sixties VW T1 bus Sprengel
05156 Golden Sixties set Miele
05212 Golden Sixties Set Brandt Zwieback
05213 Golden Sixties Set Kaffee
05214 Gift Set of the Year 2003
05228 Golden Sixties set Smarties
05229 Golden Sixties set After Eight
05402 Golden Sixties set Nivea
05611 Golden Sixties VW Beetle Odol
05631 VW T1 pickup with tilt
05641 Grand Prix Racer
05651 VW Golf I
05665 Unimog 411 pickup
05671 Krupp 746 lorry with tilt
05681 Krupp 750 dump truck
5013 2037 VW T1 Bus Brezen Kolb
SCHUCO 1:43 modern range
04661 Opel Signum
SCHUCO 1:43 historical trucks
02742 MB bus 06600 + trailer Classic Overland
02745 MB bus 06600 with roof quarter windows
02811 MB bus 0319
02821 Setra S6 bus
03018 MB L6600 with drawbar trailer Fendt
03019 MB L6600 with drawbar trailer Lederer
03071 Opel Blitz 3.6t fire turntable ladder
03073 Opel Blitz 3.6t fire water tanker
03114 Unimog 401 soft top Muller Mitteltal trailer
03115 Unimog 401 soft top, yellow
03155 Unimog 406 with soft top cab
03161 Magirus S6500 roundnose dropside tilt
03162 Magirus S6500 roundnose + trailer
04643 Unimog U300 snowplough-gritter
SCHUCO 1:43 tractors
02594 Gift Set Dieselross tractor + VW T1 Fendt"
02612 Porsche Diesel Junior K + passenger seat
02622 Fendt Dieselross F20G + cutter and seat
02625 Fendt equipment carrier
02642 Lanz tractor + Muller Mitteltal trailer
02722 Fendt Farmer 2 100,000th Fendt
02725 Eicher tractor ED 16
02732 MAN tractor 4S2 + timber trailer
02735 Eicher tractor EM 200
02781 Hanomag R40 tractor
SCHUCO 1:43 Motor Sport edition
04835 V8 STAR Irmscher Cecotto 2002
04836 V8 STAR SST Enginerring Thiim 2002
04837 V8 STAR SST Engineering Widmann 2002
04838 V8 STAR GAG Racing Haupt 2002
04839 V8 STAR GAG Racing Adorf 2002
04845 V8 STAR Zakspeed Racing Beckern 2002
04846 V8 STAR JAG Racing Bert 2002
04847 V8 STAR JAG Racing Simon 2002
04848 V8 STAR Galeria Kaufhof Lamy 2002
04849 V8 STAR Galeria Kaufhof Lechner 2002
04860 V8 STAR VIP Taxi 2002
04861 V8 STAR Motopark Oschersleben Rostek 2002
04862 V8 STAR 1st Choice Michels 2002
04863 V8 STAR 1st Choice Nissen 2002
04871 V8 STAR Polevision Racing Lohr 2002
04872 V8 STAR Polevision Racing Asch 2002
SCHUCO CLASSIC PICCOLO MOTORCYCLES 1:43
05691 Zundapp Bella scooter
05701 Heinkel scooter
SCHUCO 1:43 Historical range
02094 BMW Isetta with caravan
02368 M-B 170V saloon Fendt tractors
02526 Opel Manta A GTE green
02527 Opel Manta A ruby red-black
02575 VW T1 van Uhu
02651 Opel Ascona A
02661 Opel Olympia Rekord estate
02791 VW Beetle split window
02801 Mercedes-Benz L319 van
SCHUCO Junior 1:43 range

Mercedes-Benz SLK, SL500, CLK, Audi TT Roadster, BMW Z8, Mini Cooper, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, VW Karmann Ghia I Coupe, VW Beetle fire and Polizei, VW T1 van, pickup and Samba, Jeep RAF, Jeeps with trailers, Car and caravan sets include two new caravans (both subjects previously made by Brooklin and Robeddie),

SCHUCO Junior 1:72 range

Mercedes-Benz 280SL cabrio, coupe and soft top, Mercedes-Benz 560SL cabrio, coupe and soft top, Mercedes-Benz 300SL cabrio, coupe and soft top, plus three race variants, Mini rally and checker roof versions, Mitsubishi Lancer rally, Porche 550 spyder race versions, VW Beetle saloon, cabrio closed, fire, police, VW T1 Samba, van and pickup. Caravan sets including two new caravans (scaled down version sof the 1:43 models), Scania car transporter.

SCHUCO Junior 1:24 range

BMW X5, Z3, Z8, 507, 328Ci, Porsche 356, 911, Boxster, Honda S2000, Corvette, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Lamborghini Countach, Audi A2, TT, Mini Cooper MB C-Class saloon and sport coupe, Unimog, Peugeot 206CC, VW New Beetle, Lupo, Bolf IV, Passat Variant

SCHUCO HO Edition 1:87 diecast

Mercedes-Benz E Class saloon, CLK, C Class sport coupe, VW T1 Samba, Mini Cooper Polizei, BMW 3 series cabrio, 7 series saloon, Unimog, All the V8 Star series of German touring cars (29 models), and new liveries on MAN, Mercedes and Scania trucks.

1:87 DIECAST MODELS
By Ben van Rood

A number of companies have started making diecast models in 1:87 scale. Prices are very competitive compared with such plastic ranges as Herpa. The companies involved are Schuco, NZG and Siku, so 1:87 scale collecting is here to stay and is expanding into a different market. Schuco will introduce 51 new items, cars, trucks and German Touring Championship cars. Siku will make eight new items in 2003, mostly scaled down versions of models already in the 1:55 Siku range. Under the name NZG minis, there will be seven construction vehicles and two previously-available buses, Cobus 300 and 3000 airport apron buses.

NEW CMC MODELS
By Ben van Roode

After the magnificent Mercedes Race Trans-porter last year CMC (www.cmc-modelcars.de) gets even bigger, with a 1:12 scale Horch. It is awesomely detailed, but will a Horch sell well outside Germany? This also seems to have been considered at CMC, who announced two 1:18 scale Maseratis, a Birdcage and a Tipo 60/61.

ROLLS-ROYCE DEARTH
Hans-Georg Schmitt

There is currently no scale model of the fantastic new Rolls-Royce planned for production.

BMW, Rolls-Royce's owners, decree that models can only be sold through Rolls-Royce dealers, of which there are only about 90 worldwide, so the number of models they could sell would be insufficient for mass production.

So no licenses have been awarded yet, due to the cost. In early 2002, Minichamps took some photos for a project, still planned with BMW. Auto Art is also working on a Rolls-Royce model, but so far without a license agreed.

THE RETURN OF BUB
By Ben van Roode

The Bub toy company was founded in in 1851 by Paulus Bub in Nuremberg, the centre of German toy making at that time. At first Bub produced only simple toys, but early in the 20th century they began producing quality tinplate cars and trains. During the Great war Bub was forced into bankruptcy, but soon recovered and began producing diecast models with moulds from another famous maker Bing, to make accessories for model trains. All their production facilities were destroyed during the Second World War, but they managed to come back and produce Bubmobil cars and electric trains after the War. In the 1950s, however, they made a strategic error in not turning to plastics. In the early 1960s Bub was forced to close.

But in 2003 NZG of Germany have launched a new Bub range. In 1:18 scale there will be tinplate models with a long running clockwork motor and gearbox, including VW Beetles in sedan and convertible form, Microbus and van. The Motorcycle line will be made in tinplate as well, generic racers and a sidecar combination. In 1:43 scale there will be a similar line up to the 1:18 range. These smaller versions also have wind-up motors, reminding me of old Schuco toys. Finally there are two vans in 1:87 scale. With these models they return to the kind of railway accessories Bub made in the 1930s.

 

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