CONTENTS
CONTENTS of the print edition, including hundreds of photos...
9144 Correspondence 9145 Competition 9146 Nuremberg 04 Hans-Georg Schmitt, Germany 9148 The Green Hornet's Black Beauty Don Elliott, USA 9149 Competition MAR 179 Answers 9150 Book Reviews 9152 Unusual Liebherr Models André-Jacques Chailloux, described by Guy Menou 9152 More Spit and Polish Graeme Watt, Scotland 9153 The Poor Man's Limo Graeme Ogg, England 9154 Soldering Tony Steenmeyer, Netherlands 9155 Scenics Maz Woolley, England 9156 Needlenose: the 1950-51 Studebaker Don Elliott, USA 9158 Captions to back cover Captions to centre pages 9160-61 9159 NEWS Germany: Minichamps, Busch, Wiking, Tin Wizardry 9162 British Model Car Collectors Corner: Part 11 Ron Gersbank, South Africa 9165 Clubs 9166 NEWS Britain: Brooklin, changes Oxford, Corgi for France and USA, Meccano-Dinky 9167 NEWS France: Mini Racing, Alezan, Renaissance, Italy: Brumm Auto Unions 9168 NEWS Bus Stop: EFE, OOC, St Petersburg 9165 Emergency: Smalltorque, First Gear 9170 NEWS Truckstop: First Gear, Corgi, Viscount 9171 Military: Corgi, Showcase, Elite 9172 NEWS World News: MaCo, Rialto, Meccano auction, Britains, Joal 9174 avia mini 9176 Swapmeet DiarySPAM AND MORE SPAM
Due to vastly increased 'spam' activity, we have had to discontinue a number of email addresses previously used for Modelauto and MAR. In future, if you wish to contact MAR, please only email to mar@zeteo.com, and for Modelauto use the address mar@zeteo.com
SOURCES AND ADDRESSES
On the subject of Modelauto sales, please note that we cannot supply via Modelauto any of the 'direct only' ranges featured in this pages. In spite of contributors like Maz Woolley pointing out that certain makers only sell direct, we still get enquiries asking if we can get these models. And no, we don't know their addresses. Even if we did, we only give out the address of someone who stocks MAR, or who advertises with us. Those addresses are our 'property' to pass on. We do not give out any other addresses, of subscribers, contributors, manufacturers or anyone else. The legal ramifications if anything were to 'go wrong' make it impossible for us to pass on any such information.
CLUB NEWS
Collated by Rod WardThe Lledo Enthusiast and Variations Club:
In the latest issue of the Lledo Enthusiast newsletter, Bill Alexander devotes a considerable amount of space to an interview he had at Leicester with Lledo Collectibles management, in the form of Paul Lumsdon, Corrine Farr and Martin Hickmore.
You'll have to join the Club to read the extensive interview in full in the Lledo Enthusiast, but here are a few snippets to whet your appetite:Vanguards: 2004 sees a new breed of collector - we want to expand, bringing in more up-to-date cars - the new packaging now displays the marque of car and displays the model attractively with a higher level of protection. We will be adding more modern, up to the minute cars - we also intend to fill in the gaps around the 1980s and 1990s. - Competition from other makers of scale model modern cars is not a problem - Vanguards offer incomparable value for money. - We are re-running some older models as part of the relaunch of the range to a wider market, but only the '00' numbered unlimited runs. - Demand for some recent models like the red XJ6 and green Viva has astonished us - they'll have re-runs as well.
Days Gone: We have had some problems re-establishing the range - Trackside is the successful end of Days Gone - we are looking carefully at the standard range to develop and build some credibility back into it. - That is where it all started and the range is important to us, we don't want to kill it off. - We've reduced the number of new issues, and grouped them into themes - the big success story of last year was the Beano set, so we are doing a Dandy set to go beside it - Some themes are tricky for licensing (such as alcoholic drink) and limit choices - also cost of licensing car brands is prohibitive in a value for money range, when some products are not really scale models anyway, hence the move to anonymous descriptions such as '15cwt van' - Some lessons have been learned from over-production which led to 'remaindering', which upsets collectors who paid full price - we have cut back and reduced the runs - It's a fine line between production and demand - Ideally we aim to fill 98% of demand, and our average response from the Collectors Guild database is for 4000 models - if we could have sold 5000 it upsets collectors, and they tell us about it! - The two over-riding sins are over-production and under-production. We try, but we can never get it exactly right... For more detail on this and other Lledo matters, you'll have to join the The Lledo Enthusiast and Variations Club, so contact Bill Alexander at 33 North Town Moor, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 7JR.Natal Diecast Model Collectors:
Chairman Geoff Sear is pleading for more articles for the NDMC newsletter, a continuing problem for all Club publications, though nowadays pages can be topped up with pictures more easily in the age of the computer than they could in the old mimeographed newsletters. He also reminds members that sub renewals are due, at what sounds like a very reasonable 70 Rands. To join at this cheap rate, contact Geoff at 7 Dryden Place, Umbilo, Durban 4001, South Africa. Tel 031 205 0100West Australian Model Collectors Club:
Ian Hind, WAMCC Secretary and editor of the Club publication, Showcase, has kindly mentioned our changes at MAR, and their causes. But he says, 'Unfortunately the continued inclusion of colour pages was not economically viable and have been discontinued', implying that we no longer have any colour pages in MAR. That is obviously not true. We just had to reduce the amount of colour in the magazine, not do away with it altogether.
One of our regular contributors recently asked me who in could give him an insight into the Australian market for models of locally-made vehicles. I recommended the various clubs whose news we publish in MAR as the best source. Maybe I shouldn't have? He was surprised to note that, though we have a lot of readers and correspondents in Australia and New Zealand, they rarely write accounts of recent releases Down Under. I suggested that perhaps our Oz readership is more internationally-minded, and would be as likely to write about models of European or American vehicles as about Australian ones. Presumably the main market for the Australian ranges is not among such specialist collectors, but is rather aimed at a more general market of patriotic nostalgiacs. If you'd like to join the club run by Western Australians, telephone Ian Hind on 934 9369 or email him on jhind@iinet.net.auCape Model and Toy Club:
Very lucky, those chaps who live in South Africa. Not only is the weather better, they have a thriving 'club culture' for collectors, jolly meetings at each other's homes, clubnights, swapmeets and loads of other events. And all the food they seem to eat, always a running theme in the Cape Model Collector, the CMTC newsletter. Editor Glyn Murrell says that 'Cape Model Collectors do it better together!'. He also makes an interesting point in regard to currently produced diecast models, which are marketed at investors, not collectors. Presumably all of these will be kept in mint condition, most of them in their boxes. So these models will ultimately not increase in value as much as the ever-hopeful 'investors' think, because sufficient will always survive in mint condition to meet demand. He asks, 'How many collect the basic, mostly plastic toy of today, the cheap and cheery Chinese chorries? Any bets that these will be the investment of the future? After all, who would have thought Dinkies would be? Makes ya think, dunnit?' Yes, it does, and it makes me glad I'm not an 'investor' Down the years I have been asked many times, 'What models should I invest in?' or 'Will these incrrease in value?' If I knew the answers, I wouldn't have had to buy and sell toys and models, just to 'invest' in them, and sit back to reap the income.
It is usually the unexpected that becomes valuable in the long run; old toys (when they were just meant to play with), old comics (when they were just read and discarded) cereal box premiums (did you think to keep the 'diver' after playing with it in the bath?). Otherwise the only way to guarantee a profit is to buy at wholesale prices and sell at retail while early demand is still high. Any other longer term 'investment opportunities' require a degree in crystal ball gazing. Most investment advice comes from those with a vested interest in taking your money. Do you believe an insurance salesman when he pushes a particular product that you suspect gives him a better commission? Or do you believe a diecast manufacturer who advertisies the 'collectability' or 'investment value' of his products? It should be obvious if something is so desirable, so if they have to advertise their claim that a model is 'collectable', perhaps it isn't? If you'd like to discuss this further in the sunny Cape, perhaps over fish and chips or five star chocolate cake, contact Secretary Graham Ramsay on 072 156 6806 at any hour.South Hants Model Auto Club:
The SHMAC magazine now looks even better, with their new high-definition colour printer in use. The articles still have just the slightest leetle bias towards competition and sports cars, but at least there is a feature on the Kübelwagen and Schwimmwagen, to interest the less-competitive among the membership. Motor sport fans in the Club will have their hands full this year with model displays promised for various events, including 'Historic Motorsport International', held at Stoneleigh in February. This show is organised by Mike Kennington, of Modelex fame, so he is keeping his connections with the model car world, which may augur well for the future revival of Modelex in some form. The SHMAC presence included a display of Sir Stirling Moss's cars in miniature, appropriate as he was opening the Show. It helps if you are a racing car fan, but even if you are not, the Club welcomes new members: ring Secretary Dave Painter on 01264 366408.Maidenhead Static Model Club:
Here's an opportunity: Bill Alexander, editor of the MSMC Newsletter, Wheel Bearings is giving up his post, and invites any other member to fill the gap. Or maybe you'd like to join, and become a member and editor in one move?. Ring John Garside on 07729 910632.BOOK REVIEWS
VANWALL: Green for Glory By Ed McDonough, Publisher: The Crowood Press, Crowood Lane, Ramsbury, Wilts SN8 2HR. Tel: 01672 520320; Fax 01672 520280. Email: enquiries@crowood.com. 246 x 189mm, 192 pages + 8 page colour section, 150 black & white photographs, ISBN 1 86126 542 5. Hardbound £19.95
Vanwall was one of the great hopes for British motor sport in the 1950s, and the marque has an enduring fascination for racing fans and model car collectors. The brainchild of industrialist Tony Vandervell, the Vanwall Grand Prix car was intended to beat the red Italian cars that dominated the Grand Prix scene at that time. Ed McDonough shows the story of Vanwall in a new light, from the team's slow beginnings after Vandervell's break from BRM to later successes, including securing the first Constructors' Cup in 1958.
Ed McDonough is an old friend of MAR, a motoring writer with a particular interest in motor sport. He is European Editor of US-based magazine Vintage Racecar and is a frequent contributor to Auto Italia. He also wrote Ferrari 156: Sharknose. He reappraises the contributions of Costin and Chapman, and gives a fresh interpretation of Vandervell's part in the story.
Rod WardIMP: The Complete Story by George Mowat-Brown, Publisher: The Crowood Press, Crowood Lane, Ramsbury, Wilts SN8 2HR. Tel 01672 520320, Fax 01672 520280. Email: enquiries@crowood.com 246 x 189mm, 192 pages plus 8 page colour section, 150 black & white photos ISBN 1 86126 619 7. Hardbound £19.95
The Hillman Imp: love it or hate it. The Rootes Group's answer to the BMC Mini, Imps came from a purpose-built factory in Linwood, Glasgow, with hopes for the beginning of a new era for the Scottish motor industry. With the help of interviews with key members of the design team, and unprecedented research of official papers, the story of the design and development of this quirky little car is set against the complex commercial and political intrigue that surrounded it, making this book not just the story of a car but a fascinating insight into an industry in crisis. This book includes some odd photographs which reveal the rather amateur and downbeat approach of Rootes publicity department. There are also photographs of every Imp variant (Chamois, Californian, Van, Husky etc) which confirm that the family is now fairly well covered in miniature. The author, George Mowat-Brown, a composer and lecturer in music, lives in the Orkney Isles and is a long-time Imp fan. He is also the author of another automotive title, The Rover.
Rod WardMinichamps - A Passion for Model Cars - Volume 1, available from Paul's Model Art GmbH & Co KG, Postfach 50 05 04; D-52089 Aachen, Germany Fax: 0049 (0) 241 9672 299. web: www.minichamps.de
To the surprise and delight of the management at Minichamps, Japanese enthusiasts for the brand have published a book on Minichamps, initially for their home market in Japanese language, but then it was adopted by Minichamps and translated into English. The content is so extensive, that it will be published in more than one volume.
Volume 1 is now in print and available from Minichamps dealers. It covers the story of Minichamps, their 1:43 model cars and all model cars in the same scale made under the Paul's Model Art label. Car marques like Ferrari, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW,and Opel are included, as are Volkswagen (and subsidiaries Auto Union, Audi, NSU). Ford, Toyota, Saab and Volvo. Other brands covered are Peugeot, Renault and Citroen, MG, Lotus, Jaguar, Triumph. Alfa Romeo, Lancia, Lamborghini, Autobianchi and the Italian-made Bugattis. Special chapters are devoted to Toy Fair and promotional models and all the rally and racing cars made by the company. At the back of the book every 1:43 model which has been made in the first 13 years is listed. We'll have to wait for the next volume to read about their models in 1:24 and 1:18 scales.
Hans-Georg SchmittThe COMPLETE ENYCLOPEDIA series This is a new range of books themed for collectors and automobile enthusiasts.
The Complete Encyclopedia of Sports Cars, by Rob de la Rive Box. Over 750 superb colour photos. 288 pages, Hard-bound with dust jacket; 170 x 240mm, ISBN 1-84053-111-8. English text, published by and available from REBO Inter-national bv, PO Box 314, 2160 AH Lisse, Netherlands.Tel: (31)252431555. Fax: (31) 252431556; email: info@rebo publishers. com Web: www.rebo publishers.com
Back in the 1950s and 1960s cars such as the Jaguar XK 120, the ASA Cisitalia, Veritas, or Pegaso could be seen performing superbly on the racing circuits of Europe. The classic models of some 150 different marques are to befound in this comprehensive reference work, with much valuable information, including the history of each marque, a description of the models, technical data and production numbers and an extensive index to find the car you want to identify or to research further.
Hans-Georg SchmittThe Complete Encyclopedia of Vintage Cars, by Rob de la Rive Box. 336 pages, 170 x 240 mm. around 1,000 photos, mostly colour. Hardbound with dust jacket. ISBN 90 3B6 1517-8. English text, published by and available from REBO Inter-national bv, PO Box 314, 2160 AH Lisse, Netherlands. Tel: (31) 252431555 Fax (31) 252431556, email info@rebo publishers. com Web www.rebo publishers.com
This book contains information about cars rarely seen now on public roads. There are plenty of familiar old favourites though, such as the Model T Ford, first made in 1913 using progressive production line methods. Then there is the Spijker, later called the Spyker, one of the few cars made in the Netherlands, home of the author. How many readers can recall that Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz constructed their first cars independently of each other more than a hundred years ago? Many other interesting stories of the pioneers of automobile history can be read in this book, tales of many makes that flowered briefly before they disappeared for good. The book also tells us about about some of the marques that can still be seen on the roads today, the factories that survived two world wars and many economic crises. In spite of its 'Vintage' title, usually only applied to cars manufactured between 1919 and 1930, all cars built between 1886 and 1940 are described in this book.
Hans-Georg SchmittThe Complete Encyclopedia of Classic Cars, by Rob de la Rive Box. 296 pages. Over 750 colour photos. Hardbound with dust jacket. 170 x 240mm. ISBN 1-84053-143-6. English text, published by and available from REBO International bv, PO Box 314, 2160 AH Lisse, Netherlands. Phone: (31) 252 431555. Fax: (31) 252 431556; email: info@rebo publishers.com; Web: www.rebo publishers.com
Older readers may look back in nostalgia when this book reminds them of the many marques that have disappeared since 1945, while younger ones may wonder at the wide choice and great variety that was once offered to the motorist. Marques such as Borgward, Delahaye, Hudson, and Nash become familiar once more through these pages. Classic models from some 150 different marques are to be found in this comprehensive reference work, with much valuable information, with the history of each and a description of their models with technical data.
Hans-Georg SchmittNuremberg Toy Fair 2004
First Report
By Hans-Georg Schmitt(Who this year staggered away under the weight of 44kg - almost 100lb - of paperwork from the Toy Fair)
The toy industry pinned of lot of hopes on the 2004 Toy Fair. Once again huge quantities of new products were piled up waiting for buyers. The constantly dropping birth rate in the West doesn't help. In the morning of each day, the Fair buildings were filled with people, and in many cases I could not get to talk to anyone on the stands, but by late afternoon there was hardly anyone to be seen in the gangways. The number of exhibitors looked to have fallen, because some spaces were filled with special exhibitions, but the Toy Fair closed with a reported new record for visitor numbers at over 78,000, plus 2,705 exhibitors. The model car makers displayed vast quantities of new models, some subjects duplicated, one of the most obvious clashes being a 1:18 Porsche tractor, promised by both Minichamps and Schuco. Only time will tell if everything announced in February will actually be released during 2004.
Let's have a brief look at what I saw; more detailed news of these and other ranges, with pictures, will appear in future MAR issues.
ADP This company's main new item was a 1950 EMW 340 in three versions; civilian black or red, a matt green military staff car or a white and green police car of the East German 'People's Police'. In 1:87 scale they had a range of Opel cars and a Kapitan ambulance car, Ford commercials and the last vehicle made by Robur in the former DDR. ADP also import and distribute a lot of 1:87 models from Russia.
ALBEDO: Some of their new releases were on display, but the stand was managed by an elderly lady who could not tell me anything about them. Also on display at Albedo were some items from Euromodell, now based in the Netherlands, and previously well known for making unauthorised copies of Wiking models.
ART-BEST: Some of their new models for 2004 were on display, but the big news was that they had bought the Rio brand only a week earlier. They plan to reissue the long-established range over the next few months.
AUTO ART: Their extensive range of current and planned models in 1:18 and 1:43 scales was on display, but no catalogues were available. An interesting exibition item was a Bugatti Veron in 1:18 scale, developed for Bugatti SAS, the 2001 version in red and silver. The current modifications were too late to be incorporated and mean a revised version later. They also plan a range of old Bugattis for the company, but no firm decisions have been made as yet.
AWM: New for 2004 are Renault Clio, in two and four door versions, Stra S415 GT-HD coach, and four newly revised artic tractor units to update them to current spec; Renault Magnum, Volo FH, Mercedes-Benz Actros MP2 and DAF 95 XF SSC. Also new are a TNT roadtrain artic truck with trailer and a truck with Tridem three axle trailer.
BBR: The main promised item was a Ferrari Enzo in 1:12 scale, for release in April.
BBURAGO: Newly released models include 1:18 scale Chrysler Crossfire and 1:24 scale New Beetle convertible, as well as the Maserati Spyder I have already described in MAR. Planned releases in 1:18 scale include Giugiaro Prima Speedster; BMW Z4, Smart roadster and coupe, plus VW Golf Mk V four door. Also new in 1:24 scale are Lamborghini Gallardo, Range Rover British Police and Freelander in Italian liveries, Carabinieri and Polizia. The Alfa Romeo 156 saloon in 1:24 scale is available as an Italian fire chief car, and also in 1:43 scale. New in 1:43 scale are Dodge Viper SRT/10, Ford StreetKa and Mini Cooper 1960.
BOLEY: This company had a small display of fire engines, emmergency vehicles and military items, all in 1:87 scale. The fire range is called First Alarm, to be sold in Germany by Schuco.
BREKINA: The outstanding item is a 1950s road-rail bus of the German Bundesbahn. Also new are Opel Rekord P2 coupe, Alfa Giulia 1300 saloon, Volvo Amazon rally, and the first Opel Blitz with short bonnet from 1960-65.
BRUMM: Completely new from Brumm is the Fiat Abarth 850TC-1000 Berlina with different race numbers. Some vans will appear in new liveries, and some racing cars come in new colours or in race dioramas. The Fiat 500 will be released in a US version with open roof and huge sealed beam headlights.
BUSCH: New in model form, and displayed full size on the stand, was the Smart Forfour. Also planned is a 1960s Ford Mustang fasback and notchback in street and competititon versions. The Toyota Land Cruiser from 1960 and an American streamlined caravan are also new models, as is the Multicar, a small multi-purpose commercial vehicle, which was developed in the former DDR, and survived the German reunification process. Many new colours and other variants on current models will also be released during this year.
CMC: Their highlight was the new Mercedes-Benz SLR as developed and built by McLaren in the UK. It is made in 1:18 and 1:12 scales, excellently detailed. Also new from CMC is the Mercedes-Benz W196R racing car from 1954-55 in 1:18 scale, and the 1:12 Horch 853 from 1937, an impressive work of art all round.
ELIGOR: New 1:43 car and van models: Some colour variants planned on the Citroen 2CV van, Citroen H van, Peugeot J7 van, Renault Estafette van with a high roof, Renault Frégate Domaine estate, Renault Mégane French fire and police cars and Renault Mégane estate. New Trucks: 2004 tractor units: Mercedes-Benz Actros MP2, Volvo FH 112 facelift, DAF XF95 facelift and Renault Premium 420 dCI, plus Renault Master van, Iveco Eurocargo in many new liveries. New American trucks include Freightliner Century Classic artic Michelin tyre transporter and box van. There will be new F1 racing car transporters, the Renault Kerax Nissan spares truck from 2003 and a Renault Midlum Fire service hose truck with trailer.
Epoche: New is the Tempo Matador l400 from 1952, the real vehicle powered by a VW engine, other versions of the Matador from 1959, a road roller as used in Marburg, Scania drawbar ASG and Mercedes-Benz Unimog 411 in many versions, all 1:87 scale.
FINE ART MODELS: Some of the display items like the 1:8 scale GMC army truck were the same as those shown last year. The Bugatti Royale Coupe was seen with its raw body, the panels for the wings are beaten. It will be an impressive model when it is completed, at an impressive price, $ 27,500. Also on display were three different versions of the 1:5 Mercedes-Benz SSKL from the 1920s, superbly finished.
FORCES OF VALOR: New models in the Iraqi Freedom 2003 series and new dioramas of the Second World War, but like last year, they did not allow photography on their stand.
FRANKLIN MINT: displayed a wide range of their models, but their staff would not leave their office to talk to me. GUILOY: The Hispano-Suiza HS-21 racing car was new in two 1:18 versions, an unusual and little-known prototype.
HERPA: New releases include Liebherr LTM 1045 crane, Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, Mercedes-Benz SLK 2004, BMW 6 Series cabriolet and X3, new construction site vehicles, new Mercedes-Benz Actros and Binz A2003 ambu1ance based on Mercedes E-class. Also new is the Mercedes-Benz Vario LRF fire appliance for car accidents. The Herpa Magic Range will gain 1:87 Renault R16 and a NSU TT.
HIELSCHER: As well as traction engines and rollers they make steam lorries. A fully operational 1:18 Stanley Steamer car was on display.
JOHN: Siegfried John Mechanic Models displayed an excellent 1:8 Lanz Bulldog tractor.
LE MANS MINIATURES: New: Etoile Filante Renault record car 1956 in 1:24, 1:32, 1:43 and 1:87 scales. Also Porsche 917K 1971 and 908L 1969, Matra MS630 1968, Rondeau 1980, Bentley Speed 8 and Audi R8 2000, all 1:24.
LEMKE COLLECTION: Showed their Coca-Cola range, rail models and vehicles by Wiking in 1:40 and 1:87 scales.
MÄRKLIN: Have cancelled the Gama range.
MAISTO: Main new 1:18 releases: Mercedes SLR McLaren (March), new SLK (July) and the new A-Class 2-door, when the real car is launched. Also new will be the reworked Porsche 997, the six cylinder Cayenne, 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet and the 911 Turbo Cabriolet. Two Ford convertibles from 1949 and 1950 are also planned, as are Chevrolet Impala 2004, Maserati Spyder, Jeep Wrangler (Two versions), Lamborghini Gallardo, Dodge 330 two door saloon 1963 and a 1953 Studebaker Starliner two door coupe. In 1:24 scale will come the BMW Z4 and the VW Touareg.
SOLIDO: 2004 releases were only shown in photographs: Ford Vedette 1953, first version, Renault R12 Gordini, Estafette, Citroen C2 Super 1600, Peugeot 307 WRC 2004, Skoda Fabia WRC 2003 and Ford Focus WRC 2004. Also a Seat 800 1964 (Spanish Fiat 600 with four doors), Panhard PL17 1961, Seat 600 estate 1964, Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint 1960 and Spider 1958, and Citroen 2CV camionette 1951. Peugeot P4 forest fire version with closed hood. In 1:18 scale, the Peugeot 203 two door courtesy of Inspector Columbo, and the four door version as well. Also new as the Renault Mégane CC 2003, BMW Z4, Subaru Impreza and Citroen DS 19 1963.
MAKE UP CO: The Japanese company proposes 1:43 Alfa Romeo RZ and Toyota 2000GT.
MATTEL: In the Hot Wheels range are planned more Ferrari, Renault and other Formula One models, plus a 1:18 Ferrari Scaglietti.
MINICHAMPS: A huge range of new releases: 1:18: Audi V8 DTM 1991-92, Bentley Arnage and Continental road cars, and at last the Morris Minor 1000 1959 four door saloon, convertible and Traveller. 1:43: Lamborghini LM002 1984, LRV Moon Car 1971, some 1960s Maseratis, Mercedes-Benz /8 saloon 19711, Mercedes 770K Japanese Emperor's car, Opel Rekord D 1977 and Trabant saloon and estate.
Also due in 1:43 are the first BMW 7 series 1977 and 5 series 1984, a Mercedes-Benz O321H bus 1957 and Opel Blitz truck with long bonnet from 1952, (plus fire version). There will be a 1:18 Porsche Super tractor. The impressive Mercedes L6600 truck will get a two axle trailer. MODELLTEC-ses: This company still makes plastic models in TT scale (1:120), plus 1:87 and 1:160 unpainted background models in calcium sulphate. The ex-ses firm looks to be in troub1e.
MR - Look Smart: New 1:43 model, the Audi Nuvolari design study was on display.
NOREV: New for 2004 are 1:43 Lancia Fulvia Coupe 2003, Peugeot 206XT Premium. The Citroen C2 will be made in 1:87 and 1:43 scales, the Pluriel now also in 1:18 scale. 1:43 reissues include Simca 1501 and Chambord with caravan. Also in 1:43 scale are Peugeot H2O concept fire engine, Peugeot D3A fire, Peugeot Boxer Ambulance, Peugeot Partner Gendarmerie, Citroen HY lwb French Police prisoner transport vehicle, and swb van Orangina.
Last year Norev moved into a new factory.
NORSCOT: Displayed the main items in their Catepillar construction vehicle range, with a new grader and a mini excavator in l:50 scale. Plus a scraper, artic dumper and grader in 1:87 scale. They had two interesting dioramas, laying a railroad track and a jungle scene.
NZG: The construction vehicle model range in 1:87 scale gains two historic excavators, a Faun 1206 heavy duty tractor, a builder's living van, a modern crane, excavator and road roller. New 1:50 models include P&H 670 WLC crane, Manitowk 555 crane, Atlas wheel loader and Ziedler side mounted forklift, plus a Wirtgen DC1900 road milling machine. New in the truck range is a Mercedes-Benz Actros tractor with some artic trailers in 1:43 scale.
ORIENTAL TOY INDUSTRIES: Alongside many toys there was a display of 1:87 rally cars including Ford Focus WRC and Escort Mark 1 RS 1600, and 'Compact cars', including Morris Minor, Austin Mini, Austin Metropolitan and Nash in various colours and specifications.
PLUS MODEL: Czech resin kit range had a new Mercedes-Benz G4 six wheel vehicle 1936.
POLISTIL: This old marque now belongs to Bburago, making toys, in the hope that children who buy them may graduate to Bburago.
PREISER: New figures on a 'riding school' theme, plus seated passengers, firemen in chemical suits and French boules players. Also new are single figures, railway staff, passengers and fairy tale figures such as elves, mermaids, Grim Reaper and Santa Claus. The military series gains Krupp Kfz 69 and 70 apcs and medium apc of the German Wehrmacht, all 1:87 scale. In 1:35 scale there was a group of refugees, and women digging in ruins for Second World War and postwar dioramas.
MERTON: Preiser's sister company displayed 1:87 female passengers with monkeys...
PREMIUM CLASSIXXS: Bub and Premium Classixxs models were on display at NZG. Bub had a new series of five 1950s cars ,also available with stamps from the German Post. New in 1:12 scale is the BMW Isetta, the standard version without sliding side windows. October will see a limited edition of the 1938 BMW 328 roadster in silver. Also new in1:43 scale is a VW Fridolin van, which looks like a cross between a Type 3 saloon and a Transporter on a Beetle. Also available will be more variations on the Mercedes-Benz L319 light truck and L911 medium truck. The Y Series includes Mercedes-Benz G-wagens of the Bundeswehr, as used in KFOR, ISAF and UN operations. A Dingo armoured vehicle is planned, as well as an Iltis.
PROGETTO-K: New for 2004 will be a Fiat Ritmo 2 door and the Abarth version, open Campagnola, Fiat 1100 1953, 238 Microbus, 850 coupe in new colours and an Alfa 75 1989.
EXEM: Main new item: Osca Maserati MT4 Carrera Panamericana 1953.
REVELL: Based on their expierience with the snap-together kits of DTM cars, a range of construction site vehicles will be available soon, tracked excavator, wheeled excavator, and wheel loader, all easy to build. In Formula One new 1:25 kits will be released throughout the year. including Ferrari and Renault, plus 1:25 scale plastic kits of rally cars.
REVIVAL: New release: an Auto Union Record car from 1934-35 very well detailed, displayed in an elaborate diorama. The price of the complete diorama; car, mechanics, tools, equipment, authentic posters etc, is likely to be around 4,500 euros.
Ricko: A new release in the New Year was a BMW Dixi from the 1920s, later in the year we will see a 1:18 1937 Horch 930V cabriolet.
RIETZE: The 1:87 van range will gain Citroen Jumper, Peugeot Boxer and Fiat Ducato, all in various lengths and heights. In the car range, the new Seat Altea will appear along with the release of the full size car at the Geneva Motor Show. Schlingmann of Westfalia makes fire appliance bodywork, the LF 16/12 and TLF 16/25, each made by Rietze with Mercedes-Benz and MAN crew cabs. The Iveco Eurocargo truck will initially be supplied with a box van body, but other versions are planned. The new Scania PB coach was on display at Nuremberg, as was the Neoplan Tourliner. The Neoplan Skyliner will be offered for general distribution this year, and this year's top release will be the MAN NL. Rietze is also making a car trailer and some bus stop signs. Igra, their Czech partner, plans to release a new Tatra 815 4x4 with reworked chassis. In 1:160 scale the Mercedes-Benz Citaro is almost ready.
ROCO: The Austrian company will move into a new plant near Salzburg during the Summer holidays. Minitanks will become an indepenpent brand as Minitanks by Roco.
SAI: 1:87 scale Renault 1000 kg van and 2.5 ton light truck, Peugeot 203 saloon, Bernard TA 436 tractor, and other reliveried models made in cooperation with Brekina, AWM and Rietze.
SAICO: Model cars in some unusual scales such as 1:24, 1:26, 1:28, 1:32, 1:34, 1:40, 1:43 and 1:72, mostly DTM, sports cars, racers, rally cars and a range of 1:26 Morris Minors.
SCHREIBER BOGEN: New 1:20 cut-out card model of the Volkswagen Beetle, when known as the Kdf-Wagen, perhaps a little too long, like nearly all models of pre-war VWs.
SCHUCO: The main news from Dickie-Schuco for fans of Schuco and Distler is that the legendary Distler Porsche is to be re-released. The Distler brand name also covers a range of 1:24 historic metal soldier figures. The Schuco Classic range will be expanded with a construction breakdown truck, plus new colours on the Studio Mercedes-Benz SSKL and Bugatti T35B among others. Other new releases:
Classic motorcycles; 1:6 scale Zündapp KS750 Wehrmacht motorcycle, 1:10 scale Kreidler Florett, BMW R50TT Schorsch Meier TT 1939, BMW R75 with sidecar Wehrmacht with two German soldiers, Zündapp KS601 Green Elephant solo or combination, Zündapp Bella R204 kit with sidecar and Heinkel Tourist 103 A2 kit with sidecar.
The Schuco Piccolo 1:90 diecast range will be augmented by Wild Seventies advertising-related vehicles, plus new models such as BMW 328 convertible, Ford Transit FK1000 van, Mercedes-Benz 170V saloon, Wartburg 311 coupe, Jaguar Mark II Police, Mercedes O319 Lufthansa, VW Kübelwagen fire, Eicher ED16 tractor, Setra S8 bus and Krupp drawbar van.
New 1:43 Piccolo motorcycles are a BMW R60 combination ADAC and DKW RT50.
The 1:43 historic car range will incorporate the BMW 328 Mille Miglia convertible and coupe this year, as well as Opel Manta B, Opel Manta B GT/E, and Opel Commodore B Coupe GS.
The 1:43 historic utility range gets a box van on the Mercedes-Benz L319 chassis, and a new Hanomag L28, a luggage trailer for the Setra S8 bus, roof rails, luggage and figures for the Mercedes O6600 bus and a new Büssing 8000 bus as well. Tractors will include a Fendt F9, Favorit 3 four wheeler with front loader, Deutz F1, Ferguson TE20, Lanz Eilbulldog, Hanomag ST 100, Hanomag R40 in red without roof, Porsche Diesel Junior K and various others with trailers, plus support and service vehicles.
The 1:43 modern range will include Opel Vectra caravan (estate), VW Golf V and Smart ForFour, plus a series of 2003 DTM cars. Schuco is entering the field of 1:18 diecast models with Porsche Diesel Junior K tractor, Fendt Farmer II tractor. The 1:87 diecast range will grow with the addition of Audi A4 cabriolet, BMW 5 series, Z4 and X5, Mercedes-Benz CLK Cabriolet, Porsche Cayenne and Carrera GT plus many variants on existing models, and motor sport ranges. The 1:87 truck range will also get many additions, as well as new US truck and military sub-ranges. There will also be more in the Junior 1:43, 1:72 and 1:24 ranges
SIGNATURE MODELS: New 1:18 items on display: BMW 700LS 1959, Mercedes-Benz 170SA convertible 1950, 1934 Aston Martin in road or race versions and Delahaye 135M 1947.
Sun Star: Among much on display on their stand was a 1932 De Luxe Tudor, the State Limousine of Puyi, the last Emperor of China, a 1957 Cadillac Brougham and, in 1:24 scale, a Routemaster London Bus.
UNIVERSAL HOBBIES: Many of the items in the Universal Hobbies catalogue can also be found in the Revell diecast range. UH also have the ex-Del Prado diecast models.
WELLY: Only one young girl looked after their stand to give catalogues, but no information...
WESPE: This Romanian company shared the stand of Le Mans models, showing Second World War military vehicles.
Wiking: newly released by April will be an LF 16112 fire appliance, the new VW Golf V, VW T5 Police, Magirus round bonnet in TLF16 and DL25h fire variants, Hanomag tracked tractor and Ruthemeyer road roller. The Krupp Titan and Opel Rekord A will be reissued.
SIKU: New releases include a range of tractors with electronic components. Other new models:
0859 Deutz Agrotron tractor, steerable wheels. 1327 Key service Volkswagen Golf IV orange. 1329 Countries Mini with Union Jack on roof. 2102 MAN TG-A Fire engine with boat trailer. 2103 MAN Fire dumper for fire debris. 2104 Hako Fire street sweeper for fire debris. 3528 Excavator with foldable shovel arm 2876 Tandem axle Trailer with ramp 3050 John Deere 5820 tractor 1:32 scale 3254 Fendt 930 Vario tractor. 3466 Lanz Ackerluft Bulldog first open version 6626 Junior fire appliance and tool vehicle 7065 Front balance weight for 1:32 tractorsYAT MING: This year the two US Presidential Parade cars from 1938 and 1956 were on display among other US cars from 1950 to 1975.
More details and pictures in future issues...
GERMANY
TIN WIZARDRY
Tin Wizard of Germany have their own range of model vehicles, in 1:43 and in other scales, available as kits or handbuilt models. many of these are original productions, made to the highest current standards, and others are basically reissues of the Metal 43 handbuilts (or Plumbies when sold in kit form) and Modellauto Replicas ranges originally made by Paul Lang of Danhausen in pre-Minichamps days. These are marketed now with the full authority of Herr Lang. Tin Wizard also make many white metal and resin models on behalf of other makers, and in addition they distribute some other ranges as well, which they don't manufacture.Thomas Wolter, the Tin Wizard himself, has given us a brief summary of some of the models available now, or in the future. All of them are 1:43 scale unless otherwise noted.
AAM 1:43 handbuilt models 1 DKW F89 Meisterklasse saloon red 1950 built 1 DKW F89 Meisterklasse saloon beige 1950 built 2 DKW F91 Sonderklasse Cabrio red 1956 built 2 DKW F91 Sonderklasse Cabrio black 1956 built 3 DKW F7 van DKW Eildienst grey 1934 built 7 Citroen DS19 1957 built 8 Citroen DS19 1968 built Ashton 1:43 handbuilt fire appliances 80-1 Ward La France Pumper East Brunswick NJ white 1940 81-1 Ward La France Pumper Pearl River yellow 82-1 Magirus KS10 Leipzig red 1925 83-1 Magirus KS10 Meissen red 1925 84-1 Ward La France Pumper FDNY #163 red '51 84A-1 Ward La France 750 GPM Pumper FDNY #164 red 1951 85-1 Ward La France Searchlight FDNY red 1937 85A-1 Ward La France Searchlight Truck FDNY with pinstriping and accessories red 1937 Toys for Collectors 1:43 handbuilt 02 Oldsmobile W30 4-4-2 hardtop 1970 built 03 Oldsmobile W30 4-4-2 convertible 1970 built 04 Oldsmobile 4-4-2 Indy pace car 1970 built 24 Oldsmobile Cutlass coupe 1972 built 27 Chrysler 300 Indy pace car 1963 built 29 Buick Century Indy pace car 1975 built Budig 1:43 kits and handbuilt models 1 Amphicar cabriolet resin kit 1 Amphicar cabriolet resin built red or white 1 Amphicar cabriolet white metal built light blue, turquoise, dark blue, orange or green 2 Mercedes WAWE 9000 Swiss Police blue built 24 Gutbrod Superior microcar built 25 Goliath GP700E saloon built 25 Goliath GP700E cabriolet-saloon built 31 Goliath Express van buit 32 Goliath Express dropside lorry buit 37 Ford Granada Mk II 2 door saloon built 38 Ford Granada Mk II 4 door saloon built 39 Ford Granada Mk II Estate built 34 Kleinschnittger K125 microcar 1950-57 built 40 Maico Champion 400 microcar 1951-1953 built Tin Wizard 1:43 kits or handbuilt models 115EA Volvo PV544 East African Rally 1965 Winner J+J Singh kit 115EA Volvo PV544 East African Rally 1965 Winner J+J Singh built 325 Delahaye 235 Coupe kit 325 Delahaye 235 Coupe red or grey built 1109 Goggomobil Sportcoupe 1957 built Fundler 1:43 kits or handbuilt models 001 Mercedes 230 saloon W153 1938 kit 001 Mercedes 230 W153 black or white 1938 built Other 1:43 handbuilt models 002 Opel Bitter SC Coupe 1984 metallic red or blue 1984 built 001 Ford Ford Taunus Buckel 1950 built 1:18 kits or handbuilt models Z111 Opel GT Gr IV Steinmetz 1971 kit Z111 Opel GT Gr IV Steinmetz 1971 built black- yellow, #81 or #382 Z112 Opel GT Gr IV Steinmetz 1972 kit Z112 Opel GT Gr IV Steinmetz 72 built yellow-redBRITAIN
BROOKLIN CHANGES
There has been a slight change of plan in relation to the three 25th Anniversary models to be produced this year by Brooklin. Models BRK110x, 105x and 100x were originally to have been supplied with gold plated brightwork, 'But this has proved to be too expensive' to quote Nigel Parker of Brooklin, so they will have nickel plated brightwork instead. We would have thought that a silver colour would have been more appropriate for a 25th Anniversary anyway, saving the gold finish to mark the celebrations when Brooklin is 50 years old.Another slight change of plan relates to the new Brooklin catalogue. A number of readers have reported to us their disappointment that the 2004 Brooklin catalogue has no pictures of the releases planned for this year, only a list.
This can be a problem if you don't know what a listed car looks like, or the specific body style chosen for the model, so you don't know if you want to order it.
We can now confirm that an additional A4 page of black and white illustrations has been produced to add to the 2004 Brooklin catalogue, available on request to update a catalogue you may have bought without the supplementary page.
CORGI FOR FRANCE
Corgi have these diecast models planned for release on the French market under their Heritage Collection title this year:
EMERGENCY EX70208 Berliet GLR Turntable ladder Avignon Nov EX70909 Saviem JL20 Turntable ladder Paris August EX70523 Renault 1000kg Ambulance Marseille April EX70526 Renault 1000kg Limoges December EX74004 Citroen 55 Turntable ladder Paris May EX70522 Renault 1000kg Paris March ROAD TRANSPORT EX72014 Bernard 9A90 St Raphael Quinquina Jan 05 EX70524 Renault 1000kg Ricard November EX70527 Renault 1000kg Aspro April EX70525 Renault 1000kg Gondola June EX70624 Peugeot D3A Atlantic September EX70529 Renault 1000kg Nescafe August EX70625 Peugeot D3A Pernod & Fils July EX70530 Renault 1000kg Ricoles September EX70622 Peugeot D3A blue May EX70621 Peugeot D3A Minibus Peugeot March EX70623 Chenard & Walcker Minibus July CIRCUS EX70626 Peugeot D3A Publicity service Pinder June EX70002 Berliet TLM Freuhauf trailer Richard Jan 05 EX72918 Simca Cargo Flat animal trailer Pinder Dec EX70003 Berliet TLM + steps Jean Richard October EX70908 Saviem JL20 frig van Jean Richard June EX70907 Saviem JL20 Animal transporter Pinder Apr EX70528 Renault 1000kg Pinder ORTF OctoberLATEST FROM OXFORD
Oxford Diecast continue their regular release programme of model vehicles in promotional and themed liveries, including these items, all diecast in China for Wales:
Bullnose van Glenmorangie whisky Ford A van Lamb's Navy Rum Ford T van Rainbow Comic Ford T van Ogden's Guinea Gold cigarettes, one of the first to make cigarette cards Bullnose van HMS Kenya Bullnose van Tranmere Rovers soccer team Bullnose van Brighton & Hove Albion soccer team known as The Seagulls Ford T van Aldergrove CouriersCORGI US RELEASES
Here are the diecast models planned by Corgi for the American market this year:
US53807 Mack CF Tower Mananoy City PA February US50509 Seagrave 70th Anniv sedan Tenafly NJ May US52009 Mack CF Pumper Tamaqua PA April US99150 Detroit Seagrave 70th Anniversary aerial and pumper set April US52209 E-One Sidemount Washington DC June US52511 Seagrave 70th Anniv Columbus OH March US51905 Bell 47 helicopter + pontoons NYPD March US51404 IH Transtar+ crushed car load Lindquist Feb US50708 Mack LJ flat New York Central RR May US54313 GM Fishbowl New York Bus Lines March US55029 Diamond T 620 dropside Penna RR MayFRANCE
NEW ALEZAN MODELS
The latest 1:43 resin kits and handbuilt models from Alezan of France are, as usual, sporting or exotic machinery, with a slight leaning towards the Italianate:
259 Alfa Eagle spider Pinifarina 1975 260 De Tomaso Guara barchetta 2001 261 Alfa 147 TD 2003RENAISSANCE PLANS
Recent releases from Renaissance of France:
Porsche 911 GT3 RS Alex Job Racing LM 2003 #93 (Transkit for Tamiya 1:24 plastic kit) Peugeot 206 WRC Vatanen 1000 Lakes 2003 (Decals for Tamiya 1:24 plastic kit) Peugeot 206 WRC Kronos Loix Condroz 2003 (Decals and wheels for Tamiya 1:24 plastic kit) Peugeot 206 WRC Monte Carlo 2003 (Additional decals for Solido 1:18 diecast) Peugeot 206 WRC Monte Carlo 2003 (Additional decals for Tamiya 1:24 plastic kit) Porsche 9135 Dick Barbour Hawaiian Tropic LM 79 #72 (Intégral 1:43 resin kit) Porsche 9135 Kores LM 79 #39 (Intégral 1:43 kit)BUS STOP
Exclusive First Editions for 2004
By Frank JoyceIn August this year Gilbow Holdings Ltd, the makers of Exclusive First Editions diecast models, will have been trading for 15 years and we feel this is a good time to look at where we started and what we have achieved for model collectors. From the first release of our 1:76 scale RT Bus and AEC trucks we have created a new market of detailed scale models which set the standard for many others to follow. Even with the high cost of tooling we have continued to re-invest annually and to date we have tooling which can produce 200 different vehicles and variants. A unique feature of Exclusive First Editions is the way we tempt collectors, gradually releasing information as to the identity of new model tooling. Originally we released this information at intervals throughout the year, but over the years this has gradually changed. Currently with the changes in the market, and the appearance of many new manufacturers producing bus models, collectors risk becoming confused, so we list here new tooling under way for the period up to October 2004. Apart from the AEC Regal 10T10, all models are listed with examples that represent just a few of the variations that can be produced.
AEC Regent V Renown (two versions) E29901 10T10 'Greenline' Guy GS single decker bus London AEC MK V artic box van, dropside, flatbed or tanker ERF KV box van, dropside, flatbed or tanker Foden S24 artic flat, box van, dropside, tipper, tanker Thames Trader artic flat, luton, box van, dropside, flat Models recently released: * = new casting 27612 Wright Volvo Renown Keighley & District 29301 Leyland Olympian A Wilts & Dorset * 28903 G M Standard Atlantean The Delaine 29004 G M Fleetline Lancashire United 12116 Harrington Cavalier Northern 29501 Plaxton Panorama type B Bristol Greyhound * 20130 Bedford OB Coach Western 24903 Mercedes Beaver Metrobus (Minimetro) 29601 Leyland Olympian type B Capital Citybus * Forthcoming releases: * = new casting 20431 Bristol VR lll BrIghton & Hove 29502 Plaxton Panorama B United 15634 RM Routemaster Stagecoach Magicbus 29802 WrightDennis Lance Western National 17216 Leyland National MK I Stagecoach 16124 Leyland PD2 Highbridge Bradford city 29701 Leyland Olympian type C Badgerline * 16321 Bristol LS Jones of Aberbeeg 20203 Leyland London STD class London Transport 28808 Leyland Titan Metroline 24322 BET Leyland Tiger Cub Stratford Blue 29901 AEC Regal 10T10 Greenline * 99926 1962 Special 4 Car Set Central line Standard Tube Stock. (Numbers 80801, 80901, 81001 & 81101)During 2004 there will be a lot happening, including the 50th Anniversary of the Routemaster bus, and we will be preparing some special models, standard releases and others as special offers associated with events, to be confirmed as they develop. With the interest in our previously released Australian bus models, we will be offering further models during the year.
East Yorkshire Guy Arab Utility model: A few collectors are confused regarding the corrections that were made to the error on the Daimler Utility bus model, l will try to clear up the mystery. The model that we first identified and put into production was a Daimler Utility, fleet number 653 registered DBT 533 model number 26404. After releasing the model we discovered that the lower deck, the radiator and the chassis which had been used to make the model was the Guy tooling and not the Daimler. Guy and Daimler parts are not interchangeable, and at that point in time it was not practical to remake the model. The only solution was to change the identity of the model to replicate an East Yorkshire Guy Arab, fleet number 410 registration GRH 194, and that is what we did. In making this change the model had to be correctly identified in our range as a Guy Arab II and it was thus renumbered 26313 creating a very collectable small run model.
We are also aware that this Guy Utility ran through the notorious Beverley Bar, but as an already low 7' 6" wide body the reduced width above the upper windows at model size is almost undetectable. It is possible that in the distant future the correct original Daimler might be made.
Subscriber Special Model. Subscribers to our direct mailing list were recently sent a special Coronation RT bus 16406A. 1200 models was more than we usually produce for a special offer, but they were over-subscribed. We can only do our best to anticipate fluctuating demand...
St PETERSBURG NEWS
By Leonid KhoykhinThe latest models from St Petersburg Tram Collection include the following:
434 1938-39 London Transport Leyland K1-K2-class Trolleybus (1055 1354 series), post-war livery. This is the first model in a new series, which will also include the K3 and F1 classes, all built by Leyland, the F1 and K1-K2 models will be available also in prewar and wartime liveries. (See front cover).
152 1950 Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Board PCC class 980. Our Melbourne series continues with the sole PCC car, 980, built in 1950, using PCC equipment imported from the United States.
178b 1945-57 Washington DC Transit System Silver Sightseer PCC 1512. To improve the image of street cars, car 1512 was rebuilt by DC Transit System in 1957 as Silver Sightseer, the world's first air-conditioned streetcar, fitted with the improved roof monitor from car 1332 which carried four air-conditioning units. The windows were sealed and three colour transparencies of Washington landmarks were mounted in each standee window. The car was equipped with new wooden doors, new seats and fluorescent lighting. The trial run of the Silver Sightseer was in June 1957 and it settled down to sight-seeing service from the Peace Monument to Potomac Park. The car was involved in a accident in 1961 and was rebuilt using the front end of car 1538. Silver Sightseer was preserved by DCTS. In March 1970 it moved to the National Capital Trolley Museum where it was wrecked by vandals and thus was scrapped. For more information, contact St Petersburg Tram Collection, PO Box 16, 196158 St Petersburg, Russia.
OOC EAST LANCS 70th
Corgi is marking the 70th Anniversary of East Lancashire Coachbuilders (ELC) with a 1:76 diecast model in the Original Omnibus Company range. ELC was founded in Blackburn in 1934, developing a reputation for high quality bodies tailored to individual customer requirements. Corgi's anniversary model is a Myllenium Vyking, launched in 2000, operated by Blackburn Transport featuring adverts celebrating the ELC milestone in their usual yellow and green livery. The Vyking will be pictured in the next issue of MAR.
TRUCK STOP
FIRST GEAR PICKUP
By Carol KrayerThe latest model from First Gear is a 1:25 scale 1956 Ford F-100 pickup. The cab includes opening doors, instrument panel, floor pedals, sun visors, dome light, rear view mirror, radio, odometer, gear shifter and steering wheel that turns the front wheels. The hood (bonnet) opens to reveal a fully detailed engine complete with intake manifold, air cleaner, valve covers, oil breather, exhaust manifold, water pump, fan & pulley assembly, radiator, heater and radiator hoses, starter, oil filter, distributor, carburettor and spark plug cables.
There is an opening tailgate with tube chains, plus fuel filler cap, radio antenna, windshield wipers, chrome wheel rims, side mirrors and door handles.
CORGI RENAULT ARTIC
Corgi have announced an additional 1:50 diecast truck model which did not feature in their catalogue or release lists. It is CC12110 Renault Premium 3+3 axle artic, with a covered steel-carrying trailer in the blue and red livery of A Hingley Transport.
CORGI LIVESTOCK
There is a new casting in the Corgi 1:50 scale Hauliers of Renown range, a Houghton-Parkhouse livestock transporter artic trailer with a Scania Topline tractor in the striking two tone green livery of Henry Thomson & Sons, as shown on the back cover of this issue. This road transport company is family-run, and was founded in Sauchen, a small rural town in Aberdeenshire in 1929, as a general and livestock haulage firm. Later Henry's sons Harry, Jack and Eric carried on the company tradition although Jack and Eric have since retired. Today the company is still in the family, run by Harry with his wife Sheila, their sons Harry and Eric and daughter Kathleen. The fleet now comprises ten tractor units, operating exclusively as livestock carriers. This model was released in March, and the next artic incorporating the new livestock transporter trailer will be released in June, a Scania 4 Series livestock transporter in the livery of Roxburghshire-based Olivers Transport.
FIRST GEAR MACK L
By Carol KrayerFirst Gear have announced a few more body options for the 1:34 tandem axle Mack L cab and chassis already in their range. Mack L series trucks were produced from 1940 to 1953, apart from the war years.
The two new body options are an all-new pumper and a dump truck. The completely new fire pumper is pictured on page 9169 of this issue. The other release is a tandem axle dump truck, shown above. Again, the cab features the centre hinged opening hood with detailed engine, hinged flip-out opening windshield and a detailed interior. The dump body is the same one as is currently available on the Mack R cab and chassis. It features a functioning tailgate and three-stage hydraulic ram. There is an optional snow plough with hydraulic rams and spotlights mounted on the frame. For more information, contact First Gear at: PO Box 52, 8668 Kapp Drive, Peosta, IA 52068, USA. Tel: (888) 771?5576, Fax: (319) 582?2415
VISCOUNT MODELS ERF
1:64 refinished in UK: ERF artic, Jay Millers Circus, for their 2004 tour. This model is available to buy from the box office and souvenir stand inside their big top, or from The Toy Exchange, at £21.00 including UK p&p.
The Jay Miller Circus 2004 tour starts at Verwood in Hampshire, continuing across the South of England, with an array of international circus artistes from countries which include Bulgaria, China, Hungary, Moldavia, Romania and the UK.
Viscount models have also produced another 1:64 model, refinished in UK: an ERF artic in Robert Brothers Circus livery, following the sales success of the model Volvo FM artic also in the Robert Brothers 2004 livery.
This model is also available to buy from the souvenir stand inside their big top, or from The Toy Exchange, at £21.00 including UK p&p. Write to The Toy Exchange, 9 Romsey Road, Shirley, Southampton, Hants SO16 4BY or telephone 02380 787913, email garyhames@lineone.net
MILITARY
CORGI WORLD WAR II
New 1:50 scale diecast models in Corgi's World War II Collection for 2004 include:
D-DAY 60th ANNIVERSARY THE JUNO & SWORD BEACH COLLECTION CC60108 Churchill Mk III 34 Tank Brigade, 107 RAC (5th Bn Kings Own Royal Regiment Lancaster) March CC60305 Bedford QLD 49 Field park unit. 3rd Infantry Division, British Army, Sword beach, 1944 April CC60404 M3 White Halftrack 29th Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment (South Alberta Regiment) 4th Canadian Armoured Division May CC60303 Cruiser tank MK VIII Centaur IV 95mm Royal Marines Armoured Support Group June THE OMAHA BEACH COLLECTION US51011 M4A3 Sherman tank with exhaust stacks 741st tank battalion US Army March US60005 SD.KFZ.7/1 Krauss-Maffei semi track 305 Heers Falk, Sbteilung 305 21st Panzer division March US60204 Panther, Ausf A 4TH Co, 2nd SS Panzer Regt March US51010 M4A3 Sherman Thunderbolt 37th Tank Battalion 4th Armored division May US60401 M3A1 Halftrack 41st Armored Infantry, 2nd Armored Division June US60501 Tiger I SS Panzer Abteilung 101, Michael Wittman, Panzer Ace June THE D-DAY COMMEMORATIVE Collection CC51013 M4A3 Sherman Blockbuster 4th Armored Division US Army March CC60107 Churchill Mk III 141 Regiment British Army Sword Beach March CC60206 Panther Ausf A Regimental Command March CC60006 Sd.Kfz. 7/1 Krauss-Maffei semi track With 2cm Flakvierling 38 Panzer Div support vehicle April CC60502 Tiger 1 tank 101st SS sPzAbt June CC60601 Cromwell tank Mk IV Cruiser Taureg II 11th Armoured Division, British Army June
ELITE AND TACTICAL
Corgi are obviously so chuffed with the sales success of the military models in their own 1:50 World War II and smaller scale Showcase ranges that they are now distributing militaria made by other companies:
Elite Force 1:18 scale US Army Humvee Swat desert operations USMC desert patrol buggy US Army Ranger motorcycle US Army Little Bird assault helicopter US Army Blackhawk helicopter US Army M1A1 Abrams tank US Army AH-64 Apache helicopter USMC LAV 4-axle light armoured vehicle Plus a range of plastic poseable soldier figures in 1:18 scale and in 1:6 scale as well. Tactical Strike 1:64 scale US95104 HMMV Avenger Missile System 82nd Airborne, US Army US95105 HMMWV M1097A2 2nd Marine recce US95112 M2A2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle 1/15th Infantry, 3rd Infantry Division US95121 AH-6 (MD530G) Cayuse Little Bird helicopter US Army, 160th SOAR, Special Operations US95122 M1A1 Abrams tank US Army, 2nd battalion 69th Armored, 3rd Infantry division US95123 M1A1 Abrams tank USMC 2nd tank battalion 1st Marine Division US95132 AH-64D Apache Longbow US Army 1st battalion 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division TY95141 F-14D Tomcat VF-2 Bounty Hunters USN Plus US Army and US Marines figures in the same scale to complement the vehicles and aircraft.
SHOWCASE MILITARIA
New military models in Corgi's Showcase Collection for future release include:
HISTORY OF TANK WARFARE CS90262 Churchill tank British Army Minotaur April CS90263 Tiger 1 Tank 123 April CS90264 M-48 Patton US Army The War Lord April CS90265 Scorpion light tank British Army April D-DAY 60th Anniversary Sword Beach CS90250 Churchill tank British Army Guildford April CS90251 Panzer V panther SS Panzer Regt 1 April CS90252 Greyhound Armoured car 1st Derbyshire Yeomanry April CS90253 Kubelwagen Wehrmacht April CSCW19002 Twin pack Tiger, Sherman, soldiers May CSCW21002 Twin pack Spitfire, Panther soldiers May D-DAY 60th Anniversary Omaha Beach CS90193 Sherman 71st Tank battalion March CS90194 Jeep 62nd Medical battalion March CS90195 M3 Halftrack 2nd Armoured Division March CS90196 P-38 Lightning 352nd Fighter Group March CS90198 P-51 Mustang 356th Fighter Group March CS90199 Tiger 1 SS Panzerabteilung 101 March CS90201 Panzer IV tank 622 March El Alamein sets CSCW22002 Twin pack Churchill, Stuka, soldiers March CSCW23002 Twin pack Panzer IV, Jeep, soldiers March
SHOWCASE EMERGENCY
New models in Corgi's Showcase Collection for future release include these US items:
FIRE HEROES: Emergency big city firefighters CS90232 Chicago Fire CF Pumper March CS90233 HMMWV Fire Pumper O'Hare Airport March CS90234 E-One Rescue Fairfax County VA March CS90235 UH-18 Huey California Dept Forestry March CS90236 HMMWV Fire Pumper LA March
WORLD NEWS
30 YEARS OF MaCo
Michel Sordet tels us that this year sees the 30th Anniversary of Ma Collection, which is the name of both his encyclopedia of model cars and his range of 1:43 handbuilt models. He marks the anniversary with the 100th release in the range, 100A Talbot Lago T150-C-SS coupé 1937 Goutte d'Eau (teardrop) bodied by Figoni-Falaschi 1937, chassis 90105. It has a red body, no front fender skirts, no sunroof, no bumpers, its first French registration plate 9187RL3, and the round Talbot Lago badge as applied for export. The car was imported to the USA by Luigi Chinetti and sold to playboy Tommy Lee in Los Angeles.
This model is limited to only 30 pieces, and priced at 360 Swiss francs (about 230 Euros) a special anniversary price instead of the usual 390 Fr Swiss (free postage). The good Doctor says he needs to make room for new models and is offering to sell all models in stock at this special anniversary price!
AMERICAN MUSCLE
Recently seen on the retail market in Europe are these 1:18 diecast models in Ertl's American Muscle series:
Dragula (The Munsters) Corvette (Austin Powers) Street Rod Grease Lightning (from Grease movie) Plymouth GTX Koni Racing Pontiac Firebird 1977 silver Pontiac Firebird 1977 red Porsche 911 Twin Turbo black Corvette coupe 1967 Corvette 2003
BRITAINS 2004 PLANS
New models planned for 2004 release in the 1:32 Britains 'farm' series include:
Land Rover Freelander five door dark green Land Rover Discovery silver Ford transit van John Deere Service John Deere 7920 tractor Case MXU125 tractor Marston silage trailer Steyr 6135 tractor John Deere 9880 STS combine harvester New Holland TS135A tractor Twin axle flatbed trailer
JOAL 2004 PROGRAMME
Joal of Spain intend to release these diecast models this year:
152 Hitachi EH1700 dumptruck 1:50 248 Hitachi EH650 dumptruck 1:50 174 Valtra S-series double wheel tractor 1:32 293 Valtra S-series tractor 1:32 207 Dynapac CA512 roller, padfoot drum 1:35 297 Dynapac CA512 soil roller 1:35 290 Komatsu PC 1100 LC-6 face shovel 1:50 294 Ausa CH250 lift truck 1:20 174 Ammann-Yanmar Vi035 mini excavator 1:32 359 Mercedes Actros JCB exhibition artic 1:50
New Rialto Models
By Jan MiedemaHere is some information about new models Rialto have recently released in 1:43 scale.
RM019 Lancia Appia GT Zagato 1957, above This is a model of an earlier Appia Zagato. Usually I can say something interesting about the history of Zagato-bodied cars, but this time I have to say that I do not know very much about this car. This is because there were many variations in the Lancia Appia Zagatos built in 1957. Some had rear fins, others a smaller grille, other versions had minor detail variations. In total about 100 cars were built with this body type. For now I have started with a handbuilt model of the 'bigger grille' version in a street version, in silver metallic or solid red. The model is available in kit form as well. It seems that this car raced in the Mille Miglia 1957 driven by Mantovani, currently I am trying to find more documentation about this car and if that was the same car as our current model we will make the MM version as well. Right now I am also working on a pattern for the GT with the small grille which raced in the Mille Miglia 1957 #024, driven by Enrico Anselmi. I have not allocated a reference number yet, but it will probably be RM022. Rialto Models RM018 Opel-Chevrolet Corsa B Pickup 1995 (top right) A few years ago I read in a Polish car magazine 'a good chassis is a goldmine for a car producer'. Above the article was a picture of all the Corsa B variations shown, three door, four door, five door, station wagon, convertible, Tigra, Combo Van, Combo Tour and Corsa Pickup. So from that point I started the Rialto Models Corsa range, though that goldmine probably applies to General Motors, not to Rialto Models. All the above Corsa B variations have been made in model form, by Gama-Schuco or by us, except for two cars, the station wagon and the pickup. Many Opel collectors have asked me to do the pickup so I decided to produce that model. The real car is manufactured in Brazil and South Africa and is not available in Europe. Our model is available handbuilt in red and in kit form, both in Opel and Chevrolet versions. The standard version is shown here. A very special one-off pink metallic version is the prize in the Competition in this issue of MAR. Our models can be purchased from your usual dealer, or direct from Jan Miedema, Rialto Models, Parkdreef 173, 2724 ET Zoetermeer, Netherlands, tel-fax 00 31 79 331 76 76, email rialtomod@hetnet.nl
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