CONTENTS of the print edition
Model Auto Review 214
Publication 7 August 200704 Ford Mustang 66 part 1 Dave Turner, England 08 Lamb Chop Don Elliott • Lost in Space Don Elliott, USA 10 News Formula Models 11 1:76 Scale Maz Woolley, England 12 Oxford 14 Letters 15 British Cars 16 1:76 Cars Maz Woolley, England 18 Autosculpt Maz Woolley, England 20 Mercury Robin Godwin, USA 23 Automodelli Dave Eames, Australia • The Queen’s Bentley Graeme Ogg, England 25 Malibu Maz Woolley 27 News Truckstop: Kibri, Herpa Sparks 28 4x4 Softies part 2 Jean-Louis Pothin, France 30-34 News Cars 35 News Esdo, Western, Neo 38 Buick Excelle, Niva Phil Campbell, Germany 39 SS Jaguar John F Quilter, USA 40 Avia Mini Herpa, 1:200 roundup 43 Competitions 44 Book Reviews 45 Clubs Collated by Rod Ward 46 Pickups Robert Gunn, England 47 Dig It! Hans-Georg Schmitt, Germany 48 News World: Learning Curve, Johnny Lightning 56 The Reason for Resin Graeme Watt, Scotland • Oxford Expansion 57 Military Minichamps, Schuco 58 News Emergency, captions to page 60: Emergency 59 News World: Altaya, Atlas, Schuco, captions to page 61: Bus and taxi
EDITORIAL
by Rod WardBACK AT THE COALFACE
Yes thanks, our two week annual holiday was very refreshing. This is the first of five issues of MAR taking us to the end of 2007. One advantage of my fortnight’s break was being freed from the computer keyboard and mouse. Producing MAR takes almost 40 hours of my time each week, in addition to my other work in our retail and wholesale model business, our internet websites and spending time operating my safety valve; painting and exhibiting pictures.
Prolonged and repetitious activity over the years on the computer has resulted in my acquiring a painful condition known as ‘RSI’ (repetitive strain injury). Though it has been somewhat rested on holiday, unless I stop using a keyboard and mouse (which I can’t do, or MAR would finish) this condition will not ease. But it might not go away, even if I never used a computer again. Please think of my painful wrist and forearm with every page you read!
NO NEWS NOT GOOD NEWS
have always had to monitor the balance of what goes into the pages of MAR. If you have been with us from the early days, you will remember that the aim was to have 33% of the pages devoted to paid advertising, to subsidise the production costs. The remaining 67% would ideally split between 33% news, 20% feature articles and 14% ‘utility’ pages (letters, competitions, book reviews, club news, contents list etc). Of late this has not been possible. Paid-for advertising is now usually on less than 10% of pages, which is a concern. Also making my editorial job more difficult is the smaller amount of news, in a less active world of models. Instead of a third of the magazine being filled with news items from makers and distributors, it is now often less than a sixth. This shifts responsibility for filling MAR to our faithful team of contributors. Some recent MAR issues have had almost half of the pages devoted to feature articles. That is only acceptable as long as those articles keep coming in, and as long as the generosity of our unpaid contributors lasts.
SMALLER SCALE RULES?
This issue sees a a few more than usual of our pages devoted to smaller-scale models, which in the UK mostly means 1:76 scale. Many retailers, wholesalers and magazines have grabbed at this life raft in a sea of discounting, tired old rehashed products and unavailable new releases. I hope they are right, and that this represents a real renaissance for model collecting. Three firms already have 1:76 diecast cars in their ranges, or plan to make them (Oxford, EFE and Corgi), two other diecast ranges plan to launch 00 scale cars, and a major brand is planning to market 1:76 vehicles as well.
That could mean dozens of different 1:76 diecast cars on the shelves within a year...
Auto Review Illustrations Wanted
This is a reminder that we need more material to complete the next two Auto Review books.
We already have had a number of illustrations sent in from readers, each of whom will get a free copy of the book if their pictures are used. Now we have some specific items needed to complete the research stages. For On Three Wheels: Three wheeler cars built in Britain (for publication in January 2008) we need good illustrations of the three wheeler Meadows Frisky (lots of nice pics of the four wheeler, but so far only poor ones of the three wheeler), the Sinclair C5 and any obscure or unusual British three wheelers. For Taxi! The purpose built taxi cab in the UK (for publication in February 2008) we need pictures of London-type cabs in provincial use, especially black cabs in Belfast and in provincial liveries standardised under local city regulations (like the Leeds white and black). We also need more pictures of early cabs (especially in colour), interesting advertising liveries on more modern cabs, unusual vehicles tested for taxi use down the years but not adopted, and British cabs in service overseas. Please send them to our usual addresses, by snail mail or email. Thanks for your help.
FUTURE Auto Review books, to follow the two described above, will include a Land Rover Album and a publication on the Story of the Airship. If you have any interesting pictures to offer on these subjects, particularly if they are in colour, please contact us. These two titles will be included in the 2008 publication programme of the Auto Review series. We have a number of other titles in development, and we invite suggestions for more subjects, particularly if you can offer some nice original photographs for us to use.
FORMULA MODELS UPDATE
By John SimonsFormula Models have been quiet of late, working on other projects, but since moving to Court Lodge Farm they have come up with many new releases, all of which should be available by the time you read this:
FM23 Sam Hornish's Panther Racing Pennzoil Dallara from 2002, available as the Texas Championship winner (with flag) or the general season car.
FM23A Michael Andretti's 2002 Indy Motorola Dallara FM24 Big Gulp 7/11 Dallara from Indy 2002 #26Tracey 2nd and #27 Franchitti 19th.
FM31 Dan Wheldon's Indy winning 2005 Jim Beam-Klein Tools Dallara. We are often asked about FM28, the Aerosmith Dallara, but Colin tells us that he requires more orders, as the decals will be very expensive to produce.
Kits of FM32 Penkse Dallara 2006 Indy winner of Sam Hornish are available with builts to follow.
Another much anticipated model is FM30, the Danica Patrick 2006 Indy Dallara. Work is progressing on this; it should be ready in August- September. Work will also start on FM16, 17 and 18 shortly. FM22, the 2001 Dallara of both Hornish and Andretti is ready for production. The old FM06 Chaparral 2K should be remoulded shortly; they hope to have them ready in June.
1:76 Scale Developments
Appraised by Maz WoolleyOxford have done a good job on their recently releasd 1:76 scale Morris Minor and Ford Anglia Vans. They have managed to achieve a good level of detail for a reasonable price, and I expect that these models will appear in significant numbers on many railway layouts. I hope that they also appeal to a wider general audience and re- establish a following for Matchbox- size models to be collected as a record of the history of the motor car, and not just as part of the railway scenery. It will be great if some of Oxford’s other Minor variants and J2 vans are ‘shrunk’ in scale as well. The Bedford TK Chipperfields Circus trucks will be very popular too, though they are not subjects I would collect. When they use the TK cab to make some period road haulage vehicles, however, I will probably be among the buyers of them.
I look forward to seeing the 1:76 cars announced for September; a good variety of early 1960s vehicles. Given the Morris Minor van already in the range, I was a bit surprised that the Traveller, ‘Britain’s most popular half- timbered car’ (description courtesy of Dame Edna) was not chosen, as I think it would be a popular model. But maybe that’s something already pencilled in for the future. Of course these models are likely to reduce sales of some established white metal kit suppliers. Parker’s Ford Anglia van and car sales are likely to suffer, for instance. His Humber Snipe Saloon may still sell, because it complements the Oxford Snipe Estate, and of course his PA Cresta was of the earlier model, whereas Oxford’s illustrations show the later grille. Corgi may well also find that the potential sales of their Trackside Minor and Anglia vans will be much smaller, as Oxford got to the market first. All the small firms will have to be careful with what they choose to model in future, and try to fill the gaps left by the big boys.
1:76 collectors have had another good bit of news. The John Day Vehicle Scenics range is to be carried on by his family, and much of the back catalogue is being made available again. The Standard pickup and van are also now for sale, with further new models promised. I have received the pickup and it is a welcome addition to the market, as I can’t see either Oxford or Corgi making a model of it!
Editor’s notes: Partly due to space considerations, partly to cost, smaller scales definitely seem to be the thing of the future; 1:87 in most other countries, 1:76 in the UK. Many of us old stagers will remember when the balance of power shifted from 1:32 to 1:43. I now detect a similar move downscale again. This will give a fresh impetus to manufacturers to re-invent the wheel. We can expect to see the same old ‘popular’ subjects reappear; E-type, MGB, and so on, but already I know of some very interesting subjects in the pipeline. In addition to Oxford and Corgi,
I know of two other ranges intending to launch 1:76 diecast cars this year. Providing that there is not too much duplication (some is inevitable) this can only be good news for everyone. A busy market with lots of participants will ensure healthy growth and plenty of choice for buyers. The small specialist manufacturers should actually benefit from this. Obviously, as Maz asserts, they will have to avoid duplicating the subjects made by the diecast firms, but they should find plenty of space to develop their ranges in a much bigger overall market. This certainly happened in 1:43 scale over the past 30 years, where the specialist industry of small artisan firms grew up to fill in the gaps left by the big diecast brands. Support for 1:76 scale from the wholesale and retail distribution chain is already there. They are very happy to find a growth area at a time when overall sales of models to collectors are at best stagnant. The model railway world is pleased and surprised to find that it is being courted by so many firms making items which up to now have been regarded only as peripheral accessories for 00 scale layouts. Major model railway distributors and manufacturers have suddenly become aware that accurate scale road vehicles are as desirable on a layout as accurate scale railway locos. 1:76 is now finally being regarded as a grown-up collectors’ scale. I expect to see developments in subject matter, detail and quality which will repeat the same process we have all witnessed in 1:43 scale. In this issue you will find lots more on developments in this scale. On pages 16 and 17 of the print version of MAR 214 Maz has produced a list of all 1:76 cars already planned or on sale, as a guide to manufacturers looking for gaps to fill...
• OXFORD ROUNDUP •
IN LIGHT of all the publicity given to Oxford 1:43 and 1:76 diecast models of late (perhaps in the absence of much to report from other makers) it is time for us to list all current and proposed models, up to October 2007:
1:43 Scale Already available MM037 Morris Minor High Top Pink Paraffin ANG004 Ford Anglia van Royal Mail ANG007 Ford Anglia van Television License ANG010 Ford Anglia van AA new logo ANG011 Ford Anglia van DER ANG012 Ford Anglia van Lancashire Police ANG015 Ford Anglia van Supervan Special Pack ANG018 Ford Anglia van Wall's Anglia Funny Face ANG019 Ford Anglia van Wall's Funny Face New Back ANG020 Ford Anglia van Wall’s Hitop, Cones On Side ANG021 Ford Anglia van Coastguard ANG022 Ford Anglia van Fire Incident Support JA002 Austin J2 van Royal Mail JA003 Austin J2 Camper van JA004 Austin J2 van Police JA005 Austin J2 Paralanian caravan JM001 Morris J2 Van GPO JM002 Morris J2 van BMC Roadshow JM003 Morris J2van Bristol City & Marine JM004 Morris J2 Ambulance MIN004 Mini saloon Monte Carlo #37 MIN005 Mini saloon Post Office Car MIN008 Mini saloon Monte Carlo #82 MIN009 Mini saloon Monte Carlo #144 MIN010 Mini saloon Monte Carlo #60 MM008 Morris Minor van British Caledonian MM022B Morris Minor van Blue ATV MM028 Morris Minor van Post Office London MM030 Morris Minor van British Rail MM031 Morris Minor High Top van MM032 Morris Minor Camper MM033 Walls Minor Ice Cream van MM034 Morris Minor Gown van MM035 Minor Ice Cream van Lyons Maid MP002 Mini Pickup grey MP003 Mini Pickup with tonneau MP004 Mini sales van Mister Burger MP005 Mini sales van Crepes Maison MP008 Mini Walls Special Pack MP009 Mini Ice Cream Batman MT001 Mini Traveller MT002 Mini Traveller Singer MV007 Minivan GPO MV008 Minivan RAC MV011 Minivan Rail Express MV012 Minivan Royal Mail MV013 Minivan Post Office MV019 Minivan West Riding Panda MV020 Minivan Securicor June 2007 releases ANG016 Ford Anglia van Sunblest JM009 Morris J2 Winchester MM017 Morris Minor van RAC MM038 Morris Minor gown van Montague Burton MM044 Morris Minor van Tonibell Blue July 2007 releases ANG023 Ford Anglia van RAC CS051 Minivan Corona JM006 Morris J2 Paralanian caravan MM036 Morris Minor van Dog Patrol MM040 Morris Minor gown van John Collier MM043 Minivan Tonibell Pink August 2007 releases ANG024 Ford Anglia van Esso CA001 Bedford CA milk float Unigate CS052 Minivan Green Shield Stamps JA006 Austin J2 high top van Roadshow MM045 Morris Minor hitop van Fletchers MM041 Morris Minor gown van Alexandre September 2007 releases ANG025 Ford Anglia van KLM CA002 Bedford CA van Walls Ice Cream CA003 Bedford CA van Lyons Maid CS053 Minivan Unigate JM008 Morris J2 van RAC MM042 Morris Minor van Austin Service MM047 Morris Minor ice cream van Tognarelli October 2007 releases ANG026 Ford Anglia van BOAC CA004 Bedford CA van Tonibell HA001 Bedford HA Van GPO JM005 Morris J2 Post Office, Stepped Roof JM010 Morris J2 Mid Anglia Police MM046 Morris Minor van Bermuda MV021 Minivan National Service Station MV023 Minivan GEC 1:76 Scale Already available 76ANG002 Ford Anglia van Walls 76ANG004 Ford Anglia van Royal Mail 76ANG005 Ford Anglia van Post Office 76ANG006 Ford Anglia van Post Office 76ANG008 Ford Anglia van Walls Van 76MM007 Morris Minor van Post Offic 76MM015 Morris Minor van Royal Mail 76MM030 Morris Minor van British Rail 76MV003 Minivan London Fire 76MV007 Minivan Royal Mail 76MV011 Minivan British Rail 76P008 Morris Minor van police 76P009 Morris Minivan Police B088 Thornycroft bus Pears (only approx 1:76!) RM034 Routemaster Torquay Open top RM045 Routemaster Wimbledon Open top RM046 Routemaster Southend RM058 Routemaster Stevenson RM068 Routemaster Southend RM073 Routemaster Norwich City Sightseeing RM074 Routemaster Oxford City Sightseeing RM075 Routemaster Stratford City Sightseeing RM076 Routemaster Glasgow City Sightseeing RM077 Routemaster Stirling City Sightseeing RM078 Routemaster Inverness City Sightseeing RM081 Routemaster VAT 69 RM082 Routemaster Crown RM083 Routemaster Golden Shred RM084 Routemaster Pearl RM085 Routemaster Dunlop RM087 Routemaster Corona RM088 Routemaster Dublin City Sightseeing RM089 Routemaster Crawford RT009 AEC RT bus Reading RT013 AEC RT bus Western National RT014 AEC RT bus Youngs RT015 AEC RT bus Red Rover RT017 AEC RT bus Littlewoods RT018 AEC RT bus Westons RT019 AEC RT bus National Savings RT021 AEC RT bus Northern June 2007 releases 76ANG018 Ford Anglia van Walls with ‘little man’ CH001 Bedford TK Chipperfields Generator CH002 Bedford TK Chipperfields Lion RM092 Silver Routemaster RM101 Routemaster London Standard July 2007 releases 76ANG003 Ford Anglia van Walls Ice Cream High Top 76ANG013 Ford Anglia van Tonibell Pink 76ANG021 Ford Anglia van Coastguard 76ANG022 Ford Anglia van Fire 76CS053 Minivan Unigate 76MM012 Morris Minor Van Co-op 76MM042 Morris Minor van Austin Service 76MV024 Minivan British Coal CH003 Bedford TK Chipperfields Elephants CH004 Bedford TK Chipperfields Leopards RM096 Routemaster Greenline Bus RM098 Routemaster Newport Bus RM099 Routemaster Blackpool Open top RM100 Routemaster Blackpool Closed Top August 2007 releases 76ANG014 Ford Anglia van Tonibell Blue 76ANG016 Ford Anglia van Sunblest 76ANG024 Ford Anglia van Esso Service 76MM016 Morris Minor van AA 76MM036 Morris Minor van Police Dog Patrol 76MV013 Minivan Post Office with Ladder 76MV019 Minivan Police West Riding Panda CH005 Bedford TK Chipperfields Giraffe CH008 Bedford TK Chipperfields Ballast RT022 AEC RT bus Reading September 2007 releases 76105002 Ford Anglia 105E saloon Maroon, Grey Roof 76105003 Ford Anglia 105E Police Panda 76CRE001 Vauxhall PA Cresta Yellow 76CRE002 Vauxhall PA Cresta Pink 76SS001 Humber Super Snipe Estate Green 76SS002 Humber Super Snipe Estate Silver Grey 76ZEP001 Ford Zephyr III saloon Pale Green 76ZEP002 Ford Zephyr III Pale Blue CH006 Bedford TK Chipperfields Caravan CH007 Bedford TK Chipperfield Camels RM095 Routemaster bus Typhoo October 2007 releases 76105001 Ford Anglia 105E saloon Red, Cream Roof 76105004 Ford Anglia 105E saloon Grey, White Roof 76CRE003 Vauxhall PA Cresta Black Police Car 76CRE004 Vauxhall PA Cresta Taxi Black 76SS003 Humber Super Snipe Estate Taxi Brown 76SS004 Humber Super Snipe Estate Police 76ZEP003 Ford Zephyr III White Police Car 76ZEP004 Ford Zephyr III Black Taxi CH009 Ford Anglia van Chipperfield, Candy Floss CH010 Ford Anglia van Chipperfields Lighting CH011 Minivan Chipperfields CH012 Morris Minor clown van Chipperfields Oxford Originals (the ‘promo’ type products) Currently available GR026 Bullnose van Royal Army Medical Corps CS015 Routemaster Melias CS022 Chevrolet van 1932 Fyffes CS023 Ford T van 1912 Brillo CS030 Bullnose van Zebra CS031 Bedford 1950s Robin Starch CS033 Chevrolet van 1932 HP Sauce CS034 Chevrolet van 1932 Tetley CS035 Chevrolet van 1932 Bovril CS036 Ford A van 1928 Brasso CS037 Bedford 1950s Camp CS038 Bullnose van Murray Mints CS039 Chevrolet van 1932 Cherry Blossom CS040 Bullnose van Rowntrees CS041 Bullnose van Fox’s Glacier Mints CS042 Bedford 1950s Oxo CS043 Bullnose van Weetabix CS044 Ford A van 1928 Puritan CS045 Bullnose van Marmite CS046 Ford A van 1928 Campbells CS048 Ford A van 1928 Polo CS049 Bedford 1950s Colgate GR024 Bullnose van Royal Ordnance GR025 Bullnose van Royal Corps Of Signals OT007 Bullnose van Young’s OT008 Chevrolet van 1932 Young’s Bitter OT009 Bullnose van Young’s Double Chocolate OT010 Chevrolet van 1932 Young’s London Ale OT011 Chevrolet van 1932 Young’s Gold Zest OT012 Ford A van 1928 Young’s Waggle Dance ROY011 Thornycroft bus 1909 King George VI VW011 Volkswagen van Double Your Money VW012 Volkswagen van Lavender Hill Mob VW013 Volkswagen van Globe 50 VW015 Volkswagen van George Formby VW017 Volkswagen van Lonnie Donegan VW018 Volkswagen van Bill Haley VW019 Volkswagen van Reach for The Sky VW020 Volkswagen van Arthur Askey VW021 Volkswagen van Charlie Drake VW022 Volkswagen van Capt Mainwaring VW023 Volkswagen van Brantho Korrux VW024 Volkswagen van Heinz VW025 Volkswagen van Sid James VW026 Volkswagen van Ronnie Barker VW027 Volkswagen van Kenneth Williams VW028 Volkswagen van John Inman VW029 Volkswagen van Oxford Diecast VW030 Volkswagen van Dave Allen VW031 Volkswagen van Leonard Rossiter VW032 Volkswagen van Dick Emery VW034 Volkswagen van Steptoe
AUTOMODELLI STUDIO OF AUSTRALIA
By Dave EamesI would like to introduce MAR readers to Automodelli Studio based in Melbourne, Australia. We have been in business for around two and half years. Originally we started as a supplier and builder of specialist 1:43 scale model cars. We have produced a few transkits based on kits supplied by Racing 43, Axel’R and Marsh Models. We are now manufacturing our own range of 1:43 scale kits and handbuilt Australia or New Zealand based models.
Historic Racing Car range (Chevron models are based on Axel’R kits and Subaru models based on R43 kits):
Chevron B8 Phillip Island Classic 2005
Subaru Impreza WRC Rally of Canberra or Saxon Safari Tasmania 1999
Holden Torana A9X Bathurst 1978 and 1979 (This model is made by us)
We have several series planned for the HRC range, including the Bathurst and Tasman series, plus Aussies and Kiwis at Le Mans.Classic Road Car range (based on Marsh Models kits with parts added by us):
AC-Shelby Cobra 260 Mk 1, 289 Mk 2, 289 Mk 3, 427 Mk 3 and 427SC
The Classic Road Car range will be based on what customers want, because in the case of the Cobras they are customer-built to owner specifications.
KIBRI 1:87 PLASTIC KITS
By Hans-Georg SchmittKIBRI 1:87 plastic kits from Germany:
B-11282 Liebherr 934 Mobile tracked excavator powered by a four-cylinder in line 186hp Diesel engine B-11283 Menck excavator M154 LC with dragbucket Weight approx 49 tons, 167hp B-11284 Menck Excavator M154 LC with deep bucket. Weight approx 49 tons, 167hp B-11558 BOMAG BS 180 road roller with gravel spreader, 80hp. B-11754 Steinbock fork lift B-12268 Fendt Tractor Vario 936, 360hp B-15006 Mercedes-Benz Actros M2640 6x4 with snowplough, 394hp V6 diesel, Meiller tipper body and Schmidt snow plough and salt spreader. B-15007 Fendt 926 Tractor with snow plough and rear mounted salt spreader 260hp six cylinder diesel engine, Amazone spreader, Schmidt snowplough
SPARKS SCANIA BY HERPA
By Richard ThompsonAt Truckers Models we have an exclusive Herpa 1:87 plastic model from Germany, 284240 Scania Topline Sparks Transport. See www.truckersmodels.co.uk. We are the only retailer to sell this model, though Herpa have 200 to sell, out of the limited edition of 2000 pieces worldwide.
MINICHAMPS DIECAST RELEASES
Via Hans-Georg SchmittRecent releases, not otherwise described or illustrated in these pages.
MINICHAMPS 1:18 diecast in China for Germany: 100 060016 BMW Sauber F1.06, BMW Sauber Formula One Racing Team 2006 Nick Heidfeld. 100 060193 Super Aguri Honda SA05 F1 presentation 2006 Franck Montagny; limited edition of 504 pieces. 100 060007 Toyota TF106, Team Panasonic Toyota F1 2006 Ralf Schumacher. 100 060017 BMW Sauber F1.06; BMW Sauber Formula One Racing Team 2006 Jacques Villeneuve. MINICHAMPS 1:43 diecast in China for Germany: 530 064343 McLaren Mercedes MP4/21, McLaren Formula One Racing Team 2006 Test driver Pedro de la Rosa. Limited edition of 1296 pieces. 530 064304 McLaren Mercedes MP4/21, F1 2006 Juan Pablo Montoya, limited edition of 4.444 pieces. 400 056473 Porsche 911 GT3-RSR, Team Gordon 1000km Spa 2005 Lambert-Lefort-Palttala 400 050099 Williams BMW FW27, F1 Silverstone Test car 2005, Nico Rosberg. Limited to 1,800 pieces. 400 066981 Porsche 911 GT3-RS, Test car Le Mans 2006 Yamagishi, De Fournoux, Konopka. Limited Edition of 2,016 pieces. 400 050108 Williams BMW FW27, F1 2005 Antonio Pizzonia, limited edition of 1,152 pieces. 400 060009 Williams Cosworth FW28, F1 06 Webber 400 060010 Williams Cosworth FW28, F1 06 Rosberg 400 766412 Porsche 934 Jägermeister Winner of the Eifel Race DRM 1976. The winner of the German Round-track Championship was Helmut Kelleners. A limited edition of 6,548 pieces. 400 061499 Audi A4 Futurecom, DTM 2006 Jeroen Bleekemolen. Limited edition of 1.008 pieces. 400 042411 BMW 320i, Team RBM, European TCC 2004 Andy Priaulx. Limited to 2,112 pieces. 400 060038 BMW Sauber F1 2006. Third driver Robert Kubica. Limited edition of 1,008 pieces. 439 144170 Magirus-Deutz Mercur LF16, Fire service of the city of Dortmund. The Mercur was built during the second half of the 1950s. This nicely detailed model is a limited edition of 1,008 pieces. 530 064344 McLaren Mercedes, Racing Team McLaren 2006 Test driver Gary Paffett, limited to 1,296 pieces. 400 060041 Renault R26; Renault F1 Team 2006 Test driver Heikki Kovalainen. Limited to 1,440 pieces. 540 834335 Toleman TG183B, Test Silverstone, 9.11.83
MARSH MODELS AUDI R10
By John SimonsAt last, after a few delays, we are pleased to announce the release of MM153, the 2006 Le Mans winning Audi R10, above. The kit will build either the winner #8 or the #7 car. Note that this is the only 1:43 scale kit available of this car. We are now working on the decals for the 2006 and 2007 Sebring versions and will, of course, do the 2007 Le Mans cars as soon as we can.
VELOCITY 1:43 handbuilt for Marsh Models: VO1 Corvette Old Blue Greenwood-Braun 1975. John Simons says, ‘This is the first of a series, based initially on the Greenwood Corvette, which brings a new approach from Marsh. These will be built by the company who produce the BBR Gasoline range, so their quality is assured’.
WESTERN’S LAST MODEL
Western Models have announced their last 1:43 handbuilt model to be made before they close down production. It is WMS109 Lincoln convertible 1948, available in dark cream, grey or opal blue green, costing around £113.00 each. Mike Stephens notes that only one batch will be made, so you’d better get your order in as soon as possible. It may already be too late, as previously it was indicated that Western production would terminate in July 2007. We wish Joyce and Mike a happy retirement, but how will they fill their days without the demands of a model company? We can see them driving eternally across America in one of Mike’s beloved dreamboats...
NEW MODELS FROM NEO
The Neo range is owned by a company in the Netherlands, though we believe the models are made in the far east. Only the Saab 95 estate has been released so far, but the full proposed range is listed here;
Neo 1:43 models Neo 43010 Saab 95 estate two tone Neo 43011 Saab 95 estate dark red Neo 43012 Saab 95 estate beige Neo 43015 Saab 99 EMS silver Neo 43016 Saab 99 Turbo white Neo 43017 Saab 99 turbo met green Neo 43018 Saab 99 saloon red Neo 43020 VW Scirocco II blue metallic Neo 43021 VW Scirocco II GT red Neo 43022 VW Scirocco II GTX 16V silver Neo 43023 VW Scirocco II GT 16V beige metallic Neo 43025 Volvo 340 Dutch police Neo 43026 Volvo 340 ‘Winner’ red Neo 43027 Volvo 340 GLT metallic grey Neo 43030 Audi 100 Type 44, 2 colour choices Neo 43035 Audi 200 2 colour choices Neo 43040 Audi 100 Avant 2 colour choices Neo 43050 Mercedes-Benz 300B Pininfarina Neo 43051 Mercedes-Benz 300B cabriolet Pininfarina Neo 43052 Mercedes-Benz 300SC Pininfarina Neo 43053 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Pininfarina Neo 43054 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3 Pininfarina Neo 43060 Goggomobil Isar saloon Neo 43065 Donkervoort D8 GT 2007 Neo 43070 Opel Kadett C City yellow Neo 43071 Opel Kadett C City orange Neo 43072 Opel Kadett C City blue Neo 43075 Opel Kadett Aero red open Neo 43076 Opel Kadett Aero blue clsd Neo 43077 Opel Kadett Aero white open
Book Reviews
THE CAR MODELLER'S HANDBOOK by Nick J Wigman, Daryl Keenan & Alan Bottoms, Editor: Richard Frank, Pub The Crowood Press, Crowood Lane, Ramsbury, Wiltshire SN8 2HR, 144 pages 246 x 189mm, 300 photos, paperbound, ISBN 139 7818 6126 893 8, £16.99
I must confess that I find this book a bit of a ‘curate’s egg’, excellent in parts, but rather less satisfying overall. It is nicely produced and well-illustrated and the ‘handbook’ aspects are excellent. The hints, tips and techniques are helpful, once you accept that essentially they relate to large scale plastic car kits. Some coverage is also given to resin and metal, though the differences between zinc diecast and white metal models and their techniques are not always made clear. Nearly two thirds of the book (almost 90 pages out of 144) is devoted to detailed step by step building of just four kits; two plastic kits (one super-detailed), adding a transkit to a plastic kit, and customising a plastic kit. And all four plastic kits are Tamiya products. So this is a sort of plastic kit magazine with four articles on building, plus an excellent building guide. But it costs £16.99. I’d prefer to have the very useful handbook part on its own, at a lower price. Rod Ward
The Slot Car Handbook: The definitive guide to setting-up and running Scalextric style 1/32 scale ready-to-race slot cars by Dave Chang, Pub The Crowood Press, Crowood Lane, Ramsbury, Wilts SN8 2HR, 96 pages, 235 x 165mm, 130 colour illustrations, paperbound, ISBN 139 7818 6126 916 4, £12.99
I’m sure MAR readers of long standing will remember our earliest days, when readers specified that we should definitely not cover radio control or slot cars. Things have changed since then, at least in regard to slot cars. Many MAR articles down the years on themed collections have included items that happen to be slot cars, but which are also nicely made scale models. And I know that many clubs hold popular and well-attended slot racing events. This book is a real operator’s handbook. Rather than picturing and describing lots of slot cars, it concentrates on the nitty-gritty of the technology of conventional and digital (lane changing) slot car systems. The author, said to be ‘a record producer by day and a slot car racer by night’, gives step-by-step instructions on setting up the cars and the track to give the best performance. He tackles the ‘black art’ of tuning and offers a troubleshooting guide for common problems. He details tools and how to use them. Slot racing is a model car activity which does not suffer from the ageing problems of other sectors; it is still a popular activity with all ages. If you’d like to revisit slot cars but you don’t understand the latest technology, this book will be an ideal re-introduction. Rod Ward
Der Modell-Mythos Wiking (The Wiking Model Myth) by Ulrich Biene, German text. 160 pages, 53 photos, 40 price lists from 1949-84 and 26 colour adverts. Hardbound. Pub: Wiking Modell-bau, Berlin, distributed by Delius Klasing Verlag. Available from Wiking dealers or from Delius Klasing Verlag, Siekerwall 21, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany. ISBN 978-3-7688-1943-5. Price €29.90
This book tells the story of the ‘Wiking myth’ from the beginning. Founder Friedrich Peltzer, previously publisher of an animal magazine, started production in the 1930s with ship and aircraft models. Small metal vehicles followed, mainly for German army wargames. The first 1:100 plastic vehicles came out in 1948. Herr Peltzer’s difficult life in the early post-war years in divided Berlin, production down the years, and changes to the company after his sudden death are all described. Hans-Georg Schmitt
CLUB NEWS
Collated by Rod WardThe Lansdowne & Robeddie Collectors Club:
Robert Timmis tells me that the club is now in its eighth year, publishing its quarterly magazine which covers all known Lansdowne and Robeddie models. It also gives information and reviews on all the other Brooklin products, including regular reviews by Dave Turner and Carl Richardson on both Lansdowne and Brooklin new releases. Each year a club special model is produced by Brooklin for the club. This year’s issue is a 1938 Railton Fairmile with hood down, finished in red with a cream interior and black hood. An Omen driver figure is available at £12.50, which has also been produced exclusively for the Club and made to fit the Railton car. The models cost £57.00 each plus post and packing, but you have to be a member of the Club. Membership costs £22.00 (UK), £25.00 (Europe) and £28.00 in the rest of the world. Members get four magazines each year full of news, views and reviews on everything that Brooklin produce, and much more. For membership information write to Robert Timmis, The Lansdowne Collectors Club, 203 Northwich road, Lower Stretton, Warrington, Cheshire, WA4 4PF. UK. Telephone: 01925 730504. email: lansdowne@robeddie.wanadoo.co.uk
South Hants Model Auto Club:
The saga of finding a new title for the SHMAC magazine, edited by Sue and Stu Leake, grinds on, with a voting form now sent out to all club members. ‘This is becoming a nightmare’ say the Editors; maybe it will soon be over. They still do a sterling job of producing the untitled magazine. The latest issue seen included features on a recent clubnight competition (dream garage contents), and on McLaren, Mini and Maserati. Stu writes about Stirling’s sister, Pat Moss and her first rally car, an MG1500 ‘Tiffy’. The car was modelled in 1:43 scale from a K&R white metal kit. Sue continues her quest to track down the new makers of Plasticene, now apparently made in Poland. ‘It has been de-smelled, but it certainly feels right’, she says. More smelly suggestions welcome; contact Secretary Dave Painter on 01264 366408.
Natal Diecast Model Collectors:
Recently-appointed newsletter Editor Simon Bruton seems to be having trouble fitting all the material submitted by members into the eight pages allowed by club finances. May I suggest using a slightly smaller typeface? it’s remarkable how much more you can squeeze in, even if there are some protests from members whose eyesight isn’t up to peering at tiny type. There is nothing worse than appealing for contributions, then leaving them out when they arrive. Some folk may decide not to contribute any more in future. One feature is printed in a smaller typeface, which looks fine to me. It is a description of the Ixo 1:43 Willys DJ3-A Jeep Surrey. I did not realise that this vehicle had two wheel drive, rather than the four wheel drive of most Jeeps. I must remember to look underneath the Ixo model next time I see one, to check if they got this feature correct. Philip Ellis, the new Chairman of the Club, can be contacted with NDMC membership enquiries on 031 266 3138.
Maidenhead Static Model Club:
Following my comment that the MSMC membership is advancing in age, Chairman John Ward would like it to be known that he is the youngest Chairman the MSMC has ever elected, and proud of it. ’Yes, I may be too old for Hollyoaks’, he says, ‘But I’m too young for the Archers’. Everybody is too young for the Archers. I live in a village surrounded by farms, but I don’t recognise their view of modern rural life. Nobody in Ambridge commutes to a city to work, for instance. It’s pretty quiet round here during the day, when most of the working population has departed for Leeds, York or further afield. And as for all those chatty folk in The Bull; all you get here from a pub regular is grunt of recognition, if you are lucky. Noted in Wheel Bearings, the MSMC magazine, is news from Les Duplock that Frank Hastings is rather poorly again. I hope that Frank is able to get over his problems, and I am sure MAR readers will want to join me in this sentiment. If you’d like to become a member of the MSMC, contact Membership Secretary Alan Simpson on 01494 813903.
A LEARNING CURVE FOR US ALL
John W Whitehead, comments further on the state of play in the USA: ‘The Johnny Lightning line seems to be in turmoil. After a warehouse clearing sale at the end of 2006 (markdowns to $1.00 retail at American Toys R Us stores and Canadian Wal Marts), the prices of new single releases are up from 25% to 65% over the previous approximately $3.00 level, depending on the line. RC2, the parent firm, has changed its trade name to Learning Curve. This implies an emphasis on the pre-school child market and in fact the business emphasis seems to be on Thomas the Tank Engine and educational toys. The Ertl 1:18 line of quality diecast American Muscle cars seems to be discontinued, but the company will keep on with the profitable Ertl agricultural toy production. Rumours among American collectors say that the Johnny Lightning line of 1:64 scale diecast models is for sale’.
We also hear that RC2 has acquired Compass, a privately owned developer and marketer of infant and toddler travel gear, perhaps confirming the ‘tot toy trend’ in RC2’s thinking. Ed.
MOVES IN THE LICENCE MARKET
Corgi International is another organisation, like RC2, which seems to be veering away from the traditional diecast vehicle market. In their case, it seems to be a move towards a greater concentration on licenced products, including Star Wars, which is expected to generate about 20% of overall sales for Corgi International in the current year.
It was surprising therefore, when Corgi announced that their Star Wars licence would not be renewed. Lucas Licensing confirm that they will not be renewing their collectibles licences with the Master Replicas and Cards Inc division of Corgi International. Lucas Licensing wish to reassure Star Wars collectors, however, that it intends to sign a new licensee ‘pretty soon’ after Master Replica’s sell-off period runs out in early 2008.
OXFORD EXPANSION
Oxford Diecast have taken on two ex-Corgi staffers. Adrienne Fuller is developing several new ranges of products. The first of these ranges, for 2008 release, has the canine codename Bulldog. Adrienne was released by Corgi after 16 years, as Product Manager for their Road Transport, Original Omnibus and Trackside ranges. Martin Hickmore joins Oxford’s design and development team after recently being released by Corgi, where he spent nine years as Design Manager. Before Corgi he was at Lesney-Matchbox for 28 years. He will oversee part of a longer term strategy of establishing Oxford as the number one British diecast collectables company.
Now an international company, Oxford has a subsidiary company in Hong Kong and a manufacturing facility in Huizhou, China. Oxford MD Lyndon Davies says, ‘We are very pleased that Adrienne Fuller has chosen to join us. I know she will play a key role in the development of our business in the UK and overseas. I have known Adrienne from her early days at Corgi and I have much admiration for the products she has brought to the marketplace. During my training at Mettoy in the 1970s, her father Don Fuller was a key member of the team, and Adrienne has inherited many of his skills. We are also very pleased that Martin Hickmore has joined Oxford. I met him first when he joined Corgi in the late nineties and I have greatly admired the quality of his design engineering work that was very obvious in the better models that have come out of Leicester in recent years. Corgi’s loss is most certainly our gain. There are very few British design engineers now available with his range of experience. I cannot believe he was released by Corgi; he will be a real asset to our team.’
Copyright Modelauto Ltd
e-mail mar@zeteo.com
