December 2000
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Welcome to our last MAR for 2000. I trust you'll all be celebrating the true turn of the Millennium at the end of December, unlike all those who celebrated a year early. The MAR office will be closed from Friday 22 December to Tuesday 2 January. Our last day open is Thursday 21 December. We re-open on Wednesday 3 January. You can still fax, email or leave voicemail messages over the period when we are closed.
NEW MODELS FOR 2001!
We have some advance news of 2001 releases this time, but the main listathon will begin in MAR 149, published 7 February. So here is our usual reminder to manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, collectors, journalists, spies and general nosey parkers to pass on any news as soon as possible for us to publish in the early issues of 2001.
WATCH OUT, A THIEF'S ABOUT!
This isn't a very seasonal message, but Mike Forbes, of Diecast Collector, reports problems collectors have had with a confidence trickster. They sent cheques in payment for goods, responding to 'classifieds' (small ads) in magazines, and never got the goods. Mike says, 'We must remind readers to be careful in their dealings. Be wary if only a mobile phone number is given. A home (land line) number offers more security. Do not send money or cheques until you've seen the goods. Many honest people advertise items for sale or wanted, but it is important to take precautions'. I confirm that you should be cautious when dealing with private persons, or with 'dealers' you don't know. If in doubt, contact the magazine, and ask if they know more about their advertiser, before responding to the advertisement. On the other side of the coin, here's a warning to dealers who take mail order credit card payments. This is a scam where criminal buyers rely on the fact that an 'authorisation' obtained by merchants only guarantees that the card exists, not that it belongs to the buyer. By the time the real card owner sees the charge on his statement, (maybe weeks later), challenges it, and the merchant has the charge debited from his account, the goods have been sent. This scam is rife in South East Asia and the Balkans, but it is happening everywhere. The Police tell us they are deluged with cases. Credit card issuing banks and authorisation centres take no responsibility, the loss being borne by the merchant. All they suggest, if the merchant doesn't know the customer, is to request that front and back of the card are photocopied and faxed or posted before the transaction is processed, to prove the buyer actually has that card in his possession. If the he doesn't reply, the assumption is the purchase is fraudulent. This process is essential in respect to the parts of the world noted, but is worth considering for all markets. So if a dealer asks for this information, don't feel he is wast-ing your time. It just means he is security conscious, which is in your interests as a credit card owner.
SEE YOU IN FEBRUARY!
A reminder, to stop you pestering your MAR stockist: there is no MAR issue ever published in January. MAR 149 will appear by 7 February 2001, after our seven week gap (instead of the usual four or five week interval). I hope withdrawal symptoms aren't too bad.
CORGI Collectables January to June 2001
Here are the Corgi Collectables diecast model releases for the first half of 2001. Month of release is in brackets (1 = January)
MODERN TRUCKS 1:50 scale
CC11801 Leyland Daf 85 artic Feldbinder tanker Clugston (1)
CC12201 Scania curtainside artic Andrew Wishart & Sons Ltd (1)
CC11901 ERF EC sheeted flat artic Brian Harris Transport Ltd (2)
CC12202 Scania frig artic Dukes Transport Ltd (4)
CC11902 ERF EC curtainside artic Castle Cement Ltd (6)
EDDIE STOBART SERIES 1:50 scale
76901 30th Anniv Set, five artic tractor units in Stobart livery, on plinth. (1)
CC12401 Volvo FH curtainside artic (3)
CC12203 Scania artic low loader (3)
CC82204 Mini Manx rally, Plant Bros no 61 (Stobart sponsorship, 1:36) (4)
CC85801 Reliant Regal van, loosely based on van owned by Eddie fan club member and painted in Stobart livery, 1:36 scale. (5)
CC12502 Atkinson Borderer flat artic (6)
HEAVY HAULAGE 1:50 scale
CC11101 Scammell Constructor Siddle C Cook Ltd cream livery (1)
CC12403 Volvo FH 4 axle tractor x 2, Nicolas Bogies and dryer Heanor (3)
CC12002 MAN 3 axle tractor, artic King low loader and crusher Cadzow (4)
CC12301 Scammell Contractor United Heavy Transport (2)
CC12404 Volvo FH, Jeep dolly +King artic lowload trailer Chris Bennett (5)
CAFE CONNECTION 1:50 scale
A sub-series of British trucks, including facades from famous British cafes and truckstops.
CC11501 Leyland Octopus sheeted flat Andrew Wishart with Silver Link (1)
CC10801 Foden S21 Tipper Moreton C Cullimore with The Towers Cafe(2)
CC11701 Guy Invincible artic McCall & Greenshields +Kate's Cabin Cafe (3)
CC11501 AEC Mammoth Major Mk V flat Siddle Cook + Lazy Trout Cafe (4)
CC10501 ERF KV flat lorry Richard Read with the Coronation Cafe (5)
CC11603 Albion Reiver sheeted flat lorry W H Malcolm Ltd + Jungle Cafe (6)
EDDIE STOBART CONTRACT COLLECTION 1:64 scale
CC86603 Scania curtainside artic Gerber Foods (Sunpride) (2)
CC86701 Volvo curtainside artic United Glass (2)
CC86604 Scania curtainside artic Knauf
CC86702 Volvo curtainside artic The Mirror Group (3)
PUBLIC TRANSPORT 1:50 scale
CC25201 Double deck open top tram Belfast, 1:72 (3)
CC25901 AEC Routemaster bus Metroline (4)
MINI MANIA 1:36 scale
05506 Mini 7 Racing Club Diorama two Minis 1999 Champ winners. (1)
CC82201 Mini Classic Edition Knightsbridge, gold (1)
CC82202 Mini 7 Racing Club - Mini Miglia Steve Bell no 3. (1)
CC82205 Mini Classic Edition Cooper S, amaranth (3)
CC82203 Mini 7 Racing Club Christopher Huck no 41. (1)
CC04509 Mini 40 End of the Road (Last production Mini 1959-2000) (1)
CC04444 Mini Jungle.com Plant Bros (1)
CC86501 The New Mini Cooper Red (5)
CC86502 The New Mini Cooper Silver (6)
CC86503 The New Mini Cooper Black (6)
BRITISH ROAD SERVICES 1:50 scale
CC11502 Albion Victor flat lorry BRS Guildford (2)
CC10302 AEC Ergomatic flat lorry, dolly and girder load BRS (3)
CC12002 Scammell Crusader (Motor Panels cab) artic Eastern BRS (4)
BRITISH LEGION 80TH ANNIVERSARY
CC25001 Thornycroft Bus RBL (6)
CM44001 Blackpool Brush Tram RBL (6)
FILM & TV FAVOURITES
01806 Jaguar Mk II Inspector Morse with 'Oxford College' diorama 1:43 (1)
CC05301 Dodge Charger with Bo and Luke Duke Dukes of Hazzard 1:36 (3)
CC05501 De Lorean + Doc Emmett Brown figure Back to the Future 1:36 (4)
DIBNAH'S CHOICE 1:50 scale
'Chosen' by steeplejack, steam enthusiast and tv personality Fred Dibnah
CC20101 Fowler B6 road loco low loader + load Norman E Box 'Vulcan' (2)
CC20001 Sentinel dropside steam waggon and Trailer with load. Tarmac (6)
ADDITIONAL CORGI ITEMS
004438 Mr Bean Mini plus figure (1)
44512 Duple Metsec Hong Kong City bus Millennium livery (1)
58121 Ford Transit crewbus Hong Kong Police (1)CORGI PRECISION CAST CLASSICS
Corgi have launched a new range of Precision Cast Classics, targeted at the gift shop market. These models resemble some existing cast pewter and metal-filled resin products already on the gift market, being 'solid' (ie no windows etc) shiny plated and polished castings, intended as shelf ornaments rather than scale models. It says here, 'The Precision Cast Classics range features military and civil aircraft, plus a selection of classic British cars, presented in a black presentation gift box on black satin, and individual models are supplied complete with metallised display plinths'. (See picture top right). Subjects include a special Supermarine Spitfire to mark the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, an Avro Lancaster and a Douglas DC-3. Famous cars featured in the range include a Morris Minor Saloon, Jaguar Mk II and a 40th anniversary Mini. The range will be available from stock in September. Cars are priced at £20.00, aircraft at £25.00 each.
CORGI JAMES BOND COLLECTION 2001
05001 BMW Z8 1:36 (1)
05101 BMW 750i 1:36 (3)
04901 BMW Z3 1:36 (11)
04801 Aston Martin Volante 1:36 (1)
05701 Mercedes-Benz saloon 1:43 (2)
04701 Lotus Esprit Turbo 1:36 (11)
65002 Lotus Esprit submarine 1:36 (1)
02101 Ford Mustang Mach I 1:43 (1)
04601 Wallis Gyrocopter 1:36 (12)
65002 Toyota 2000 GT 1:43 (1)
04305 Aston Martin DB5 silver 1:36 (1)CORGI Toy Collection January-June 2001
The new items promised in Corgi's Toy range for the first half of 2001, month of release in brackets (5 = May).
TY88802 Scania tanker Esso (4)
TY88902 Renault tanker Shell (3)
TY87002 Daf curtainside Dukes (3)
58568 Scania container TNT (1)
59570 ERF container Royal Mail (1)
59574 Rigid truck Target (1)
65804 Renault car transporter Grayston (1)
TY81703 Ford Transit van AA (2)
66207 Ford Transit van Transco (1)
TY81701 Ford Transit van Michelin (1)
TY81702 Ford Transit van BT (2)
TY87001 Daf curtainside Stobart (3)
TY88401 Ambulance: West Country AS (5)
57909 Land Rover Leics Fire & Rescue (1)
65402 Mobile Crane KS Plant (1)
TY88001 Road Roller Wimpey (1)
58603 Refuse truck Biffa (1)
58803 Street sweeper MHS (1)
58002 LT1 taxi Dial-a-cab 1:36 (1)
TY82301 Routemaster DD bus 1:72 London Route (1)
32805 Plaxton Paramount British Airways Holidays 1:60 (1)
TY86301 Volvo Fire appliance Irish Fire Brigade (1)
TY82801 Range Rover Garda Eire (1)
TY82903 RM Bus Guide Friday Dublin (1)
TY82302 RM Bus Dublin green (1)
TY84101 Coach: Bus Eireann (1)VANGUARDS January to June 2001
Corgi's Lledo subsidiary announces the 1:43 Vanguards releases for the first half of 2001. Month of release is in brackets (1 = January).
SALOONS
VA06000 Ford Zephyr 4 Mk III lime green (1)
VA00115 Ford Anglia 105E blue-white (2)
VA02306 Austin A35 Old English white (2)
VA05502 Ford Consul Daytona yellow (2)
VA04504 Austin Allegro Series 1 1500 Super Deluxe Cosmic (2)
VA05304 Triumph Dolomite Sprint Brooklands Green (2)
VA05401 Morris Oxford VI Trafalgar blue-Snowberry white (2)
VA01306 Austin 7 Mini black (3)
VA06300 Morris Marina 1600 Teal blue (4)
VA06400 Vauxhall PA Cresta Dusk Rose-Lilac Haze (4)
VA04100 Ford Cortina Mk II GT Ermine White/Black (4)
VA05201 Ford Granada Ghia Roman Bronze (5)
VA06600 Rover 3500 V8 Almond (5)
VA05501 Austin 1300 Estate El Paso Beige (6)
CLASSIC FORD COMMERCIALS
VA06200 Ford Popular van Tractor Sales (2)
VA03303 Ford 300E Thames van Evening Standard (3)
VA00412 Ford Anglia van Ford Special Products (4)
VA06600 Ford Transit Mk 1 van Post Office Telephones (5)
VA06601 Ford Transit Mk 1 van Evening News (6)
POLICE
06001 Ford Zephyr 4 Mk III Army Bomb Disposal Unit (1)
VA14014 Mini van Metropolitan Police (1)
VA04403 Austin A60 Cambridge Hertfordshire Police (2)
VA05503 Ford Consul West Yorkshire Police (3)
VA06501 Rover 3500 V8 Metropolitan Police (5)
VA04101 Ford Lotus Cortina Mk II Hampshire Police (5)
VA06602 Ford Transit Mk I Series II van Lancashire Constabulary Accident Unit (6)
RACING
VA05303 Broadspeed Dolomite Sprint Andy Rouse (2)
VA04505 Austin Allegro Patrick Motors (2)
VA01911 Rover P4 Round the World Rally (3)
VA04102 Ford Lotus Cortina Mk II Roger Clark (6)
DIORAMAS
GD1002 Royal Mail Scene: Morris Minor van, Minivan postman and Post Office, all snow-covered. (1)
PD2002 Annual Inspection MGA and Ford Zephyr Mk II Lancs Police. (3)
RD2001 Rally Scene (RAC 1959) Mini Cooper in a tricky country stage. (3)ORIGINAL OMNIBUS CO 2001
CORGI'S 1:76 First half releases
January to April releases 2001
Here are Corgi's 1:76 diecast releases in their OO Co range for the first quarter of 2001.
Month of release in brackets. (1 = January).
OM45501 BMMO CM5T Motorway Coach Midland Red (2)
OM45502 BMMO C5 Lichfield Speedway Sup Club (2)
OM45503 BMMO C5 Coach Midland Red (3)
OM40201 BET Federation Bus Southdown (1)
OM43701 AEC 3 axle Trolleybus Belfast Corporation (1)
OM41901 Leyland PD3-Queen Mary Weardale (1)
OM42401 Ford R Series-Plaxton Panorama 1 Highland (1)
OM42601 Bedford OB Coach Malta (2)
OM43901 Guy Arab Utility Llandudno & Colwyn Bay (2)
OM40601 Leyland PS1-ECW Southdown Motor Services (3)
OM40301 Burlingham Seagull Flights Coach Travel (3)
OM41902 Leyland PD3-Queen Mary open top Wallace Arnold (3)
OM43301 Plaxton Premiere Wallace Arnold (1)
OM45301 Bova Futura (new spec) Paul Winson Coaches (2)
OM44201 Neoplan Cityliner Oak Hall Expeditions (3)
OM45102 MCW Metrobus mid dual door London Transport (4)
OM45302 Bova Futura Eurolines (4)
OM44003 Blackpool Brush Railcoach Sandcastle Centre (4)
OM44002 Blackpool Brush Railcoach Terror Train (4)
OM43502 Blackpool Balloon Tram Valhalla (4)
OM43501 Blackpool Balloon Tram Thwaites Brewery (4)St PETERSBURG NEWS
By Leonid KhoykhinThe Tokyo series continues with our model of the 1957 Tokyo Fuji-Juko-Isuzu R7 trolleybus with diesel engine. Tokyo's trolleybus route 103 between Ikebukuro to Kameido had rail crossings, so trolleybuses for this route were equipped with diesel engines. 34 of the 300 series were delivered between 1956 and 1959. A 1957 batch of five trolleybuses (321-325) had 3.77 litre Isuzu DA78 engines (62 hp). Route 103 was closed in March 1968. The ACF-Brill C-36 bus is also out now. One of the most popular post-war US buses (more than 1,500 built), it is available in Chicago, Boston, Eastern Mass Str Ry and Philadelphia Red Arrow liveries, with more to come. A new American release is a famous Philadelphia Hog Island streetcar. In 1918 J G Brill supplied 130 heavy, steel four-motor double-ended cars in the 4000-series known as Hog Island cars or simply Hogs to Philadelphia Rapid Transit Company, equipped for multiple-unit operation, built for operation to the Hog Island shipyard. Following closure of the shipyard, the cars were re-equipped for single car operation, and many of them were stored. In 1942 54 cars of this class were reconditioned by the PTC; couplers were removed and the control system for multiple unit operation was also removed and replaced with K-type standard controllers. These cars were called Suburban K Remodeled (SKR) and lasted in service until 1955. For more information, contact St Petersburg Tram Collection, PO Box. No 16, 196158 St Petersburg, Russia. Fax: +7 (812) 164 5254, Internet: http://www.sptc.spb.ru E-Mail: sptc@sp.ru
SCOTMODEL BUS
Corgi have made a limited edition of 500 1:76 Daimler Queen Mary buses in the livery of Kilmarnock-based bus operator A1 Services for the ScotModel 2000 show in November.
CLUB NEWS
Coventry Diecast Model Club: Among the many features in Wheelspin, the CDMC newsletter, as interesting as usual, is one by Will Roe describing Mokes. This little-known range arose from the Tuf-Tots diecast toys by Lone Star. This story begins with Microlink, the diecasting company 'left over' after Corgi production moved to the Far East, and which ultimately became Oxford Diecast. Post-Corgi but pre-Oxford, Microlink tried various projects including re-cycling the Tuf-Tots castings as Mokes to accompany a series of board games. The project appears to have foundered, leaving a stock of Mokes, recently acquired by Roger Bailey and now lining his garage (so he tells us). As Roger is also a leading light of the CDMC, the least Will could do was to provide some publicity, and help Roger get his car back in the garage by disposing of some Mokes. 'They are very cheap' says Roger. For CDMC enquiries (not about Mokes) telephone 024 7630 7700.
Volkswagen Model Club: The VWMC has been in existence since 1978, but Jim McLachlan notes that if membership continues to decline at its present rate, 'The long term future for the Club is in doubt'. This trend has been noted by many other clubs, societies and specialist publications. It seems inevitable that our ageing customer base will continue to shrink until it becomes uneconomic for short print runs. Ironically this realisation comes at a time when there has never been so much product chasing so few buyers. Jim's latest VWMC magazine is packed with news of dozens of VW models released in two months. So, to help the club survive, why not join? All you have to do is email Jim at volkswagen.modelclub@virgin.net.
Maidenhead Static Model Club: For its 'poor man's auction' at a recent Clubnight over 60 MSMC members gave lots to the auction, and over £200 was raised for Club charities. On the night lain Hines was given a large cheque for his children's organisations. Technokids (or Tekkies) brings hands-on experience for children in synthesisers, key-boards, video and film. Lollipop Children's Theatre, in its 22nd year, brings drama training to children who have no chance to go to professional drama school. Several Lollipops children have gone on to act in movies such as Judge Dredd and Robin Prince of Thieves. The Club is now preparing for the next Windsor Toy Fair, to be held on 27 January 2001. For more details including table availability visit the MSMC website at http://welcome.to/msmc, or ring Gary on 023 8078 4484.
Jaguar Model Club: Gary Oxley's JMC magazine is looking more professional with every issue, befitting the quantity of information in each issue. If you want to know about Acorn handbuilt (or rather scratchbuilt) 1:16 scale Jaguar C Type models from Scotland, you'll have to join the JMC and read the full story. To join, email Gary at gary@jaguarmodelclub.demon.co.uk.
The Diecast Car Collectors Club: Dick Browne tells us that the DCCC has revised its very active website. One new feature of interest to MAR readers should be Forum 43, open to all collectors, dealers, and manufacturers of 1:43 scale model vehicles. It should become an excellent source to answer questions, find rare models, and enjoy good conversation about our favourite hobby. Dick will be monitoring the forum and invites your participation. The website is www.diecast.org.
The Lansdowne Collectors Club: Devoted to Lansdowne and Robeddie models, the LCC was formed in September 1999 by Robert and Simon Timmis. The club produces four magazines per year and an annual club model for members only. First club model was a1956 Ford Zephyr Six Convertible de ville, and the second model will be a 1937 Jensen Dual Cowl Phaeton in red with chrome wire wheels and Omen figures. Membership is UK £17.00, Europe £21.00, Rest.of the .World £22.00. Write to: Robert Timmis, Lansdowne Collectors Club, 203 Northwich Road, Lower Stretton, Warrington, Cheshire, WA4 4PF
Brooklin Collectors Club: Brooklin Collector, the BCC magazine, has the usual mix of features on Brooklin, Lansdowne and Robeddie models, and full-size equivalents, plus an article by Nigel Parris on Hot Rods and Music. This extensive feature describes recorded music from In My Merry Oldsmobile of 1908, via such classics as Robert Johnson's Terraplane Blues to the hot rod and surfing scenes of the 1950s and 1960s. Illustrated by many rare record sleeves, this is a fascinating article which stirs the reader to think of more recordings to fill the list, and which is worth a subscription to the BCC on its own. So, for membership details, contact John Bowyer on 01276 473499, fax 01344 487336.
NEW TEKNO 1:50 TRUCKS
New Tekno diecast from the Netherlands:
Volvo FH12-420 Globetrotter Silo Reynders
Volvo FH12-420 Globetrotter open top Reynders
DAF 95XF-380 space cab frig De Rijke
Scania R124L-360 swan neck De Rijke
Scania R124L-360 silo De Rijke
Scania R124L-360 2x20' containers De Rijke
Scania R124L-360 1x40' container De Rijke
DAF 95XF-380 space cab Taale
MB Actros L1835 40' cont. Bogerd-Hapag Lloyd
Scania R124L-420 maxvol Sturm (Germany)
Scania R124L-400 ASG-Schneider (Germany)
MB Actros LH Flexos Nord-Sued (Germany)
Scania R124L-420 silo Bositra (Germany)Tekno Economy Line: A new range of 'low-price' Teknos begins with four DAF 95 combinations in plain liveries.
NEW BREKINA MODELS
By Hans-Georg SchmittBrekina 1:87 plastic models from Germany:
84102 Krupp-Cummins L960 bonnetted truck with trailer from the 1960s. (new mould).
27016 Wartburg 311 DRK German Red Cross.
32910 Volkswagen Pickup Tlb Kuhne & Nagel
37085 Hanomag L28 van Hanomag-Tempo
71174 IFA H6 drawbar with tilt AWZ Zwickau".
71504 IFA S4000-1 with tilt Werdau. In special pack for 40 years of trucks from city of Werdau.
71600 IFA S4000-1 with new box-body.
75102 Mercedes-Benz LP 333 drawbar tilt Getranke Fleischmann (Fleischmann drinks).
90371 Set Police vehicles of Berlin, three VW T2s.
Special models, not generally available:
Henschel HS16 TS tilt artic Meeting of historic commercial vehicles.
Henschel HS16 HS artic. DaimlerChrysler event at the former Henschel plant in Sept 2000.
IFA S4000-1 tilt lorry moss-green, made for Saxony Day, available from Modelautoclub Zwickau e.V., Jens Zenker, Kosmonautenstrasse 30, D-08066 Zwickau, Germany.
Mercedes-Benz O321 coach, white-Enzian blue, KVB Bavaria, Ingolstadter Verkehrsgesellschaft, Dollstrasse 7, D-85049 Ingolstadt, Germany.
Foreign special models:
Büssing Burglowe UM furniture truck and trailer Schenker Wien, Made exclusive for Dolischo model-toys, A-2340 Moding, Austria.
Krupp Cummins truck and trailer Provins Valais. Exclusive for Marcel Weber general agencies, CH-4133 Pratteln, Switzerland.K&R FUTURE RELEASES
K&R Replicas have extensive plans for the future of their 1:43 kit and handbuilt range. Six Ford Escort Mark II rally car variants from the 1980 and 1981 season should be available by the end of the year. There are three Austin Healey 100S variants (Mille Miglia, Sebring, Nassau 1955) and a new version of MG Old number 1 from the 1925 Land's End Trial. Other items include: MG J2 swept wing, Ford Sierra Sapphire 4x4, Sapphire RS Cosworth 4x4 (including race and rally versions), Sierra RS500, Rolls-Healey 4 litre, Triumph GT6 Mark I, Ford Escort RS Turbo, Triumph 2000 and 2500 Mark II and more variants on the BMC Farina-bodied saloon and estate car family. There will also be many police versions of existing models in the range. In 1:24 scale, there will come the Jaguar XJ6 Series III. In 1:72 scale, a new range will begin with a Ford Anglia 105E civilian and Police, and a Jaguar E-type Series 1.
CUSTOM BUILDING
Marian Gradus of Millennium Models in Brackley tells us that he operates a custom-building service to build a model of any car to any level of detail. They can be mounted on plinths or ashtrays, in special boxes, with gift over-printing etc. For a quote, telephone (44)01280 701266 or fax the same number. MAR is, as always, not responsible for any services of which news is given in print.
PATHFINDER DELAYED
Jeff and Sue Sharrock of Pathfinder tell us that their latest release was delayed until late November, due to production difficulties at a supplier. It is PFM33, Sunbeam Rapier fastback 1967, in two metallic colour choices, turquoise with black interior or sand with brown interior. 250 of each have been made. The next release will be PF34, Vauxhall Viva HA from the early 1960s. There will be only two more Pathfinder models after that, then production will end in Spring 2002. That may not be the last we see of the Pathfinder masters, however...
MODELEX CHAMPIONSHIP
The 11th National Kit Building Championships were held at Modelex 2000. The winners were:
Class A: Marsh Models Trophy
1: Chris Heath: Alfa Romeo Bimotore
2: Pete Roberts: Lotus Sunbeam
3: Mark Brennan: Lancia 037
Class B: Merrymeet Model Cars Trophy
1: John Hunt: Aston Martin
2: Nick Hazelton: Ford GT40
Class D: Enott's Coachworks Trophy
1: Mike Murray: Ferrari P3
2: Mike Murray: Ferrari 156
3: Mike Murray: Ferrari 356
Class E: K&R Replicas Trophy
1: Nick Hazelton: Lancia LC1
Make-Up Co Superior Models Trophy
Champion of Champions: Dale Coleman: Williams FW13NEW MM43 PACKARDS
The latest new range of models from Mini Marque 43 is the Show and Dream Car series which was launched with SD 01, the 1953 Packard Balboa-X. This had a standard 1953 Packard Caribbean body to which Mitchell-Bentley coachworks added a pillarless hard-top which extended the roof and acted as a visor for the reverse slope electrically retract-able rear window. Second in the range is the 1955 Packard Request. MM 43 acknowledge their debt to Larry Dopps, owner of the real car. The full history of the car is uncertain. After disappearing from the Studebaker-Packard factory in Indiana in 1957, the Packard Request was thought to have been destroyed. However, in 1974, Larry Dopps, a Californian Packard enthusiast, was given a tip that car collectors only dream about. The car was for sale at a farm in Portland, Oregon. Not thinking the car was genuine, but a 1955 Caribbean altered to resemble the Request, Larry took a look and was astounded to find it was the real thing, with only 14,550 miles on the clock, albeit in need of serious restoration. He and his brother Marvin's sealed bid was accepted, beating offers from high-powered organisations including Harrahs, though their bid was not the highest. It seems the owner was impressed by the brothers' enthusiasm for restoring the car, and he rightly felt that the Request would be seen at car shows and Packard Club meets in future, which would not be so likely if it was owned by a museum. After around two years of considerable effort, the car was restored to show condition, and has been admired by Packard enthusiasts. Luckily for MM43, Larry provided all measure-ments and photographs, even sending over the petrol cap cover of the real Request to ensure a perfect match for the two-tone paint! The model is a limited run of 350, and orders are being taken for the first batch of 100. Contact Mini Marque 43, Southview Farm, Southside Road, Halsham, East Yorks. England. Tel: +44 (0)1964 670504, Fax: +44 (0) 1964 671118, or visit the website at www.minimarque43.com
UT Models
By Hans-Georg SchmittHere are two new 1:18 scale diecast models made by UT. Both of the full-size cars are built in the USA, but in different traditions. The big scale allows for high detail levels, but also shows up any faults.
189020433 BMW Z3 M-Coupe The coupe based on the Z3 roadster is not to everyone's taste, with its long bonnet and short tail. No doubt about its technical qualities, however, the 3.2 litre 320 hp engine rushes the car to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. It is built at the US BMW plant in Spartanburg. The bright red model car is well-shaped with realistic lights, grille, outer rear view mirrors, antenna and wipers, all separate parts. The bonnet and doors open, but the boot lid doesn't. Thick hinges at an odd opening angle, are not good enough in this scale. Under the bonnet is a realistic straight-six-engine. The interior is good, but I note the lack of seat belts. The wheels look good, including brake discs, but the brake cylinders are not there, and the baseplate could be more detailed, though the exhaust system is a separate component.
189021047 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible 99 The model of America's sports car is metallic red with a well-shaped body. Doors, bonnet and boot all open, the doors also in the same crude fashion as the BMW Z3. The 5.7 litre V8 engine is authentic, as is the interior, but here also the seat belts are missing. The wheels are better on the Corvette, not only having brake discs but also brake cylinders. The baseplate is better detailed with separate wishbones for the suspension, differential and exhaust system. The designers must prefer Corvettes to BMWs.
$MILLION CAR COLLECTION
No, that's not an estimate from your insurance assessor. The Million Dollar Car Collection is a new range of 1:8 scale handbuilt model cars made in England for the US proprietor. There will be ten different cars in the range, each of the original automobiles being valued at $1m or more. The first two are the 1934 Packard Le Baron Dual Cowl Phaeton and 1934 Packard Boat Tail Speedster, with options of plated or painted radiator shells. The next issue will be the 1938 Alfa Romeo 2900. Only 25 of each will be made, and the first examples we have seen, courtesy of RAE who make them in England, are superb. We have no price details, but for further information contact Co. Costal Auto, 307 7th, Eureka, California 95501, USA. Tel 707 445 4800, fax 707 445 4809.
SCHLITZ THUNDERBIRD
The Classic Thunderbird Club International held their bi-annual convention at Arlington Heights, Chicago in July 2000. Durham Classics of Canada made for the convention 150 open 1955 Ford Thunderbirds in white with red and white interior, plus red Schlitz decals on the doors, hood and trunk lid. The real Schlitz Thunderbird was the prize in a 1986 Classic & Sportscar competition to guess the mileage covered by the car from Independence Hall in Philadelphia to Boston docks and from Southampton docks to the US Embassy in London. The car, won by a lady in Surrey, was acquired by the Angel Collection. David Angel has some of the original Schlitz beer cans with details: send three ring pulls with each entry. See the colour centre pages of this issue for a picture. This model costs US$145 inc p&p, or £95.00 plus p&p (UK £4.00, Europe £6.00, RoW £8.00). Contact Angel Autos at Wardon Hill, Dorchester, Dorset, DT2 9PW, England. Or for US$ payments: David Angel, c/o 8838 West Manhattan-Monee Road. PO Box 753, Frankfort, IL 60423-0753, USA.
ISRAELI CITROENS
Kobi Warshan and Igor Roshkovan of KI Models have models made for them exclusively by Eligor in France. One is a Citroen C15 of the Israeli Fire Brigade, and the other is a Citroen Berlingo of the Israeli Post. 500 of each has been made by Eligor, each with a certificate, signed and numbered. Future releases from KI Models will include Israeli emergency services, police, fire appliances, ambulances of the Israeli Magen David and other public services. The Citroens already available cost US$35 per model, plus p&p as follows: air mail to Europe $5, air mail to USA and Far East $6, air mail to South America $8. Payments to be made by Western Union, available in Post Offices worldwide. The address is: KI Models, PO Box 325, Holon, Israel. Tel: 972 3 6057616, fax; 972 3 6990144
TWO THAI BMWs
By Hans-Georg SchmittReal BMW cars are built in Rayong, Thailand. The 3 series is entering quantity production and the 5 series will be assembled from CKD kits. In much larger quantities, Maisto of Thailand is producing BMW cars in 1:18 scale. Two new items have just arrived in Europe. The BMW Z8 is James Bond's latest company car, a sports car featuring top design, equip ment and price. Some distinctive design cues were borrowed from the legendary 507 sports car, which in its time was a flop, but which is now an icon. The body reflects the design very well, many features like headlights, rear lights, air outlets and mirrors are separate inserts. The bonnet can be opened, revealing a well detailed engine, the doors open, (but in the old unrealistic way), and the boot lid opens. The interior is authentic, with aluminium inserts in the dashboard. The inner door linings and centre console are very well done. The seats, roll-over bars, and hood cover are all excellently detailed, but something went wrong with the seat belts. The guides beside the headrests are empty, the belts come out of the hood cover, run down loose and the locks on the other side of the seats are missing. The wheels are shaped accurately, even the brake discs are visible, but the baseplate could be more detailed. The model is metallic blue with black interior as reference 536896 in the Premiere Edition. In the GT Racing Range has appeared as reference 560628 the BMW V12 LMR Le Mans l999 #15. Joachim Winkelhock, Pierluigi Martini and Yannick Dalmas won Le Mans in l999, covering 366 laps, 4982.974 km. The model is shaped accurately, lights, BMW radiator grille and other details are separate parts and the cockpit is highly detailed. The livery also looks authentic. Under the detachable bonnet a very accurate engine replica is revealed. The finely moulded wheel rims are also correctly shaped, with brake discs and calipers visible and the baseplate is totally smooth, as usual on modern racing cars.
JAL 43 LAMBORGHINIS
JAL 43 of Spain have produced six different competition versions of the Lamborghini Diablo, in 1:43 kit form or handbuilt.
ARGUS ON SOLIDO
Argus de la Miniature devotes its fifth special edition to Solido, the latest issue, covering 1984 to 2000, all ranges plus promos. Price is 67F (Europe 70F) incl p&p from SAFAM Editions, BP40, F78231 Le Pecq Cedex, France.
1:18 DONG FENG MODEL
By Hans-Georg SchmittIn May 1958, the First Automobile Works Group Company in Changchun City rolled out the first all-Chinese built car. Entirely designed and manufactured by Chinese engineers, this was a sturdy and handsome sedan, known as Dong Feng, or East-Wind, which marked a turning point in Chinese history, reflecting a new era of modernisation. After driving twice around the lawn at Zhong Nan Hai, Chairman Mao Ze Dong, leader of China commented, 'How wonderful to ride in the first car made in China'. To mark the contribution of the First Automobile Works to Chinese auto history, it was decided to make a scale model of the Dong Feng. Only a few cars were ever built, highly revered, having carried the Great Helmsman himself. In collaboration with YuGu Intelligent Cultural Medium Limited Co and FAW Group (today assembling Audi and VW cars), Checkmate Models made a commemorative limited run of 10.000 models for distribution and sale to selected organisations and collectors. The first issues will be presented as gifts from the Chinese nation to heads of state and visiting dignitaries. To ensure the value of the Dong Feng, the tooling and castings will be destroyed in a public ceremony in Beijing. The Dong Feng Golden Dragon model is 1:18 scale, and comes in a leather-look musical box, which plays a tune when opened. The model is made of over 300 parts, and appears to be very accurate, judging from catalogue photos of the real car. The body is red, the roof light grey, with an excellent finish. The golden dragon mascot on the bonnet is made from 99.99% pure gold. The open bonnet reveals a highly detailed engine, including ignition cables. Lights, radiator grille, door handles and other parts are chromed. The front doors open, revealing a spartan dashboard, seats covered with real cloth and moveable sun visors. Its steering works via an authentic steering wheel, but the door hinges are old-style and clumsy, the only minus point on this lovely model. The boot lid opens to reveal only a spare wheel. Mao Ze Dong did not need luggage. The blue license plates are authentic. In the rear window a blind protects passengers from public view. There was only one windscreen wiper fitted, on the driver's side. The wheels are accurate, the tyres with realistic profiles and Chinese lettering. The baseplate is outstandingly detailed, with operating independent suspension on wish-bones to the front wheels, and a rigid rear axle with working longitudinal side-mounted flat springs and working shock absorbers. The bottom of the engine and gearbox, the prop-shaft, rear differential and exhaust system are marvellously detailed. Even the horns under the front bumper are there. For a colour picture, see the front cover of this issue of MAR. The price in Hong Kong is HK$2,500, from Collectors Club Hong Kong; Room 718; HK International Trade & Exhibition Centre; 1 Trademart Drive; Kowloon Bay; Hong Kong. Tel (852) 2620 0838; Fax (852) 2620 0368. Website: www.collectorsclub.com.hk Email: collectors@collectorsclub.com.hk
BUSCH 1:87 MODELS
By Hans-Georg SchmittBusch 1:87 plastic models from Germany:
43100 Borgward Isabella Coupe 1958, new mould, 30 components, the body alone is made from three different parts. Finely printed.
49100 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Elegance saloon 2000, new mold, excellently detailed, available in dark blue or bordeaux red.
41704 Pontiac Firebird DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education). Striking special vehicle of Los Angeles Police Department.
42005 Opel Rekord C saloon German Police.
42407 Ford Transit THW blue.
42612 Ferrari GTO 250 Graham Hill, winner of 1963 Goodwood Tourist Trophy.
43417 Cadillac 52 Hell on Wheels Crazy car.
44355 Mercedes 507 Fire service water rescue
44905 Car trailer with tandem-axles
45406 Chevrolet Corvette Cabriolet 1956 open.
45011 Chevrolet Bel Air US Military Police 1957
46022 American LaFrance Pumper US FD
46023 American LaFrance Ladder-truck US FD
46401 Chevrolet Blazer 1998 front end face lift.
47200 Renault R312 Paris city bus Line 46.
47211 Renault R312 Shuttle bus to Euro Disney.
47715 Ford Model AA Fairmont Creamery
47974 Iveco Daily pickup Gerustbau Kirchberger.
48110 Volkswagen Passat Fire service Osnabruck
49006 Ford Crown Victoria Royal Canadian Mounted Police, exclusive to idee+spiel shops:
42408 Ford Transit Ambulance Bundeswehr.
44356 Mercedes-Benz 507 Bundeswehr
48111 VW Passat Bundeswehr Military Police.SCHUCO FOR WINTER
The late 2000 release programme from Schuco of Germany is as follows:
SCHUCO CLASSIC (tinplate toys)
Bugatti T35B kit red (155mm long)
Akustico 'BMW 328' with horn, blue
Wendeauto red-cream
Magico Garage with telephone
Figure set (cameraman, driver, mechanic) 1:18
Sport Examico 'Winter 2000' black Porsche 356
MICRO RACERS clockwork diecast
Watson Racer red
Porsche 356 coupe red
Mercedes 190SL silver-black
Volkswagen Beetle green
SCHUCO EDITION 1:18 tinplate
BMW 327 hardtop coupe
Mercedes-Benz 170V saloon Polizei
SCHUCO PICCOLO 1:90 diecast
Ferrari GTO red
VW Fridolin blue
Tempo three wheel van green
Tempo three wheel van 'Tempo'
Mercedes 170V van Löwenbräu
BMW Isetta Polizei
Citroen DS19 Monte Carlo Rally no 75
Mercedes artic '950 years of Nürnberg'
Set: 50 years of VW Transporter: includes five different split window transporters
VW Microbus + caravan 'Christmas Special'
SCHUCO MINIATURE MODELS 1:43 diecast
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Avantgarde saloon
Goggomobil with sunroof open, green or purple
DKW Schnellaster van Zündapp motorcycles
Mercedes-Benz 300SL hardtop, three colours
Porsche 356A coupe racer no 3260 YEARS OF BMW DESIGN
By Hans-Georg SchmittA company with such an interesting history as BMW, can issue many different model cars without becoming boring. Now two new items are out, both 1:43 scale their designs around 60 years apart. First is aBMW 3/15 hp DA2, built from 1929 to 1931, a tiny saloon, still based on the Austin 7, built in Eisenach under Austin license. It is reed-green, with wings chrome oxide green, the grille black. It has no boot, the spare wheel is fixed at the back. The tyres look better, and it has separate windscreen wipers. The silver exhaust system is also separate and the baseplate, which looks poor, now says Schuco. The Dixi comes in a black box under BMW ref 80 42 0 018 113. The other new item is a 635CSi Coupe group A racing car, an authentic reproduction of the Gentleman's racer in its original colours, a 1:43 scale model by Minichamps. With its 3.5 litre six-cylinder engine producing up to 380 bhp by the end of its career, this BMW convincingly demonstrated its sporting qualities. Factory coupes, tuned by Schnitzer, with their striking livery, celebrated many racing successes between 1983 and 1986. The model is in a Minichamps presentation box, in a white card box, which features a black and white photo of the original car and some details of its history. It is available from BMW dealers under reference 80 42 9 421 765.
25 Years of THE S-CLASS
By Hans-Georg SchmittThe German part of DaimlerChrysler AG, Mercedes-Benz, has now been making cars for 114 years. For some time the Mercedes Classic Center has issued models. This year Mini-champs made three S-Class models, which show changes in Mercedes design over the last 25 years. The S-Class is always the top product from Stuttgart. The Sonderklasse (Super-Class) became a world-wide trend-setter, the standard for top people's cars. The first batch of the three modes was made for DaimlerChrysler AG, now on general sale. 430 039100 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3 saloon 1968 to 1972. W108/109. French designer Paul Bracq, who also worked for BMW, was responsible for this design. Later he went to Peugeot and he also re-designed the replica of the Bugatti Royale Roadster Esders for the Schlumpf museum in Mulhouse, France. In the mid-60s in the USA there was a horse-power race, muscle cars arrived and Mercedes joined in this race for customer favour. Into the standard S-class body, originally powered by a straight-six or less powerful V8 engines, was inserted the big-block 6.3 litre V8 from the 600 Grosser Mercedes. This wolf in sheep's clothing has been reproduced very exactly in 1:43 scale. The body shape and all details have been were executed with painstaking care. The Byzantine gold metallic body has a graceful photo-etched three-pointed star on its radiator grille with pride. Interior, wheels and baseplate are also well detailed. 430 039200 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9 saloon, 1972 to 1979. In September 1972 the new W116 was launched. For the first time the models were named S-Class officially by the promotions department of Daimler-Benz. It was a completely new car range, exceeding its predecessor in driving comfort, safety and road performance. In May 1975 the top-model of the range was revealed, the 450 SEL, long wheelbase with the 69 litre V8 which developed 286 hp at 4250 rpm. With its astral silver metallic body, the model looks very good. An excellent photo-etched three-pointed star stands on a correctly dimensioned radiator grille. From the wipers for the head-lights to the separate windscreen wipers everything is there, and the interior is exact, even to the the wood cappings and a fire extinguisher. The wheels are excellent, with aluminium rims, and the baseplate is quite well detailed. As all good things come in threes, the next S-Class generation was also made by Minichamps for DaimlerChrysler. 430 039300 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL 1989 to 1991. Slimmer, faster, but also better looking? In September 1979 the public saw the new W126 cars at the Frankfurt Motor Show. A stylistic affinity with its predecessor was unmistakable, the handwriting of chief designer Bruno Sacco was more distinctive, at first only with standard wheelbase, but in June 1980 the longer version followed. Top model of the range was the 560SEL launched in 1985, its anthracite grey metallic body is once again excellently shaped and the detailing is hard to beat. The same applies to the interior, wheels and baseplate. All three S-Class Models embody Mercedes-Benz design between 1965 and l990. Each model is made in a limited edition of 2016 pieces. The value of these items will hold up better than the share price of DaimlerChrysler AG.
BRUMM FOR LATE 2000
Brumm 1:43 diecast releases late in 2000:
A004 BRM P57 with chassis (double pack)
(Early 2001 sees BRM P57s: R322, 322B, R323, R324).
R291B Ferrari 512 Mexico Lorenzo Bandini 1964
R291C Ferrari 156 Mexico Pedro Rodriguez 1964
R314-01 Porsche 356 hard topblack 1952
R314-02 Porsche 356 hard top silver 1952
R314-03 Porsche 356 hard top red 1952
R315-01 Lancia B24 hard top red 1955
R315-02 Lancia B24 hard top silver 1955
R315-03 Lancia B24 hard top blue metallic 1955
R316-01a-12 Fiat 600D saloon 12 colours 1960
R317-01a-12 Fiat 600D trasformabile open 12 colours 1960
R318-01a-12 Fiat 600D trasformabile closed 12 colours 1960
CC3 Fiat 600D colour folder: 12 colours 1960
R319 Cooper T51 Monaco Tony Brooks 1960
R319B Cooper T51 Monaco Chris Bristow 1960
R320 Cooper T53 Germany John Surtees 1961
R320B Cooper T53 Germany Roy Salvadori 1961
R321 Ferrari 512 USA Pedro Rodriguez 1965
R321B Ferrari 158 USA Bob Bondurant 1965
ZB00CD brummillennium CD-ROM 2000ITALIAN PREVIEW
By Bruno BoraccoSome news of future releases from Italy:
PROGETTO-K: 1:43 scale diecast Fiat 850 coupe first series to be released at the end of November. Sport versions like the Abarth etc to come next year. At the end of 2000 will come the Alfa Sud four door first series and perhaps an Alfa Romeo 33 sedan in 2001.
GIOCHER: All 1:43 resin fully-built, the first Fiat Brava and the Fiat 850 spider first and second series. The Fiat Marea Polizia and Carabinieri are now made in resin because the diecast base model by Maisto now is sold out. Also an OM 50 bus in Carabinieri livery, plus new Punto Polizia and Carabinieri versions on Majorette base model.
There will also be a model of Stalin's Zil limousine, and the Fiat 127 second series.SWISS POSTAL VWs
The Beetle Shop in Paris gives us news of three diecast air-cooled Volkswagen models in Swiss Post livery, made for the Swiss market. Prices here are in French Francs:
SOLIDO 1:17 split window Beetle PTT (Sticker on Solido box) 200FF .
SUNNYSIDE 1:36 Super Beetle PTT (specially designed box) 50FF .
SUNNYSIDE 1:36 hitop split window van, pull-back PTT (specially designed box) 50FF .All prices are plus post & packing. Payments by credit card to The Beetle Shop in Paris, 28 Rue Eugène-Carrière, 75018 Paris, France.
HARTSMITH MODELS
As indicated previously in MAR, from 1 February 2001, Hart Models Ltd and A Smith Auto Models will merge, and will be known as Hartsmith Models Ltd.
DURHAM LA SALLE
Durham Classics of Canada's recent release of a 1934 La Salle Coupe was based on one owned by Bob Warburton of Lindsay, Ontario. This car was purchased by Bob's father, Eddy Warburton many years ago, remained in Bob's family since 1961 and became Eddy's pride and joy. Although Durham's model was madel in several authentic colours, Bob asked if they could produce a short run in the original colours of his father's car. So they made 50 individually numbered models in the open rumble, top up, no fender skirts version as per the model requested by Bob. For availability contact the Durham Collector, 595 Wentworth St E. #63, Oshawa, Ontario, LlH 3V8, Canada.
LCVS and CDVs
Light commercial vehicles (LCVs) and Car-Derived Vans (CDVs) seem to be the growth areas in the world of commercial vehicles, with a multitude of new designs. Some of the more 'aware' industrial companies sponsor production of promotional models of their new vehicles, but there will be opportunities for model companies to make others. These will be the universally-seen workhorses of the future on the world's roads, so let's hope models will be made of most of them. Just some of the new designs, re-vamps, facelifts and concept vehicles are listed here:
Ford: New Transit, Ranger, Fiesta Courier, Escort Express
Opel: Vivaro, Combo, Compo, Movano
Mercedes-Benz: Alu-Sprinter, Sprinter - Medio minibuses
Renault: New Trafic, Master, Modus 2, Opérandi, Mascott
Iveco: Daily (revised version)
Volkswagen: Multivan, Junior Star, California Coach, Caddy Kombi, Caddy Family There are many others, some already planned in model form, but it may give food for thought to some manufacturers. Hans-Georg Schmitt's promised review of the Frankfurt Commercial Vehicle Show arrived too late for inclusion in this issue of MAR. It will be published in MAR 149. Hans-Georg is very busy these days, so we are grateful for all his efforts for MAR.MORE LITTLE TCM CARS
Thomas Coomans of TCM Modeles in Belgium gives us news of his tiny 1:200 scale range, pictured in the centre pages of this issue. There are three new models: Citroen DS 1963-67 (second nose): black, carrara white, provence blue, epicea green and cornaline red.
Fiat 500 Giardiniera: 233 white, 372 light green, 463 turquoise farfalla, 466 blue cenere.
Fiat 600 Multipla: 233 white, 234 antique gold, 115 medium red, 453 florentine blue. To order any of these models, contact TCM Modeles Miniatures, Bergstraat lc 3770 Riemst Valmeer, Belgium, Tel-Fax 0(032)12 45 43 25, email: bs244608@skynet.be
Copyright 2001 Modelauto Ltd and Solnet Systems Ltd
e-mail mar@zeteo.com
