CONTENTS
Model Auto Review 188
Publication date 7 Dec 20049424 Correspondence 9426 Tippers Graeme Watt, Scotland 9427 Tatra Jim McLachlan, Scotland 9428 Rolls-Royce Elegance: part 3 Scott Brown, USA 9430 Two lane Blacktop Don Elliott, USA 9431 Book Review: Morgan 9432 Super Models: part 7: The final part Robin Godwin, USA 9433 Austin A55 Cambridge Graeme Ogg, England 9434 Tin-Tin models Jan Ziegler, Germany 9436 Knight Rider 2000 Don Elliott, USA 9437 Vitesse Aston Martin John Quilter, USA 9438 Captions to right centre page 9441 NEWS Britain: Oxford, Wessex 9439 Clubs 9442 Captions to left centre page 9440 Paul Lang Speaks to MAR Ben van Roode, NL 9443 Captions to back cover illustrations page 9460 NEWS France: Prestige, Norev 9444 Vehicle Scenics Countryman Maz Woolley, England 9445 Petite Models Maz Woolley, England 9446 Corgi First Half 2005 Plans 9448 Bus Stop: Rietze, More From EFE, CMNL Bus News 9449 NEWS Emergency, trucks: Tek-Hoby, Hartsmith, Weico, Igra, Viscount, Minichamps 9450 NEWS Germany: Minichamps, Preiser 9451 NEWS: World: Showcase, Ertl, Conrad 9452 NEWS Military, Trucks: Minitanks, Norev, Fixter 9411 NEWS Emergency: Rietze etc 9452 Competitions * NEWS Europe 9453 Brooklin for 2005 9454 avia mini 9456 Swapmeet Diary, Small ads, subscriptions
EDITORIAL
By Rod WardAN APOLOGY
This is our last issue for 2004, and I have to start with an apology. The competition winner's name was not published in MAR 187, so I'll correct that now. The winner of the Trax Ford Falcon is Graham Burton of Poole, Dorset. Congratulations to Graham, it'll be a nice Christmas surprise. It's now time to enter the MAR 188 Competition.
INTERESTING STUFF
This issue includes some really interesting stuff, so much that it seems invidious to single out anything for special mention. There is the first flourish of new releases for 2005, from all of the ranges owned by Corgi, and those made by Brooklin, plus a fascinating interview with Paul Lang of Minichamps fame. We have features on Tintin, Two lane Blacktop and Knight Rider, for those who like comic, movie and television related subjects. Classic makes described include Rolls-Royce, Tatra, Aston Martin and Austin. With all our usual features and your favourite contributors as well, what more could you ask for?
EXCITING FUTURE
Well, actually we all ask for more, and this brings me to a point which always comes up when long-time readers of MAR are discussing what they'd like to see.
'More colour instead of black and white pictures' is the usual answer, though usually accompanied by the generous and understanding comment that they perfectly well understand why it cannot be afforded.
I have been working on this problem, and the more general problem of how to keep on producing MAR in the future at the same cover price, for most of 2004, and I have a solution for the future which I hope you will like. I certainly like it, and I am very excited about our future prospects.
OUR NEXT ISSUE
Model Auto Review is in for a total revamp and relaunch from the first issue of 2005, so look out for MAR 189!
In the meantime, I hope that you enjoy the festivities over the Christmas and New Year period, and that you are looking forward to what is likely to be a very interesting year for model collecting.
I expect that it will be a somewhat different landscape, with some erstwhile major players missing, and others shifting sideways into different product sectors.
I already know of some new ranges already in preparation (surprisingly?) and of some existing makers determined to make a push for more business in 2005.
The new-look Model Auto Review from the beginning of 2005 is designed to respond to these changes and to reflect our new world of collecting. The few MAR insiders who know a little about what will happen are as excited as I am about the changes, and I have also had a lot of support and encouragement from those in the specialist model car industry with whom we have discussed our 'new look'. Now I just have to ask you to be patient for seven weeks until the new MAR is in your hands.
CONDOLENCES
On a more sombre note I have to record the passing of another old friend of MAR.
John Smith of Colchester Model Centre died of a heart attack in October. We extend our sympathy to his family and to his widow, who does not intend to continue with the business. His dog also recently died, 'So the two boys are now together' she says, 'I will go ahead with our plan to retire to Dover-court in 2005, where he will be buried'.
CORGI First Half Plans
January to June 2005Here are the new releases planned by Corgi for the first half of 2005. Months of release are indicated, but may possibly change later. If no release month is given, items should be available ex-stock from the beginning of the year.
CORGI COLLECTABLES Mostly 1:50 scale MARQUES OF DISTINCTION 1:50 scale CC10806 Foden S21 3 axle flat Lorry Richard, Johnson & Nephew Jan CC10506 ERF KV 8 Wheel Dropside Lorry Rileys Transport Feb CC11509 AEC MkV 4 axle flat Lorry William Nuttall & Sons Ltd Mar CC10603 Leyland Octopus Plafform Lorry Edward Derbyshire Apr CC11610 Albion Reiver Platform Lorry Pollock May CC11704 Guy Invincible 8 Wheel Platform Lorry Frederick Ray Ltd Jun HEAVY HAULAGE LIMITED EDITION CC13110 Volvo F88 2 Axle low loader & portable building Heanor Haulage Apr CC12513 Atkinson Venturer 2 Axle low loader & propeller Rawcliffe May ROAD TRANSPORT HERITAGE - BREWERY LIMITED EDITION CC13309 Morris Dropside Lorry & Barrels Brickwoods Ales Jan CC10507 ERF KV 4 Wheel Flat lorry & Sheeted Crates Showerings Ltd Feb CC13310 Austin 4 Wheel Dray & Crates Gaymers Cyder Mar CC13311 Morris flat with sheeted crates E Lacon and Son Ltd Apr TRUCKFEST CC13410 MAN TGA XXL Pollock (Scotrans) Ltd Jan CC13218 DAF XF Space Cab Jack Richards & Son Ltd Feb CC12923 Scania Topline Macfarlane Transport Ltd Mar ON THE MOVE LIMITED EDITION CC11412 Bedford TK Luton Van Walkers of Wakefield Apr CC11003 Thames Trader Luton Van G W Jeakins May CC11413 Bedford TK Luton Van J A Coles Jun HAULIERS OF RENOWN LIMITED EDITIONS CC99155 Scania @ Stobart Set CC19801 Moffett-Kooi M5 20 3 CC13411 MAN TGA XL Sided Crane Trailer & pallet load RDL Distribution Jan CC13217 DAF XF Space Cab Curtainside Ramage Transport Ltd Jan 1 CC12919 Scania Topline Livestock Transporter MacTaggart Bros & Co Jan CC12427 Volvo FH Sided Crane Trailer & pallet load Inta-Site Haulage Jan CC13510 Volvo FM Bulk Tipper James Booth (Bolton) Ltd CC13407 MAN TGA XL Feldbinder Tanker Tarmac plc Feb CC13408 ERF ECT Olympic Curtainside Richard Read (Transport) Ltd Feb CC13406 MAN TGA XXL Box Trailer - Saints Transport Feb CC13601 DAF CF Curtainside R Swain & Sons Ltd Feb CC12813 Scania T Topline Bulk Tipper Bartlett Haulage Ltd (Helldrivers) Jan CC99164 Pride of the Dales Set Alan Lodge Road Haulage Mar CC13602 DAF CF General Purpose Tanker Suttons Tankers Mar CC12920 Scania Topline Fridge Trailer A LCampbell Haulage Apr CC13506 Volvo FM Box Trailer E Pawson & Son Ltd Mar CC11912 ERF EC Series step frame curtainside K & P Iddon Transport Mar CC12921 Scania Topline Bulk Tipper Kenneth McWilliam Transport May CC13507 Volvo FM Curtainside R F Fielding (Cheshire) Ltd I Apr CC13409 MAN TGA XXL Curtainside John Mitchell (Grangemouth) Ltd Apr CC12428 Volvo FH Livestock Transporter Fred Greenwood & Son Jun CC12814 Scania T Cab General Purpose Tanker Atchison Topeka Ltd May CC13603 DAF CF Curtainside Tyson H Burridge Ltd May CC99165 Lord of the Isles Set D R Macleod of Stornoway Jun CC12922 Scania Topline Fridge Trailer Trevor Pye Transport Jun RIGID TIPPERS LIMITED EDITION CC13508 Volvo FM Bulk Tipper Yuill & Dodds Ltd Jan CC13604 DAF CF Aggregate Tipper RMC Aggregates Feb CC13509 Volvo FM Bulk Tipper J W Morrison Mar CC13605 DAF CF Aggregate Tipper Charlie Lauder Transport Apr BUSES IN BRITAIN 1:50 LIMITED EDITION CC25802 Leyland Tiger Cub Weymann King Alfred Motor Services MINI MANIA CC82234 Mini 40 British Raclng Green/White CC82235 Mini 40 Kingfisher Blue-White * CC82236 Mini 40 Anthracite-White CC86505 The New Mini Cooper Flamenco Orange CC86515 The New Mini Cooper Eddie Stobart Ltd CC82239 Mini Miglia Bill Sollis, Mini 7 Racing Jan CC82240 Mini Cooper Classic Neil Burgess, British Rally Championship Feb 9 DOUBLE 9 COLLECTION LIMITED EDITIONS CC99152 Proud To Serve Set: The Fire & Rescue Service in Hampshire CC86516 BMW Mini Cooper New South Wales Police, Australia Mar CC86517 BMW Mini Cooper Royal Canadian Police Apr CC86516 BMW Mini Cooper Munich Police, Germanv Jun CC86519 BMW Mini Cooper Durham Constabulary May HEROES UNDER FIRE LIMITED EDITIONS US53509 ALF 700 Closed Brook Park, OH US50809 Seagrave K Open Cab Los Angeles US52512 Seagrave 70th Anniversary Semi Closed Pumper Kentland, MD US52506 Seagrave 70th Anniversary Tractor Drawn Aerial Baltimore, MD VINTAGE BUS LINES LIMITED EDITIONS US54019 GM Old Look 4507 Green Bus Lines US54409 GM4501 Greyhound Scenicruiser Destination Washington, DC LIONELVILLE LIMITED EDITIONS US06007 Dodge Monaco Lionelville Police Dept US52315 Mack B Wrecker Buzz's Towing Service HEAVY HAULERS LIMITED EDITION: US55708 Kenworth W925 Lowboy Trailer VANGUARDS 1:43 scale BMC VA08908 Austin 1800 Cardiff May VA01418 Mini Van Almond Green Feb VA02309 Austin A35 Saloon Country Cream March VA05404 Morris Oxford Vl Rose Taupe-Snowberry White April VA08301 Morris 1000 pickup Sea Blue Jan VA01121 Morris Minor Van Bus Interest Group June FORD VA09500 Ford Escort Mk l Dragoon Red May VA09501 Ford Escort Mk l MP Racing June VA02110 Ford Popular 100E Sunset Red April VA06618 Ford Transit Van 40th Anniversary Limited Edition March VA04109 Lotus Cortina Mk II Aquatic Jade Feb VA06104 Ford Zodiac Mk II Ambassador Blue over Pompadour Blue Jan GENERAL VA09600 Range Rover Adriatic Blue June VA07608 Land Rover Blue April VA07504 Morris Commercial Dropside Severn Valley Railway Feb JAGUAR VA09103 JaguarXJR Ebony May VA08608 Jaguar XJ6 Series 1 - Pale Primrose March VA05905 Jaguar XK120 Lavender Grey Jan MG-ROVER VA09201 Rover 75 Firefrost Red May VA09005 Rover Vanden Plas Arum White March VA06513 P6 3500 V8 City Grey Jan VA09300 MG ZT Trophy Blue Jan VA09200 Rover 75 Britlsh Racing Green Jan POLICE VA08207 Triumph 2.5Pi Dorset & Bournemouth Police Feb VA09006 Rover 3500 SD1 Sussex Police March VA09502 Ford Escort Mk1 Suffolk Police June VA01419 Morris Mini Van Ayrshire Constabulary May VA05806 Morris Minor Metropolitan Traffic Police 75th Anniversary Ltd Edn Jan ROOTES VA04006 Singer Coupe Silver Metallic Feb VA06809 Hillman Minx IIIA Glade Green April TRIUMPH VA05309 Dolomite Sprint Tahiti Blue March VA07403 Herald Convertible Royal Blue Jan VA06710 Triumph Spitfire 40th Anniversary May VAUXHALL VA09401 Vauxhall Astra Digital Green June VA08706 Vauxhall Viva HB Wedgwood Blue April VA06409 Vauxhall Cresta Access Taxis Feb VA09400 Vauxhall Astra Star Silver Jan ORIGINAL OMNIBUS COMPANY 1:76 scale OM99166 The Solent Bus Set Jan OM41304 Wright Eclipse Fusion First London Jan 1 OM42410 Bedford VAL-Panorama I Yelloway Motor Services Mar OM41207 Wright Eclipse Gemini Yellow Buses Feb OM41109 Daimler CVG6-East Lancs Bradford City Transport Feb OM43311 Plaxton Excalibur Oxford Bus Company (Oxford Express) Mar OM40305 Leyland Royal Tiger-Burlingham Seagull Barton Transport Apr OM43509Blackpool Balloon Tram Eclipse 2 Apr OM44106 Optare Solo Ulsterbus (Translink) May OM43312 Plaxton Premiere Wilts & Dorset Bus Co. May OM44704 Dennis Dart SLF-Plaxton Arriva Kent & Sussex (Transweald) Jun OM41208 Wright Eclipse Gemini London United Jun CORGI SHOWCASE Fighting Machines VE Day 60th Anniversary: The Race to Berlin CS90375 T34/85 Tank 55th Guards Tank Brigade, 7th Guards Tank Corps May CS90408 Panther German Army May CS90377 Stuart Llght Tank 4th Coldstream Guards May CS90378 DH Mosquito FBVI RAF 21 Sqn May CSCW38004 Four Piece VE Day Set May CSCW39002 VE Day 60th Twin Pack: Tiger 1, T34/76 and 2 figures May D-Day 60th Anniversary lssue #3: Sword Beach CS90250 Churchill Tank British Army Guildford CS90251 Panzer V Panther SS Panzer Regiment CS90252 Greyhound Armoured Car 1st Derbyshire Yeomanry CS90253 Kübelwagen Wehrmacht CSCW24004 Four Piece Sword Beach Set CSCW19002 Sword Beach Twin Pack: Tiger 1, Sherman and 2 figures Fighting Machines: World War II: Omaha Beach CS90193 Sherman, 741st Tank Battalion CS90194 Medic Jeep, 62nd Medical Battalion CS90195 M13 Halftrack, 2nd Armoured Division CS90196 Lockheed P-38 Lightning, 352 Fighter Group CS90198 Noth American P-51 Mustang, 356 Fighter Group CS90199 Tiger, SS Panzerabteilung 101 CS90201 German Panzer 4, 622 History of Tank Warfare Issue #2 CS90262 Churchill tank British Army Minotaur CS90263 Tiger 1 Tank 123 CS90264 M-48 Main Battle Tank US Army, The War Lord CS90265 Scorpion Light Tank British Army CSCW25004 Four Piece History of Tank Warfare Set Iraqi Freedom CS90202 B-1 Bomber Camouflaged CS90286 Abrams Tank 1st Armored Division CS90203 Abrams Tank 2nd Marine Tank Battalion CS90205 Hummer Military Police CS90207 Bradley Pay Back 1st Armored Division CS90284 Convair B-52 40th Bomb Squadron God Bless America WORLD WAR II COLLECTlON WWII Legends VE Day 60th Anniversary: The Fall of Germany CC60210 PzKpfwV Panther Ausf. G Panzer Division, Germany 1945 Jan CC60410 M3 Half Track 9th Armored Division, 60th Armored Infantry Battalion, Company 'A', US Army, Germany 1945 Jan CC60506 PzKpfw Tiger Ausf. E 3. Zug, 2. Kompanie, Schwere Panzer Abteilung 510, Kurland, December 1944 Feb CC60606 Cruiser Tank A34 Comet Mk l 11th Armoured Division, British Army, Germany 1945 Feb CC51020 M4A3 Sherman Tank Company C, 761st Tank Battalion, Task Force Rhine, US Army, Germany 1945 Mar CC60009 Krauss-Maffei 8 ton SdKfz 7 Personnel Carrier Hohenstaufen, Germany 1945 Mar CC60607 Cruiser Tank Mk VII, A27M Cromwell Mk VI British Army, Western Europe,1945 Apr CC60411 M16 Multiple Gun Motor Carriage 447th AAA Battalion US Army, Belgium January 1945 May US SPECIALS - Limited Availability Unsung Heroes US50206 M35, 2.5 Ton Gun Truck, The Gamblers, 27th Transportation Battalion, U.S. Army Jan US51103 M113 Ambulance, 5th Cavalry, 9th Infantry Division, US Army Jan US50307 M48 Tank, Tula, USMC Jan LLEDO DAYS GONE DG006155 Model T Ford Bovril Jan DG004020 Horse Drawn Bus Cream Crackers & Crawfords Jan DG075013 Bristol Lodekka Bus Crosse & Blackwell London Transport Jan DG085026 Van Eccles Cakes Jan DG026021 Delivery Van Roses Lime Juice Feb DG017030 AEC Slngle Decker Bus Beefeater Gin Feb DG050062 Bull Nose Van Bristol Cream Feb DG058024 Van Vimto Feb DG008025 Tanker BP March DG060018 Dennis Fire Engine Isle of Man March DG173009 Bedford CA Van Pollock March DG166002 Land Rover Fire & Rescue March DG098001 Sentinel 6 Wheel Teachers April DG088013 Sentinel 4 Wheel PeterWorth April DG125009 Traction Engine H Williams & Son April DG101004 Sentinel 6 Wheel Dropside Matthew Mansel & Sons April DG015046 AEC Double Decker Bus Biro May DG016049 Dennis Parcels Van Vauxhall May DG059037 30cwt Truck Daily Mail May DG197002 A35 Van Royal Mail May DG006196 Ford Model T Dennis the Menace June DG108008 Closed Top Tram Beano Header June DG063035 Bedford 30cwt Minnie the Minx June DG051024 Box Van Roger the Dodger June NE1002 NESTLE - Nestle-Kit Kat March NE2002 NESTLE - Smarties-Rowntrees June LLEDO TRACKSIDE 1:76 scale DG148013 Scammell Scarab Dropside + Churns Express Dairy Jan DG176017 Leyland 8 Wheel Dropside Lorry Entress Transport Ltd Jan DG187006 Guy Big J Tipper & Load BRS Jan DG175011 Scammell Handyman flat trailer & Logs Forestry Commission Jan DG186006 ERF LV Low Loader + Boat Robert Walker Ltd Feb DG198000 Scammell Contractor x 2, Trailer & Cylinder Load Pickfords Feb DG146012 Guy Pantechnicon Griff Fender Feb DG199000 Scammell Mechanical Horse & Parcel Load British Rail Mar DG176018 Leyland 8 Wheel Cattle Truck Hills of Botley Mar DG148014 Scammell Scarab flat trailer & sack load Robsons of Carlisle Mar DG198001 Scammell Contractor, Trailer + Transformer Load Siddle Cook Mar DG187007 Guy Big J Tipper & Load Blue Circle Cement Apr DG174008 Noddy Van National Carriers Apr DG199001 Scammell Mechanical Horse Dropside Trailer GWR May DG186007 ERF LV Tanker NAFTA May DG198002 Scammell ContractorWrecker BRS Jun DG199002 Scammell Mechanical Horse & Sack Load Pickfords Jun
CLUB NEWS
Collated by Rod WardWessex Model and Toy Collectors: The WMTC celebrates its 21st Birthday next year with a party, already booked at the 'Farmhouse' on Saturday 11 June 2005. As many members, their families and friends of the WMTC as possible are invited to attend. More information later, when we have it. Barry Lloyd, Editor of the Club newlsetter, Smalltalk, describes an experience he had with the large scale tinplate model of the Miller racing car made in China for Gilbow, makers of EFE. A tiny but irritating fault was that one of the screws holding the bonnet in place was shorter than the others, so it wouldn't 'bite' properly. He wrote to Gilbow in Enfield three times over a period of months to ask for a replacement screw, and not only got no action from them, he didn't even get acknowledgment that his letters had been received. He comments. 'Nice model, shame about the total lack of customer service from Gilbow (Holdings) Ltd'. I can add my own experience, after sending a Miller to an overseas customer, which was damaged en route. Well, actually the model was ok, but the large box was damaged, and the customer wanted it to be mint. We claimed for the damage against insurance, but the payout was only partial, as the model was ok. We asked Gilbow if they could supply a new outer box, that we could send to the customer. We also had trouble getting a reply, but we persisted, and eventually they told us that no boxes, or any other parts were available, at any price (we were prepared to pay for it, using the compensation). In the past toy or model companies in this position would have cannibalised a model, to send out the various missing or damaged bits to upset customers, rather than lose their future custom. Obviously not at Gilbow. We passed on the compensation to the customer, in lieu of a new box, and he decided to keep the damaged one. But I'm not sure if he'll order any other models they may make in future. To commiserate with Barry, all you have to do is join the WMTC; just telephone Barry Lloyd on 0117 986 6503.
Sydney Model Auto Club: Once again, Tony Hanna, editor of the SMAC official journal Think Small, astonishes me with his long-distance driving. this time it is not across the Australian continent, but around the UK on holiday. Would you believe he managed to cover 4000 miles around England and Wales? In his travels up and down the country Tony and his wife must have passed MAR's base camp near the A1 at least twice. They certainly had a jolly time, and have lots of photographs in Think Small to show for it. All this holidaying delayed production of the journal, but when it finally appeared it was stuffed full of information on models available in Australia, plus news of recent and forthcoming events. For details on membership of the Sydney Club, and how to keep up with everything via Think Small, phone Secretary John Maude on 9579 1257.
Natal Diecast Model Collectors: Chairman Geoffrey Sear notes that there appear to be two clubs for Dinky Toy Collectors in Britain. One is the Dinky Toy Collectors Association, the other one is the Dinky Toy Club, run by Nigel Pearson. 'Do we need two Dinky Associations?' Geoff asks. Do any MAR readers know anything about either of these organisations? Would they like to publicise their activities here? If you'd like to join the NDMC, contact Geoffrey Sear at 7, Dryden Place, Umbilo, Durban 4001, South Africa. Tel: 031205 0100
Brooklin Collectors Club: Jack Patrick continues to soldier on as Editor of the Brooklin Collector, which seems to have more 'real car' than model car content these days. perhaps all that needs to be said about Brooklin variations has already been recorded?
The Club's special set of two 'Squarebird' models has sold out, with all 200 being pre-ordered. One model will be pink and burgundy, but the colour of the other one was not yet certain at the time of going to press. Chairman John Roberts notes that the San Francisco Bay Brooklin Club's special model for 2004 has been reduced in quantity from 200 to 130. The remaining 70 Buick Roadmasters with a golfer figure were still awaiting a decision on their future when John wrote. He also notes that Roger Mateo has decided that he may not have spare time to continue producing the SFBBC newsletter, which presumably means that there won't be any more published. If you are a Brooklin enthusiast and not yet a member of the BCC, phone Membership Secretary John Bowyer on 01276 473499, or fax him on 01344 356801.
South Hants Model Auto Club: The SHMAC newsletter, edited by Sue and Stu Leake has been inundated with articles from members (how many club publications can say that?).
As well as being super-literate, they must be a prosperous lot in South Hampshire as well. Charles Morris notes that if you live in central Winchester the ownership of a parking space can add £10,000 to the value of your home, few of which have driveways or garages. He looked at some newly-built flats (apartments) there, costing up to £300,000 which do not have parking permits, nor any chance of getting one. One local told Charles that he has to park in a multi-storey car park, 200 yards away, at a cost of £700 per year for a space. John Kinchen tells the story of how his family came to live in the Portsmouth area and how he became a collector of Dinky Toys and other model vehicles. He lists a large number of shops in a fairly small area where Dinky Toys could be purchased when he was young in the 1950s. This makes a very instructive comparison with today, where a youngster would be unlikely to come across the best-quality diecast model brands while out shopping with mum. Some 'value for money' ranges like Welly are starting to turn up in supermarkets, but no Minichamps, Ixo or Vitesse. I don't suppose you have to live in South Hampshire to become a member of the SHMAC, so if you'd like to contribute to the club newsletter, maybe you should join; ring Secretary Dave Painter on 01264 366408.
Oxford Diecast Collectors Club: Oxford Diecast models have always been careful not to fall into the 'collectors model' trap so abhorred by Mr Odell of Lledo and Mr Dowst of Tootsietoy, both of whom famously re-directed their companies' efforts towards making 'toys' rather than replicas, when well-meaning employees tried to 'improve' the product. That doesn't mean that collectors are discouraged by Oxford; indeed through the ODC they are positively encouraged to collect, but not because of any claims to accuracy or authenticity. Proprietor Lyndon Davies prefers the simplified toy-like look to anorakish attention to detail. This means that he doesn't have to field all the complaints other manufacturers get, about inaccurate wheels, incorrect window sizes or inauthentic colours. In the process, however, he has made some interesting models, and may find himself drifting into the uncharted waters of making almost scale models, if he isn't careful. I note that the Bedford ambulance (K or M series?) in its civilian van form (such as the recently-released Yorkshire Post and West Lancashire Evening Gazette versions) has 'gold'-plated brightwork, and looks very attractive. Oxford distribute large quantities of models through local newspaper offers, which probably generates a lot of interest among potential collectors. A new casting is a 1920s Dennis box van with an open-sided cab, which could easily be re-wheeled by truck fans to make all kinds of interesting chops.
I hear that the next new model that Lyndon has in mind will be an even more interesting subject to lots of collectors, though I'd better not say what the subject is, in case it doesn't happen after all.
The first place it will be publicised will be in The Globe, the magazine of the Oxford Diecast Collectors club. Membership of the ODCC costs £12.00 (or £16.00 for 'platinum membership', with all kinds of extra features). Contact Oxford Diecast Ltd, PO Box 62, Swansea UK, SA1 4YA.
Corgi Collector Club: In light of the recent management changes at Corgi, it is nice to see that the Corgi Collector, Edited by the indefatigable Susan Pownall, continues to be sent out to members of the CCC. Every issue includes news of the latest releases in Corgi's many ranges, competitions, pictures of Corgi dealers' shops and so on. A recent issue described a number of special issues of Corgi Collectables for the Marks and Spencer store chain. The four land speed legends (Bluebird 1935, Railton Mobil Special, Thrust 2 and Thrust SSC) appear in a special pack, there is a pack containing a Routemaster bus with St Michael advertising panels and a Bedford 30cwt van in Marks & Spencer livery and there are three diecast aircraft individually packaged (Spitfire, Hawk Red Arrows and Concorde). All these models are in dedicated M&S packaging.
If any Corgi enthusiast wants to put in an offer, I have a boxful of past issues of the Corgi Collector to dispose of, which must include virtually every issue printed.
For information on membership contact the Corgi Collector Club, c/o Corgi Classics Ltd, Meridian East, Meridian Business Park, Leicester LE19 1RL.
Book Review
MORGAN THREE-WHEELER: The Complete Story by Peter Miller.
Pub: Crowood Press, Crowood Lane, Ramsbury Wiltshire SN8 2HR. Hardbound, 246 x 189mm, 250 black & white photographs, 192 pages plus an eight page colour section, ISBN 186126 626 X. £19.95
The author, Peter Miller, is a long-time motorcycle and car enthusiast, whose collection includes a 1930 Family Morgan, which he has owned for many years. Mr Miller is also the author of From Welbike to Corgi, a study of the wartime paratrooper's scooter and its civilian derivative. He really means it when he says that this is 'the complete story' of the three wheelers made by the Morgan Motor Company, now the last long-established independent British car manufacturer. The company originally made its reputation with three-wheeled cyclecars that offered value for money and astonishing performance.
The Morgan marque appeals to collectors of prewar competititon cars, of modern British sports cars and of three wheeler cars, a peculiarly British obsession.
This book is devoted to the three wheelers produced from before the Great War until after the Second World War, made in many shapes and sizes, and powered by a variety of proprietary V-twin motorcycle-type engines and latterly a four cylinder water-cooled unit from Ford. The first car was the Runabout, built by H F S Morgan for his own amusement, but which attracted so much attention that he found a new market making them and selling them to other enthusiasts. By 1914 Morgan was Britain's third largest car manufacturer, after Wolseley and Austin. Sporting successes helped to promote the brand among keen drivers, enabling the company to survive throughout the years of the depression which saw the end of so many well-known car manufacturers. The Grand Prix, Aero and Super Sports models represented the epitome of stylish no-nonsense sporting machinery in their day. The scope of this excellent book is extensive, including coverage of special bodies (an enclosed saloon, vans etc), and licence built or copied Morgans (Darmont and Sandford). This book is so thoroughly researched, with detailed information on every model and type, as well as their racing and record-breaking achievements, that you won't need any other book on the subject.
Highly recommended.
Rod Ward
NEWS: Britain
OXFORD DIECAST
Here is a quick roundup of liveries released recently by Oxford Diecast:
Routemasters and other buses Routemaster Southend on Sea Routemaster Oxford Diecast Regent Western National Regent Young's Bus Service Aitkens Beer Routemaster open top Ventura Routemaster open top Norwich Routemaster open top Bath Routemaster open top Stratford Magazines Ford A van War Cry (Salvation Army magazine) Bullnose van Practical Motorist Chevrolet with tilt Practical Mechanics Ford T van Practical Wireless Royalty, Guards and Regiments Dennis open top bus Coronation 1911 Bullnose van Irish Guards Bullnose van 815 Naval Air Squadron Bullnose van Royal Army Service Corps Bullnose van Royal Artillery Bedford van Lest We Forget Royal British Legion Bedford At the going down Royal British Legion Bedford van Flanders Fields Royal British Legion Bedford van Remembrance Sunday RBL Football clubs Bullnose van Chesterfield FC Bullnose van Oldham Athletic FC Bullnose van West Ham United Bullnose van Derby County The Rams Bullnose van Stoke City The Potters Bullnose van Yeovil Town Bullnose van Rotherham United Comics Ford T van Bubbles Ford A van The Magnet Bullnose van Buster Ford A van The Victor Cigarettes Bullnose van three Castles Ford A van Paymaster Ford T van Smoke Cloud Bullnose van Passing Show Ford A van Polo (Ogden's) Corner shop and drinks Chevrolet Luton van Sunlight Soap Chevrolet truck Co-operative milk Bedford van Heritage and Wise Ford T tanker Tate & Lyle Ford T van Co-op Cocoa, Luton Ford T van Smiths Crisps Bullnose van Nuttall's Mintoes, Doncaster Ford T van Glen Garioch whisky Chevrolet truck Fyffes bananas Ford A van Roses Lime Juice Ford A van Swan Vestas matches Bedford van Oldham batteries ford T van Brillo soap-filled pads Police, ambulance Bedford van South Yorkshire Police Bedford ambulance GWR (railway) Volkswagen vans Volkswagen van George Formby Volkswagen van Dixon of Dock Green The Railway Collection Six models in railway company liveries and those of related companies. The Brewery Collection Six models in Fullers brewery liveries. Special Correspondent series 12 models released monthly, each marking 60 years from June 1944 to May 1945, in a special pack including a news report etc. Houdini set Lyndon Davies of Oxford notes that one of the Houdini 75th Anniversary sets of four vehicles fetched a high price at auction recently. He points out that he still has 43 of them left on the shelf at only £14.95 per set...
WESSEX AUSTIN GIPSY
By John RobertsHere is a little additional news about the Wessex Model and Toy Club special model for this year. It is a Lansdowne Austin Gipsy in Wessex Services livery, and as it is the Club's 20th birthday, the model has been made available to fully paid up members for £20.00 each. All have been sold and will be distributed at the Club's AGM in November.
Next year's Wessex Club model will be the Lansdowne Austin Atlantic in hard top form, finished in cream with a black top and red interior. The standard version from Lansdowne for 2005 will be a red top down convertible. See the Brooklin and Lansdowne news of 2005 releases elsewhere in this issue.
NEWS: Germany
PAUL LANG SPEAKS TO MAR
The CEO of Minichamps is interviewed by Ben van Roode
Paul Lang is the CEO of Minichamps, well known in the world of model cars for high quality products in 1:43 and 1:18 scales.
Paul gave this interview to Ben van Roode. Spielwaren Danhausen
I do not collect model cars. Since I was 14 years old my interest has been in two wheeled vehicles. I am, however, interested in the design of all vehicles, and I prefer those from the Thirties, Forties and Fifties, so sometimes I collect models that excite me because of their construction, design and technical features.
My roots are in the toy world. My family had a large toy shop in Aachen, Spielwaren Danhausen. Model cars became a large part of what we sold in our shop. Going on from there, kits and handbuilt models were developed, going so far that we took over the AMR (André Marie Ruf) company in Paris. But I soon realised that the cost of production in Germany would not be viable for much longer. It was apparent that a handbuilt model would soon cost 500 DM.
I knew that at this price level I could not get the substantial sales we had in the Seventies and Eighties. As I had been in the business of producing and selling model cars for more than 20 years, I wondered how I could get the same quality, but at significantly lower costs. I had to find a low-wage country capable of making this kind of product.
In 1990 that was Hong Kong.
At the Nuremburg Trade Toy Fair of 1991 we introduced our first model from there, the Audi V8 DTM, driven by Hans Stuck.
The suggested retail price was 39.50 DM. A handbuilt model of the same car would have cost ten times as much. Before the Fair I was already convinced that the price-quality ratio was acceptable. We were 90 per cent satisfied with the quality, but we were positive about the whole project and decided to go ahead with it. Looking at the Minichamps catalogue, you will see that we are striving to improve the quality of our products. We are active in other segments of the market, but we are the market leaders in 1:43 scale. We keep abreast of developments in motor racing and in the world of real cars. We want to react quickly to trends and developments. Four years ago we started making 1:12 scale motorbikes and now they form an important part of the collection.
The market now and in the future
The world market is important for us. Fifty per cent of our production goes to Germany. We export to 60 countries. Japan is our second biggest market, followed by Great Britain, the USA and France.
The American market is not very interested in 1:43 car models. 1:24-1:25, 1:18 and 1:64 scales are much more important there.
That is why we are reluctant to make models of American cars. The car industry is very important for us. We are the number one supplier of promotional models to them.
Ownership and quality
It is not right to suggest, as some do, that Action 'took over Minichamps'. They took a 80% majority share in the company, but we are fully independent in our operations and in the decisions we take.
I do not believe that there will be any further concentration of companies. But some companies will take over other companies from time to time. On the other hand, there will always be people who start new ventures. This market constantly changes.
Our motto is Quality Comes First. We want to stay number one in the 1:43 segment, so we are obliged to maintain and improve our high level of quality. The result is that our costs are rising. The retail price has stayed the same, however, the only difference being that it is now in ¤uros instead of DM.
Cheaper models and other matters
Of course we could make cheaper models, but these would not fit in with our quality philosophy. We were the first to move production to China and many others have followed. I am convinced that it was our attitude to quality that made it possible for Chinese makers to now make good quality models. We do not plan to make any cheaper ranges. I feel that the Chinese manufacturers do not have a consistent philosophy regarding the products they make.
It is ok with me if car manufacturers require license fees to be paid. But I am worried about the increasingly larger sums they demanding. I have the impression that some car firms want to make their profits from these fees.
License fees and the future I am not worried about the future of model car collecting. People always want to collect something and I do not see the same problems that we saw with model railways. Of course our sales are hurt by computer games and other new media. But collecting is here to stay, and a new generation will be interested too. No, I won't tell you anything about our 2005 plans. Come and see me at Nuremburg.
Minichamps 2005 plans will be published in future issues of Model Auto Review.
NEWS: Europe
RENAISSANCE RELEASES
New products from Renaissance of France:43/38c Ferrari 365P Maranello LM65 #17 1:43 kit 43/51 Moretti 750S LM 56 #47 1:43 kit 43/52 Osca MT4 1500 LM 55 #40 1:43 kit 054E Porsche 935 Meccarillos LM 78 #48 1:43 kit 073 Bentley EXP Speed 8 Mk2 LM03 #7,8 1:43 kit 073PO Bentley LM03 #7,8 1:43 kit with doors opened 24/6 Renault 5 Turbo Gr 4 TdeC 1982 1:24 kit 24/6d Renault 5 Turbo Gr 4 MC 1981 1:24 kit 24/21 Porsche 936 LM 1976 #18 1:24 kit Tk24/61 Renault 5 Turbo Gr4 TdeC 1982 1:24 decals Tk24/185 Porsche 911 GT3 RS Alphand LM 04 #72 1:24 transkit and decals for Tamiya kit Tk24/185DS Porsche 911 GT3 RS Alphand LM 04 #72 1:24 decals for Tamiya kit Tk24/186 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 2003-04 1:24 body and parts for Tamiya kit Tk24/188 Renault 5 Turbo Gr 4 MC 1981 1:24 decals Tk24/190 Porsche 917K Spa 70 1:24 decals for Fujimi kit Tk24/192 P917K Hatch-Ring 71 1:24 decals for Fujimi kit Tk18/02 Peugeot 307 WRC 2004 1:18 extra decals
NOREV 1:43 diecast in China for France: 880010 Webasto Welcome 2 Design Study. In 2001 the German automotive accessory company Webasto unveiled their first own design of car, the Welcome, and Norev made a 1:43 scale model of it. Now in 2003 they have introduced the second generation of this concept car, the Welcome 2, which features the latest technical innovations, such as a retractable glass roof. Once again Norev has made it in miniature, excellently detailed and finished. On the real car the tail end can be opened up like a pickup, with a blind. Some of the possibilities for changing the body are shown in prints of design sketches on the box. (Notes Hans-Georg Schmitt).
ALEZAN NEWS
The latest 1:43 resin models from Alezan of France are as follows (all available as prepainted kits or handbuilt models):
266 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray III 1992 267 Alfa Eagle Coupe Pininfarina 1975 268 De Tomaso Guara Coupe 2001 096 Alpine GTA Turbo Pannhenrich cabrio (reissue)
BBR ALFA ROMEOS
In co-operation with Alfa Romeo, BBR of Italy are making the Vintage series of 1:43 handbuilt classic Alfas, a limited series of 500 of each.
1: Alfa Romeo 6C 2500S Ghia Cabrio Rudy Crespi 2: Alfa Romeo SZ coda tronca 1961 3: Alfa Romeo 1900 super 1956 4: Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 Touring 1940 5: Alfa Romeo Bat 5 Turin Show 1953 6: Alfa Romeo 1900 sprint Boano 1952. 7: Alfa Romeo new car 2004 8: Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 SS Coupe Touring 1939 9: Alfa Romeo 6C 2300 Spider Pescara 1935 10: Alfa Romeo Bat 7 Salone di Torino 1954 11: Alfa Romeo 2900 B MM Farina Turin 1938 12: Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GTC MM 1932
BROOKLIN MODELS FOR 2005
Here is the total range currently available from Brooklin, and proposed for 2005 release. DEL means deleted model or version, only available while stocks last. JAN, FEB etc is the month of release promised for 2005. Prices will be unchanged for 2005.
LDM40X is a special issue for 2005 only.
LANSDOWNE COLLECTION LDM1A 1958 AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE MK 1 LDM2A 1957 VAUXHALL CRESTA E Series LDM3A 1956 MG MAGNETTE ZA LDM5A 1957 ROVER 75 P4 LDM6C 1961 AUSTIN A110 WESTMINSTER LDM7 1954 FORD ZEPHYR ZODIAC LDM7B 1956 FORD ZEPHYR SIX Convertible LDM9 1954 TRIUMPH RENOWN LDM9 1953 AUSTIN SOMERSET LDM9A 1953 AUSTIN SOMERSET Convertible. LDM11a 1963 SUNBEAM ALPINE III LDM12 1958 AUSTIN A105 WESTMINSTER LDM13AA 1965 HUMBER SCEPTRE II LDM14 1963 SINGER GAZELLE DEL LDM14a 1963 SINGER GAZELLE SEP LDM15A 1967 ROVER P5B LDM16A 1961 HUMBER SUPER SNIPE ESTATE LDM17 1956 WILLERBY VOGUE CARAVAN LDM18 1955 AUSTIN A30 COUNTRYMAN LDM19 1968 TRIUMPH VITESSE LDM20A 1956 FORD SQUIRE (Blue) LDM21 1950 LEA FRANCIS Estate DEL LDM21a 1950 LEA FRANCIS Estate new colour JUN LDM22 1952 AUSTIN A40 SPORTS LDM23 1962 FORD CONSUL Convertible DEL LDM23A 1962 FORD CONSUL Conv top down AUG LDM24 1961 FORD CAPRI COUPE LDM25 1954 SINGER ROADSTER LDM26 1953 JOWETT JAVELIN LDM27 1937 JENSEN DUAL COWL LDM28 1947 MG Y TYPE SALOON LDM29A 1935 TRIUMPH FLOW-FREE LDM30 1948 FORD V8 PILOT LDM31 1947 BRISTOL 400 LDM32 1972 VAUXHALL VENTORA MK II DEL LDM32A 1973 VAUXHALL VX4/90 FEB LDM33A 1965 BEDFORD DORMOBILE (Maroon) LDM34 1952 SINGER SM 1500 LDM35 1970 HILLMAN AVENGER DE LUXE LDM36 1952 MORRIS MINOR LDM37 1949 TRIUMPH 2000 Roadster DEL LDM37A 1949 TRIUMPH 2000 Roadster Top up AUG LDM38 1971 VAUXHALL VISCOUNT LDM39 1965 BEDFORD CA VAN LDM40 1960 AUSTIN GIPSY LWB HARDTOP LDM40x 1960 AUSTIN GIPSY + Trailer AFS APR LDM41 1964 FORD CORSAIR Four door LDM42 1939-48 WOLSELEY 18/85 SERIES III LDM43 1960 BEDFORD CA Canopy Pickup JAN LDM44 1948 AUSTIN ATLANTIC Convertible MAR LDM45 1958 Armstrong-Siddeley Sapphire 234 JUL LDM46 1945 SUNBEAM TALBOT TEN NOV LDM16Ax 1961 HUMBER SUPER SNIPE ESTATE LDM17Ax 1956 WILLERBY VOGUE SET COMMUNlTY SERVICE VEHICLES November release CSV01 1948 FORD F1 PICKUP GROTTOES Fire CSV02 1954 STUDEBAKER CONESTOGA Ambulet BROOKLIN COLLECTION BRK13a 1957 FORD T-BIRD Convertible BRK18B 1947 PACKARD Custom Super Eight DEL BRK18C 1948 PACKARD Custom Clipper sedan SEP BRK19A 1955 CHRYSLER C300 BRK27A 1957 CADILLAC ELDORADO BRK29B 1954 KAISER MANHATTAN DEL BRK29C 1954 KAISER MANHATTAN JAN BRK32B 1953 STUDEBAKER STARLINER BRK38 1939 GRAHAM SHARKNOSE BRK40A 1948 CADILLAC 61 COUPE BRK41A 1959 CHRYSLER 300E Convertible BRK47 1965 FORD THUNDERBIRD Convertible BRK51 1951 FORD VICTORIA Two door BRK54 1953 AIRSTREAM WANDERER BRK55a 1951 PACKARD MAYFAIR DEL BRK57 1960 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL BRK59 1957 RAMBLER REBEL BRK63 1956 PLYMOUTH FURY BRK64A 1959 FORD THUNDERBIRD Convertible BRK65 1947 WESLEY SLUMBERCOACH BRK66 1956 PACKARD PATRICIAN BRK67A 1961 CHRYSLER IMPERIAL Convertible BRK69 1946 MERCURY SPORTSMAN BRK70 1949 DODGE WAYFARER COUPE BRK71 1955 AMERICAN SPEED BOAT BRK72 1958 SHASTA AIRFLYTE BRK74 1947 CADILLAC 62 Convertible DEL BRK77 1959 MERCURY COMMUTER BRK78 1936 STOUT SCARAB BRK79 1951 CHRYSLER IMPERIAL Convertible DEL BRK80 1937 PIERCE ARROW TRAVELODGE BRK81 1936 PIERCE ARROW 1601 BRK82 1959 DESOTO ADVENTURER BRK83 1947 FORD V8 STATION WAGON BRK84 1934 LA SALLE COUPE BRK85 1941 CHRYSLER NEW YORKER BRK86 1938 CADILLAC 60 SPECIAL BRK87 1949 DESOTO STATION WAGON DEL BRK88 1931 STUDEBAKER PRESIDENT BRK89A 1949 CHECKER CAB YELLOW BRK89B 1949 CHECKER TAXI CAB BRK90 1935 PLYMOUTH COUPE BRK91A 1954 KAISER DARRIN RED BRK92 1967 FORD T-BIRD Four door Landau BRK93 1935 STUDEBAKER COMMANDER BRK94A 1949 LINCOLN COSMOPOLITAN CONV. BRK95 1948 BUICK ROADMASTER ESTATE DEL BRK96A 1932 MARMON SIXTEEN BRK97 1955 DODGE CORONET 4-DR BRK98 1939 LA SALLE Two door TOURING SEDAN BRK99 1956 LINCOLN PREMIERE DEL BRK99a 1956 LINCOLN PREMIERE NOV BRK100 1935 PIERCE ARROW COUPE AUG BRK101 1952 MUNTZ JET TOP DOWN BRK102 1936 HUDSON TERRAPLANE CUSTOM BRK103 1956 PLYMOUTH PLAZA Two door Club BRK104 1950 STUDEBAKER LANDCRUISER BRK105 1947 CADILLAC Series 62 Club Coupe JUN BRK106 1938 LINCOLN ZEPHYR Four door sedan BRK107 1954 STUDEBAKER CONESTOGA BRK108 1957 FORD RANCHERO BRK109 CAR TRAILER TWIN AXLE BRK110 1952 CHRYSLER IMPERIAL Newport APR BRK112 1963 FORD FALCON FUTURA Sports JAN BRK113 1954 HUDSON Hornet Special Club APR BRK114 1949 OLDSMOBILE 88 Club Coupe FEB BRK115 1961 AIRSTREAM BAMBI MAY BRK116 1931 MARMON SIXTEEN 2 Passenger JUL BRK117 1939 MERCURY 99 Sedan Coupe OCT US MODEL MINT US14 1937 STUDEBAKER PICKUP (Blue) US14s 1937 STUDEBAKER PICKUP (Yellow) US16A 1969 PLYMOUTH GTX (Yellow) US16B 1969 PLYMOUTH GTX (Blue) US17 1949 WILLYS PICKUP (Beige) US17S 1949 WILLYS PICKUP (Brown) US18 1951 CROSLEY (Red) US18A 1951 CROSLEY (Blue) US19 1947 INTERNATIONAL KB-12 (Red) US19A 1947 INTERNATIONAL KB-12 (Green) US22 1947 FRUEHAUF 24 foor rib side AUG US23 1947 KB-12 Tipper US26 1947 FRUEHAUF 30 foot SS US27 1950 STUDEBAKER (Red) US27A 1950 STUDEBAKER (Blue) US28 1947 KB-12 STAKE TRUCK US30 1951 WHITE MUSTANG WC22 (Red) US30A 1951 WHITE MUSTANG WC22 (Grey) US31 1953 DODGE TRACTOR UNIT (Red) US31A 1953 DODGE TRACTOR UNIT (Yellow) US32 1950 STUDEBAKER WRECKER US36 1951 CROSLEY DELIVERY US36A 1951 CROSLEY DELIVERY ROBEDDIE COLLECTION RE1 1969 VOLVO P1800s (Red) RE2 1973 VOLVO 144GL (Pearl white) RE4 1950 VOLVO PV831 (Royal car) RE6A 1964 VOLVO PV544 (Stag brown) RE7 1953 VOLVO PV445 ESTATE RE8 1953 VOLVO PV455 VAN POLIS DEL RE9A 1957 VOLVO AMAZON Webasto roof RE10 1969 VOLVO AMAZON ESTATE RE11 1972 VOLVO P1800ES RE12 1935 VOLVO P35 CARIOCA RE13 1956 VOLVO P1900 SPORTS RE14 1937 VOLVO TR704 RE15 1973 VOLVO 145 ESTATE RE15B 1973 VOLVO 145 EXPRESS VAN RE16 1937 VOLVO CARIOCA CONVERTIBLE RE17 1977 VOLVO 262c RE18 1937 VOLVO PV51 RE19 1953 VOLVO PV444 RE20 1970 VOLVO GT Two door RE21 1957 VOLVO PV445 RE22 1961 VOLVO P1800 RE23 1953 VOLVO PV PICKUP RE24 1938 47 VOLVO PV802 RE25 1970 VOLVO 164 RE26 1953 VOLVO PHILIP Prototype RE27 1961 SMV CARAVAN RE28 1979 SAAB 99 TURBO RE29 1980 SAAB 99 TURBO (Black, RHD) RE30 1950 VOLVO PV61 PICKUP RE31 1928 VOLVO PV4 ORREKOJA RE32 1987 VOLVO 740 GL JAN RE33 1978 SAAB 95 ESTATE JUN RE34 1987 VOLVO 745 ESTATE DEC INTERNATIONAL POLICE VEHICLES: IPV IPV01 1961 AUSTIN A110 WESTMINSTER IPV02 1956 FORD MAINLINE Indiana State IPV03 1952 SINGER SM1500 Kent County IPV04 1972 VAUXHALL VENTORA Huddersfield IPV05 1956 MG MAGNETTE ZA Essex IPV06 1966 HUMBER SUPER SNIPE Estate Kent IPV07 1953 AUSTIN A40 SOMERSET Surrey IPV08 1949 FORD V8 PILOT Cornwall IPV09 1954 KAISER MANHATTAN Ohio IPV10 1951 FORD FORDOR SFPD IPV11 1949 OLDSMOBILE 88 ROCKET CHP IPV12 1955 DODGE CORONET Stockholm IPV13 1971 HILLMAN AVENGER Garda IPV14 1939-48 WOLSELEY 18/85 Worcs JAN IPV15 1953 JOWETT JAVELIN Jersey MAR IPV16 1952 FORD RANGER Israel SEP IPV17 1952 MORRIS MINOR Cheshire OCT IPV18 1936 HUDSON Terraplane Pennsylvania NOV
BUS STOP
MORE FROM EFE
By Frank JoyceAt this year's Exclusive First Editions Showbus Rally the red 10T10 model made for the Rally was well-received, though this was marred by the activities of a few traders who purchased the model two at a time from us, then marked the price up by £4.00 and spread a rumour that we had sold out, to convince visitors to pay their inflated price. This rumour spread so quickly that we had to make a PA announcement that there was plenty of stock available and visitors should not be conned into paying inflated prices. The first shots of the Guy Special GS led visitors to ask when it will be available. The answer is January-February 2005. There is currently a problem at the ports with goods entering the UK, causing delays in offloading, de-stuffing and clearing customs. These delays are then having a knock-on effect with the waiting truck drivers running out of driving hours. These delays have had an effect on our release programme, forcing us to swap releases around.
Recent and current EFE releases 99626 1962 Four Car Special set Central Line 24813 Mercedes Minibus Northumbria 29604 Leyland Olympian Preston Bus 27309 Leyland TD1 closed stairs Samuel Ledgard 16525 MCW Atlantean Great Yarmouth 16606 Leyland National Mk 1 short 2dr London 20131 Bedford OB Coach Wallace Arnold 27614 Wright Volvo Endurance The Delaine 28809 Leyland Titan Blackburn Transport 12117 Harrington Cavalier Thomas Bros 25806DL Daimler DMS 1 door Midland Fox 29504 Plaxton Panorama roof dome Royal Blue 22513 Alexander Y Type Selnec Cheshire 99646 Bristol VRIII Western National GWR 29006 GM Fleetline Yorkshire Rider Halifax 27810 AEC STL Bus London Transport green 26314 Guy Arab II Utility bus Stockport 15805 Leyland PD1 lowbridge Central SMT 16217 Bristol MW West Yorkshire 30401 AEC Mk III 4 axle flatbed Marston Brick 29302 Leyland Olympian Wilts & Dorset 15636 RM Routemaster Stagecoach 24814 Mercedes Minibus First Eastern Counties 20632 Plaxton Pointer Dart First Borders 29902 AEC Regal 10T10 Greenline 29403 Bristol RELH d/p coach Badgerline Swiftlink 29605 Leyland Olympian Go North EastJet Petrol Tanker.
The AEC Mammoth petrol tanker for Jet Petrol has now been released to them but I am unable to advise as yet whether they intend to use the model as a promo item or if they will release any for sale to the public.
CMNL BUS NEWS
New 1:76 buses from Creative Master Northcord Limited (CMNL) include the following (quotes from CMNL distributors):
ukbus 0005: Dennis Trident Plaxton President open top double decker City Sightseeing Glasgow Tour commissioned by City Sightseeing. 'This is a one-piece casting whose construction ensures that there are no ugly metal poles to hold it together'. (Who uses 'ugly metal poles'?).
ukbus 2009: Plaxton President Dennis Trident double decker Go Northern ukbus 2011: Plaxton President Dennis Trident double decker Blue Triangle 'The models have no ugly metal poles to hold them together'.
ukbus 1017: Dennis Trident with TransBus ALX 400 dual door body, London United: 'Special features: two LCD monitors to upper and lower saloon, ramp on the rear door etc'.
ukbus 3008: Dennis Dart-Plaxton Mini Pointer, London United: 'In new standard livery. These MPDs were ordered for London route 272, limited to 1800'.
TRUCKS and emergency vehicles
SWISS TEK-HOBY Specials for Switzerland by Tek-Hoby, all 1:43, apart from the Saurers, which are 1:50:
11247 Mercedes Sprinter Swiss Army (Eligor) 11283 Merc Sprinter ambulance Lausanne (Eligor) 11284 Mercedes Sprinter fire Uster (Eligor) 11285 Mercedes Sprinter Swiss PTT (Eligor) 002 Citroen H Natural le Coultre 003 Citroen 11cv fire Mulhouse 004 Citroen 11cv taxi Morocco 008 Citroen 11cv taxi Shell garage 014A Peugeot 402B dark grey 1939 014K Peugeot 402B black 1939 014R Peugeot 402B burgundy 1939 015 Peugeot 402B Gendarmerie 1939 312 Citroen C4 torpedo black 1928 5301 Saurer 3CT1D post bus '3 Passes' 5302 Saurer 3CT1D post bus 'St Moritz' 5303 Saurer 3CT1D post bus 'Swiss Army' 5304 Saurer C2D bus 'GFM' 5306 Saurer C2D bus 'Hugli Nahrmittel' 5311 Saurer 3CT1D post bus 'snow plough' 5321 Saurer 3CT1D fire appliance 'Basel' 5323 Saurer 3CT1D fire appliance 'Bern' 5331 Saurer van 'Chocolat Suchard Milka' 5332 Saurer van 'Cirque Knie' 5333 Saurer van '20 years Tek-Hoby' 5341 Saurer van 'Mobile Post Office' 5401 Saurer RH525-23 post bus 'Swiss PTT' 5501 Saurer S4 lorry 'Saurer Basel' 5511 Saurer S4 lorry 'Henniez Lithinee' 4811 Land Rover fire 'La Chaux de Fonds' (Verem) 98406 Peugeot 806 'Touring Club Suisse' (Verem)
IGRA HO NEWS
By Hans-Georg Schmitt
New Igra 1:87 plastic model releases from the Czech Republic:
92950 Praga V3S Fire appliance. Castolovice is in the Eastern Czech Republic, with a famous castle. 92663 Tatra 815 4x4 drawbar unit, blue with black chassis, and light grey tilts.
HARTSMITH CLOSES
From 27 October 2004 the leading maker of handbuilt models and kits of commercial vehicles and construction equipment ceased trading after 30 years. A Smith Auto Models, Hart Models, Hartsmith Models and Enstone Emergency Models, all operating under the banner of Hartsmith Models Ltd, have all now discontinued production. If anyone doubted that there has been a major shift in the collectors market, this (and other recent closures and changes of direction among manufacturers) will confirm it.
Viscount models 1:64 model, refinished in the UK: ERF artic bunk wagon Santus Circus, in their bright red livery. The real vehicle is an ex-Billy Smart's dressing room trailer converted by the Santus family into a bunk wagon. The show is run by Ernest Santus and his family, and it has toured the south of England for many years. As the Julien Santus Troupe they have appeared in many of the worlds greatest circuses, and have over 40 television appearances between them. This model is only available from the Toy Exchange by mail order. Send a cheque or postal order made out to G Hames for £21.00 including UK p&p to: PO Box 5773, Wimborne, Dorset, BH216ZN. Tel 01202 813317.
WEICO FORD VAN
By Maz Woolley
Dave Turner suggested in MAR 187 that a copy of the Minix Ford 400E van would be welcome. Australian collectors can buy a white metal kit in OO scale of a Ford 15cwt van from Weico which looks rather nice finished in a red Brooke Bond livery on their website. Who knows, perhaps Parker Models will introduce one here in the UK to follow up their nice series of Bedford CA models. If they do, it would not be a Minix copy, since Parker model masters are laboriously produced from original drawings and period illustrations. Interestingly Weico also list an Austin 1800 in this scale. I would be interested to hear from any Australian collectors who have this model and I would like to see more pictures.
NEWS: Germany
1:43 AUDI CONCEPT
A new series of 1:43 scale Audi Concept Cars is to be made by Paul's Model Art, handbuilt in resin, white metal and plastic, individually numbered limited editions of 504 pieces per item worldwide. They will be presented in gift box packaging, for release before the end of 2004.
440013010 Audi Avantissimo Break 2003 440013060 Audi Pikes Peak Offroad 2002 440013120 Audi Le Mans Coupe 2003
PREISER FIGURES
By Hans-Georg Schmitt
Preiser plastic model figures from Germany:
Elastolin Collector's Figures 1:25 scale 56810 Royal Canadian Mountain Police 61000 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Preiser Miniature Figures 1:87 scale (HO) 10502 At the Riding stable 10503 At the Riding stable 10504 Standing travellers 10505 Walking travellers 10506 Sitting travellers 10508 Boules players 10509 Umer (Swiss) traditional costumes Preiser Miniature Figures 1:32 scale 63083 Railway station staff of German Railways Preiser Miniature Figures 1:160 scale (N). 79183 Horse riders * 79184 Horse riders 79185 At the riding stable * 79186 At the riding stable Preiser Miniature Figures 1:220 scale (Z) 88544 Cattle deal * 88545 Sitting Travellers 88546 Walking Travellers
MINICHAMPS UPDATE
By Hans-Georg Schmitt
Latest Minichamps diecast releases, all made in China for Germany:
MINICHAMPS 1:18 diecast models 100 021030 BMW 1600 Cabriolet 1967, orange, with hood cover and interior matt black. See picture on page 9440. 100 051011 Volkswagen 1600 Variant (Break) 1969-1973 in a new colour, light blue metallic. 100 051021 Volkswagen 1600 TL 1969-1973, in a new colour, turquoise metallic. MINICHAMPS 1:43 diecast models 430 010112 Audi A4 Avant 2001. The most desirable of the A4 range, in a new colour black. 430 043306 Opel Kapitan 1951 saloon. In 1951 the body of the 'Captain' was modernised in the style of the Chevrolet from 1947-48, roomy and impressive, with soft suspension and easy steering, still without power, so a large diameter steering wheel was necessary. The flowing lines are very well translated to the model. The chromed grille, lights and other components are separate parts. The interior is very accurate, including speedometer, column-mounted gear lever, arm rests and door handles. The front indicators must be a later addition, as from 1951 to 1953 the car had trafficators. In glossy black with a red interior, it is limited to 1,008 pieces. See picture on page 9440. 430 010015 Audi Allroad Quattro 2001. Audi's answer to the cross country estates from Volvo and Subaru, now red. 400 082120 Mercury Marauder Coupe 1969. This model is nicely reproduced., I have no negative comment. Exact wheels with white wall tyres and an accurate baseplate complete its Impressive appearance. In black with a white interior it is a limited edition of 2,208 pieces. See above 400 032260 Mercedes-Benz Vito van 2003. Honoured with the award Van of the Year, the futuristic Vito enters its third year on sale with growing success. The model is finished very authentically in mellit yellow with a dark grey interior, it is a limited edition of 1,008 pieces. See page 9449. 400 786205 Porsche 911SC Martini Safari Rally 1978 Bjorn Waldegaard and co-driver Thorszelius. 430 846612 Porsche 956K Bad Aachen (Spa Aken) Team Joest Monza 84, Schornstein-Meri. 400 036933 Porsche 911 GT3-RS Team Hazard-ous Sports Sebring 03 Pumpelly-Lally-Ivankovich. 430121662 Fiat X1/9 Sports Car by Bertone, now in black. 436103370 Lamborghini LM002 1984, silver. Lamborghini developed the 'Hummer' concept before the Americans. It was bought by some armies in the Gulf States and rich sheiks used it as a shooting brake for hunting. The model shows the design well, a big body with the aerodynamic properties of a fitted kitchen. The luxurious interior looks good in ivory. See picture above. 400 061072 Porsche 911 4S Coupe 2001. The previous-type 911 now in a new colour, bright red. 400 111024 Citroen SM 1970. This striking coupe was the progeny of the short liaison between French company Citroen and the Italian Maserati concern. It is in a new colour, Grenade red with a black interior, a limited edition of 3,024 pieces. see picture above. 439 079025 Büssing 8000 813 with tilt, Bügler. The 8000 was developed at the end of the 1940s, a workhorse in the reconstruction of postwar Germany. Excellently detailed and lovingly finished, this model now appears in the reddish-brown livery of Bügler of Brunswick. An interesting feature is the 'swallow's nest', the sleeping compartment for long distance lorry drivers behind the cab. Bügler was a direct competitor of Wandt. who also used the Büssing, but theirs were light green. In Bugler livery it is limited to 1,008 pieces. See picture on page 9460. 439 161098 Kässbohrer three axle trailer with tilt, Bügler, to match the Büssing. Both vehicles are fitted with accurate number plates from British occupied Lower Saxony. The Bügler trailer is a limited edition of 708 pieces. See picture on page 9460. 400 031590 Mercedes-Benz E-Class saloon Hamburg Police, in the new German police livery, silver with blue colour sections in adhesive foil, a Hella blue light bar and the car number printed on the roof for identification by helicopter pilots, the Hamburg patrol car is a limited edition of 2,016 pieces. See picture on page 9449. 430 121935 Fiat Barchetta 1996. now in dark green. 400 061032 Porsche 911 Convertible, now green metallic. 400 040098 Renault F1 Presentation 2004, Alonso 400 030134 Renault R23 F1. Test driver Franck Montagny 2003. Limited edition of 720 pieces. 430 171002 Volvo 121 Amazon two door saloon 1966, now in Safir-Bla (sapphire blue), limited to 2,016 pieces. 430 069006 Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe 1977, black with brown-red interior. This version is a limited edition of 6,000 pieces. See picture below. 400 103400 Lamborghini Jarama Coupe 1974. In 1970 the Jarama was the replacement for the Islero. this time with a body. designed by Bertone, on a shortened platform from the Espada, and with a four litre V12 engine. Its angular body had hidden headlamps and little rear seat space.The model car shows it all very well, with an excellent finish. It has realistic number plates,for Aachen, Germany. The interior is well detailed, the gear lever with its frill is a work of art in itself. In Argento Luna (silver metallic) with a beige interior, the Jarama it is limited to 5,040 pieces. See below. 439 070021 MAN F8 with tilt 1953, Gustav Mauler, Remscheid. The F8 was developed as long-distance lorry, introduced in 1951. Its payload was eight tons and it was fitted with a V8 diesel engine of 11,630 cc, producing 180 bhp. This is the 1953 version, with headlamps integrated into the front wings. The model has authentic number plates from British occupied North Rhein Westphalia. The MAN F8 in Mauler livery is a limited edition of 1,008 pieces. See picture on page 9460. 439 161099 Kassbohrer three axle trailer with tilt Mauler, Remscheid, to match the MAN F8. It also has accurate number plates from North Rhine Westfalia. The Mauler trailer is limited to 708 pieces. See picture on page 9460. 431 020022 BMW M3 Coupe 2001. A special feature of this very well finished and highly detailed Type 3 coupe model, in the hot M-version is the operating bonnet, which when opened, reveals a very well detailed engine. This is a sure indication that the model was originally developed for BMW. The M3 in Imola red with black interior is a limited edition of 2,544 pieces. See picture top left. 439 037041 Mercedes-Benz Atego 815 box van Euro 3, silver metallic, with a picture of a young girl from the Star Tale fairytale, limited to 300 pieces. See page 9449. 430 706759 Porsche 917K; Team Piper, Magny Cours 1970 David Piper 430 716743 Porsche 917K, Team Piper; 6 hours of Watkins Glen 1971, Cabral-Adamowicz.
NEWS: World news
SHOWCASE NEWS
By Imre Szanto
For the first time in over ten years I have ventured to make a new model here in Austria, with a small shift in the direction of what the future might hold in modelling techniques. It is available in a numbered series of 38 handbuilt models. (I know the Editor finds unusual numbers interesting, the explanation is that I don't want to mass-produce models, so only one mould has been made, and that expired at 38 sets). The model represents the 1988 Lagonda Rapide Zagato Coupe prototype mock up, which was shown at the 1988 Geneva Auto Show on the Zagato stand. The car never reached production; maybe Aston Martin wasn't interested in renewing the relationship with Zagato in those days, being just in the process of being taken over by Ford.
The model has some new features, which to my knowledge haven't been used in the model business before. I don't use photo-etched parts any more, the brightwork is all produced using water guided laser-cut technology. The parts are made from 0.08 millimetre thick highly polished sheet metal which look much more like the real fittings than any etching could probably ever do.
It is not a cheap process (over four times the cost of etching) but it gives almost perfect results. The grille and mirrors are cast in solid silver, then polished and the model comes on a granite base. For more information, our new homepage shows more, at www.showcase-modelcars.com.
ERTL 1:18 MOVIE CARS
These film-related 1:18 diecast models are all due on the European market from Ertl; with their restrained descriptions of the models:
33853 1958 PLYMOUTH FURY CHRISTINE
How do you kill something that can't possibly be alive? She was born bad. Plain and simple. Somewhere deep on a darkened assembly line.
A 58 Plymouth Fury possessed by Hell. She's taken control of her teenage owner, Arnie. Her previous owner isn't alive to warn him. And now she's steering straight for the one person in her way, Arnie's girlfriend, Leigh, the 'other woman'.
33735 FLINTSTONES LOG CAR
The first-ever 1:18 rolling replica of the Flintmobile from the animated Flintstones cartoon. Straight out of Bedrock, you can ride with the family down the street in style. Figures of the Flintstones and the Rubbles are included, so you can have a yabba-dabba-doo time with this pre-hysterical replica! 33855 BLUES BROTHERS POLICE CAR.
They'll never get caught; they're on a mission from God. After the release of Jake Blues from prison, he and brother Elwood visit the old home where they were raised by nuns, to learn that the place must close unless they can come up with a $5000 tax bill in 11 days! They decide to put their band back together. Will they succeed in their holy quest for cash?
33734 SCOOBY DOO MYSTERY MACHINE.
The cartoon series introduced us to Fred, Velma, Shaggy, Daphne and Scooby. Every episode had ghosts or monsters, involved in some sort of mystery. Of course, at the end of each adventure the ghost or monster always turned out to be a fake and the real crook was uncovered by those pesky kids. Includes Shaggy and Scooby figures.
TOP GEAR FALCON
To quote Top Gear, makers of Trax models, 'Destined to become the ultimate Australian muscle machine, the XW GT ushered in the era of the real muscle car GTs, the first with the big 351 engines combined with powerful, aggressive styling and large bonnet scoop. The XW also saw the introduction of the Phase I and II GT-HO homologation models which were the first local performance cars to feature a full-width front spoiler. The XW GT also introduced the Super Roo as performance was what the four barrel 351 was all about while the HOs were out-and-out race homologation specials developed for the Touring Car Championship. With the Cleveland-powered Phase II GT-HO, engine power jumped dramatically, braking and handling were also greatly improved and racing fans soon had heroes like Moffat and the Geoghegans to cheer for'.
Trax has made the legendary XW GT-HO Phase II, as a 1:24 scale diecast model, with a replica of the 5.8 litre V8 and red-line radials on the five inch slot wheels, in Grecian Gold with a dark saddle interior or Diamond White with black trim.
MATT HOUSTON MODELS
By Don Elliott
Further to my article on Matt Houston in MAR 187; according to Doug Breithaupt, I missed a couple of models. Ertl made a 1969 Cadillac convertible and a Maserati Quattroporte in their Houston series.
The Caddy was the one used for Boss Hogg's car (in the Dukes of Hazzard series) and the Maserati also appears on a blistercard touting one of Sylvester Stallone's Rocky movies. Doug's webzine is an excellent source of information on small scale models. It's called Tales of Toy Cars. Excellent writing and lots of pictures.
American Notes
By Ben van Roode
Hong Qi is a Chinese car maker which is part of the Volkswagen organisation. One of the cars they make is a Lincoln limousine, from about 2000. The Chinese version differs in details. The grille is a different shape, and the back of the car is different from the US original. There is a red lamp shaped like a mascot on the bonnet. Each side has a flag mounting and little lamps. These are probably used to penetrate traffic by the high ranking officials using this type of car.
They don't have the courtesy lights that grace the US version. Like other Chinese versions of Western cars this one features in scale model form, in 1:18 scale, a little bit smaller than the version by SunStar. It is a very heavy model, because the baseplate is diecast. The interior is very well detailed, including a television.
Maisto has released the 1953 Studebaker, in two tone finish. The 1963 Lincoln four door convertible made by Ricko has hit the shops, as has the Cadillac V16 prototype. Although the models are not as refined as more expensive brands, detail is unbelievable for a model in this price range.
Highway 61 has now a 1:18 1968 Plymouth Barracuda Formula S in many varieties. There are not many models of this car available.
I remember the Gamda Koor-Sabra in 1:43 scale and there were also plastic kits. On my desk are 19 pages of new items from Muscle Machines, who generally make very popular cartoonish car models. Scales are mostly 1:16, 1:24 and 1:18. Well represented are the import racers, the kind of cars that appeal to a younger audience. Remember the Fast and Furious films? Also new are the Choppers, like a 1937 Ford Coupe and 1957 Chevrolet two door wagon.
K-Line will release in the winter of 2004-2005 a series of Mack R-type trucks in 1:48 scale. In 1:43 scale we will soon see various 1950 Chevrolet pickups, also as stake truck and wrecker versions, all made by Cararama. From the same company will come various Ford F 150 and F 350 pickups.
And now for something completely different. Late this year we will see 1:2 scale hood ornaments, made by Signature. These are for the 1930 Packard, 1932 Chrysler and 1931 Cadillac. The 1:32 Chrysler Airflow will be released in US Army colours. YatMing has now made the 1964 Mercury Marauder, giving us another 1:43 Marauder. The first Marauder model was made by Minichamps.
CONRAD FOR BAUMA
These models are special issues for Bauma 2004, all 1:50 diecast in Germany by Conrad:
2099/0 Faun ATF 45-3 All-terrain crane 40137/0 Mercedes Actros with Schwing 831HT concrete pump 20100/0 Liebherr LTC1055 Compact crane 40144/0 Nooteboom 'Jeep' dolly 40135/0 Putzmeister M52 with plastic boom 40135/0(M) Putzmeister M52 with metal boom 2916/0 Liebherr R996 Backhoe mining excavator 2026/0 Liebherr 112 EC-B8 Crane 2440/0 Komatsu WA250 PT-5 wheel loader 40138/0 Mercedes Actros five axle with Schwing concrete pump
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