EDITORIAL MAR 160
By Rod WardON THE ROAD AGAIN
So, having read the anouncements in MAR 159, you know that the Modelauto retail shop in Leeds has now been sold. so there is no longer a place which customers of Modelauto Ltd can visit in person. But very few ever did, so there will be little difference for the majority of collectors who only use the Modelauto Mail Order service. In fact, we hope that will be better, now that the distraction of the shop bell has been removed. From the beginning, MAR was produced 'over the shop' at the Leeds address, but almost ten years ago the MAR studio moved 15 miles (25km) away where I could work uninterrupted, and where the computers are based which control the content of the internet websites. Now everything has come back together, with the mail order business again under the same roof as the MAR studio. John Hanson continues to run the mail order side, as before, but now he can refer directly to the stock control database, and also read email orders as they come in, instead of being so far away. Sadly, Richard Ineson is leaving Modelauto, and I must express my appreciation for the efforts he has put in over the last few years. Please note that the telephone number has changed, to 01977 681966 for the UK, and 0044 977 681966 from other countries. The fax number, email address, internet website and our PO Box address, remain unchanged.
BRINGING IT ALL BACK
You may have a feeling of déjà vu. To save you running to your collection of back numbers to find out why; yes, ten years ago you read something similar. Back in 1992 we planned to move out of Leeds, but circumstances conspired against the move, so we abandoned it, and we stayed in the shop for almost another decade, even though it could not be financially justified. This time, however, the move has gone through and there is no going back! It will feel odd, not to have a retail shop after all these years. Val and I opened our first full-time Modelauto shop in 1977 in Haworth, the Pennine tourist centre. In 1981 we opened another shop in Leeds, before the city became today's hip economic powerhouse. So we have had a shop for 25 years, more than two decades in Leeds. Subsequent ventures such as MAR and the Sun, Rapide, Bugattiana and Bijou model ranges also began at Leeds. We've also had over 20 employees in that time, though there were none until 1985, and only four since 1990. I seemed to spend more time interviewing people from 1985 to 1990 than doing anything else. Val was fully involved through all the vicissitudes of a growing business, but a serious illness five years ago meant that she 'retired' from active participation at that time. So where do we go from here? I will continue to produce MAR, as I have for the past ten years, from bucolic North Yorkshire, but now I won't have to travel to Leeds to visit the mail order business. Instead John will travel out here. As you can imagine, the past few months have been very hectic. It's amazing how much stuff accumulates in in 21 years. Sorting it out, packing, transporting, unpacking and disposing of unwanted items has been exhausting. Managing all this, and all the legal and other matters, whilst still keeping everything on course (MAR production and the mail order business) has been tricky. But we have managed it, and now intend to do an even better job in future.
If any of the prognostications I made in MAR 159 about the the future of model car collecting come true, it we will take all my time and effort to cover it in MAR. Our year has begun in a very interesting manner, and I expect it to continue to be very interesting indeed.
POTS AND KETTLES
Provence Moulage complain that the model car business lacks ethics, companies copying PM products and selling them as their own, just altering them slightly. They say, 'Everyone is aware of it, yet seldom denounces it, as if it was normal to steal someone else's work for one's own profit. And everyone has done it at some time, so nobody is guilty. At Provence Moulage, we defend the talents of our prototype makers and designers. It would be easier and cheaper to copy others' prototypes, just changing minor details, but this would be dishonour-able. We dream of a professional union that will regulate this market instead of through the Courts.'
We have covered this subject in the past many times in MAR, often after someone else has been stung by this practice (John Simons of Marsh Models comes to mind). I have to say that memories must be shorter in France. When I tackled the owner of Provence Moulage in person about their blatant copying of a Sun Motor Co model mastered by Geoff Moorhouse, the only response was a shrug and 'Everyone does it at some time'.
This was not the current ownership of PM, of course, but memories are a little longer on this side of La Manche. An old saying about 'pots and kettles' comes to mind. And whenever I suggested a 'trade association' for this industry to police such matters, French companies were always the least interested, on the basis that they thought that Anglo-Saxon companies would hijack it!
NUREMBERG TOY FAIR FIRST IMPRESSIONS
By Hans-Georg SchmittEditor's Note: Every year the indefatigable Hans-Georg trudges round the (literally) miles and miles of aisles at the Nuremberg International Toy Fair to bring all the news of new releases to MAR readers. This year he carried home 45kg of reference material from which we are preparing the detailed analysis of all the new releases. Some is already done, and printed in this issue, but more will appear in the next two issues of MAR.
If you wanted to organise an International Trade Fair in January-February, it might be possible to choose a worse location (maybe Ultima Thule) but the part of Germany close to the Czech border is about as bad as you'll find in Europe, with an average temperature at that time of year of minus 10°rees; Celsius.
So, imagine Hans-Georg's relief at this year's temperatures, when for the first time ever he could go without his jacket on! We will have more detailed listings in future issues of MAR, but this is Hans-Georg's overall impression of an exhausting two day stint..
THE first day of the Nuremberg Toy Fair 2002, Thursday, was much quieter than in previous years, the exhibitors complaining that customers were few and far between, and those that were present were too restrained in their buying. This meant that many stands closed early, forbidden and usually an action with dire consequences for stallholders at this Fair. It was a little busier on Friday, but there was still a distinct absence of German small shopkeepers. Maybe they couldn't get time off from their businesses until Sunday?
There were, however, lots of model cars on display, many in prototype form, so their production and release dates depended on the quantity of orders taken. As I walked around, I noticed many interesting items.
adp: New 1:87 models planned include GAZ M20W Pobeida of the NVA (DDR army), P25 amphibious vehicle, Steyr 55, Adler Autobahn Coupe, Lada Niva Volkspolizei, and a Horch saloon. 1:43 plans include Opel Blitz 1.5 ton lorry from 1949 and an S4000 fire appliance.
Albedo, also in 1:87 scale, have sets in Milka and Haribo liveries. Albedo also had on their stand a Euromodell 2002 leaflet, recalling the earlier range which left a lot of unpaid bills in Germany. Ditmar Forkel of Albedo said the models are now made on Mexico, and the earlier unreliable management is not involved, though the contact address is still in Berlin.
Anson displayed the new Cadillac Escalade, as station wagon or pickup, each 1:18 or 1:43 scales. Other 1:18 models include BMW 1600 cabriolet 1967, BMW Touring 1971, Buick Y-Job (1930s) and Maybach Zeppelin 1932, the same car Minichamps have made in 1:43 scale. Anson also showed the 1:18 Shanghai Volkswagen Passat.
Art Model-Best: Among their new releases are Race Line limited editions by UAN and Lorenzo Modellismo, who are also producing special editions based on Rio and Brumm models, sold via La Mini Miniera.
AutoArt: They would not tell me any future news. A rather offhand lady just proffered a small leaflet, or for 5 euros I could buy one of last year's catalogues! No thank you.
AWM: New 1:87 models include Peugeot 206 Coupe-Cabriolet, and Volvo FH-XL, Renault Magnum facelift and Mercedes-Benz Actros artic tractor units.
Bang's big news was to present 'Bang Books', model cars in boxes which look like books.
BBR offer a custom building service for their new 1:24 Ferrari 360, any colour you choose.
Bburago plans include the Lamborghini Murcielago, BMW Z8 and new Mini.
BeKa showed a prototype of a Robur bus.
Brumm have now entered the world of promotional models. They made an unusual item for Audi: Invitations to view the A6 facelift included the upper body and wheels of a racing car. On arrival, the customer was given the rest of the model, baseplate, engine and screws. Mr Tattarletti presented various models to the press who visited his stand, four Alfa Romeo 158s and a Fiat 500 in pink.
Bub-Distler-NZG had a joint stand, where NZG had their usual range of commercial vehicles. The new (not old) Bub company showed various 1:18 mostly tinplate VW Beetles, cabriolets and T1 transporters, shown last year by Schuco. There are also smaller 'Micro-Racers' like the Schuco series. Bub Classics are 1:87 diecast with tinplate bases. First is a VW T1 transporter again. Distler had their models of the first Mercedes in 1:18 and 1:43, plus a prototype in 1:8 scale, and another prototype - a 1:8 VW Beetle! It seems that Herr Roschmann, the former sales manager at Schuco, moved to NZG, and brought the Bub items with him...
Busch: their highlight was a model of an 1886 Benz with flywheel which turns when you roll it along, and they had a full scale replica on their stand as well. Other 1:87 plans include BMW 327 Coupe, Mercedes-Benz S123 T-estate, new Audi A4 Avant, and Mercedes-Benz M-Class facelift. Precision Cast Replicas from the USA in 1:87, 1:160 and 1:24 scales were also displayed by Busch.
CMC displayed their 1:18 Mercedes-Benz racing car transporter, and the prototype for a 1:18 Audi 920 Cabriolet for future release. Eligor have added a new upper part to their Renault KZ to make a landaulet. Other 1;43 models include Renault 4cv Paris Police, Renault 1000kg van Esso and fire service command vehicle. New trucks include Iveco Stralis(1:24 and 1:43), and 1:43 Kenworth Iowa 1949, Renault Magnum facelift, Renault Midlum double cab, Volvo 770, Isuzu van Michelin and Freightliner (Mercedes) Sprinter. New fire vehicles include Renault Kerax forest fire, and MAN Janus tunnel fire appliances. Guiloy have some new projects for this year, but none was on display at Nuremberg.
Guisval celebrate their 40th anniversary this year, so I will write an article about this Spanish company for a future issue of MAR.
Herpa have moved in on Rietze's territory, making promotional models for Audi, including the new A4 cabriolet. Also there were the Mercedes-Benz SL and the Fulda promotional truck, which unfolds to make a stage, Renault Magnum facelift, Mercedes Actros with half-round dumper, Goldhofer heavy haulage rigs and a Liebherr 580 wheel loader (the first by Herpa). The 1:43 range will not be developed.
Ixo's stand was staffed by people I recognised from the Vitesse Group stand in previous years. Their promo model for the fair was a BMW M3 GTR in Ixo livery.
Joal had a new 1:24 Manitou MT 1337SL telescopic loader with forks or shovel, plus 1:50 Komatsu WA600 series 3, 1:35 Dynapac F181 CS paver and 1:32 Amman-Yanmar VI070 mini excavator. The Mercedes Actros trucks have been modified to be less toy-like.
Kaden: the Skoda Superb was shown in 1:43, 1:87 and 1:160 scales.
Kovap: this famous Czech tinplate manufacturer received an order from Fendt just before the show, so we'll see what transpires...
Maisto: New 1: 18 models include Audi Le Mans 2001, the Australian Crocodile version, Audi Rosemeyer design study, Porsche Carrera and Targa, Lexus SC430, Morgan Aero, Lamborghini Murcielago, civilan Hummer, new Mercedes SL, Mercedes A Class lwb, Chevrolet bel air 1962, Corvette 1965 and SS Concept open. there will also be more motorcycles and pedal cycle models.
Marusan showed a 13 inch long tin toy, a Cadillac Brougham 1957. Mattel focused much of their attention on the Matchbox 50th anniversary, plus more Hot Wheels Ferraris and F1 cars.
Mebetoys as a brand has been revived, as I discovered by chance, when I noticed a few model cars displayed on a stand otherwise devoted to dolls. The young lady in attendance couldn't give me any information.
Minichamps had their usual flood of news, which will be spelled out in detail in a future MAR issue, including 1:18 Morris Minors and the ill-fated VW 411 saloon and estate car. Some interesting commercial vehicles and military items are also promised.
Norev is expanding into the promotional field, with the 1:43 Audi A4 Cabriolet, but I was not allowed to photograph it. Other promos include the Renault Vel Satis, Trafic, Citroen C3, Peugeot 206 and Lancia Thesis.
Progetto-K/Exem new 1:43 items include AR51 Matta field car, Alfasud, Fiat 600T hitop, Alfa Romeo 2 minibus, Fiat 238 minibus, Fiat Abarth 2000, and 1:18 Fiat 500 Topolino 1938.
Ricko: a new Hong Kong range of oldtimers, BMW 328, Mercedes 630K 1927, BMW 507, Wanderer W25K and Horch 851.
Rietze will make models of the Citroen C3 and Opel Vectra in 1:87 scale.
Rio's owner, Mr Tattarletti has had serious health problems, but is now recovered, so we should see progress on new models in future.
Roco will in future only make 1:87 Minitanks military models, no more civilian subjects.
Schuco's new fire appliances look impressive. Piccolos will be sold with accessories (perfume bottle with VW 4711 van, tube of glue with Uhu cars etc). There will be more Junior models added to the range in future as well.
Solido's 1:18 Prestige American Range are all ex-Mira, and the new Ford Taunus 17M had Detail Cars engraved on the baseplate. Some other new subjects look rather Detail-like too.
Stevenson Brothers showed some exclusive pedal cars, 1930s Rolls-Royce and Bentley LM.
Universal Hobbies catalogue showed some strange things. Items which appeared in Revell's 2001 catalogue are still shown in Universal's 2002 edition, and there are some items which look like De Prado models.
Wiking had all the new items on their stand painted silver, as is their custom. They had 1:87 plastic 'Nostalgic Tractors' MAN 4R3 and Hanomag R16, Massey-Ferguson 8280, Opel Rekord A type 1963 (now four door), new Mercedes-Benz E Class and Volkswagen D1 Phaeton, with a figure of the German Chancellor on the rear seat and his flag flying from the front wing. They also had on display the 1:60 Menck excavator with shovel, fully functioning model in blue-grey, and the 1:35 Clark forklift truck. It is difficult to get these old moulds for promotional models into production again, so it is a testimony to the skills of the Wiking tool-makers to see such excellent products again.
Siku the partner company of Wiking, adds 30 items to the Super range of diecast models and also two new 'Nostalgic tractors' in 1:32 scale, the Lanz Bulldog and Hanomag R45.
LOTUS ELITE and FERRARI 500TRC
By Hans NordströmArt Models 100 - Ferrari 500 TRC
According to the text on the box, the Finnish driver Bremer drove this car in the 1958 Swedish GP The last Swedish sports car GP was, however, held at Rabelov near Kristian-stad in southern Sweden in 1957. Therefore, if it was this race, the year must be 1957, not 1958. Establishing which car Art meant to make we run into more problems. The car has race number 4, but this was on the works Ferrari of Peter Collins and Phil Hill, so the race number must be wrong as well. Finnish driver Carl-Otto Bremer, partnered by another Finn, Esko Keinanen, finished sixth in that race, their car entered by Ferrari Svezia, but it was a 750 Monza (#0568M), not a 500TRC, actually the Scaglietti-bodied car still raced in historic events by Carlos Monteverde, originally owned by François Picard. Bremer often raced in this car during this period. Originally blue, the car was repainted in the same colour scheme it wears today, close to, if not identical to, the Art version. As the Art car is a 500TRC, and not a 750 Monza, the search had go on! Looking further at the finishers, and Finns in particular (there is a Finnish flag on the side of the head-rest), there was a Finnish crew in a 500TRC (#0702) finishing in ninth place overall, Curt Lincoln and Heimo Hietarinta. Curt Lincoln, the best known Finnish racing driver of the 1950s and early 60s, is the father of Nina Lincoln, better known as Nina Rindt, Jochen's wife. Hietarinta was Curre's close competitor in the 500cc F3 class in those days, and they had many an epic battle. Their Ferrari at Kristianstad bore race number 25, entered by Scuderia Askolin, a famous private 1950s Finnish race team, founded by wealthy timber merchant Carl-Johan Askolin. The car was, at least officially, leased from Swedish Ferrari importer, Tore Bjurstrom's Ferrari Svezia (Svezia for Sweden). I say 'officially leased', as the car was probably fully paid for, but due to licensing problems it retained its Swedish identity! The aftermath of war was still part of ordinary life in the 1950s. The livery of Scuderia Askolin Ferraris varied slightly from during this season, but the basic scheme was similar to the Bremer 750 Monza. In most old colour photos the silver does not appear to be as bright a silver as the Art Model is, or indeed the 750 Monza still is, but it looks more bluish-silver. This car was new for the race, and didn't have the Finnish flag on the headrest or the Ferrari shields above a pair of crossed Swedish and chequered flags (normally found on the Ferrari Svezia cars), on each side, like the other Askolin entry, an older 500TR (#0610), race number 26 (15th place driven by Lars Finnila and Seppo Rikkila). The Askolin cars were repainted the following year to a similar pattern, but now the main colour was dark blue and the stripe white, while the Ferrari shields on each flank were replaced with Scuderia Askolin badges. The end result is thus not very pleasing for a serious collector. Apart from the shade of silver, it would seem that by changing the number to 25, and by removing the Ferrari shields from the flanks and the Finnish flags from the head-rest, we would end up with a reasonable model of the Lincoln-Hietarinta 500TRC. Alas, it is not that simple, as Art Model also added a pair of 750 Monza-shaped bulges to the bonnet of their usual correctly-shaped casting which doesn't have the bulges, also missing from the Askolin 500TRC. Not easy to solve now, as removing them would necessitate a full repaint and the box doesn't contain any spare decals. The most likely explanation for Art Model making these mistakes is that they combined photographs of the different cars. Some of the photos used might not even be from the original period, but of the Monza as raced today. This is a likely explanation for the mystery surrounding the race number on the model. I really wish that model manufacturers would do their homework a little bit better, or just stick to the better-documented versions, as collectors parting with their hard-earned money deserve to be better-served! As it stands now, the best answer for collectors would be if a decal supplier was brave enough to print a set, so the result could be achieved by modifying a kit! Nowadays too much history is being rewritten, and in years to come this will further confuse anyone seeking the real truth. It is not an easy task even now, far from it, but with each passing year it gets more difficult, so we should not ignore these mistakes. Fortunately I had a lot of help from Finnish Ferrari historians Juhani Anttila and Kare Pietila, without whom this piece could not have been written, as I began to get confused myself whilst writing this article. And I don't even get a free model, whilst Art Model are paid for every one they sell, accurate or not.
MORE ON Exem RLM025 Lotus Elite No 42
My earlier, somewhat similar, comments in the MAR Correspondence Column about the Exem Lotus Elite, race number 42, were written in a bit of a rush, and therefore might not have been all that easy to follow. I have therefore decided to refer again to that model with the aid of some photos (above). My research revealed that the car does not really represent the car it is supposed to, the Buxton-Allen car, which retired with clutch failure at Le Mans 1960 (chassis # unknown). The main reasons for this were that this car's front bumpers and stainless air intake surround were removed, a pair of extra lights fitted at the front and an NACA duct in the bonnet. The Exem model fails on all these counts. The Border Reivers Elite (# 1038), also number 42, was driven in the 1959 Le Mans to an excellent tenth overall by Jim Clark and John Whitmore, and second in class behind the Fitzwilliam Team Elite (# 1003 renumbered as 1016P) driven by Peters Lumsden and Riley. The differences between the Exem model and the Border Reivers car are not that great, as you can see in my photos of the Exem car alongside Profil 24's much better-researched 1:24 model. From the rear, the Exem is almost correct, with a petrol filler cap on each side. The only major criticism is that there should be small red and white position lights on top of the boot at the left rear corner next to the edge of the white number disc. Also, the spare wheel should not be covered by a shelf, as on the Exem car, but be fully exposed through the rear window. Moving to the front of the car, the biggest mistake is the additional petrol cap on the right hand front wing at the rear edge of the bonnet, which also should not be on the 1960 car, but actually was a feature of the Lumsden-Riley car, which had an additional tank fitted inside the wing. The Clark-Whitmore car had a tear-drop shaped racing mirror in almost exactly that location! The leather straps for the bonnet are in the correct positions for the Clark-Whitmore car. Assuming that the Profil 24 car is correct, the car should have only one wiper instead of the pair on the Exem, but I have not been able to check this. According to the Profil 24 model, the car should also have an oil cooler scoop below the nose air intake. The Fitz-william car certainly had one, so Profil 24 are probably correct. In addition, there should be a positioning light at the rear edge of the side number disc, as well as a side exhaust protruding slightly in front of the left rear wheel (not easy to see on the photo, but it is there on the Profil 24 Elite!). All in all, a similar story of combining reference photos from different cars. In this case it is at least possible to make a half-decent model of the Clark-Whitmore car out of the Exem one, as there is no bonnet bulge to remove, and thus no need for a new set of decals or complete respray. And yes, the race number is also correct even if, like Art Model, they got the year wrong.
BUS STOP
St PETERSBURG NEWS
By Leonid KhoykhinHere's the latest news from St Petersburg Tram Collection: The Greyhound Scenicruiser coach will be released in 2002 (237). Greyhound planned a modern coach after the Second World War. Raymond Loewy was commission-ed to style the bus and General Motors built the prototype at Pontiac, MI in 1953. Deliveries of GM's PD-4501 Parlor Coach, Diesel, 45-seat ran from 1954 to 1956, when the last of 1000 production Scenicruisers was finished. The one and a half decker coaches were 40 feet long and standard 96 inches wide. They had air ride and dual Detroit Diesel engines (this engine arrangement was the most trouble-some feature of the new coach). They first entered service in late 1954, becoming Grey-hound flagships, assigned to most prestigious routes. All the Scenicruisers were rebuilt in 1961-62 by Marmon-Herrington, the two 4-71 engines replaced by single Detroit Diesel 8V-71 engines. The last Scenicruisers were retired from Greyhound service in 1977-78.
Our first Highway Post Office model is ready. This is a 1966 Crown Super Coach HPO (239). The first HPO Bus was built by White Motor Co and made its first trip in February 1941, serving routes between Washington DC and Harisonburg, VA. Highway Post Office buses worked as moving mail sorting centres, clerks sorted mail in the front of the bus and bags of mail were stacked at the back. The Crown Body and Coach Corporation of Los Angeles, CA, built its first Highway Post Office bus in 1955 using an underfloor engine which permitted the HPO to have a clear floor area. In the same year Crown's first tandem-axle bus was built, and the Crown Cargo Coach with bus front and trailer body, used to produce dual 40-foot HPOs in the 1960s. In the 1970s, changes in the organisation of the postal service meant that the last Highway Post Office run was on 30 June 1974. Our range of 1:43 British trams begins in 2002 with the famous London Feltham tram in different liveries. More details in future issues of MAR.
For more information, contact St Petersburg Tram Collection PO Box No 16, 196158 St Petersburg, Russia. Fax: +7 (812) 164 5254 Internet: www.sptc.spb.ru E-Mail: sptc@sp.ru.
NEW RIETZE HO BUSES
By Hans-Georg SchmittRecent Rietze plastic buses from Germany:
60249 Setra S328 DT double deck coach Reichert, Amberg, Germany. Metallic blue.
61105 Neoplan Cityliner three axle coach .Baltic Express Buss. PTTK Katowice, Poland.
61283 Mercedes-Benz O403 RHD coach, pale yellow with wave design, Soner Turizm, Turkey.
61617 Volvo B12-600 Herma's Bus Reisen Bonningheim, Germany. Beige-white, pictures of castle and Friedrich Reichgraf von Stadion.
61620 Volvo B12-600 coach Steiert, Hinterzarten, Black Forest, Germany, metallic gold.
61623 Volvo B12-600 coach Kircher, Beilstein, Wurt-temberg, Germany. Metallic salmon, map of Europe.
62029 Neoplan Starliner Wilde, Bochum.
62031 Neoplan Starliner coach Fuhrmann, of Rennau
62420 Setra S319 NF 3ax1e city bus STI, Thun, Swiss
62558 Mercedes-Benz Citaro bus PTT Steffen Auto-betriebe, Swiss post bus in private ownership, yellow with white roof, destination Zurich Wiedikon.
63319 Mercedes-Benz Cito midibus EMT Madrid, Spain, destinations: Toledo bridge - Place San Amaro.
63710 Renault Irisbus Ares La Poste - Car Postal, Valais-Haute Leman, Swiss post bus, Aigle, CH.
63711 Renault Irisbus Ares Tourisme Verney, France, white with grey and red side stripes.
64306 MAN Lion coach Scheer, Wuppertal, Germany, metallic blue with elk design.
64307 MAN Lion coach Roder Reisen, Kröpstadt, Germany, white with blue-yellow-green design.
64507 Neoplan Starliner three axle coach Schumacher, Düren, Germany, white-turquoise.
64508 Neoplan Starliner three axle coach Kollek Reisen, Velbert, Germany, yellow-orange.
64514 Neoplan Starliner three axle coach Dietrich Touristik, Telfs, Tirol, Austria. Green-blue metallic.
63811 Mercedes-Benz Travego Seitz Reisen, Grafling. Front white, merging to blue at back.
60260 Setra S 328 DT Walliser Winterthur (CH)
61103 Neoplan Cityliner Lapplandbuss Sweden
61104 Neoplan Cityliner Interbus Sweden.
61284 Mercedes O 350 RHD Lindenbauer Austria
61286 Mercedes-Benz O 350 VS Trafik AB, Sweden,
61320 Setra S315 UL Moma-Bentheimer Eisenbahn
61413 Setra S 315 GT Tanner, Dormitz.
61621 Volvo B12-600 Sollner+Pollinger Breitenbrunn
61915 Van Hool T9 Van den Berg, Netherlands.
62034 Neoplan Starliner Tieber, Austria,.
64511 Neoplan Starliner SHDL 3-axle bus Sittenauer Reisen, Dietramszell. silver-metallic green.EFE UPDATE
By Frank JoyceIn January 2001 we had no idea that we would finally be able to regain control of Exclusive First Editions, the company we founded. At the end of March, after much negotiating, we successfully purchased the entire company from the ERA Group PLC, who had owned the company for 12 years. Our first task was to rebuild the production schedule and establish the regular and reliable programme to regain trade and consumer confidence in EFE. Our attentions are now focused on the next tasks, new tooling and relocation of our warehouse and offices. In the past three years a great amount of damage was done to our range through lack of investment and it is our intention to repair this damage, so we are investing heavily in an exciting new tooling programme, which includes a number of completely new models and some changes to existing models. In future we will be able to remove the rear corner shrouds to expose the engine bustle on the single and twin door versions of the Daimler DMS. The upper deck piano front on the Leyland TD1 will be modified, so we can make the standard and the higher front style on the closed rear body type. This will enable us to produce models in Southdown and red London Transport liveries, among others. The first half of the year will see the release of the Leyland Titan and Greater Manchester Standard buses. Following these buses will be the London 1938 Tube Train and the 1959 version, for release mid year. Another new venture is a 1:18 working tinplate model of a 1920s Miller racing car. Before Christmas 2001 a special model was made for Modelzone Stores to mark the opening of five new stores, 25605B Routemaster Blue Triangle RCL2239 route 565 to Romford Station. London Transport Museum have two special releases of the City of Oxford BET, number 24316A registered 748 HCF, route 98 Bicester and 24316B registered 757 KFC, route 85 to Brill with roof adverts for the Oxford Mail.
There will be a special Daimler DMS 2062, registered KJD 62P model number 25708B on route 239 to Waterloo with adverts for Catch the Train and You Have Caught the Plane. All three models are available direct from the LT Museum on 020 7379 6344.
Models recently released:
14602 Leyland National MkI LONDON & COUNTRY
18713 Bedford SB Super Vega GREENSLADES
15630 RM Routemaster READING MAINLINE
99640 Leyland PD2 Lowbridge TODMORDEN LMS
26605DL Plaxton Paramount WALLACE ARNOLD
16215 Bristol MW/LS coach ROYAL BLUE S National
27605 WrightVolvo Renown ARRIVA NORTHUMBRIA
20008 Leyland PD2/12 Orion PORTSMOUTH CORP
27606 WrightVolvo Renown BURNLEY & PENDLE
27209 Leyland TD1 Open Rear LONDON TRANSPORT
26403 Daimler Utility MANCHESTER CITY
24319 BET Coach MAIDSTONE & DISTRICT
12114 Harrington Cavalier GREENSLADES
20127 Bedford OB Coach LIVERPOOL CORPORATION
26204 Guy Arab I Utility LONDON TRANSPORT
99641 Bedford TK Artic BRITISH RAILWAYS
99638 Leyland TD1 Closed Rear CROSVILLE LMSNORTHCORD FROM CORGI
Creative Master Northcord 1:76 diecast models, made in China for Hong Kong, will be distributed in the UK by Corgi. New models include British buses:
Dennis Trident-Alexander ALX400 First Capital
Dennis Trident-Alexander ALX400 MetrolineNEW CONRAD MODELS
These diecast models are proposed by Conrad of Germany, for issue in the next few months:
Liebherr LTM 1300 six axle crane 1:50 (Jan)
MB Actros-Schwing S42 SX concrete mixer 1:50 (Feb)
Putzmeister M740 plaster mixer 1:35 (Feb)
MAN-Schwing S45SX concrete mixer 1:50 (Feb)
MAN-Kögel artic dumper 1:50 (Feb)CURSOR NEW RELEASES
New models from Cursor of Germany:
Iveco-Magirus LF 16/12 fire double cab (May)
Iveco-Magirus TLF 16/25 fire tanker (May)
Lanz HR8 agricultural tractor 1938-55 1:32 (Jun)NZG FOR EARLY 2002
Diecast models planned by NZG of Germany, all 1:50 scale unless otherwise noted:
485 Menck M90 old cable excavator
489 Schuerle six-axle trailer
487 Kaelble KDV22 Z8T double cab tractor
488 Kaelble KDV22 Z8T + Schuerle 6-axle trailer
499 Caterpillar B25 forklift 1:87
441/50 Mercedes Actros tanker (Feb)
466/40 Caterpillar 797 white (Feb)
496 Estrich Boy cement mixer (Feb)
477 Caterpillar 769D dumper yellow (Mar)
477/40 Caterpillar 769D dumper white (Mar)
474 O&K RH6 excavator 1:87 (April)
475 Bomag BW213 roller 1:87 (April)
493 Grove RT 700E telescopic crane (April)
508 Liebherr L538 loader 1:87 (April)
495 Terex-O&K RH30 excavator (May)
479 Caterpillar AP1055B June)CLUB NEWS
Maidenhead Static Model Club: Several of the MSMC committee feel the need for a change, either a move to a different post, or just a rest. Mike Forbes notes that he has been Chairman for several years, and he is not alone in feel-ing that there is a need for some 'new blood' to come onto the committee. 'Not that we don't enjoy being on the committee, far from it', he says, 'Our meetings are a pleasant extension of our club activities.' But he is inviting members to volunteer, and of course new members could get a chance to go straight to the top, with a seat on the committee. If you'd like to join the MSMC, contact membership secretary Alan Simpson on 01494 813903.
Jaguar Model Club: After much consideration of alternative possibilities, Gary Oxley has announced the JMC Club model for 2002. It is to be a 1:43 handbuilt model of a Jaguar Mk VII camper (motor caravan). This was an Australian home conversion, after the owner's Mk VII sustained heavy rear end damage. 50 models will be built, 25 with curtains open, 25 with curtains closed (no, this isn't an early April Fool joke), and 40 are 'spoken for' already. If you want one, you'll have to join the JMC. Contact Gary on 01709 372003.
South Hants Model Auto Club: SHMAC magazine editors Stu and Sue Leake have tried toadying to the 'beloved editor of Modelauto Magazine' in the hope of getting a mention in our club pages. It might work better if they got the name of MAR right! They are disappointed to have come second in the class for 'most improved club magazine' at the International Classic Motor Show. As the winner was the Z Club magazine, presumably the SHMAC took first place for model club magazines. Is that any consolation? Maybe next year there will be a special class for 'magazine showing most further improve-ment'? If you'd like to see the improvement, you'll have to join the SHMAC, so contact Secretary Dave Painter on 01264 366408.
Citroen Model and Memorabilia Collectors Club: Now producing an email-only news-letter for the CMMCC, Citroen expert David Conway has only managed to accumulate enough news to justify publication by waiting three months. He has, however, unearthed such treats as a glass paperweight shaped like a B14, a glass Traction from Germany, and a 230mm long galvanised steel 2cv. David also notes that Eko 2cvs are turning up in France as SAI Maquettes. If you would like to join the CMMCC contact David Conway at ConwayCV2@bigfoot.com.
Natal Diecast Model Collectors: Geoff Sear is now not only back in South Africa, but has also managed to become installed once again as Chairman of the NDMC. He reports that enthusiastic member (and ex-Mayor of Durban) Mike Lipschitz was murdered in 2001. This is not a common event in UK-based collectors clubs, and must make Geoff wonder what he has returned to. There has, however, been a new surge of interest and visitors to Club meetings, causing Geoff to eat his words about poor attendance, in previous newsletters. A change of diet might do him no harm, as the NDMC's food obsession continues, with the vrystaater's (Free Stater's) version of curry and rice at the 2001 National being the latest dish to be sampled by the visiting curry experts from Durban. If your constitution can stand it, NDMC membership details can be obtained from Geoff at 7 Dryden Place, Umbilo, Durban 4001, South Africa.
Lledo Enthusiasts & Variations Club: Bill Alexander continues to keep Lledo fans informed with his bi-monthly club publication. He notes that Corgi is trying to retain the integrity of Lledo as a separate brand, but some crossovers are necessary. For instance, the Triumph Herald 13/60 convertible, due for release by Vanguards in May 2002, or by Corgi in a Last of the Summer Wine pack in June 2002, was advertised by direct sale in national UK newspapers as a Lledo Collectable in November 2001! Confused? You will be. Bill details many such crossovers, especially in regard to television and film spin-offs, where the prices differ considerably, depending which range you are in. The new Showcase series enables Lledo castings to be marketed as Corgi in the USA, where Lledo will not be distributed, and the 'Collectables' and 'Mass Market' products share common castings in many cases. If you need to keep up with these matters, join the Club. Phone or fax Bill on 01628 622318.
MAIDENHEAD Static Model Club produced a special model exclusively for members at the end of 2001. Only 120 were made of a 1:43 Lansdowne Austin Somerset 1953 in light blue, recalling the old Dinky Toy Somerset in the same colour..
EMERGENCY
FIRETECH FORD & LAFFLYFiretech is a small French range specialising in... yes, French fire appliance models. These new items are in their forward plan:
Ford F798T FIN 1948 (March)
Laffly B686 'Electro ventilation' van 1952 (May)KIBRI 1:87 plastic kit from Germany:
By Hans-Georg Schmitt18000 KHD Jupiter Flkfz 3800/400. This Magirus Jupiter fire appliance is in service with the German Bundeswehr, with a ZF six-speed gearbox, a four stroke 230 hp V8 Diesel engine and Bachert fire equip-ment. The tanks hold 3800 litres of water and 400 litres of foam. The vehides entered service when Magirus still belonged to Klockner-Humboldt-Deutz AG, later sold to IVECO group. The detailed components are mostly moulded in matt green plastic, flash-free, but with obvious flow-lines, so for best results it will be necessary to paint it before assembly, so that the finished model will look more authentic.
PARADE 1:43 PLANS
Parade is a French range of resin models. Planned new 1:43 scale releases:
Peugeot J9 fire, Rouen
Peugeot J9 BBP fire, metal shutters
Land Rover double cab fire Marseille
Land Rover double cab civilian
Berliet-Citroen 350K animal truck (Feb)
Opel Blitz 1960 van (Feb)
Opel Blitz 1960 post van (Feb)
Opel Blitz 1960 tanker (Feb)
Renault 500kg van 1937 fire (Mar)
Renault 500kg van 1937 ambulance (Mar)
Unic P8R 4x4-Sides VMA fire (May)CONSTRUCTION AND AGRICULTURAL
NEW NORSCOT CATS
New models of Caterpillar subjects from Norscot, diecast in China for the USA:
CAT 726D artic dump truck
CAT 302.5 Mini excavator with tools
Racing truck - sponsored by CATKIBRI 1:87 plastic kit from Germany
By Hans-Georg Schmitt11174 Fendt Favorite Vario 926 tractor with Kemper Uni Trans UT 18000 manure spreading trailer. (Photo Hans-Georg Schmitt). B-11182 Lanz Ackerbulldog D8506 tractor 1950, fitted with a single cylinder 1035cc 35 hp two stroke diesel engine. The piston was the size of a bucket and the whole tractor weighed three tons. Lanz was founded in 1859 and by the end of the 19th century was brand leader in Germany. Lanz produced their first 'modern' tractor in 1921. All over Europe farmers loved their Bulldogs, also made under license in Poland as the Ursus.
TRUCKSTOP
JOAL NEW FOR 2002
These diecast models are proposed for this year from Joal of Spain:
203 Manitou MT1337 - pallet forks
204 Komatsu WA600-3 log loader
205 Komatsu WA800-3 wheel loader
283 Manitou MT1337 with bucket
288 Dynapac Paver F181CS
289 Komatsu WA600-3 wheel loader
286 Amman-Yanmar V107D mini-excavator
360 Mercedes Actros with trailer
361 Mercedes Actros with covered trailer
362 Mercedes Actros with tanker trailer
363 Mercedes Actros with tipper trailer
364 Mercedes Actros with powder tankerJFD NEWS
JFD DIFFUSION has released its latest 1:50 truck models, made exclusively for JFD by Minitrucks, the Berliet GBO 15P 6x6 Sahara tractor with Titan SHHT 3 flat artic trailer carrying petroleum pipeline sections. There is also a dropside version of the trailer available.
MILTARIA
AER COLECTIE KITS
By Lilia PostovanAer Colectie is a model manufacturer located in Chisinau, Moldova, producing more than 35 plastic, resin and wooden model kits of military subjects in 1:72 1:48 and 1:35 scales. Aer Colectie srl had these new items for release from November 2001 to January 2002 (see also recent avia mini news pages). We can be contacted by email at aer@mdl.net
Plastic Kits
AE35002 T-38 amphibian tank 1:35
AE35003 T-18 soviet tank 1:35
AE35004 T-20 komsomolets 1:35
AE35005 ASU-57 soviet airborne 1:35
AE35007 BA-64B light armoured car 1:35
AE35008 GAZ-67 field car 1:35
AE40001 Stalin submarine fleet five kits: D, L, M, S, and Sch classes (one pack) 1:400
AR72017 Grad Rocket Launch System 1:72
AR72015 URAL 1:72Resin Kits
AR7201 ZIS-42M Russian half-track 1:72
AR7205 Artillery Tractor Comintern 1:72
AR7206 ZIS-16Ms Ambulance 1:72
AR7208 SAU-122 Egypt 1:72
AR7209 Mine sweeper for T-34/85 1:72
AR7210 203-mm howitzer B-4 1:72
AR7204 ZIS-42M 37mm Anti aircraft Gun 1:72
AR7203 ZIS-5W 37mm Anti aircraft Gun 1:72
AR7207 ZIS-5 Anti aircraft Projector 1:72
AR7211 Aero sledge GAS-98 1:72
AR7212 Voroshilovets heavy tractor 1:72
AR7213 STZ-5 Katyusha 1:72
AR7214 Soviet artillery tractor on STZ-5 1:72
AR7216 BA-11 1:72
AR7218 BA-6 1:72REVELL 1:35 plastic kits
By Hans-Georg Schmitt03043 MAN 7t. milgl 6x6 truck to supply troops on the battlefield with munitions, fuel etc, in difficult terrain the German Army introduced 'the new truck generation' in the late 1970s, made by MAN (the Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg). Thanks to its all-wheel-drive power system, the use of a torsion resistant box section frame and jointed axles, this vehicle has excellent cross country mobility. With an air-cooled 320 hp V8 Magirus-Deutz BF 8 L 413 F engine it can reach a top road-speed of 90 km/h. Four different versions can be built from this kit, normal German Bundeswehr, or UN, SFOR or KFOR peace-keeping liveries. Decals for all versions are included. The components are moulded almost flash-free but are only in military olive green.
03049 MAN 5t milgl 4x4 truck. The smaller version of the German army cross country truck described above, this time only 4x4, is also built by MAN, and powered by a 256 hp Magirus-Deutz F8 L 413 F engine, developing 256 hp, giving a top road speed of 90 km/h. This plastic kit is produced to the same overall standard as the 6x6 version described above, and four different livery versions are possible with this kit, once again.
FRANCE
MORE ON SOLIDO
By Bertrand AzémaFollowing to the early info from Mike Cazenave in MAR 159, these models are to be added or removed. Months of release have changed, as I already have some models. I have added a (C) for a new colour. There are several British cars. Will this perhaps be the beginning of a change for UK distribution? Time will tell.
Age d'Or Series
4035 Duesenberg J Spyder (C) sand-black
4047 Packard Sedan (C) light green-dark green
4045 Cord L29 Sedan (C) blue-black
4142 Mercedes SSKL (V) red-white with #1
4143 Renault 40CV Coupe de ville (R)
Sixties Series
4567 Panhard 24 CT - These are new moulds, not the ones from the Hi-Fi series Panhard BT...
4561 Simca Chambord (C) Dark blue-cream
Citroen DS taxi - Cancelled
4568 Fiat 600D (N) - Light blue issue for France (Spain will have a white Seat 600D)
4580 Ford Taunus 17M 1960 cabriolet (N)
4577 Alfa Romeo Guilietta Spider racing (N)
4571 VW Beetle cabriolet (N)
4576 Austin Healey Sprite (N)
4575 Ford Taunus 17M 1957 cabriolet (N)
4578 Triumph TR6 (N)
4579 Alfa Romeo Guilietta Sprint racing (N)
Yesterday Series
Corvette Roadster 1984 - Cancelled
1849 VW Golf 1 New mould, previous one destroyed
1850 VW Golf 1 cabriolet (N)
1851 MG Midget Mk IV spider open (N)
1852 Alfa Romeo 1300 Junior coupe (N)
Today Series
1567 Citroen Xsara WRC T4 #14 Catalunya 01 (N)
1574 Citroen Jumpy Competition support vehicle for the Xsara WRC and Kit Car (N)
Pompiers 1:43 Series
4829 Citroen C4F flat lorry with ??? Ioad
1:18 Scale
9022 Mitsubishi Pajero (not the PD winner) (V)
9032 Peugeot 206 WRC Simon blue without Gauloises markings (V)
8142 Peugeot 406 coupe (N)
8141 Peugeot 206 CC (N)
Jeep US Military Police - cancelled
Chevrolet pickup with tilt - cancelled
8137 Ford coupe 'used' (V) - it is not a Sedan. The US catalogue is correct.
Citroen DS 19 fire car - cancelled
Jeep VL fire vehicle - cancelled
VW split window Beetle - cancelled
Verem
V9005, V9024 and V9026 are not new modelsPartwork series
Solido (France) Un siecle d'Automobiles - Published by Hachette - Price 69F (10.52 euros)
Cars: This series is now extended to 90 models (previously 60). The next model is a Renault 5, not included in the 2002 catalogue! Subscribers to this series get free original models from the Solido range with liveries from news-papers and books published by Hachette. Also from time to time, a Norev model is included, described as Hors Série. Note: Swiss Franc and Canadian dollar prices are mentioned in the magazines, but as far as I know, this series is not distributed in those countries.
Solido (France) Les Pompiers Univers - Published by Hachette - Price 79F (12.04 euros): Fire engines: includes new models and variations not available in the Solido range. 60 models are planned, free models of firemen and old flre engines
Solido (France) Chars et véhicules militaires - Published by Hachette - Price 89F ( 13.57 euros): Military vehicles and tanks: New liveries are available in this series. 60 models are planned. Free Solido models are sent to subscribers.
Solido (Belgium) Published by Hachette: The cars are identical to the French, apart from a few colour variations and numbers on the baseplates. Boxes are not specific to each model. The models are identical to the French ones, except for the text
Solido (Greece): The cars are identical to France apart from a few original colours. Boxes are not sdifferent, apart from the name of the publisher. Free models are not distributed at present.
Solido (Spain): The cars are identical to the French ones, apart from a few original colours. One exception is the first model, a white Seat 600D which is not available in the other countries. Boxes are not specific apart from the publisher's name. No free models at present.
100 Ans de Sport Automobile - Published in Spain by Altaya. This series includes old models from Vitesse and new models from Ixo. In answer to the request from Dave Wade in MAR 159, the models from 3 to 7 are as follows: 3 Peugeot 905 LM 1992, 4 Williams FW15B 1993 A Prost, 5 Mitsubishi 4x4 Dakar 1998, 6 Cooper Climax T51 1959 Brabham, 7 Porsche 911S Monte Carlo 1970. Note: The Quality-Price ratio is very good for the models, but it is very bad for the magazines. Lots of errors...
Auto Collector - Published in Spain by Del Prado - Price 8.95 euros. This series started in December 2001. 70 models are planned and they will cover cars from 1886 to 1990. The first 16 models are from 1950 to 1970. Three models already available: Jaguar E type cabrio (US version), Countach and Porsche 356 spider. The next one is a VW Beetle. The models are made in China to an average quality level.
Taxis of the World - Published in Spain by Altaya - Price 10.50 euros. This series started in January 2002 with a Peugeot 404 followed by a Checker cab. Next will be a VW Beetle from Mexico, a Citroen 11CV from Saigon. Two Mercedes, from Berlin and Cairo, a Ford Fairlane from Havana and a Peugeot 203 from Casablanca will follow. The models are made in China, good quality
The latest series, from January 2002 is not dedicated to cars but to trains. It will reproduce the early trains from Hornby starting with the M series, offered in a copy of the original red box. This is a new Hachette series that should be of interest to UK collectors. The price is only 10.50 euros. According to the information provided, the models are not produced in China, but in France! Maybe the old way to print on flat tinplate sheets is unknown in China ? (Editor's note: In the UK, the latest partworks are a series of 'Victorian' dolls-house dolls and accessories, and a wooden Titanic which looks as if it will defeat all but the richest and most persevering of enthusiasts).
TEK-HOBY TRACTIONS
Tek-Hoby of France propose to release two 1:43 Citroen Traction Avants in Paris Fire Service and Gendarmerie liveries this year.
MINISTAR PALADIN
Ministar of France plan to release a Peugeot 607 'Paladin' in May.
PARADCAR PROPOSALS
Here are the planned releases in the 1:43 resin Paradcar range from France:
091 Citroen Saxo 2000
099 Peugeot 206 two door
102 Peugeot 202 Michelin
097 Citroen Ami 8 (Feb)
100 Citroen Xsara saloon 2001 (Mar)
103 Peugeot 202 Eclipse (Mar)
096 Renault 19 Chamade (booted saloon) (Apr)
101 Citroen Xsara Coupe 2001 (May)
104 Citroen Xsara estate 2001 (May)DE POLIGNY CREATION
Proposed releases from De Poligny of France:
Ferrari 250 GTO
Peugeot 203 saloon (Feb)
Citroen 11CV (Feb)
Citroen 15/6 Traction (Feb)
Renault Dauphine (Mar)
Simca Versailles (Mar)
Alpine A110 1600S (Apr)
Citroen DS19 1955 (May)
Citroen DS19 Prestige 1960 (May)GERMANY
REVELL DIECAST FOR 2002
Revell have announced these diecast models for 2002 release:
Corvette Convertible 1969 1:18 (centre right)
Chevrolet Corvette 1958 1:12 (above)
NSU TTS racing version 1:18 (far top right)
Volkswagon Samba minibus 1:18
Volkswagen W12 Coupe design study 2001 1:18
Opel Kadett B 1965 LS Coupe 1:18
Opel Kadett B 1966 LS Rallye 1:18
Opel Olympia A Coupe 1:18HO SCALE FROM RIETZE
By Hans-Georg SchmittHere are the latest Rietze 1:87 plastic models from Germany:
11130 Ford Mondeo 2001 Turnier (estate car) new model, red with black interior.
30491 Opel Astra 1989 Caravan (estate) Danish Post, yellow with black interior.
30626 Ford Transit 1998 Austrian Post, yellow
50494 Opel Astra Caravan 1989 (estate) Polizei,
50495 Opel Astra Caravan 1989 Versteeregnens Beredskab (Danish fire service), red
50496 Opel Astra Caravan 1989 STIB Brussels Tramways, yellow with blue logo.
50497 Opel Astra Caravan 1989 Fire Brussels
50504 Audi 80 Avant 1992-95 Emergency Doctor Siegen fire service, white with red bonnet.
50549 Ford Transit minibus Policija LT, white with black interior and green side stripes.
50796 Audi A4 Avant 1995-2001 Emergency Doctor Roth, white with red and yellow panels.
50797 Audi A4 Avant 1995-2001 Emergency Doctor, Fürth, Germany, white with red stripes.
51090 Ford Galaxy THW., white.
51130 Ford Mondeo Turnier 2001 estate car Polizei 30591 Audi A8 Taxi.
31060 Ford Transit 2000 medium roof Taxi.
31071 Ford Transit 2000 Cash transport.
31091 Ford Galaxy Facelift Taxi
31140 Ford Mondeo notchback Taxi
50465 Audi 80 Bavarian Red Cross, AugsburgREVELL 1:24 plastic kits from Germany
By Hans-Georg Schmitt07389 Ferrari 360 Modena Spider Every time Ferrari creates a 'perfect' car, they launch another masterpiece which tops it. This applies to the 360 Modena Spider, first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 2000, based on the hardtop from the previous year, with an all aluminium body in which Ferrari invested five years of development. It has the same engine as the 360 coupe, the six-speed gear box is offered as a manual or with an all-electric option. The soft top comes down easily in 20 seconds. The kit has a one-piece body shell, with fine surface detailing, good interior and chassis. There is a clear plastic cover shows the engine. The 64 components need skill level 5. (Photo Hans-Georg Schmitt).
REVELL 1:24 plastic kit from Germany: 07388 Ferrari 360 Modena Coupe, first shown at the Geneva Motor Show in 1999. As is to be expected, this road-going racer has extraordinary ride dynamics and owes its aesthetics to Pininfarina. Unlike its predecessor, the Modena's steering is problem-free, with no unexpected swerves. The Modena also packs the punch of a 400 bhp, 3.6 litre V8 engine with 111 bhp per litre, which catapults the 360 from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.5 seconds,. The top speed is 295 km/h. The one-piece-body-shell of the kit has fine surface details, and the interior looks realistic. Only 64 components need only skill level 3 to build. It is almost flash-free, but there are flow-lines in the matt red plastic.
REVELL 1:24 plastic kit from Germany: 07342 Ferrari Mythos Pininfarina, a design study on the 12 cylinder Testarossa first shown at the 1989 Tokyo show. The kit has a one-piece body with detailed cockpit, chassis and engine. The 110 components need skill level 4.
REVELL 1:24 plastic kit from Germany: 07323 Ferrari F 40. On 21 July 1987, the 89 year old Enzo Ferrari launched the F 40 to mark the 40th anniversary of his company. Materials from the space programme and from Formula One produced a light carbon-fibre frame with kevlar panels bonded to thin wall steel tubes to form the Pininfarina shape. The only concession to comfort in the austere interior is the air conditioning. The turbo-charged three litre V8 engine delivers 478 bhp, but it has neither power steering nor ABS and accelerates from a standing start to 100 km/h in just three seconds, with a top speed of 324 km/h. The kit contains 103 components, and requires skill level 4 to build. Some flash has to be removed and the body shell bears evidence of some flow-lines and sink-marks.
REVELL PLASTIC KITS
Among Revell's new plastic kit subjects to be released in 2002 are the following:
DAF 'Köln Truck' show artic 1:24
Panasonic Toyota TF102 F1 1:24REVELL 1:12 diecast in China for Germany: 08450 Mini Cooper from BMW, left hand drive. The model reproduces all aspects accurately, as one would expect in this big scale, including very highly detailed interior and baseplate. Doors and bonnet open, the latter revealing a very good engine. The dashboard has rather obvious split lines: the mouldmaker was not very careful. One might also have expected that the rear door would open as well, but it doesn't. The steering works realistically, and the brake discs and shoes are visible through the authentic wheel-rims. Under the wood-look plinth is a sheet of decals of different European license plates. (Notes Hans-Georg Schmitt).
MINICHAMPS 1:43 diecast in China for Germany: 430 040210 Opel Rekord PII Caravan 1960. In summer 1960 the new Rekord was launched in saloon and 'Caravan' estate versions. In contrast to the saloon, which could be ordered optionally with two or four doors, the estate was only available with two doors. The estate is finished in riva grey with a chamonix white section on the roof, and interior in grey and white, a limited edition of 3.024 pieces. In the same photograph: 430 040200 Opel Rekord PII Saloon 1960. When the new Rekord launched it was the first time 'Rekord' was used without 'Olympia' . The body shapes were in the currently-fashionable 'trapezium' style, and the Minichamps models reflect it very realistically. The saloon is in chamonix white, with blue and white detailed interior, limited edition of 3.216 pieces. (Notes, Hans-Georg Schmitt).
ITALY
BBURAGO NEW FOR 2002
Among the diecast models planned for release this year by Bburago of Italy:
Gold Collection: 1:18 scale
3316 Lamborghini Murcielago
3363 Aston Martin Vanquish red
33631 Aston Martin Vanquish grey
3377 BMW Z8 silver
33771 BMW Z8 red
33281 Ford Focus Rally Red Bull blue
33381 Ford F150 with Jet Skis yellow
33671 Porsche 911 Turbo Rally Mobil white
33791 New Mini Cooper green
33792 New Mini Cooper yellow
33793 New Mini Cooper silverSpecial Collection 1:18 scale
3204 Fiat 500L blueBijoux Collection 1:24 scale
1516 Lamborghini Murcielago
1520 Buggy Schlesser 2000
15261 Ford Focus Rally white
1579 New Mini Cooper
Formula 1 Collection 1:24 scale
6204 F1 Michelin TC white
Grand Prix Collection 1:24
6104 F3 Michelin TC blueKits Collection 1:18 scale
7022 VW New Beetle Funsport
70221 VW New Beetle Mona Lisa
70222 VW New Beetle Flames
7023 Shelby Series 1
70281 Ford Focus WRC Martini
7029 VW New Beetle Beetle Cup 2000
70301 Dodge Viper GTS Coupe Mobil
7034 Fiat 500 Abarth
7038 Ford F150 with Jet Skis white
7079 New Mini CooperKits Collection 1:24 scale
55141 VW New Beetle Beetle Cup 2000
5520 VW Golf Rally
55201 Buggy Schlesser 2000
5526 Chevrolet Corvette Daytona Beach
55301 Dodge Viper GTS Coupe Monster.Com
55421 VW New Beetle Mona Lisa
55422 VW New Beetle Flames
55631 Porsche GT3 Cup
55651 Land Rover Freelander Zebra StripesKits Collection 1:43 scale
49088 Land Rover Freelander open silver
49303 Land Rover Freelander closed blue
49506 Land Rover Freelander closed red
49101 VW Golf Rally Sony
49113 VW Golf Rally TDI
49106 Renault Super Clio Racing red
49306 Renault Super Clio Racing blue
49280 Ford Focus Rally Martini white
49503 Ford Focus Rally Red Bull blue
49310 Lan Rover SIII Trans America Tour
49305 VW New Beetle Beetle Cup green
49501 VW New Beetle Beetle Cup yellow
49870 VW New Beetle Beetle Cup blue
49340 Porsche GT3 Cup yellow
49341 Porsche GT3 Cup blue
49504 Porsche GT3 Indianapolis
49105 Porsche GT3 Supercup
49422 VW New Beetle Funsport
49423 VW New Beetle Mona Lisa
49424 VW New Beetle Flames
49425 VW New Beetle Flower Power
49103 VW New Beetle Neuspeed
49561 Chevrolet Corvette GT Le Mans
49670 BMW M3 GT Cup
49701 Monte Carlo Centenary MIG 100TELMODEL FROM ITALY
By Jonathan ScottThe Telmodel range of 1;43 handbuilt models is made in Italy. new releases are:
11 Fiat 850 saloon Italian army, olive green
07 Fiat 850 saloon Carabinieri 64 olive green
14 Fiat 850 saloon Esso service car red
15 Abarth Fiat 1000 saloon Racing type
16 Fiat 850 saloon Ramazzotti service car red
New models in preparation: Lancia Delta,
Fiat Ritmo (Strada), Fiat Regata, Fiat 850 SpecialSCOTTOY PLANS
By Jonathan ScottHere is a roundup of the current Scottoy range, all white metal, and all made in Italy, based on obsolete Mercury diecast toys;
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sedan light blue, red, cream
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint red, green, white
Alfa Romeo 1900 Sedan ivory, amaranth, green
Autobianchi Bianchina green, red
Fiat nuova 500 white, green, red
Fiat 600 (1955) light blue, cream, grey
Fiat 1100/103 (1953) Sedan black, grey, cream
Fiat 1500 Spider white, green, red, light blue
Fiat 1800 Sedan black, light blue-white duotone, red-black duotone, black-white duotone
Innocenti-BMC 950 Spider mustard, white, blue,
Lancia Appia 1st series sedan sand, grey, black
Lancia Appia 3rd ser. sedan green, light blue, grey
Lancia Flaminia sedan silver, white, amaranth
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Police 1956 grey
Fiat 600 Police 1956 grey
Lambretta red, yellow, ight blue
VESPA 125 sand, white, new metallic green, silver
Lambretta 125D, new 2-seat with spare wheel red, sage green, ivory, yellow
Lambretta 125LC Streamlinedsage green, white, red, sand, light blue
Lambretta 50th Anniversary
Lambretta 125D 50th Anniversary
Ape 125 3-wheel Open motocart red, grey, white
Ape 125 Open motocart duotone grey-yellow red-green, white-red
APE 125 Closed blue-white, red-white, green-sand
APE 125 Closed van Brill yellow
FIAT 1100/103 (1953) AGIP yellow
Lancia Appia 3rd series AGIP yellow
FIAT 600 AGIP yellow
FIAT 1800 Sedan AGIP yellow
Cadillac Eldorado blue, red, green, sand
Lincoln-Ford Continental red, green, sand, lt blue
Bentley S3 dark blue white, sand
Studebaker Hawk Coupe silver, amaranth, blue
VW Beetle grey, light blue, red, dark green
Fiat 1100/103 1953 Taxi Milan, green-black duotone
Fiat 1500 Lunga Taxi Milan, green-black duotone
Lancia Appia 1st series Taxi Milan, green-black
Lancia Appia 3rd series Taxi Milan, green-black
Fiat 1100/103 (1953) Fire service
Lancia Appia 1st series Fire service
Lancia Appia 3rd series Fire service
Autobianchi Bianchina Fire service
Alfa Romeo 1900 Fire service
Alfa Romeo 1900 Motorway police
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Marmitte (plugs) Abarth
Ape 125 Closed van Marmitte (plugs) Abarth
Autobianchi Bianchina Marmitte (plugs) Abarth
Fiat Viberti tanker: Esso red
Fiat Viberti tanker: AGIP yellow
Fiat Viberti tanker: Petrol Caltex red
Fiat Viberti tanker: Mobil red
Fiat Viberti tanker: Fina blue
Fiat Viberti tanker: Shell red-yellow duotone
NEW from 2002 onwards:
Fiat 1300 Sedan
Fiat 1100E 1956 facelift (Saloon and other versions)
Fiat 600 Fire service
Lambretta 125LC Streamlined gold colour
Alfa Romeo Giulietta Police 1960 green
Ape Closed van Scottoy
Lancia Flaminia Motorway police
Fiat 1500 Spider Racing version
Fiat Viberti tanker: Military
Fiat Viberti tanker: Petrolea
Fiat Viberti tanker: Aqula Italiana
Lancia Flaminia Fire service
Lancia Flavia sedan
Fiat 1100-103 (1953)
Fiat 1300 Motorway PoliceMERCURY 2000
The big news for 2002 is that the 1:43 scale series from Scottoy (the earlier models were 1:45 or 1:48) is based on the later 1:43 scale Mercury diecast models, and it will be named Mercury 2000. The first release in this series will be the Fiat 24.
BRITAIN
EUROPEAN VANGUARDSThe new 1:43 Vanguards series is a 'European' range, available in the first half of 2002. Their ex-Corgi and Lledo provenance is obvious.
VA07800 Mercedes-Benz 300SL roadster open, blue
VA07900 Porsche 356 soft top closed, metallic blue
VA05505 Ford Consul (Granada I shape) grey
VA07700 Saab 96 saloon beige
VA01205 VW Beetle split window green
VA08100 VW Camper red
VA06608 Ford Transit I Minibus CRS France
VA06611 Ford Transit I van Politie NL
VA08000 VW T1 transporter Polizei green Germany
VA05204 Ford Granada Polizei white-green GermanyMY MODEL GARAGES
By Karl SheridanI began Sheridan Artwork in the early 1980s, a craft hobby which blossomed into a part time business. I can custom-build model dioramas to any reasonable requirement of a customer. Most of my creations are 1:43 scale, but they can be in other scales. Initially they were garages from the 1920s to the 1940s, but I have created farm complexes and 'road up' scenes, complete with figures and accessories.
My customers order all sorts of buildings and I endeavour to make them as authentic as I can, taking much work and many hours, my latest creations having clear windows.
I pride myself that everyone so far has been overjoyed with their order, and not 'mass-producing' means I still derive great pleasure by hand-building everything to make unique items. I also offer metal figures (painted or plain) and I assemble and sell a 1930s AA patrol man with his bike and sidecar. I am also developing 1950s style 1:43 scale AA boxes, that seem to be missing from the model world at present. Some 'typical' examples, among which are a country police station, a traditional style two-pump country garage and a smaller single-pump garage. Fully-finished, and supplied on a detailed base, complete with pumps etc, these cost around £130.00 to £160.00 each plus p&p. For further details, contact me, Karl Sheridan, at 79 Milverton Road, Birmingham, Warwickshire B23 6EZ. Or telephone me (evenings only) on 0121 373 7954.
THE RETURN OF HUSKY
In their efforts to cover every aspect of the diecast toy and model market, Corgi have revived the Husky brand, which started out as an entry-level range, initially marketed in Woolworths stores. The new Husky range is mostly around 1:36 scale, at a £3.99 price point, again intended for younger buyers. The first five are Police Car, Ambulance, Fire Engine, Black Taxi and Tour Bus, the three emergency vehicles initially made in a triple pack for Tesco supermarkets in the UK.
AUSTINS FROM KENNA
Pete Kenna updates us on his 1:43 handbuilt Kenna Models range: His latest 1:43 pedal car is the Austin Pathfinder (the one shaped like a 750cc racer). The Wolseley Nine came out last year. It is followed in 2002 by the Austin A40 Dorset Tourer. For possible release this year is the Austin 16 Goodwood. If successful, Pete may make the Austin 18 York. Both are derived from old Motorkits Austins, but so heavily modified as to be virtually unrecognisable; the evidence is that few collectors realised that the Wolseley Nine came from the Motorkits Hornet! Another possible future release is William Lyons' SS1, derived from the old Western Model. Oh, and for music fans, Pete's heart condition isn't stopping him playing rock and roll.
'Dynamite Live', his group's latest CD is now available as well...
WORLD NEWS
TRAX HOLDEN EJ WAGONThe latest release in Top Gear of Australia's Trax range is a 1:43 diecast Holden EJ Special station wagon from the 1960s. Colours available are Swan River Blue with Atherton Ivory roof, or Atherton Ivory with Turquoise roof, at AUS$36.95 each. The Australian Freecall number for orders is 1800 635 508.
TAMIYA 1:10 radio control plastic kit from Japan: Volkswagen Beetle 1967, the export version with double bumpers and the new headlights with vertical diffusers, as required by the US Federal Ministry of Transportation. This item and and many other electronic and other gadgets are available from Conrad Electronics; Klaus Conrad Strasse 1; D-92240 Hirschau, Germany. Tel 09622 30-0, Fax 09622 30-434, Internet: www.conrad.de. (Notes Hans-Georg Schmitt).
SUN STAR 1:18 FOR 2002
Here are the plans for the Sun Star diecast range for this year, made in China (this news via Momaco of France), all 1:18 scale:
Horch 855 1939
Porsche 356A Coupe (Jan)
Checker Cab A11 (Jan)
De Lorean LK (Jan)
De Lorean Back to the Future (Jan)
Datsun 240Z Coupe (Jan)
Mercedes-Benz 350SL cabrio closed (Mar)
Mercedes-Benz E320 2001 (Mar)
Ford Galaxie 500 1963 hardtop or open (Mar)
Mercury Cougar 1968 (Mar)
Chevrolet Bel Air convertible open (Mar)
Pontiac GTO Tiger (Mar)
Chevrolet Camaro Police white or black (Mar)
Mercedes-Benz 220SE cabriolet open 1955 (Mar)
Triumph GT6 Mk III (May)
Ford F100 C10 stepside pickup (May)
Ford Mustang Mach I 1971 Ram Air (May)
Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman 1966 (July)
Mercedes-Benz 600 Landaulet 1966 (July)
Mercedes-Benz 220SE Coupe 1955 (July)
Ford Mustang Boss 1971 (July)Also, in 1:43 scale Sun Star will reissue the military vehicles previously in the Victoria range made by the Vitesse Group.
NEWS FROM EBBRO
Ebbro of Japan have various new diecast models in their forward plans, including a 1:20 Toyota 2000 GT, plus these 1:43 models:
Dome LM 2001 test and race cars
Nissan Sunny pickup
Toyota Crown RS Police
Honda Jazz 2002
Datsun 240Z MC 71
Nissan Bluebird 555 1967
Honda Mugen Stream iS
Prince Skyline GT-B 1965
Nissan Skyline GTR KPGC 1972SWISS-MINI MODELS
Swiss-Mini is a range of 1:43 resin models from Switzerland, which has these models planned for future release:
Opel Diplomat A Karmann cabriolet (February)
Opel Diplomat A cabrio-limousine (March)
Borgward H1500 RS LM 53 no 41 (June)
Borgward H1500 RS LM 53 no 42 (June)
Mercedes Steyr Puch (June)MAISTO 1:18 diecast in China:
536622 Porsche Carrera GT, metallic grey. Highly detailed with many separate components. The doors, front luggage lid, rear bonnet, steering and suspension all operate. The doors open correctly, so Maisto's engineers can learn. The interior is well detailed, as is the V10 5.5 litre 558hp engine behind it. The car has a maximum speed of 330 km/h and an estimated price of. 367,500 Euros, when production starts in 2003. Beside the model's engine is a tool kit. With these the driver can while away the time after a breakdown, whilst waiting for the Porsche Service Mobile. The front luggage space can just take the essentials for a weekend, but Carrera GT buyers can afford to buy a new outfit every week. For Maisto stockist details, ask German distributor Heinrich Bauer, Hans-Bunte-Strasse 2, D-90431 Nürnberg, Germany. Tel 0911 32452-0; Fax: 0911 13245240; email: info@bauer-spielwaren.de. (Notes Schmitt).
1:43 SPARK MODELS
It's time to catch up on the range of Spark Models, resin (or plastic?) handfinished 1:43 sports-racers retailing at around £30.00 each.
Courage C52: six versions, including LM01 #19
Reynard 2TQ: five versions, all from LM 00.
Lola T98/10: four versions from LM 99
Lola B2K: three versions from LM 00 and LM 01
Riley & Scott: LM 98, Atlanta 99, Daytona 99.
Nissan C52: new model, LM 99 no 21.
Cadillac DAMS Motorola: two versions LM 00.
Cadillac North Star LMP: two versions LM 01.SECOND ARGUS ON TAXIS
Argus de la Miniature 213 is mostly taken up by the second part of the coverage of 1:43 Taxis of the World, covering current productions and old toys. Available from SAFAM, Argus Miniature 213, BP40, F78231 Le Pecq Cedex, France. The cost is 10.20 euros in France, 10.70 euros in the rest of Europe.
IGRA 1:87 MODELS
Here are some recent 1:87 plastic models from Igra of the Czech Republic:
888 Avia A31 T-UNSAA box van, red and white
889 Avia A31 T-K HM 15 dustcart, red body
890 Avia A60 tilt Danzas.
891 Tatra 138 C 12 tanker NVA, military olive
892 Tatra 148 118 PAH cement lorry, blue - grey
895 Tatra 815 Fire Service Hoyerwerda
896 Tatra 815 Fire Service DresdenBIZARRE RECORD CARS
A new range of fully-finished 1:43 record car models are made in China by Bizarre, starting with these two subjects, We think the retail price in the UK is likely to be around £40.00 each, subject to confirmation:
Blue Flame, Gary Gabelich
Budweiser Rocket, Stan BarrettANSON 1:18 diecast from China:
Audi 100S Coupe 1970., first shown in 1968, built at the ex-NSU plant in Neckarsulm. In September 1973 it had a minor front end facelift and in August 1976 production ceased after 30,687 coupes had been built. Anson's body is quite well shaped, but some dimensions are up to 40mm different from the real car, maybe excusable in the absence of CAD data, an unknown technique in 1968. The interior is nice, but the speedometer and rev-counter could be better. Bonnet, doors and boot lid all open, and the steering works. The engine looks realistic, but decals and some colour detailing to the oil filler cap and a type plate would improve matters. The boot and spare-wheel are well finished, and the baseplate is detailed, showing powertrain, suspension and exhaust system. The German number plates look odd, with a second hyphen between letters and numbers, and the TUV and licensing stickers are missing. Colours are: 30402/1 in white and under Art.-No. 30402/2 in orange For stockist details contact German distributor JMV GmbH, Wilder-muthstrasse 88; D-80993 München, Germany. Tel 089 148866-20; Fax 148866-77 email: JMV-GMBH@T-Online.de. (Notes Hans-Georg Schmitt).
J-COLLECTION UPDATE
By Scott WhittemoreHere is a little more information on the J-Collection series of 1:43 scale cars by Kyosho:
These cars are made in right hand drive form, for the Japanese market, though presumably the UK importer of Kyosho could order them:
Toyota Celsior (Japanese version of Lexus 400)
Toyota Arista V300 Vortex (Japanese version of the Lexus 400)
Toyota RAV4 five door JX
Nissan Stage Wagon
Nissan Fairlady Z
Nissan Primera (the lhd version is described as the New Primera)
There will be right hand drive versions of the Toyota Corolla models made as well.
You can see their website on www.jcollection-models.com The models are coded Eur for Europe (lhd) and Jap for Japan (rhd)(Editor's note: this is a bit of a turn-off for UK collectors, as the versions sold in Britain, such as the Lexus, are available in lhd-only variants, whereas to get a rhd version you have to buy the Japanese-market badged version, such as the Toyota Celsior, not sold here).
Copyright Modelauto Ltd
e-mail mar@zeteo.com
