February 2001
WELCOME BACK!
Welcome back! I hope you had a good festive season. We have news of 2001 releases this time, and there will be more in the next few issues. I invite more news of future plans from anyone who has any to offer. We also have quite a good stock of feature articles for future issues, but we can always use more. How about one on the Oldsmobile story?
ASH-CANS AND THE MINI
The magazine cover from 1952 pictured in the print version of MAR 149 shows two GIs in their Jeep poking fun at what they call an 'ash-can' on a Kent garage forecourt. A contemporary car is in the background, showing how archaic this flatnose Morris must have seemed, yet it was only just over 20 years old at the time, and in reality it represented only 15 years of auto develop-ment, considering the lost War years. Today, a 20 year old car would have been built in 1981, and doesn't differ much in proportions and appearance from this year's model. In the mid-1950s, toy and model firms harked back to the vintage era (1919-30) which only finished a quarter of a century earlier. The equivalent era for today's toy companies would be the mid 1960s to the mid 1970s, and indeed this is the central period for current 'classic' model car subjects. The difference is that most cars from that era are not derided as 'ashcans' or 'old crocks', but are nostalgic icons. Such firms as Vanguards and Vitesse thus cover the 'correct' period with current and recent issues. So why do I bring it up? Because someone recently told me that a Mini could not be a 'classic' model subject as it has only just ceased production. We all know about the hammer that lasted for 50 years 'with only two new heads and three new handles', and a 1999 Mini shared little, if anything, with its 1959 progenitor. But the 1959 basic design was introduced over 40 years ago, and its longevity is a tribute to its qualities, rather than some kind of contradiction to its classic status. Those cars which did not remain in production for 40 years and yet are still regarded as 'classics' may actually have less claim to that title.
'BORING' BUT NOT 'BAD'
On a related topic, I was recently asked what I have against the Hillman Avenger. Nothing really, I just use the name of that car as a shorthand to personify 'boring' car subjects which rarely interest toy and model makers. There is nothing wrong with boring cars. Boring does not equal bad. I've owned nice cars, nasty cars, boring cars and supposed classics. The two 'worst' in my experience are both regarded as classics. They both had terrible build quality and dangerous driving characteristics, but neither was boring. They were the MGB GT and the Citroen 2CV. The best? BMW, Audis and Jaguars, plus a delightful little Fiat 500. The most boring? Volvos and Vauxhalls. All the others left little trace in the memory. Actually, the Audis also fall into the 'boring' category, but they were so reliable and so nice to drive, that I forget how uncharismatic they were, and how rust-prone. The car-dealer friend who took our last Audi away left it on his forecourt over-night and was embarrassed the next morning to find all the local motor-traders laughing at it; the only time they had seen rust holes in a roof. Since then 'rotting classics' have been banned round here. It is interesting to note how my 'best' cars fared with model makers. There is now a 1:43 diecast model of a BMW 2002, but no Series I-II-III Jaguar or Daimler XJs, or XJ40s, and, you won't be surprised to learn, none of the 'boring' 1969 Audi 100LS. Case proven regarding boring cars? I have just realised that the combined ages of our two remaining cars add up to over 20 years. I'll have to ensure I don't become the object of scorn from visiting Americans.
2001: A DATE ODDITY
Reader Gerald Watkins points out that, as well as celebrating the beginning of the new millennium this year (not last year) it is called twenty-01, (like 1901), not aping the title of a 'dull and over-rated film'. Discuss.
St PETERSBURG NEWS
By Leonid Khoykhin
Latest St Petersburg Tram Collection news:
After a delay, a new British bus model is ready, a Crosville Bristol L5G with ECW body (229). The first Bristol post-war single decker bus and coach chassis was the L, introduced in 1946 as an updated version of a 1937 model. Bristol and its long-time bodywork partner Eastern Coach Works (or ECW) were both nationalised and Bristol buses were available only for state-owned companies from 1948 to 1965. Chassis 79093 with a 7.0 Iitre Gardner 5LW engine was built in 1949 and bodied by ECW early in 1950. Its service life began in March 1950 with Crosville and continued until 1970, when it was preserved. This model available exclusively from David Burton, 53 New Church Road, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire, TF1 lJX. Baltimore Transit Co Pullman-Standard PCC (150) is also ready. Pullman-Standard began construction of PCC cars with an order for 40 from Baltimore Transit Co, delivered early in May 1939 and numbered 7023-7033 (with GE equipment) and 7306-7334 (with Westing-house equipment). They were assigned to the 8 Towson-Catonsville line. In 1940 a large modernisation programme was announced by BTC and between 1940 and 1942 133 PCCs were acquired from Pullman, 7034-7097 (GE) and 7335-7403 (WH). In 1945 National City Lines acquired Baltimore Transit and in June 1955 the plan for all-bus conversion was announced. Streetcar services ended in November 1963. Contact St Petersburg Tram Collection PO Box. No 16, 196158 St Petersburg, Russia.
Fax: +7 (812) 164 5254
Web: http://www.sptc.spb.ruPATHFINDER HB VIVA
Jeff Sharrock of Pathfinder Models tells us that, after due consideration, it has been decided that the forthcoming Vauxhall Viva will be the HB, not the HA. For those who don't know their Vivology, the HA was the first Viva, rather rectangular in outline, with similar edge detailing to the Victor FC (101-Transcontinental style). The front end of this car continued much longer than the saloon, in the form of the HA van. When the first Spanish-built Nova was introduced many years later, it echoed some HA features, and was promptly christened the Viva España.
The HB Viva was the 'coke-bottle' shaped car, curvier than the HA, with the current GM swelling midline also featured on the FD Victor. As well as the saloon car, there was an HBW three door estate car made.
To complete the story, the last Viva was the HC, which broadly resembled the HB, but had a straightened waistline, and was slightly bigger all round. A model of the HC would offer more opportunities for variants, with estate and coupe versions, including Firenzas with conventional and 'droop snoot' front ends, Magnums and even convertibles made by outside converters. So, if anyone is looking for a 1970s subject, the HC Viva would be a contender (presumably just behind the Hillman Avenger in the queue).RUSSIAN TRUCK NEWS
By Alexander Yurcenko
During the last year only Elecon has pleased us by releasing new versions of its models. The modern KAMAZ-4326 4x4 military truck is basically the same as the well-known model of the KAMAZ-4310 (6x6), but with a single rear axle. This model has steerable front wheels. (See picture on page 7673). All versions of the model KAMAZ-4310 are produced with two versions of the front axle: with non-steering or steering wheels. In the version with steering wheels in most cases the front wheels are not parallel with one another. The reason is due to the steering link, a formed wire of rather complex shape. This problem can easily be eliminated, it is only necessary to bend the link slightly. After two or three attempts the front wheels are set more or less parallel. Mass-production does not lend itself to such minute adjustments.NEW VARIANTS OF THE URAL 4320.
The basic model represents the Ural 4320 (6x6), the 1977 version with V-8 KAMAZ diesel engine. At that time it there was an advanced diesel engine made in the USSR, and a large modern plant to produce these diesel engines (making more than a million annually) was specially built, not only for the KAMAZ trucks, but also ZIL and Ural. The Ural 4320 was produced practically unchanged until 1993, when delivery of the engines ceased. A large fire practically virtually wiped out the entire engine factory. It became necessary to search urgently for a replacement diesel engine. After testing several mass-produced engines, the one selected was the YaMZ V-6 diesel engine. These motors had been made since the early 1960s with few major changes, and were used on MAZ trucks. Fitting this engine under the existing bonnet cowl meant there was no room for an air cleaner, so it was fitted on the right front wing. This odd detail gives the truck a unique appearance. ELECON issued the Ural 4320 in 1996, but the model represented the truck as built from 1977 onwards, probably as the drawings for the model were done in 1988 and not updated. In 2000 Elecon issued two new models simultaneously of dump trucks on the Ural - 5557 (6x6) chassis (see the two photographs on page 7656). It is difficult to differentiate the original Ural 5557 from the Ural 4320. All principal chassis dimensions are completely identical and the only external differences are the tyres (smaller diameter and wider) and the wheel hubs. In these models all external changes have taken place with the Ural trucks. On the front right wing there is the barrel of an air cleaner. Under the bonnet cowl the air cleaner on the Ural 4320 is replaced by a mockup of a nipple going to an air cleaner on the wing. The driving mirrors are of the new shape. The Ural 5557-10 Dump Truck is of a standard type with tipping scow-ended body. It has a black rectangular fuel tank. The Ural 55571-10 is a so-called agricultural dump truck. A fuel tank and additional oil tank are arranged, as on the original truck, on two sides of the frame.
It required new parts. On the model the platform tips three ways, on a single spring, the side or tail flaps dropping open. Until the release of these new models Elecon had not so carefully developed the next variants of the base models. This time it was probably done because these model dump trucks were ordered by the UralAZ plant, and, probably the changes were demanded by the makers for these models. The first batch of these models went to UralAZ, and only a few months later these models appeared on our market in Russia. And last we come to the latest version of the model Ural 4320, the 4x4 modern military truck, the Ural 43206. This is built on the chassis of the Ural 4320, but with single rear axle, and with some changes to the exterior, as introduced on the models of the dump trucks (ie with external air cleaner, new mirrors, wheels and tyres). A military 4x4 Ural-43206 is pictured on page 7673. On the forward wings these dump trucks had on the underside Ural 55571, though their exterior has not changed at all. Probably, that change was made at the request of a UralAZ, as well. Later this suspicion was confirmed, since now all models have also the old wings with Ural 4320 markings, with the drilled hole for an air cleaner and now Ural 55571.BOOK REVIEWS
By Hans-Georg Schmitt
Modelle: Form, Spiel, Kult Mercedes-Benz, from Kunsthalle Tübingen, published by Hatje Cantz Verlag. 269 pages, 285 colour photos. Size 175 x 245 mm. Hardbound. Available from Kunsthalle Tübingen, Phil-osophenweg 76; D-72076 Tübingen, Germany. Tel: 07071/9691-0, Fax: 07071/9691-33 In December 2000 the centenary of the Mercedes brand was celebrated by Daimler-Chrysler. The name originated with Mercédès, eldest daughter of consul Emil Jellinek, who in 1900 bought his first 36 cars from the Daimler company on condition that the the cars bore her name in his distribution areas of Austria-Hungary, France, Belgium and North America. Thus the Mercedes brand was born, and the first model cars appeared soon after. This was reason enough to show the history of miniature cars with an exhibition featuring probably the best known car make of all, Mercedes-Benz. The exhibition in the Kunsthalle Tübingen (arts hall) began with development of the model car from an only vaguely recognisable tin toy to accurate models. At the entrance was a real rarity, a Vis à Vis from l900, one of the first Daimler model cars made (see the front cover of MAR 149, where we think it may be a Peugeot). Another rare model, the streamlined 500K Autobahn Kurier from 1938 showed the style of its era. Even more accurate was the amazingly realistic 220a Pontoon saloon from 1957. There was a selection of design models from Daimler-Chrysler including a 1:1 model of the C-111 and 1:5 models of the S-class. A group of themed collections included 300SL models, scratchbuilt fire appliances, rarities and curiosities, on loan from collections dedicated to Mercedes. A separate room displayed pedal cars of all ages and the final area showed 'perfectionist', models, each made with an incredible amount of time and patience, mostly made from original materials. The exhibition was developed with co-operation of DaimlerChrysler Classic and the Institute for cultural exchange of Tübingen. It ran from 18 November 2000 to 21 January 2001, and is now closed, but the excellent catalogue, showing most exhibits, is still available.
Ford bewegt (Ford moves), var. authors, German text. 160 pages, 95 colour, 125 b/w photos. 245 x 305 mm, hardbound with dust cover. First edition. ISBN 3-7688-1239-l. Pub Delius, Klasing & Co KG, Bielefeld, Germany. Available initially via Ford dealers or direct from Ford Werke AG, Offentlichkeits-arbeit; Henry-Ford-Strasse 1; D-50725 Koln, Germany. Ford have been in Germany for 75 years, 30 models and 30 million vehicles on the road since the first assembly of Ford Ts in a hall near Berlin's west harbour. Henry Ford laid the foundation stone on the bank of the river Rhine in Cologne on 2 October 1930, so Ford cars could be made in large quantities. Some of them were milestones, not only in Ford history, but also in the auto industry, such as offering ABS in mass production cars. Some had nicknames, like hunchback Taunus and dog bone 1968 Escort, still common today. The legendary Capri, the avant garde first Sierra, Europe's most successful small car, the Fiesta, and the current best-selling Focus, all synonyms for Ford in Europe. In recent years, their market share has fallen, so the new Ford Mondeo 2000 has to be a success. Now for the 75th anniversary a well-known team of auto authors have written the story of the German make for the PR department of Ford Cologne. An interesting story, and the excellent photos will be useful for model car collectors to improve their Ford models.
RENAULT by Jean-Pierre Rioux. Preface in French and English, captions in French. 632 pages, 597 photos, 145 x 195 mm. Paper-bound. ISBN 2 85025 600 5. Available from Renault dealers as ref 7701378-233.
The adventure began on 24 December 1898, when young Louis Renault drove the prototype of his first car up a steep Parisian street, securing his first 12 orders. The Societé Renault Freres (Renault Brothers Company) was subsequently founded in 1899 and continued to grow rapidly. From that Christmas Eve in 1898 up to the present, the book shows the troubled history of the company in around 600 photographs, selected from the company archive. They include the 'Marne' taxi from 1914, the building of the FT17 tank in 1917, the 4CV, Formula One racing cars, recent prototypes, the creation of the first mechanical assembly line in 1922, the 1936 strike, the 1944 imprisonment of Louis Renault, accused of assisting the enemy, the nationalisation of the company in 1945, the strikes of May 1968 and the return of Renault to the private sector in 1994. The book shows, that Renault is not just an auto manufacturer. It is also one of the most important players in French industrial history, whose past is inseparable from the economic, political, and social history of twentieth century France. Due to the the exceptional photos, this picture history of Renault will be enjoyed by car fans and historians.
Note: Many dozens of books have been published on Renault down the years, and this new one will update many libraries. A previous pictorial history is the beautiful Renault 1898-1966 by Yves Richard (published 1966) which included colour plates and many rare photos, and the most comprehensive history is Toutes Les Renault by Serge Bellu (1979) with its profiles of every Renault type, prototypes etc. The best read, however, is still Renault by Saint-Loup (1950), as good as any novel, packed with personal stories of the real people involved in the first half century of a concern which has since become just another mega-corporation. Ed.Deutsche Polizeifahrzeuge 1945 bis heute (German Police-vehicles 1945 to today) by Frank Schwede, German text. 317 pages, 240 colour, 200 b/w photos. 175 x 245 mm, hardbound, ISBN 3-613-02080-7. Published by and available from Motorbuch-Verlag, Paul Pietsch Verlage GmbH & Co, Olgastrasse 86; D-70180 Stuttgart, Germany. Tel: 0711 21080-O, Fax: 0711 2360415.
8 May 1945 was the low point for Germany and also for its Police and their equipment. Only a few damaged army vehicles survived the war, plus some motorcycles. It was a big task to re-equip the Police in four different occupied zones and in Berlin's four sectors. Along the way came radio and closed cars, which have more weather protection than open touring cars, like the Mercedes Offener Tourenwagen Polizei used before. Also many new vehicles were needed so a wide range of transport units came into service, from scenes of crime equipment vehicles to horse-transporters, amphibious vehicles and helicopters. The author has done a hard job well, collecting photos and facts on police vehicles in the whole of Germany including vehicles used by the National People's Police of the former DDR, special purpose vehicles, river police and police helicopters. The book will be very useful for police model collectors all over the world, to scratchbuild or modify their models.Feuerwehrfahrzeuge in der Schweiz (Fire-appliances in Switzerland) by Klaus Fischer, German text, 160 pages,104 colour, 213 b/w photos, 175 x 245 mm, hardbound. ISBN 3-341-01250-8. Published by and available from Verlag Technik HUSS-Medien GmbH, D-10400 Berlin, Germany. Tel: 030 42151-202 Fax: 42151-468
Fire appliances are very popular all over the world. This book is comprehensive in words and pictures, over 300 illustrations, technical data and measured drawings of Swiss fire engines from the beginning of motorisation to the latest creations at the turn of the century. Coverage includes small vehicles with 300 litre tanks up to a gigantic four axle industrial fireappliance. At the same time the author gives an insight into the company history of such traditional Swiss truck producers as Berna, Saurer and FBW. Typical of many Swiss fire engines in many cases is that the base vehicles were American cars or trucks, so interesting vehicles were in use for fire fighting in Switzerland. The book is a treasure chest for model-builders, fans of fire engines and for all friends of fire brigades.Ferrari: Alle Serien und Rennfahrzeuge (all series and racing cars) 1947 to date). By Peter Braun, Dr Wolfgang Horner, Gregor Schulz, Klaus Kleophas, Andreas Dziedzic, Henry T Kistler and Bertil Majer, German text, 374 pages, c. 750 (mostly colour) photos, 210 x 295 mm, laminated hardbound, ISBN 3-89365-839-4. Pub by and available from Heel Verlag GmbH, Gut Pottscheidt, D-53639 Konigs-winter, Germany. Tel: 02223 9230-15
Many books have been written about the myth of Ferrari, but most are expensive and out of reach. Now for all Ferraristi here is a cheaper book on the history of the marque, plus text and pictures describing most F1, sports racers and road cars. The authors have collected a vast amount of data to make a comprehensive Ferrari encyclopedia. There are more than 700 photos, , most of them specially taken, technical and production data, so this volume is an indispensable reference book which should not be absent from any automobile book collection.ARGUS de la POSTE
The latest Argus de la Miniature is devoted to French Postal vehicle models. This issue also includes the annual lists of model car shops, clubs, events etc. Order from; Argus de la Miniature 206, BP 40, F78231 Le Pecq Cedex France, cost is 67FF (Europe 70FF) inc p&p.
CLUB NEWS
CORGI 1:50 diecast in China for UK: The series for this year which includes another feature (Leyland clocks for 2000) will be famous British truckstops and transport cafes. Seen here is the famous Jungle Cafe, to be released in June with an Albion Reiver lorry.
A Smith Auto Models via Transport of Delight. 1:48 handbuilt or kit from UK: Scania 112M and Leyland DAF 65 skip trucks in the similar but different shades of orange of Biffa Waste Services and Hales. (Photo Brian Salter).
A SMITH AUTO MODELS via Transport of Delight 1:48 handbuilt in UK: Leyland DAF 95 brick carrier. (Photo Brian Salter). Rietze 1:87 plastic from Germany: left to right: 30624 Ford Transit hitop van De Lijn, Belgium, white, 30603 Ford Transit van Phoenix Tag, Denmark, and 30604 Ford Transit crewbus of DSB service, Denmark. (Photo right, Schmitt). AWM 1:87 plastic from Germany: 71225 Scania 4 series close coupled curtainside drawbar unit, Van Dijk, Oploo, Netherlands. (Photo Schmitt).
AWM 1:87 plastic from Germany: 70971 Volvo FH, artic tipper silo Nedlloyd. (Photo right, Schmitt).
Club Autos Miniatures Peugeot: To mark its 5th anniversary in September 2000, CAMP produced 150 of a special 1:43 model for members, a 504 double cab pickup as built in China by Peugeot (above). The model is made by Francois Debast of Double File. The 2001 model will be a 1:43 Peugeot 306 HDI 'shoot-ing break', made by ACM43 (above centre). Other specials include a 505 Cabriolet, as in Peugeot's Sochaux Museum, made by Mini Racing and available from February, and a Touareg concept car from the 1998 Paris Show, for October 2001. Annual membership of CAMP costs 275.50FF. Alain Bureaux holds the office of Président, and he can be reached at CAMP, BP 01, 75116 Paris Cedex 16, France.
The British 1:87 Scale Society: This society has been established for a number of years, publishing a quarterly journal Satellite 1:87. Current aims to persuade makers to make HO British model vehicle subjects begin with a commission from Herpa for an Omega UK Police car. If you are interested in the Omega, contact Richard Sweetman, 46 Heron Road, Kelvedon, Colchester, Essex CO5 9PA, email Richard.Sweetman@nationwideisp.net. For membership info: Mick Scarrow, 260 Bristnal-hall Road, Oldbury, West Midlands B68 9NF.
Brooklin Collectors Club: The 2001 BCC club model will be a special Brooklin 1948 Oldsmobile convertible in pale blue, as owned by the American pianist Hoagy Carmichael, composer of many famous songs, including 'Stardust'. There will be a Hoagy figure with the car, made by Omen Miniatures. Only two models per member can be ordered, by 27 February at the latest. If you'd like to join the BCC, and get and all the other club benefits, contact John Bowyer, 57 Gloucester Road, Bagshot, Surrey GU19 5LT.
Maidenhead Static Model Club: A special Christmas treat for Club members was the new model, donated to each Club member, a Lansdowne Austin Westminster, in white with a blue flash (shown at left). For info on the Windsor Toy Fair see MSMC's website (which includes a map showing the Montem Sports Centre, Slough) at http://welcome.to/msmc, or ring Gary on 023 8078 4484.
Enfield & District Vintage Vehicle Society: The Model Collection Section hosts a talk by Mike Driver on 14 February on Jaguar History, illustrated with models and photos. £2.00 admission to non-members, at Whitewebbs Museum, Whitewebbs Road, Enfield. Contact John Harrison on 020 8508 8851.Wessex Model and Toy Collectors: The WMTC is a little upset at their club newsletter being described in another magazine as 'Essex Smalltalk'. It must be the white high heeled shoes worn by the committee that caused the confusion. Not only can members look forward to a Lansdowne club model this year, but they get a free 2001 diary as well. What a generous club! In Wessex Smalltalk, Barry Lloyd listed his Pet Hates recently, including personal number plates, golfers, taxi drivers, bank managers, white van men, classic car owners and collectors. Having thus alienated all the WMTC membership, we expect to see the B Lloyd Club (membership: 1) start up soon. If you'd like to join the jolly WMTC band, contact Doug Male on 01380 840356.
Ferrari Model Club: Dominique Lahuec and other FMC members are pleased at the result of the Formula One 2000 season, with Ferrari winning the Constructors' Championship, and Michael Schumacher the World Drivers' champion. The FMC notes that due credit was not always given to Barrichello's supporting role. The latest issue of the FMC magazine pictures member Junichiro Hiramatsu with Schumi, and his wife with Jean Todt and FMC honorary member Carlo Tazzioli. Among other full-size Ferrariana, there is an analysis of the Burago F40 in 1:18 scale. Membership costs 160 DM (Germany), 190 DM (Europe) US$ 115 (elsewhere). Write to Dominique at St Cajetan Strasse 13/53, D-81669 München, Germany.
CARBONE FERRARIS
Ilario Chiera, from France, gives us news of the latest 1:43 Ferraris in his Carbone range. Only 250 are made of each of the handbuilt versions in the Ilario series, and kits are in the Carbone 43 series.
All of these Ferraris are available now:43014 212 Coupe Inter Vignale 52 (0197EL)
43015 206S Dino Competizione 1967 (034)
43016 250 GT Spyder Competizione 1957 Leon Dernier (0663GT)
43017 PS Prototype 1968 PininfarinaAnd in April, Ilario will release:
43018 Studio prototype CR25 Pininfarina 74
CCC LATEST RELEASES
New 1:43 kits and handbuilt models released in late 2000 include the following:
F142 Hotchkiss AM2 cabriolet 1930
F143 Renault VP Le Mans 1953
F144 Rosengart Supertraction cabriolet 1939
F145 Citroen SM prototype 1971
F146 Panhard X84 LM 1950 no 57
F147 Renault 4CV prototype 1942VICTORY 1:43 handbuilt model: Cadillac Series 62 1941 4 door convertible sedan, metallic green
TRANSKIT for Citroen DS: includes decals and photoetched trim items, to upgrade Citroen DS.
Georges Pont of CCC also tells us that his prices will increase in 2001.
LATEST ISSUES FROM ABC
By Laura Brianza
New models from ABC of Italy:ABCK2404 Dino 206 Prototype Paris 65 Ch 0840
ABC112 Alfa Romeo 2500 RAI Giro d'Italia
ABC137R Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 red
ABC137B Alfa Romeo 6C 2500 blackNews From Russia
By Sergei Govorov, Saratov Laboratory
MAGAZINE: From mid-2000 we have a new Russian magazine for 1:43 scale collectors, named in English Model Cars Russia, 2000 published monthly in Moscow, covering new handbuilt models, European models, rare Russian models, some history. Look at http://www.user.cityline.ru/~emc or http://www.RussianScaleModels.com BOOKS: For fire model collectors there is available a new book in the Vehicles in Russia Golden Collection series.
THE COMPLETE HISTORY OF RUSSIAN FIRE ENGINES, 1700-2000, published by Russian Motor Books in Estonia, by Dmitry Gladky. 112 pages.
500+ pictures, English text.
Information about fire vehicles, Soviet fire engines from1917-1941, WWII period, 1945-1965 and modern fire trucks such as aerial ladders, crash, gas-water extinguishing, etc. There is also a new quarterly bulletin from JPS Pozhtechnika who produce the main range of Russian full-size fire engines. Full information about aerial ladders, aerial lifting platforms, tanker-pumpers, rescue vehicles, special fire fighting vehicles and the main technical characteristics are described.News from Saratov Laboratory:
New in our horse-drawn fire collection:SLH07 Russian sledge with fire equipment; barrel, pump and Moscow fire crew, 1895
SLH14 Long Russian sledge called a lineika na konnom hody with St Petersburg fire crew, 1894
SLH15 Set of three hand-operated fire carts with original fire equipment.
All the sledges are really made of wood and are limited to 50 models of each type.
068 Ural-ZiS 355M truck 1958-1965 with tilt and barrels inside.NEW FROM KYOSHO
By Heather Rose, hobbico.com
Latest Kyosho Premium Quality diecast cars include several versions and colours of Nissans and Datsuns, in 1:18 and 1:43 scale:1:18 Scale
KYOV0121 Toyota Supra left hand drive red
KYOV0178 Lancia 037 Rally Martini #5
KYOV0183 Nissan Skyline 2000 GTR blue
KYOV0185 Nissan Fairlady ZL red
KYOV0186 Nissan Fairlady ZL white
KYOV0187 Datsun Fairlady 240Z silver
KYOV0188 Datsun Fairlady 240Z yellow
KYOV0903 BMW 328i Cabriolet silver
KYOV0195 Nissan Fairlady ZL Yellow
KYOV0196 Datsun 240Z Red1:43 Scale
KYOV1130 Nissan Fairlady ZL red
KYOV1131 Nissan Fairlady ZL white
KYOV1132 Datsun 240Z left hand drive silver
KYOV1133 Datsun 240Z left hand drive yellow
KYOV1128 Nissan Fairlady ZL Yellow
KYOV1129 Datsun 240Z LHD Red
SUN STAR FOR 2001
Here is the complete range of Sun Star models, diecast in Macau, including new releases for 2001 (months of release not known).
All are 1:18 scale unless otherwise noted:Aston Martin DB5 1963
Triumph Spitfire Mk IV 1970 open or closed
Jaguar XK140 1955 open or closed
Mercedes-Benz E320 1998-2000 saloon
Mercedes-Benz E320 Polizei
Mercedes-Benz E320 taxi
Mercedes-Benz E320 Feuerwehr
Mercedes-Benz 350SL 1977 open, closed or hardtop
Volkswagen Golf I-Rabbit-GLS-GTi hatchback, open or closed cabriolet
Porsche 356A Coupe 1956
Lancia Delta HF Integrale 16v road or competition
Porsche 911-911GT3-911GT3R road or race
Lincoln stretch limousine 2000
Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman limo or landaulet
Rolls-Royce Phantom VI limousine
TX1 taxi cab 1998, including advertising versions
Checker A11 Cab 1981, New York, Chicago, LA
Ford T Pickup, roof up or down (1:24)
AEC Regent double decker bus (1:24?)
Mitsubishi Pajero LWB 1998
Mitsubishi Montero LWB 1998
Datsun 240Z Coupe 1972
Ford F100 pickup 1965 styleside or custom cab
Chevrolet C10 pickup 1965 styleside
Ford Fairlane Skyliner 1957, roof operates
Ford Galaxie 500 1964 open convertible
Mercury Cougar 1967
Pontiac GTO 1965
Chevrolet Bel Air Sport coupe 1953
Chevrolet Impala 1961 Sport coupe or convertible
Chevrolet Camaro 1982, including Indy Pace Car
Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS2000 incl Indy Pace Cars
Horch 855 Special Roadster 1939
De Lorean LK Coupe 1981 silver, or Amex gold
Chevrolet Bel Air open convertible 1955 (1:43)
Buick Special open convertible 1958 (1:43)
Chevrolet Impala open convertible 1959 (1:43)
Cadillac closed convertible 1953 (1:43)
Ford Fairlane Sunliner open convertible 56 (1:43)
Ford Fairlane 2 door sedan 1956 (1:43)
Lincoln limousine 2000 (1:43)
Mercury Cougar 1968 (1:43)
Chevrolet Corvette open 1968 (1:43)
TXI taxi cab (1:43)SCOTT'S PHILOSOPHY
George Maxwell is known to many MAR readers as our stockist in Unionville, Ontario, Canada , and as one of the 'elder statesmen' of the hobby with his Mini Grid business. Since George had a heart attack a few years ago, his racing driver son Scott has taken the helm at Mini Grid. Scott has a refreshing approach, which should ensure continuing growth in the Canadian model car scene. He notes that '...investing or speculating don't seem to be the best or healthiest approach to buying an automotive model. Buy or collect cars you will enjoy, no matter whether the long-term value goes up or down.' We are sure that MAR readers will endorse Scott's sentiments.
NIZHNY NOVGOROD SHOW
Eugene Smirnov tells us that his first model car exhibition, which he organised in Nizhny Novgorod, was a success. Local and national publicity resulted in an average of 250 visitors per day until the exhibition closed at the end of December.
CAROUSEL 1 FOR 2001
New releases planned from Carousel 1 of America. All 1:18 diecast in China:
McLaren M16 Indy 500 winner 1974 'McLaren'
McLaren M16 Indy 500 1974 'Carling'
McLaren M16 Indy 500 1975 'Gatorade'
AAR-Eagle Indy 500 winner 1975 Jorgensen
AAR-Eagle Indy 500 1973 Sugarpipe Prune
AAR-Eagle Indy 500 1974 Firestone
AAR-Eagle Indy 500 1972 Mystery
Watson Roadster Indy 500 1964 Bardahl Special
Watson Roadster Indy 500 62 Simonie Vista Spl
Watson Roadster Indy 500 56 John Zink Special
Kurtis Kraft Roadster Indy 500 55 Chapman Spl
Kurtis Kraft Indy 500 53 Fuel Injection Speciall
Corvette L88 Meadowdale SCCA 1969
Corvette L88 Le Mans 1968 Maglioli-Greder
WHAT A MUTT!
By Mike Cazenave, Proto, France
I am very disappointed by Corgi's model of the M151A1 Mutt. They seem to have confused a Second World War Jeep with a Mutt. The 'tools' are too large and not typical fittings. The front wheels are too far apart, and the chassis detail is poor. The length of the 106mm M40 gun is ridiculous. I hope Corgi will take note of criticisms from military enthusiasts and alter their model.MATCHBOX BACK TO 75
Matchbox have reverted to 75 issues in their 2001 collection, form 100, so we can now once again call it the 1-75 series. There are 33 new models for this year, and the whole series gets one of three new wheel types with a 'more contemporary look' and with 'rolling distance' increased by as much as 50%. You'll have to ensure your shelves are exactly horizontal. US retail price is around $1.00 per model, in new packaging, to suit Mattel's new image for the Matchbox brand.
MORE PARTWORKS
As it appears that Del Prado's auto part-publication including 'free' model cars is drawing towards its end, they have launched a new publication which includes a free model soldier with each copy. For French-speaking countries only, there is also a new partwork called Camions d'Antan (Trucks of Yesteryear), with which commercial vehicles by Corgi, Lledo and Vanguards are included.
CORVETTE WAGON
By Rene Tanner
New Corvette models from Chevy and Corvette Parts of Switzerland, 1:43 scale, hand-built only. In the mid-1970s John Greenwood, better known for his racing career, produced a Corvette Wagon, basically a Coupe or T-Top model which was transformed into a station wagon. Later ACI (American Customs Industry) of Sylvania, Ohio, USA, took over production of these Corvette conversions. Today they are really hard to come by and sought after by collectors. Our 1:43 model is available in two versions, the first orange with chequered side emblems. This car is still running in Germany. The other is a 'customer version' in which the collector decides which colour he wants, as long as it is a genuine Corvette colour of the period, retail price fro either version SwFr299.00. In September 1999 Chevrolet for the first time ran its super sleek C5 Coupe as Pace Car for the Petit Le Mans race at Road Atlanta. Previously it had been shown at Daytona and Le Mans, but as a hardtop. Subsequently this Corvette Pace Car was used in other ALMS races in the 1999 season, and re-ran at Rolex 24 at Daytona 2000 in a different colour scheme. Model retail price SwFr310.00. More info from: Chevy & Corvette Parts, Hintermatthof 1, CH-5452 Oberrohrdorf, Switzerland.PE43 GOLIATH 700
Pierre Steigrad says 'Our next PE43 models will be more 1:43 scale models from the Borgward group'. They are both Goliaths:
GP 700 convertible 1952 (spring)
GP 700 Sport Coupé J Rudy 1951 (Summer)HERPA LATEST RELEASES
Releases for January-February from Herpa of Germany, all 1:87 plastic from Germany:
Mercedes C Class Elegance, blue or metallic green
Opel Coupe 2000, blue or metallic gold
Opel V8 Coupe, DTM version of the above, white
Mercedes-Benz E class facelift saloon Polizei Freiburg
Opel Zafira Taxi, German beige
Mercedes-Benz Binz ambulance Johanniter Giessen
Mercedes-Benz T2 fire ambulance Hamburg
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter box van DBP Euro Express
Mercedes- Actros L artic jumbo tanker Steinkühler
Volvo FH GL artic with 20' container CMA-CGM
Mercedes-Benz Actros L drawbar Offergeld
MAN TG-A LX artic tractor unit
Mercedes-Benz Actros L drawbar Wandt
Mercedes-Benz Actros L mega curtainsider Trucknet
Scania bonnetted artic long dumper Sandmann
MAN F2000 Evo self loading drawbar Henrich
MAN F2000 evo artic lowload Goll
Volvo FH FD artic long dumper
MAN TG-A XXL box artic Braley 2000 (France)
Mercedes Actros L frig artic Schumacher Nürburgring
Volvo FH XL frig artic Jever Pils Beer
Mercedes Actros curtainside artic Hasseröder beer
WANDERER W25K
CMC of Germany give us news of their latest 1:24 model, M/028 Wanderer W25K 1936-38, pictured on the front cover, the last release of 2000. This is the second model in CMC's Audi Tradition series, which began in 2000, to mark the centenary of Audi, with the Horch 853 of 1937. Each vehicle in the series represents one of the four rings of the Audi symbol.
CMC have supplied some brief facts on the history of the Wanderer works: The roots of the company go back to 1885, but the official foundation took place in 1907 in Chemnitz. On 1 January 1932 the automobile section was taken over by Auto Union AG, whichalso included the DKW, Audi and Horch brands. In 1936 Wanderer surprised their supporters with the release of the W25K, a sports car intended to compete with the corresponding BMW model. With its four cylinder engine and supercharger it achieved a performance of 85 hp at 4000 revolutions per minute. By 1938 258 had been sold. The model is hand-assembled from around 380 parts, metal, cloth and leather. The radiator grille is welded by hand, the hood consists of two parts and can be opened, as can the doors. The boot lid can be opened and propped.
There is a detailed engine and dashboard.REVELL 1:24 plastic kit from Germany:
BY Hans-Georg Schmitt
BMW Z8 (07382). The kit contains a one piece body with fine surface details, removable soft-top, detailed interior with dashboard and seats, quite well detailed baseplate and wheels. The surface of the body has flow lines and the interior is moulded only in light grey, so extensive paint is needed to give the model an optimum finish. Apart from the detachable top and turning wheels, there are no moving parts, perhaps too simple for a model of such an exciting sports car.
Copyright 2001 Modelauto Ltd and Solnet Systems Ltd
e-mail mar@zeteo.com
