October 2000
ORIGINAL OMNIBUS CO
Corgi Original Omnibus planned releases for October to December 2000, all 1:76 scale diecast in China for UK:
Bova
Bova Futura National Express Wilts & Dorset Oct
Bova Futura Johnsons Coach Travel November
Bova Futura Flights Coach Travel Ltd November
Bova Futura Forestdale Coaches Ltd December
Classics
Sunbeam S7 3 axle Trolleybus Reading October
Bristol K Utility bus London Transport October
Leyland Victory China Motor Bus October
AEC Reliance-Panorama 1 Yelloway November
Leyland PD3 Queen Mary Southdown November
Guy Arab Utility Bus Derby Corp November
Weymann Trolleybus Brighton Hove & Dist Nov
Daimler CVG6LX- N. Counties A1 Services Dec
Bedford VAL-Panorama 1 Timpson December
Modern Image
MCW Metrobus I dual door London United Oct
Optare Solo Travel West Midlands October
Plaxton Palatine II First Cityline November
MCW Metrobus Mk II Single door Stagecoach East Kent DecemberCORGI OOC FUTURE PLANS
Among future bus subjects planned in Corgi's Original Omnibus Co 1:76 diecast range are four complete new castings. Three of them are the BMMO Midland Red CM5 Motorway coach, a Midland Red double decker bus and an AEC Q double decker bus, for release in 2001. More details in future issues, as Corgi's 2001 plans are finalised.
COLLECTOR'S MODELS
Latest 1: 76 diecast double decker bus models from Collector's Model, made in China for Hong Kong: DA103B Dennis Dragon three axle Bosch (limited edition of 3,000 worldwide) V111B Leyland Victory II Caltex (limited edition of 1,000 worldwide)
ST PETERSBURG NEWS
By Leonid KhoykhinA new PCC streetcar is ready, 1946 Cleveland Transit System Pullman-Standard PCC of the 4200-4249 series. On 25 March 1945 Cleve-land Transit System (CTS) was permitted by the Office of Defense Transportation to order 50 PCCs from Pullman-Standard. Known in Cleveland as Transitliners, the PCCs were delivered in August 1946 and were numbered 4200-4249. They were put in service on Superior Ave and off-peak only on St Clair Ave. These new PCCs carried a streamlined paint scheme designed in 1938 for Cleveland Railway by Raymond Loewy. The service life of Pullman PCCs in Cleveland was short. In 1953 all 50 cars were sold to Toronto. The last PCC to run in Cleveland was 4223, chartered by a group of rail fans in March 1953, before shipment to Canada. Contact St Petersburg Tram Collection, PO Box No 16, 196158 St Petersburg, Russia. Fax: +7 (812) 164 5254. Internet: http://www.sptc.spb.ru
SMALL VELTINS BEER
By Hans-Georg SchmittMany breweries offer a range of accessories for fans of their brand and most of these breweries have discovered the model collector. Veltins are offering a range of beer trucks, one even has remote control, but all of the others are 1:87 scale and all are in Veltins white and green livery with black lettering.
4998 Mercedes-Benz Actros artic truck with remote control, approximate scale 1:25
4987 Mercedes-Benz Atego 18T 3 axle truck by Herpa
4996 Scania 124 refrigerated drawbar by Herpa.
5013 Mercedes-Benz Econic truck by Wiking
4997 VW T1b van in old Veltins livery by Wiking.
5008 Mercedes-Benz Actros drawbar, toy truck in approximately 1:87 scale
13100 Mercedes-Benz Actros artic, Veltins special 175th anniversary design. Toy truck, approx 1:87.
The Veltins Collection 2000 catalogue includes items such as special beer glasses, party equipment, clothes, watches, and all the model trucks listed above. Some are sold out, now available at swapmeets. Contact Brauerei C & A Veltins GmbH & Co, 59872 Meschede-Grevenstein, Germany, or visit the brewery shop, or use the special hot line: Tel: 01805 885666, Fax: 01805 885777NEW TEKNO TRUCKS
New Tekno 1:50 trucks from the Netherlands: Scania R144 L460 Topline maxvol Deij
Scania R114 L-380 Topline Verhoek
Volvo FH 12-380 Globetrotter maxvol Verhoek
Volvo FH 12-380 Globetrotter Verhoek
Daf 95 XF Comfort Cab Heisterkamp
Scania R 114 L-340 Topline Heisterkamp
Scania R124 L400 Sipma
Scania R124 L-400 frig Sipma
Scania R 144 L-530 Topline Cargofloor v d Gaag
Scania R 144 L-530 Topline frig DA van Iterson
Mercedes-Benz Actros L 1840 twin steer Shell
Scania R94 D-310 Schouten Osram
DAF 95 XF-430 Space-Cab Silo H J van Bentum
Scania T124 L-420 tanker Föll (Germany)
Scania R144 L-530 Topline frig Föll (Germany)The new Ford Transit
By Hans-Georg SchmittIn early summer 2000 a totally new Ford Transit was presented to the public, and the new Transit is also available in small scales, in 1:87 scale by Rietze and in 1:43 scale by Minichamps. The minibus and pickup are accurately shaped, the finish excellent and the interior out standing. The baseplate is a surprise. The bottom of the engine and gearbox, suspension, powertrain and exhaust system are very detailed. The Minichamps models are initially available only from Ford dealers in their typical blue boxes.
CALLING Z-VICTOR TWO
The revived Vanguards range from Corgi has been so popular, and includes so many 'classic' and perpetually-selling subjects that it would be a pity if they followed the usual Corgi pattern of planned obsolescence. It is frustrating for a new collector to be told 'Oh yes, there was a model of the car you want, but it isn't available now'. Realising this, Corgi intend to keep one version or colour of each Vanguard car permanently available. Mostly this will be the first-released version with the '00' number. Unfortunately, in the case of the Ford Zephyr Mark III the '00' version is not a civilian road car, but a police car. The civilian cars are in short supply, but we hope Corgi will make one colour of the private cars a 'permanent' issue, rather than the police car. To add to the problem, another Mark III police car is available from Corgi as a Z-Cars television spin-off item, so at present you can buy two Zephyr III police cars, but no civilian versions. As is well-known to MAR readers, the famous 1960s Z-Cars television series began with a Mark II Zephyr, and Corgi have the moulds for this car as well. If they really want to cover the 'Newtown' beat thoroughly, they can produce a different Z-Cars pack. Shown in MAR is the Mark II car in a very cluttered BBC Television Studio. If Corgi need to make other versions of the Mark II to justify its reissue, also shown in the print version of MAR is a little picture of a Netherlands Rijkspolitie Mark II police car from the early 1960s.
CLUB NEWS
Wessex Model and Toy Collectors: Whilst Barry Lloyd continues his efforts to improve the WMTC newsletter, the club is also advancing on the 'special model' front. In previous years the WMTC annual special Brooklin model has helped finance the club, especially as they always produced more models than there were members. This enabled dealer members to buy some for resale. This year's WMTC model will not be a Brookin, but a Lansdowne MG Y type saloon, the first Lansdowne special, as previously Brooklin would not make specials from their 'UK' range. Next year, the WMTC model will be another Lansdowne special, but this time limited to one per member, with no over-run. So if you want the 2001 WMTC special (subject still secret), you'll have to join the club. Contact membership secretary Doug Male on 01225 755043.
Jaguar Model Club: Gary Oxley puts in an immense effort to produce the (now very professional-looking) JMC magazine, so it must be disappointing for him that he only got a third of completed questionnaires returned from members regarding buying model Jaguars through the club 'shop'. Inertia is the biggest problem besetting club organ-isers. It is hard to get input from members, who may appreciate the work put in by Editors, committee members and the like, but who don't feel it necessary to show that appreciation, or to put in any effort them-selves. If you'd like to join the JMC, phone Gary on 01709 372003 or fax 01709 372002.
1/87 Vehicle Club: The Club Newsletter has had a makeover. Nice clear printing on 32 packed pages includees news, reviews, scratchbuilds and chops, all in HO scale. Some of the workmanship is incredibly detailed, and all reviews include star ratings for degree of difficulty and scale accuracy. If you are an HO fan, especially if you like to build kits, you'll find this club essential. Write to them at 102 Plymouth Park S/C #168, Irving, TX 75061, USA.
Club Dinky France: Guy Girod, President of the CDF, updates us on the Club. Ex-Meccano employees have now joined, a useful source of original information, as are the international specialists in Dinky who also belong to the Club. Club benefits include the bilingual Dinky Magazine and the chance to buy special models, four of which will be released in 2001. For more details contact Club Dinky France, BP 5117, 14079 Caen Cedex 5, France.
Coventry Diecast Model Club: As always, the CDMC Newsletter is packed with information and fun. Members reveal that they live in a parallel world to the rest of us. Will Roe describes Marcus Morris, creator of Eagle comic as a Stockport clergyman. We thought it was Birkdale, Southport, near Liverpool. Erik Frederiksen visited a two day toy fair at a little village called Helliwell on the Settle-Carlisle railway line. Everyone else went to Hellifield; no wonder he thought it was quiet. Roy Morris went to the construction show at Ochton (everyone else went to Ochten), then to Donnington two weeks later (rather than Donington), and also to the Military Transport Museum at Brierley (presumably moved from Beverley). We expect a dissection of MAR geographical errors in a future edition of 'Wheelspin', the Newsletter of Daventry Diecast Model Club. For more information on club membership, telephone 024 7630 7700.
Volkswagen Model Club: VWMC supremo James McLachlan asked members for help with his prewar KdF model book project. He published a list of some models where more information was required but, as he says, 'I did not get one single reply!' It seems that members look to the VWMC as a fount of all wisdom, and are so abashed by Jim's expertise that they don't feel able to contribute their own knowledge. Still, happily Jim gets a regular flow of material from contributors to the Club newsletter, which is always packed with information on all VW matters in miniature. It can be quite intimate, too, with pictures of Stephen Hardy's wedding, Fabian Houchangnia''s 40th birthday gift from his wife, and a list members' email addresses. For more information on this band of VW fans, contact Jim at 20 Waverley Park, Redding, Falkirk FK2 9RT, Scotland.
Corgi Little Chef Muppets
Corgi Classics made Muppet models for a UK promotion with restaurant chain Little Chef. Eight characters from Jim Henson's Muppet Show featured in individually-designed vehicles reflecting the personality of each Muppet. The promotion ran from July until the end of September in all 424 restaurants, in Little Chef's peak sales period, the school summer holidays. The promotion required an initial run of more than 700,000 models. Characters from the Muppets featured include Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal, The Great Gonzo, Rizzo and the Swedish Chef. Lisa Thompson of Corgi says, 'Securing a licensing agreement with the Jim Henson Company was a major coup for Corgi. Negotiations were with Henson's London and New York offices, with manufacture in the Far East, so it has been a logistical challenge for everyone. Children got a free model with every £2.99 kid's fun meal at participating restaurants'. Six of the eight models are pictured on our front cover. MAR comic characters contributor Don Elliott will have to make a quick visit to Britain, and adopt some local kids, let them pig out at Little Chef at his expense, then return to Missouri with the latest Muppet Merchandise to complete his collection!
THOROUGHBRED JENSEN
Greg Roberts has news of his Thoroughbred Models series of 1:43 handbuilt models, made in the UK. They are limited to 350 made, 175 of each of two colours. The first issue is a 1973 Jensen-Healey Mark 1 convertible in red or white with black interior. The price is £79.99 inc UK insured p&p. Pay to 'G Roberts Esq', at PO Box 47 Weston Super Mare, North Somerset, BS24 9SA.
CORGI AMERICAN RANGE
July to December 2000 releases planned in Corgi's American-themed Ranges: Texaco Pipeline
55304 Diamond T Ballast, Low Loader with nodding donkey oil rig load October
50102 M151 A1 Mutt Fire Truck + Trailer Nov
50201 M35 A1 2.5 ton Truck December
Freight Past & Present
50704 Mack LJ Semi Mason-Dixon September
53101 Diamont T 520 semi Greyhound VanLines Sept
55802 Kenworth W925 Semi Navajo October
52306 Mack B Series Semi Carolina November
Fire & Emergency
54705 E-One Sidemount Pumper E. Hazel Crest Sept
52404 Mack B Series Pumper Baltic CT October
54706 E-One Sidemount Pumper Washington DC Oct
53801 Mack CF Tower Ladder Allentown PA Nov
54904 E-One 75 foot Ladder Titusville, FL Dec
Unsung Heroes: The Vietnam War
50401 UH-1C Huey Hog Helicopter Gunship Oct
50101 M151 A1 Mutt Utility Truck September
50202 M35 A1 Deuce & a Half 2.5 ton Truck Nov
50301 M48 A3 Patton Main Battle Tank Dec
Guinness
56404 Diamond T 620 Box Van Guinness Sep
Vintage Bus
54307 GM Fishbowl Bus Greyhound NY Fair August
55016 PCC Street Car Public Service New Jersey Sept
53401 MCI 102 DL3 Bus Greyhound Lines Oct
55017 PCC Street Car Johnstown NovemberKENNA LOTUS ESTATE
Pete Kenna tells us that his next 1:43 hand-built model is a Lotus Elan estate. 'I'm not sure if it will be ready in time for Modelex', he says, 'I'm a bit busy right now playing with Dynamite, a rock band which only uses early 1960s equipment and only plays pre-Beatles material. We have a new CD out soon.' On the subject of CDs, zeteo.com can supply copies of the latest CD by MAR contributor Gunnar Bernstrup. And on the subject of music, we can't leave out Bruce Arnold, who has just finished performing live with Hootie and the Blowfish at the time of writing this.
ModeleX 2000
Ray Strutt tells us that all these exhibitors are booked into Modelex 2000. We look forward to seeing you there in October:
ABC Brianza (I)
B &L Models
Brooklin Collectors Club
Brock Miniatures
Spa Croft Models
BTS Mouldings
Chris Heath Models
CMA Moldform Ltd
Compulsion Gallery
Crossway Models
Enco Models
Formula 1
Fire Brigade Models
GB Models
GP Mobilia
Heirlooms Crafts
Hi-Speed Models (S)
lllustra Models
John Alderslade Models
John Roberts Custom-Built Model Cars
K & R Replicas
LaPassione
Lansdowne Collectors Club
Mach One Models
Make Up Co. (J)
MandarinModels
Merrymeet Model Cars
Midas Models
Minimarque 43
Model Garage
Modelauto (and MAR)
Modellautos Budig (D)
Moving Images
MPH Models
NorthernModel Car Club
Omen Miniatures
Pandora Models
Model Supply Company
Pentoy Ltd
Peregrine Models
PMS Design (D)
RAE Models
Replicast Models
RPM Models
Scale Motorsport (USA)
Somerville Models
South Hants Model Auto Club
Southern Cross Min. (Aus)
Spot On
SRC Models
Scale Formula Club
The Showcase Company
Tin Wizard (D)FUTURE SOMERVILLES
Doug McHard has mocked-up some 1:43 models for future Somerville release, Vauxhall Caleche (Australia), Vauxhall H Ten, Hillman Minx saloon, Ford Prefect Ute and Vauxhall Swiss Postal van (maybe in the '500 series'). Possible release dates still to be decided. In the meantime, Somerville are making a series of single-tone Rover P2 six light saloons for Midas and a Velox police car for Crossway.
SCALES AGAIN
We are back on the subject of scales of Dinky Toys, a subject raised by Graeme Watt's expressed opinion that the 1:48 Studebaker tanker was actually 1:60. I refer readers to Geoff Moorhouse's letter on page 278 of MAR 7, way back in 1983. He sent a copy of a Meccano memo Notes re the design of Dinky Toys which gave these scales: Dinky Toys and Supertoys 1/4 inch to 1 foot (1:48)
Army Vehicles 13/64 inch to 1 foot (1:59)
Dublo Dinky Toys 5/32 inch to 1 foot (1:77)
Aeroplanes 1/16 inch to 1 foot (1:192)In the same issue there was discussion as to why Triang chose 1:42 instead of 1:43 for their Spot-On series, this scale being subsequently adopted by Dinky after the Triang takeover of Meccano. The Dinky scale of 1:48 is a 'pure' Armstrong or Imperial scale, and 1:50 is a pure metric scale, but O gauge railways were made to the bastard dual standard of 7mm to one foot. This was due to the progressive miniaturisation of steam railway gauges, 2, 1 and then 0 gauge, which had the rails 1.25 inches apart, giving a scale of 1:44. In order to have a useable model engineering measure, this was re-interpreted as 7mm to one foot, which is actually 1:42.5. So, if Triang engineers were using the 7mm to one foot measure, they were no more inaccurate in describing it as 1:42 scale than all the other makers were who called it 1:43 scale, but their models did look much bigger...
MORE FROM ARGUS
The third issue of Argus de la Miniature on models 'Made in France' is now available. In Argus 204 you can read about Gégé, Clé, BS, Cadum Pax, CEP etc. Contact SAFAM Editions, Argus Miniature no 204, BP 40 F78231 Le Pecq Cedex, France. The price in France is 67F, rest of Europe 70F (about £7.00, $10.00).
GASO.LINE BY PROKIT
By Olivier Saint-lotProkit presents the latest new handbuilt products from Gaso.line.
GAS50834M Hanomag Sd.Kfz. 11
GAS50845M Pz. IV Wirbelwind
GAS50850M Scout car railway Algeria 1960
Prokit is making the new tank carrier from the famous Second World War German BP42 and BP44 armoured trains. This wagon is the first in a series that will make up a complete train, new wagons to be released each quarter. The first is GAS48502M. Next is an A Wagen, an artillery carriage with a 20 mm Flak-vierling 38 quad AAA. The armoured train is O scale and thus fits standard O gauge rails. This is a limited edition is exclusively made to order. Prokit is developing a brand new range of assembled/painted tanks exclusively for Gaso.line brand. The first model is the German Sturmgeschutz III Ausf. D. The main feature of this new range is that it has working Solido tracks fitted to a chassis and hull accurately reproduced by our designers. Limited editions, made to order. The first model is GAS48801M (pre-order)NEWS from Italy
By Bruno BoraccoNow for an update about the magazine that I'm editing here in Italy. Levrotto & Bella stopped the publishing programme, and now we are preparing a new magazine with Giorgio Nada Editore of Milano. More news soon, it will be a high quality product.
PB resin 1:43 built or in kit form, Lancia Lybra Station wagon and the very peculiar Filobus lancia Tubocar made by Casaro (a coach-builder in Torino) some years ago.
CB resin 1:43 minibus Alfa Romeo F12 Polizia, Carabinieri and Ambulance. Land Rover long wheelbase (110) Esercito Italiano truck Fiat 682M (the first series of this famous truck) with two or three axles. Motorcycle in white metal: a Moto Guzzi Falcone with sidecar. GILA Modelli 1:43 resin with metal parts, handbuilt or kit form. Fiat 642 Bisarca, Autoscala Fiat 670, and Fiat 635 RNL bus.
TECNOMODEL: for October release, a new Italian sports car model.
OLD CARS 1:43 scale metal and ABS, a new Iveco truck in the next few months, produced exclusively for Iveco.
PROGETTO-K by the end of September the new mould of the Fiat 850 coupe first series and the Abarth version will be available die-cast in 1:43 scale. Now available is the Fiat 600T minibus 1961 in the Exem range, along with the Asa 1000. In the Progetto K range there is a Alfa Giulia Nuova Super in resin.
HERPA NEW RELEASES
Herpa 1:87 plastic models from August:
BMW 3 Series Cabrio open red or metallic black
Mercedes-Benz C-Class estate Police Baden-Wurttemberg, the first Polizei model moulded in silver for better resale of the used cars.
VW T4 minibus ELW firechief Munich fire service
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, face lift version
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter facelift double cab tilt
Mercedes Actros M double-deck frig artic Tegut
MAN TG-A XXL artic tanker chromium plated
Scania bonnetted tractor 96 artic tanker Foll
Scania bonnetted 96 three axle concrete mixer
Mercedes-Benz Atego box van German Mail
MAN TG-A XXL artic glass truck De Crousaz Vegla
MAN TG-A XL interchangeable tilt drawbar Emons
Mercedes Actros L artic fire command post Cologne
Scania 144 TL frig artic Schumacher Centenary, designed by airbrush artist Peter Litger.
Scania 144 TL frig artic Friedenfels, a brewery in the Fichtelgebirge mountains, north east Bavaria
Brewery Edition:
Mercedes-Benz Atego drawbar Tucher beer
Mercedes-Benz Actros L drawbar Leikeim beer
Hochtief Construction Vehicles, all blue
189859 MAN F2000 5 axle artic concrete mixer
189880 MAN F2000 dump truck (Meiler dumper)
189903 Mercedes Actros S 4 axle concrete-mixer
189910 MAN F2000 Evo 5 axle artic dumper
Among Herpa 1:87 plastic models planned for September-October are the following:
Wartburg 353 1985 Wartburg Service
Wartburg 353 1966 THW
BMW 502 taxi
VW Golf IV Polizei
BMW Alpina B3 cabriolet techno violet
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter minibus, facelift version
MAN TG-A XL artic tractor unit
Ford Taunus bathtub Feuerwehr
Mercedes Sprinter crew cab truck Feuerwehr
Mercedes-Benz Atego LF 16/12 fire appliance
Mercedes-Benz Actros LH Jumbo artic Wiehe
DAF XF SSC curtainside artic Inntaler
Mercedes-Benz Actros L drawbar car transporter Richard Lawson
Mercedes-Benz Actros artic low loader Kübler
Setra S215HD coach THW 50th Anniversary
Scania 124 curtainside drawbar Bach
MAN TG-A XL Jumbo drawbar Centrum (NL)
Mercedes Actros LH roll-off drawbar skip Fritsche
Mercedes-Benz Actros L Jumbo drawbar Detzer
Mercedes Atego municipal snowplough-gritter
Goldhofer Artic load load trailer, no tractor unit
MAN TG-A XXL curtainside artic Bitburger beer
Mercedes-Benz Actros LH artic Diebels beer
Mercedes-Benz Actros LH frig artic Pflüger
Scania 144TL frig artic Wirtz-Lion Star
Scania torpedo artic North Rhine-Westfalia
MAN TG-A XXL artic 950 years of Nürnberg
Motorsport Series 2000
Opel V8 coupe, seven different DTM race liveries
Christmas series 2000
MAN TG-A XXL artic Frohes Fest 2000, black...and three black tractor units (MAN, Mercedes and Scania) each in a clear Christmas tree bauble.
Advent calendar 2000, containing 24 model cars
And finally, for Christmas:
Ferrari F40 yellow 'Merry Christmas' 1:43 scaleASTRA BERTONE COUPE
By Hans-Georg SchmittSince Spring 2000 the Opel-Vauxhall Astra range has included a coupe designed and built by Bertone, in Italy. Betone's cooperation with Opel started in 1985 with development of the Kadett E cabriolet. The front and rear ends look like the Astra saloon, the Opel version has a new grille with revised inner structure, but the Vauxhall coupe has the normal grille, the rest being all-Bertone. The elegant roof-line reminds one of the Calibra, its predecessor. It has a new 2.2 litre 147 hp 16v Ecotec petrol engine. For promotional purposes Opel ordered the coupe in small scale by Minichamps. The body lines have been exactly reproduced and it is painted in original Capri yellow metallic. All emblems are in the right places, all split-lines are accurate and the interior looks like authentic black leather. The steering-wheel is also accurate, but the middle of the dash-board is missing the aluminium coloured insert, a feature of the Bertone interior design. The model is packed in a yellow card box with the Astra Coupe promotion logo. Initially the model is available only from Opel dealers.
The Power of C - Part 2
By Hans-Georg SchmittNow available in small numbers is the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class diecast in 1:43 scale by Schuco. The body is accurately shaped with a graceful photoetched radiator grille and four headlights, melted into two pairs with very narrow gaps between. The model is of the Elegance version in grey metallic with leather-like orion grey interior. Initially available only from Mercedes dealers.
NEW REVELL COLOURS
Latest re-colours in Revell's 1:18 range for Autumn 2000:
Audi TT Roadster chrome finish
Audi TT Coupe silver
Auto Union 1000S red
BMW Isetta with caravan trailer turquoise
Borgward Isabella grey-silverNEW FROM FIRST GEAR
By Terry G LeonardFirst Gear Inc of Peosta, Iowa has two new 1:34 diecast metal trucks to announce: 1953 Kenworth Bullnose tow truck This authentically detailed 8.5 inch long model, pictured above, features a fully detailed interior and undercarriage, hand painted marker lights and door handles, chrome side mirrors, spot lights, beacons with amber or red lenses, pulleys, air horn, exhaust stack and tow hooks; diamond-plate tow bed, heavy duty double boom towing apparatus, and lift bar. Tandem axle end dump trailer This eight inch long model, pictured top right, has a four-stage ram to raise or lower the body, working tail-gate, hand painted tail lights and marker lights, mudflaps, detailed body and chassis. The trailer is available with International KB single axle, International R-Series tandem axle, Mack B series tandem axle, or Mack R series tandem axle tractor units. All First Gear replicas are available for collecting, or as premiums and incentives. For more information, contact First Gear, PO Box 52, 8668 Kapp Drive, Peosta, IA 52068, USA. Phone: (888) 771-5576. Fax: (319) 582-2415. E-mail: ConsumerServices@lst-Gear.com. Website: www.firstgearreplicas.com
RIALTO LATEST NEWS
By Jan MiedemaBy the October there will be two new 1:43 releases in the Rialto range and I have some information on a model already released. See pictures in the centre pages of this issue. Opel Tigra Roadster Prototype 1993 pictured in the centre pages of the June MAR. There is a story behind this car. Opel introduced the Tigra to the press and public in 1993 to see how reactions were. After that Opel decided to produce the Coupe in 1994. But unfortunately the Roadster did not go into production because production costs would be too high. The philosophy of GM-Opel is that every model in the range must be profitable in itself. Opel produced a few driveable prototypes of the Roadster, but we didn't see the Roadster on the streets. It is probably one of the best Opel designs in years, with the 1968 GT. The Rialto Model is available in two original factory colours: Arden blue with beige interior and Cypress green with brownish orange interior, or in kit form. Opel - Chevrolet Corsa B four door sedan 1995. This car is built in Brazil, Mexico and South Africa. In South America the car is sold as a Chevrolet and in other parts of the world as an Opel. Opel does not market this car in Europe. Both Chevrolet and Opel left hand drive versions are available in kit form or handbuilt in white or metallic silver, with black interior. Decals are provided for both versions. For the South African Opel version an right hand drive model is available. A new feature on this model is that both front and rear lights are cast in transparent resin.
Jaguar Mk II Vicarage Drophead 1990. Vicarage specialise in rebuilding and restoring Jaguar cars and they developed and build this exclusive Mk II Drophead. A few years ago Small Wheels made this model in 1:24 scale. It is out of production and very hard to find now. I always wanted to make a Mk II Jaguar model, and so many variations were already available, but not the Vicarage Drophead in 1:43 scale. So I decided to make it. The model is well detailed with white metal chromed parts, photo-etched parts like Borrani wire wheels, pedals, interior mirror and decals. Handbuilt models are available in black, British racing green and bordeaux-metallic, and have a black interior with brown trim. Right hand drive versions only. The model is also available in kit form. The Tigra is already available. The Corsa and the Jaguar will be available from the 1st of October 2000. All models are available from the trade or by direct order. Jan Miedema, Rialto Models, Parkdreef 173, 2724 ET Zoetermeer, Nederland, tel-fax +31 79 331 76 76. e-mail: rialtomod@hetnet.nl Website: http://rialtomod.webjump.com/ And here is some news of other Ople models: Opel Agila: Last June Opel released their new Agila diecast model in 1:43 scale. The Agila is produced by Minichamps and sold by Opel dealers. It is a very nice model in Arden blue metallic and very well made. I could not resist buying one. Astra 2000 Coupe: I have spoken to the employee dealing with model cars at Opel Nederland BV. He told me that the new Astra Coupe by Bertone will soon be available from Minichamps in 1:43 scale at Opel dealers.
CHEAP EUROZONE MODELS?
We heard someone recently comment that diecast models made by companies based in the 'Eurozone' should be much cheaper than they are, due to the fall in the value of the Euro. That would be true if Vitesse, Schuco et al made their models in Europe, as well as being based there. If they did, we'd be seeing some very cheap models indeed. The vast majority of diecast production, however, is in China, and their prices are all in US Dollars. The Euro has fallen more than 25% against the Dollar since it was launched less than two years ago. Thus we should be looking at the value of the Dollar when assessing what most current items cost. These models are 'cheaper' if you are buying in Dollars, but more expensive if your currency is linked to the Euro. The GB Pound has also fallen against the US Dollar, but it has not dropped in value by as much as the Euro has, so prices have also increased in the UK, but relatively they have not increased as much as in the Eurozone countries. All clear now?
ROAD MONSTERS ETC
By Maz WoolleyRegarding the Hongwell-Action Toys-Road Monster models, I am staggered that anyone can make money on these, at 99 pence to £1.49 depending where you come across them. With the level of detail now included they are well above the Bburago class and if the doors did not open they'd be closer to some collector ranges than the price suggests. All of the models described are about 1:43, but some are bigger and I have not included them. There are nice open and closed Porsche 356 models but they are close to 1:38-1:40 .
JOHNNY LIGHTNING 'Lightning Brigade'
by Robin GodwinThe photos are of vehicles in the new Lightning Brigade series. They are all listed under the item number 305-31 on the blister packs, with individual model numbers cast in their baseplates as follows:
065 WWII Willy's (sic) MB Scout Jeep
066 Desert Storm M1A1 Tank
067 WWII GMC 6x6 Truck
068 Desert Storm M998 Cargo Humvee (no number on base, just a different version of the 432-00 Humvee introduced last year)
069 WWII WC 54 Ambulance
070 M-16 Anti-Aircraft Half TrackA seventh model, a limited edition Korean War mobile surgical army hospital bus is available as an on-pack offer only. This is a good news-bad news story. The good news is that these are truly collectable original diecasts with superb details, working fine vinyl plastic tracks, rubber tyres on very detailed wheels (unique to each model too), opening hoods revealing engine detail, and even a folding plastic windscreen on the jeep. Bodies and bases are in metal with excellent paint and tampo finishes. The only criticisms at a glance are a slight inaccuracy to the fender lines on the GMC, and no apparent anti-aircraft hardware on the 'Anti-Aircraft Half Track', there appears to be a standard mortar launcher in the back. Each model comes with a replica unit patch (sticker with peel off backing) mounted on a blister pack. And that leads to the bad news. Despite fidelity for the collectors' market, there is no standard scale. The models have apparently been engineered to fit a standard Johnny Lightning blister pack. So we have an M1 Tank at aboaut 1:100, or even smaller, and a Jeep at about 1:55 to 1:64, with the other models somewhere inbetween. No attempt has been made to confirm to the standard JL scale of 1:64. Some collectors can live with this, others won't be able to. They retail in North America for the equivalent of just under £5.00. Superb value for outstanding miniatures, shame about the scale!
BOOK REVIEWS By Hans-Georg Schmitt
She's a Beauty by Don Loffler, 246 pages, 238 b/w, l27 colour photos, 14 drawings. Paperbound. 201 x 230 mm. ISBN 1-86254-440-9 Published by and available from Wakefield Press, Box 2266, Kent Town, South Australia 5071. The author was nine years old when the Holden was announced in November 1948. He still remembers the excitement that the first all-Australian car caused. Don also remembers when his parents bought their first Holden in 1953, and his envy when his relatives bought an FJ the following year. Don decided to write the history of these first two Holden models when he retired recently from teaching. After long and intensive research, he shows the development based on US design studies, from the first drawings through clay models up to prototype and pre-production assembly. Also described are the performance tests done in the USA, the first promotions and customer reactions. The life of the first prototypes is meticulously recorded. Many early photos show the phases of development and the changes during production. There are also reprints of the first sales brochures, showing the cars in colour. Also covered are van versions and pickups (utes). This book will be very helpful for collectors of Australian model cars, made by Micro Models or Trax, for example.
Sonderkarosserien aus Deutschland Karosserie Hebmüller - Qualitat und Eleganz von 1889 bis 1952 (Special bodies from Germany Karosserie Hebmüller Quality and Elegance from 1889 to 1952) by Dieter Gunther and Walter Wolf, Foreword by Klaus Hebmüller, German text. 112 pages; 242 photos, 175 x 245 mm, hardboound with dust jacket. ISBN 3-9805832-5-2. Published by Autovision-Verlag, Gunther & Co, City of Hamburg. Gudrunstrasse 44; D-22559 Hamburg, Germany. Tel 040l810327 Automobile enthusiasts who hear the name Hebmüller always think first of Hebmüller's VW Beetle 2+2 cabriolet, which appeared some years before the Karmann cabrio, and which became a legend. But beginning with horse-drawn carriages and delivery wagons in 1889, large quantities of car and commercial vehicle bodies left the Hebmüller plant up to 1952, when the company became bankrupt. The planned reconstruction after a disastrous fire turned out to be too expensive. In over 60 years special bodies were developed and built for all the main German and European car makers. During the Second World War army vehicles were built by Hebmüller. A special job was also to build full-size dummy aircraft to confuse the Allied air forces. During the short post war production period, output was dominated by the Volkswagen Beetle 2+2 cabriolet, Police patrol car, (a Beetle cabriolet with canvas doors) and many different commercial vehicles, especially vans. One interesting job was the conversion of a Humber Super Snipe military vehicle into an elegant staff car with convertible body for the Headquarters of the British Army at Bad Oeynhausen. This book tells the exciting story and also contains lots of suggestions for model car builders.
FAUN, Giganten der Landstrasse (Giants of the Road), by Wolfgang H Gebhardt, German text. 224 pages, 422 pictures, 175 x 245 mm, hardbound. ISBN 3-613-02040-8 Published by and available from Paul Pietsch Verlage GmbH & Co, Motorbuch-Verlag; Postfach 103743; D-70032 Stuttgart, Germany. Faun heavy duty tractors and trucks are in service worldwide and now this book hows the history of the company. Faun arose from the union of a number of companies, some founded in 1845, located in Nuremberg. Over 150 years ago production started with horse drawn carriages. The name FAUN results from this union. It means Fahrzeugfabrik Ansbach und Nuremberg. In 1845 Justus Christian Braun built a fire equipment and vehicle factory, combined with the vehicle building company of Karl Schmidt. Beginning with steam-powered and horse-drawn fire-pumps around 1880, by 1890 they made self-propelled steam vehicles. By 1900 the first petrol engines came into service, followed by trucks and passenger cars Heavy duty trucks were built between the wars, including the four axle forward control L1500-D587 from 1938, with a 200 hp engine. After the war the production restarted with many different vehicles developed for the new German Bundeswehr. The book shows all the main vehicles down the years, many in photos, never seen before, and it will give many ideas to model truck collectors.
Storia della carrozzeria in Piemonte Dal disegno al design dalla carrozza all automobile (History of coachwork and automobile design in Piedmont) By Alberto Bersani and Paolo Fissore, Italian text. 168 Pages, 27 colour, 101 b/w photos 19 drawings. 180x250 mm Hardbound with dust jacket. ISBN 88-8068-120-6. Published by, avail-able from Priuli & Verlucca editori, Str Torino, ll; I-10018 Pavone CSE (To) Italia. Tel.: 0039 0125 239929 The history of coachbuilding in Northern Italy reaches back to the 16th century,and examples exist in museums all over Europe. This tradition continued seamlessly into automobile design. Today cars designed in companies located in Piedmont are well known and admired all over the world. Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Lancia are well known mass- producers but also excellent designs come from Anfia, Bertone, Farina, Fissore, IDEA Institute, Italdesign, Michelotti, Pininfarina, Vignale and others. This book are describes the history of automobile design in Piedmont using many interesting photographs, many unseen before. Exciting coupes, saloon cars, vans, ambulances, hearses and trucks are shown, giving many new ideas to model car collectors and builders. At the end of the book the authors explain the principles of coachbuilding and the necessary tools. The photographs alone justify buying the book.
Personenwagen in der DDR (Passenger cars in the DDR) Edited by Achim Gaier, German text, hardbound 240 x 270 mm. 288 pages; 326 b/w-pictures; ISBN 3-613-87202-1 Pub: Schrader-Verlag. Available: Motorbuch-Verlag, Olgastrasse 86; 70032 Stuttgart, Germany. Tel: 0711/21080-0/ Fax: 2360415. Before the great change in 1989, not much was known in Western Europe about the cars of the COMECON States, including the former German Democratic Republic. The Motor Jahr series of books described these cars, a new issue published every year in a new issue over a long time. The author has collected the most important parts from these books to make an interesting and informative survey. The book supplies a lot of formerly unknown information about daily life with cars behind the Iron Curtain.
Copyright 1999 Modelauto Ltd and Solnet Systems Ltd
e-mail mar@zeteo.com