Category Archives: Minichamps

Minichamps 1:87

By Maz Woolley

From time to time MInichamps seem to release a small number of 1:87 scale models and then release nothing further in this scale for some time. Here are a couple of mouldings which Minichamps has announced made in ABS in China for Germany. Competition in this market segment is keen with Model Car World‘s Brekina and PCX87 ranges as well as Herpa, WIking and Busch. Perhaps this is why Minichamps only releases a small number of models?

BMW X7 – 2019 – Black
BMW X7 – 2019 – Metallic blue
BMW X7 – 2019 – Dark red metallic

BMW X7 – 2019 – white

Opel Ascona – 1970 – Light blue
Opel Ascona – 1970 – Light green
Opel Ascona- 1970 – Red
Opel Ascona – 1970 – Yellow

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The Ford in Miniature – Ka II 2008-2016

By Dave Turner

Text and photographs copyright of the Author(s) unless otherwise stated.

‘Feel the Difference’

The 25 year history of Ford’s little Ka can be divided into three distinct sections. The first happened in 1996 when Ford decided that something smaller than the Fiesta was appropriate to that time.

For those that can remember, these first Ka resembled something like a four wheeled bubble car of the 1950s/60s, even so they contained a lot of Fiesta components, engines for example. These have been covered in a previous article which may be found here.

The original Ka lasted 12 years until 2008 when the second generation took its place, and while overall of similar size and shape, the second Ka featured a totally different concept. They were designed and made by Fiat and based on their city car platform in their Polish factory alongside 500s, Pandas and the Lancia Ypsilon. Initially they employed a choice of Fiat engines, a 1.2 litre petrol or a 1.3 TDCI.

The Ka II was produced for 8 years until the third type of Ka arrived in 2016 – known as the Ka+ and lasting for just 5 years coming either as a 5 door hatch or 4 door saloon and this time based on the Fiesta. By the time that Ka II had come to the end of its production life in 2016, these cars were the best selling used cars in the UK. Despite this they didn’t inspire the number of miniatures that the first generation Ka did.

The line up of Ka IIs started with the base level Studio, and progressed through the Edge, Zetec, Titanium, Individual Grand Prix, Individual Digital, Tattoo and Tattoo Premium.

Their debut took place on the big screen with an appearance in the James Bond film Quantum of Solace and a nice model of this was produced by Universal, complete with ‘Green Planet‘ and ‘Hydrogen‘ decals.’ The black plastic interior is well detailed while delicate looking black plastic windscreen wipers add to the detail. Faithfully depicted five Y-spoke alloy wheels suggest it is representing a Titanium example.

Minichamps offered a couple of interesting miniature Ka IIs starting with an Individual Digital complete with the eye catching lime green flashes on black colour finish as well as the distracting bright colour patches all over the interior. This was followed by the equally striking Individual Grand Prix in bright red with white striping and a racing number on the doors. Real examples could have the option of these colours reversed – red striping on white base. Real examples also had a spoiler over the rear window but that seems to be missing from the Minichamps model.

Just like an enlarged Minichamps, the 1:24 scale Mondo Motors depicts the Individual Digital and boasts opening doors and bonnet, steerable front wheels and a well detailed engine compartment in black plastic. Inside the black plastic interior has the appropriate bright colour flashes, and the ample detail includes delicate suspended pedals. This model also features a large ‘moonroof’ through which the interior can be admired.

MotorMax also did 1:24 scale miniatures of both the two Individual types which may be related to the Mondo Motors models.


Models – Ford Ka II



Illustrations Ford Ka II


Mondo Motors 1:24 diecast from China: 511235, Individual Digital.

Universal 1:43 diecast from China: 60, Titanium from “Quantum of Solace”

Minichamps 1:43 diecast from China: 88200, Individual Digital.

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It caught the Editor’s Eye

By Maz Woolley

This article looks at a few models which have either shipped or are about to ship across several ranges which look interesting.

OttOmobile

OttOmobile sell sell sealed 1:18 scale resin models made in China for France. They cover a wide range of cars over several eras. Here they have produced the first large scale model that I am aware of of the Volkswagen SP2 which was developed in Brazil in the 1970s as they had no sports coupe in their range and imported ones were very expensive due to tax regulations designed to protect local car production.

Volkswagen of Brazil created ‘Project X‘ to provide a model that was not already in Volkswagen’s range. The SP2 name adopted is for Sao Paulo where the cars were made. The SP2 was the most powerful version using a rear mounted, 1.7 litre four cylinder flat air cooled engine which produced 65hp, whilst the SP1 made do with the standard Variant 1600cc engine. Sadly as the car was based on the underpinnings of the Variant the car’s performance was not up to it’s looks and Brazilian’s seemed to prefer sporty versions of standard cars or the Brazilian made Puma whose Italianate GRP body was much lighter, sportier and more beautiful. Only just over 10,000 SP cars were produced with 5% going for export.

The OttO model has been produced in blue with the side stripes, a colour combination seen in photographs of surviving cars on the Internet. It is an attractive colourway for an interesting model which Volkswagen collectors will no doubt find tempting.


Goldvarg Collectibles

Sergio Goldvarg has let us know that shipments of several previously announced models will be arriving in the US in March. The photographs shown below are of pre-production pant samples and there may be some minor differences to shipped models where small details need to be improved.

GC-061 A 1968 Buick Electra Verdoro Green

GC-061 B 1968 Buick Electra Autumn Bronze

The 1968 Buick Electra was a full size car powered by a 7 litre or larger V8 engine. Bill Mitchell is credited with the design and it shows the restrained lines introduced on the Riviera in 1963 further developed with the ‘coke bottle’ shaped rear flanks and the neatly shaped front end.

Here the Goldvarg is nicely finished in period colours with the padded vinyl roof particularly well replicated. The wheels also look to be very nice reproductions of the style fitted in 1968.


GC-PAA-004 1948 Crosley Pan American Airlines Aircraft Technician Unit

GC-063 A 1949 Crosley Blue

GC-063 B 1949 Crosley Jonquil Yellow.

The Crosley came to market after the Second World War and provided a lightweight body on chassis powered by a small engine of under 1000cc. Initially popular at a time when demand for cars greatly exceeded the ability of the factories to produce new cars sales waned until the range was abandoned in 1952. The greater availability of second hand cars at that point and the fact that petrol was cheap in the USA meant that people preferred a full sized car and there were few financial penalties for choosing one.

The PAN AM Crosley utility vehicle was probably well suited to driving technicians round airfields carrying small parts and service items to planes and it is an interesting, and now very nostalgic, livery.


GC-66 A 1959 Ford Fairlane 2 Door Indian Turquoise

GC-66 B 1959 Ford Fairlane 2 Door Inca Gold

The 1959 car was the final evolution of the second generation Ford Fairlane that was introduced for the 1957 model year. The Fairlane was introduced as an upmarket version of the full size Ford cars as can be seen by the two tome paintwork and chrome detailing replicated by Goldvarg. Engines ranged from the ‘mileage maker’ in line six to ‘thunderbird’ or ‘interceptor’ V8 units all of over 5.0 litres and most were fitted with a three speed automatic gearbox. Whilst Ford’s styling for the 1959 model year was conservative compared to the wings and chrome mouldings that GM and Chrysler were using they sold well.

The Goldvarg models look to be very well painted and detailed .


Maxichamps

Maxichamps is a branding used by Minichamps for a cheaper range of 1:43 scale models based on their now obsolete castings and which retail for a lower price than their premium 1:43 products.

We have only recently featured the new Solido 1:43 scale CX models here. Maxichamps have now also launch some CX models too. They model a less sporty version of the car than the GTI modelled by Solido. Obsolete Minichamps releases of this model in similar colours were of the Prestige version though that is not stated this time.

Citroën CX 1982 – Metallic Brown

Citroën CX 1982 – Metallic Silver

The CX was launched in 1974 and by 1982 many of the initial teething problems had been overcome. It was a large and very comfortable family saloon car and despite the sloping back was not produced with a hatchback. Over a million CX cars and estates were produced over its lifespan.


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My Christmas Gift for 2022

By Harvey Goranson

Text and photographs copyright of the Author(s) unless otherwise stated.

For Christmas this year, I received from my kids an art print I have been eyeing for at least a year. Produced by the Automobilist, the title is “Piggyback – Porsche 917K – 24 Hours of Le Mans – 1971”. In the image are three Porsche 917s. Count Gregorio Rossi di Montelera had purchased the 1970 Salzburg team cars and re-liveried them.

The Martini car No. 22 (Chassis 917-053) driven by the team of Helmut Marko and Gijs van Lennep, took 1st place at 397 laps. The J. W. Automotive team was favored to win, with a strong driver lineup and four victories prior to this race, but the Gulf car No. 19 (Chassis 917-026/031), piloted by Richard Attwood (who won in 1970) and Herbert Müller, had to settle for 2nd at 395 laps. The winning No. 22 car set a new record, which stood until Audi’s win in 2010.

Despite the record-setting pace and top two finishes, these Gulf and Martini cars did not garner the press that the pink No. 23 car did. Chassis 917/20-001 was built as a test-bed for future Can-Am parts and aerodynamic low-drag concepts. Shorter and much wider than the 917K, it was designed and tested by Robert Choulet and the SERA wind tunnel, after their other work on the 917. Nicknamed “Pink Pig”, it was driven by Reinhold Joest and Willi Kauhsen. Martini, who had a 917L in a wild psychedelic paint job in 1970, had the wide car painted pink and decorated with meat carving lines like you might see at a butcher, with the cuts of meat written on the bodywork.

During the race (and following a cooling fan repair), the No. 23 car had moved back up to third. Joest found he had no brakes approaching Arnage. He used the escape road and crashed in the wee hours of the morning, resulting in a DNF.

As a brand, Porsche dominated Le Mans that year representing more than half of the entries and taking 10 of the 13 finishes, so it’s odd that one of their failures dominated the headlines.

The Automobilist takes a unique approach to automotive art, combining photography and computer graphics to recreate moments in motor history from a different perspective. An average of 1000 hours is devoted to a single vehicle. A 3D image may involve two to three months, with a team of 8 individuals, and numerous cast and crew members. My print is a limited issue of 150, and two larger editions are already sold out. Check out these images from their website, which gives an idea of the process and the lengths gone to for complete accuracy.

Note the subtle muted tones of dusk at “Les Hundieres”, with the last hints of color on the cars showing through the dim light. The details on the cars are excellent, including the race grime collected. The surroundings are just slightly out-of-focus, accentuating the speed of the cars. The distant sunset competes with the piercing yellow-white of the Marchal headlamps.

As you might guess, I have 1:43 scale models of all the cars. The 1st and 2nd place cars are by Spark, while the Pink Pig is a Minichamps model that came in unique packaging back in 2001.


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Minichamps Formula One 2022

By Maz Woolley

Text copyright of the author. Photograph courtesy of the website of the Bahrain International Circuit.

It seems like the engine noise from the Bahrain GP has only just faded away when Minichamps publicise their first 2022 season models. These cover many of the main teams although Ferrari are conspicuously absent from this list. As far as I can determine May Cheong Group (Bburago, Maisto, Polistil brands) still has the sole licence for producing diecast F1 Ferraris and I am sure that we will see their Bahrain cars shortly. With Ferrari’s resurgence this may mean lots more sales of models of their cars this season.

Minichamps in the meantime cover the other teams and offer models in both 1:18 and 1:43 scales.

No pre-production photographs are available as the creation and issuing of the first F1 cars of the year is traditionally a race against time. These are produced quickly in batches of limited sizes to tie in with the excitement of the F1 season starting. Of course Minichamps will be developing these models in the course of the season as the cars change with teams struggling to get the best performance under the new F1 construction regulations.

1:18 Scale

  • 110 220001 Red Bull Oracle Racing RB18 Max Verstappen 2022
  • 110 220011 Red Bull Oracle Racing RB18 Sergio Perez 2022
  • 110 220044 Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Lewis Hamilton 2022 W13 E Performance
  • 110 220063 Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 George Russell 2022 W13 E Performance
  • 117 220106 Williams Racing FW44 Nicholas Latifi Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220110 Scuderia Alphatauri AT03 Pierre Gasly Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220118 Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant AMR22 Lance Stroll Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220120 Haas F1 Team VF-22 Kevin Magnussen Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220122 Scuderia Alphatauri AT03 Yuki Tsunoda Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220123 Williams Racing FW44 Alexander Albon Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220124 Alfa Romeo F1 Team Orlen C42 Guanyu Zhou Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220127 Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant AMR22 Nico Hulkenberg Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220147 Haas F1 Team VF-22 Mick Schumacher Bahrain GP 2022
  • 117 220177 Alfa Romeo F1 Team Orlen C42 Valtteri Bottas Bahrain GP 2022
  • 537 221803 McLaren F1 Team MCL36 Daniel Ricciardo Bahrain GP 2022
  • 537 221804 McLaren F1 Team MCL36 Lando Norris Bahrain GP 2022

1:43 Scale

  • 417 220101 Red Bull Oracle Racing RB18 Max Verstappen Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220106 Williams Racing FW44 Nicholas Latifi Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220110 Scuderia Alphatauri AT03 Pierre Gasly Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220111 Red Bull Oracle Racing RB18 Sergio Perez Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220114 BWT Alpine F1 Team A522 Fernando Alonso Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220118 Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant AMR22 Lance Stroll Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220120 Haas F1 Team VF-22 Kevin Magnussen Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220122 Scuderia Alphatauri AT03 Yuki Tsunoda Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220123 Williams Racing FW44 Alexander Albon Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220124 Alfa Romeo F1 Team Orlen C42 Guanyu Zhou Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220127 Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant AMR22 Nico Hulkenberg Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220131 BWT Alpine F1 Team A522 Esteban Ocon Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220144 Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Lewis Hamilton W13 E Performance Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220147 Haas F1 Team VF-22 Mick Schumacher Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220163 Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 W13 E Performance George Russell Bahrain GP 2022
  • 417 220177 Alfa Romeo F1 Team Orlen C42 Valtteri Bottas Bahrain GP 2022
  • 537 224303 McLaren F1 Team MCL36 Daniel Ricciardo Bahrain GP 2022
  • 537 224304 McLaren F1 Team MCL36 Lando Norris Bahrain GP 2022

Prices appear to have increased over those offered last season but this is perhaps inevitable in the current economic climate.


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The Chinese are Landing!

By Fabrizio Panico

Text and photographs copyright of the Author(s) unless otherwise stated.

Only a few months ago TV and newspapers were all excited about the congestion in the Chinese docks. Long delay in deliveries, higher shipping rates, production stoppages and so on. Now the problems seem to be, at least in part, a thing of the past, judging by the flood of new models landing on our shores. In a short time I have received three new 1:18 scale models, one of each of Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Porsche. As usual, all of them come from China. They have metal diecast bodies, with some plastic components. They have detailed interiors and a deep paint finish, but the “sealed body” curse is extending its wings, sparing only a few models, and then not always the more expensive ones.

Mercedes-Benz C-class (W206) 2021

This is part #B6 696 0637 and is made by NZG in 1:18th scale

Hyperactive as usual, Mercedes-Benz is presenting the scale model of the fifth generation of its “compact executive” car. The real car was launched in February 2021 in China as the long-wheelbase sedan (V206), followed by the standard sedan (W206) and the estate car (S206). There is also an All-Terrain version (X206), with external body cladding, an increase in ride height and 4Matic AWD. Body design is derived from the present E-class, while the interiors are inspired by the S-class. Engines are all four cylinders, both petrol and diesel, with a mild-hybrid or a plug-in system.

The scale model is made in China for NZG in “hightech silver” (also available as B6 696 0638 in “designo grey selenite magno”). Like the previous EQA and EQB models, also by NZG (see October and December 2021), it is almost sealed with only the front doors opening. The dealer box contains a small screwdriver plus a special tool to help in opening the doors (the gaps are really tight). The base is adequately reproduced with an added exhaust system, and lots of moulded in identity text, including the Mercedes-Benz code number (This is the first time, I have never seen this before. It will help to differentiate promotional models from the standard ones). The large transparent roof helps the buyer to admire the well reproduced interior. This is very nice with the black and red seats and door cards nicely modelled. There are also front and rear safety belts, but no flocked mats. Well reproduced the LED lights feature and as usual the door handles and the wipers are added parts. There are nice tyres and wheels, but the poseable front ones are (again) connected to the steering wheel. A nice the dashboard with simulated instrumentation is provided. The model is a good reproduction of the original car and the slightly increased cost over previous models from this source confirms the influence of the pandemic on production.

BMW Vision M Next 2019

This is part #80 43 5 A07 2D8 and is again by NZG and to 1:18 scale The Vision M Next is a concept car presented in June 2019 in Munich and then more widely at the IAA in Frankfurt. Quite different from the similarly named Vision Next 100 of 1996, the Vision M Next is a concept of a hybrid plug-in luxury supercar, with a 100 km electric-only range, powered by a turbocharged four cylinder engine plus two electric engines for a maximum of 600 CV, with all wheel drive.

Sporting a matte “Thrilling Orange” shade on silver paint, with black sills in recycled carbon, it is equipped with elytra doors whose opening is controlled via a facial recognition interface. According to BMW it represents a statement for real drivers offering a preview of what the electric future of the BMW M brand might look like. It shows how digital intelligence can make the self-determined driving experience purer and more emotional, with the driver always at the centre of attention.

The scale model is made in China for NZG and is fully sealed. It has a basic interior which is quite plasticky, no safety belts (that’s the future ?) and a futuristic dashboard and “steering wheel”. Indeed it looks in many ways how they imagined the future during the fifties. It is well reproduced, but a quite dull model, especially as it sells at a high price.

Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo 2021

Minichamps part #WAP 021 783 0M002 and again made to 1:18 scale. The Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo is a lifted, sport-wagon version of the Taycan, the first all-electric Porsche. It has additional body cladding, rugged black trim, and other SUV-like features, including carbon-fibre details and 20-inch wheels. It was previewed by the Mission E Cross Turismo concept. Its name is quite misleading, being fully electric there is no turbocharging, it only indicates a high performance version (sic ! what a lack of imagination). The name “Taycan” roughly translates from Turkish as “lively young horse”, in reference to the Stuttgart coat of arms on the Porsche crest. A quite fast car, but expensive and heavy, not as we imagined the future.

The scale model is made in China for Minichamps in “enzianblaumetallic” (a sort of dark blue) and is fully sealed. The base is quite flat, the front wheels, with huge brake discs, are poseable, but (at last !) not connected to the steering wheel. Dark basic interiors, not helped by the heavily tinted side rear windows and the not so transparent roof. The light brown seats are quite plasticky, there are no safety belts and no flocked mats. The dark body is not lightened as it has a total absence of chrome, even the rear lights are black. Quite a menacing appearance, but very likely that’s what its users want. An expensive model, with the cost not completely justified by the high level of finish.


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Minichamps and Maxichamps for 2022

By Maz Woolley

Announcements of some of the road car models to be issued by Minichamps in 2022 under their Minichamps or Maxichamps branding have been seen recently. These are all 1:43 scale sealed diecast models. In many cases these are re-issues of models under Maxichamps branding which had been issued some time ago as Minichamps models. As obsolete Minichamps models have been becoming dearer on eBay and through other outlets collectors of 1960s to 1990s cars will be pleased to see the models re-issued. The release of the huge surplus of new models made for Atlas, Eaglemoss, Hachette and others seems to be waning and consequently the general prices of obsolete models seems to be rising. Collectors will be pleased to see some of the re-issues listed as the original Minichamps models were produced to high standards and stand up well to the passage of time.

Initially Maxichamps models recommended sales prices were considerably higher than those of Corgi and Oxford Diecast models here in the UK, but with the substantial increases in Corgi and Oxford Diecast prices over the last two years the gap has narrowed.

As this is an initial announcement many of the models are illustrated by impressions which I believe are based on images of the original Minichamps releases turned greyscale, others which are pre-release photographs of models are shown in one proposed colour only.

940 013000 Audi A8 1994 Silver
940 013001 Audi A8 1994 White
940 017210 Audi RS 6 Avant 2007 Green Metallic
940 017211 Audi RS 6 Avant 2007 Blue Metallic
940 020020 BMW M3 (E46) Coupe 2001 Red
940 020021 BMW M3 (E46) Coupe 2001 Yellow
940 020332 BMW M3 Cabriolet (E30) 1988 Silver
940 020334 BMW M3 Cabriolet (E30) 1988 Black Metallic
940 024002 BMW 3-Series (E30) 1989 Green Metallic
940 024004 BMW 3-Series (E30) 1989 Silverblue Metallic
940 028320 BMW 3ER Coupe (E46) 1999 Red Metallic
940 028321 BMW 3ER Coupe (E46) 1999 Blue Metallic
940 031030 Mercedes-Benz SL Class (R230) 2001 Silver
940 031031 Mercedes-Benz SL Class (R230) 2001 Red
940 033032 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129) 1999 White
940 033034 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129) 1999 Red
940 036000 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211) 2006 Dark Red Metallic
940 036001 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211) 2006 Dark Blue Metallic
940 041000 Opel Rekord A 1962 Blue
940 041001 Opel Rekord A 1962 Grey
940 041010 Opel Rekord A Caravan 1962 White
940 041011 Opel Rekord A Caravan 1962 Beige
940 041020 Opel Rekord A Coupe 1962 Green
940 041021 Opel Rekord A Coupe 1962 Black
940 044020 Opel Rekord D Coupe 1975 Gold
940 044021 Opel Rekord D Coupe 1975 Light Blue
940 048160 Opel Kadett C City 1978 Green
940 048161 Opel Kadett C City 1978 Blue
940 050220 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia 1600 1966 Yellow/Black
940 050221 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia 1600 1966 Blue
940 052200 Volkswagen Transporter T1 Box Van 1963 Turquoise
940 052201 Volkswagen Transporter T1 Box Van 1963 Dark Red
940 052300 Volkswagen Samba Bus 1961 Grey/Green
940 052301 Volkswagen Samba Bus 1961 Grey/Red
940 055300 Volkswagen 1600 1966 Light Blue
940 055301 Volkswagen 1600 1966 Beige
940 055320 Volkswagen 1600 Tl 1966 Cream
940 055321 Volkswagen 1600 Tl 1966 Red
940 055500 Volkswagen Golf 1997 White
940 055501 Volkswagen Golf 1997 Black
940 055510 Volkswagen Golf Variant 1997 Green Metallic
940 055511 Volkswagen Golf Variant 1997 Red
940 055530 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet 1997 Blue
940 055531 Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet 1997 Grey Metallic
940 055602 Volkswagen Corrado G60 1990 Yellow
940 055604 Volkswagen Corrado G60 1990 Purple Metallic
940 056010 Volkswagen Golf IV Variant 1999 Red Metallic
940 056011 Volkswagen Golf IV Variant 1999 Dark Green Metallic
940 056060 Volkswagen Golf IV 1999 Grey Metallic
940 056061 Volkswagen Golf IV 1999 Red
940 057100 Volkswagen 1200L 1983 Green
940 057101 Volkswagen 1200L 1983 Blue
940 062024 Porsche 911 SC 1979 Blue Metallic
940 062025 Porsche 911 SC 1979 Yellow
940 062122 Porsche 924 1984 Blue Metallic
940 062124 Porsche 924 1984 Green
940 062520 Porsche 959 1987 Grey Metallic
940 062521 Porsche 959 1987 White
940 062630 Porsche Carrera GT 2003 Silver
940 062631 Porsche Carrera GT 2003 Red
940 063030 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet 2005 Blue Metallic
940 063031 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet 2005 Red Metallic
940 063060 Porsche 911 Targa 1995 Blue
940 063061 Porsche 911 Targa 1995 Orange-red
940 065530 Porsche 356 A Speedster 1956 Grey Metallic
940 065531 Porsche 356 A Speedster 1956 Blue Metallic
940 068122 Porsche 928 S 1979 Orange
940 068124 Porsche 928 S 1979 Blue
940 082010 Ford Mondeo Turnier Break 1993 Silver
940 082011 Ford Mondeo Turnier Break 1993 Blue Metallic
940 086400 Ford Ka 1997 Yellow
940 086401 Ford Ka 1997 Dark Blue
940 086430 Ford Streetka 2003 Orange Metallic
940 086431 Ford Streetka 2003 Green Metallic
940 112570 Peugeot 306 4-Door 1995 Red
940 112571 Peugeot 306 4-Door 1995 Silver
940 120140 Alfa Romeo GTV 6 1983 Red
940 120141 Alfa Romeo GTV 6 1983 Silver Metallic
940 120330 Alfa Romeo Spider 1998 Red
940 120331 Alfa Romeo Spider 1998 Yellow
940 149660 Jeep Grand Cherokee 1995 Dark Blue Metallic
940 149661 Jeep Grand Cherokee 1995 Silver
940 170810 Saab 9-5 Break 1999 Dark Blue Metallic
940 170811 Saab 9-5 Break 1999 Dark Green Metallic
940 171404 Volvo 240 GL 1986 Dark Green
940 171405 Volvo 240 GL 1986 Dark Blue
940 171416 Volvo 240 GL Break 1986 Black
940 171417 Volvo 240 GL Break 1986 Petrol Metallic
940 171460 Volvo 850 1994 Red
940 171461 Volvo 850 1994 Dark Blue Metallic
940 171610 Volvo P 1800 ES 1971 Black
940 171611 Volvo P 1800 ES 1971 Turquoise Metallic

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The Hot Rod Lamborghinis of Bob Wallace

By Harvey Goranson

Text and photographs copyright of the Author(s) unless otherwise stated.

Bob Wallace, an ex-pat New Zealander, was a development and test driver for Lamborghini for years (1963-1975). Initially hired as a troubleshooter, he left his mark on every model built during that time. Despite never convincing Ferruccio Lamborghini to go racing, he was able to come up with some interesting development cars that were essentially hot-rodded versions of already high performance cars.

Miura Jota (1970)

The Jota was Wallace’s most famous one-off, intended to meet various racing regulations. Starting with a 1970 Miura, he pared 800 pounds off of it. Wider tires were used, resulting in bigger fender arches at the rear. Instead of pop-up headlights, the lamps received fixed fairings. A front spoiler was added and about 35 more horsepower was added through various tweaks. Eventually someone convinced Lamborghini to sell the Jota, and by April 1971 it had been crashed. And burned.

I have Minichamps No. 400 103680, issued maybe ten years ago as an LE of 6960. It’s a good replica but could use a photoetch wiper assembly instead of the thick plastic one Minichamps went with. There is also a very nice resin model by Eidolon (Make-Up Co.).

I could not find the original Jota’s chassis number. There have been a few replicas and tribute cars made since, at least one of which looks just like the original. Chassis 3781 was modified as a Jota for Heinz Steber and this is the version that appeared as Kyosho 03201R (pic below).

Jarama GTS (1972)

Bob took a Jarama (Chassis 10350) and stripped it down. Aluminum body panels were used, a roll cage installed, and once again hidden headlights were dispensed with, resulting in a 660-lb weight savings. Center-lock Muira wheels were installed. The engine was modified to give it 15 more ponies and it was set further back to get close to a 50.50 weight distribution. The 0-60 time was about 5 seconds and the car was good for almost 168 mph. The car was never raced, and was restored after being discovered in Saudi Arabia in 1990.

A range of diecast Lamborghinis, including a number of obscure concept cars, appeared as Leo Models a few years ago. Like many subscription-type diecast collections, it was probably made by Ixo. Several of the Leo replicas have also appeared as WhiteBox models. For a budget model the Leo is a pretty good replica, especially since the “Jarama Bob” had been stripped of a lot of trim.

Urraco Rally (1973)

Also known as “Urraco Bob”, the third hot rod follows the same theme: extensive lightening, engine mods, and aerodynamic add-ons. Those add-ons included a stalk-mounted rear wing, widened and arched rear fenders, and a big front spoiler. The original engine was a 3.0-liter unit with 4 valves per cylinder mated to a 6-speed gearbox. This made for 310 horsepower, but was soon replaced by a Urraco P300 engine with two valves per cylinder. Campagnolo wheels were fitted.

Technically, this hot rod did get a race (of sorts) at the Misano race track where there was a gathering of exotic cars. It was abandoned at the works but was sold, restored, and is owned by a member of the Japanese Lamborghini club.

My version is the WhiteBox, and most comments for the Jarama apply here as well.

Conclusion, and….was there a fourth “hot rod”?

Another Jarama (Chassis 10364) was heavily modified at Lamborghini in 1973, reportedly at the behest of a French client. Since Bob Wallace was still at work there, it seems reasonable to believe that he had a hand in its development. Whatever the facts were, the car was not delivered and remains in the Tonino Lamborghini Museum in Italy, where it is called the Jarama Speciale SVR.

I have this one from the Leo collection, and most of the body modifications are evident. These include the absence of bumpers, added front and rear spoilers, fixed headlights (the production Jarama had pop-up units), revised taillights, and a representation of the aluminum hood with two cutouts.

I should mention that the book photos appearing in this article are from The Complete Book of Lamborghini (1988). Chapter 5 in this book is devoted to the impact of Bob Wallace at Lamborghini, including an interview with him in Phoenix where he owned a shop specializing in the maintenance and restoration of exotic cars. He died on September 19, 2013 at the age of 75.


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Some more metal promotional models

By Fabrizio Panico

Text and photographs copyright of the Author(s) unless otherwise stated.

After some years of near silence Audi is definitely back in the world of 1:18 scale metal promotional models, like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Indeed there seems to be an almost continuous flow of scale models, often introduced at the same time as the real car is launched. All the models have a metal diecast body, plus the usual plastic components, all hand assembled in Asia, in China most of the time. The engine and chassis are faithfully reproduced, with detailed interiors, and a deep paint finish, but the “sealed body” trend is alas more and more widespread. A nice surprise from Renault has appeared In 1:43 scale: a smart re-use of the “clone” of the Dinky Toys 23B, already seen in the Atlas Dinky collection, to celebrate the 1934 Nervasport.

Audi RS e-tron GT 2021

Following its direct competitors even Audi tries to cover any small market niche, taking advantage of the synergies available inside the VW Group. The third member of the e-tron family, the e-tron GT is a sports sedan based on the J6 platform, and shares some technical components of the power supply system with the Porsche Taycan. This is the first electric Audi to be assembled at the Neckarsulm plant (the other two e-tron models are assembled in Belgium). It has two electric motors, one for the front axle and the other for the rear with a total power of 530 hp and a maximum speed of 245 km/h. A more sporty version, the RS, was unveiled on February 2021, with a total power of 646 hp and a maximum speed limited to 250 km/h.

The Norev 1:18 scale model (Audi code no. 501 21 200 51, in a quite boring Daytona grey) represents the RS version. The model is a bit disappointing, even though it is very well reproduced. The body is fully sealed, nothing opens at all. The closed body means that the interiors are difficult to appreciate, but when peering inside you cannot avoid noting that the seats look a bit “plastic”. There are also no mats on the floor and the rear seat safety belts seem to be missing. The roof simulates carbon fibre, and the nice front wheels are poseable (but only turn through a limited arc). The underside doesn’t show any details due to the fully flat “belly”.

So quite disappointing model, particularly because of its high price. Being a model almost at the top of the Audi range we were expecting rather more.

The “prototype” version is also available (Audi code no. 501 21 201 51) with its full “panoply” of “electric” decorations (quite ugly, in my opinion), the only difference is an increase in price.


BMW M8 Competition Coupé 2020

We have already met the second-generation of the BMW 8 series (G15), the M850i X-drive coupè by Norev (see September 2019). The M8 Competition is its high performance version, marketed under the BMW M sub-brand. Being the upper model of the range its engine power is increased from 600 to 625 hp, together with a modified induction system and more rigid engine mounts. Exclusive to the Competition version is the “track” driving mode. Also available in convertible form, it has a maximum self-limited speed of 250 km/h, rising to 305 km/h by choosing the M Driver’s Package.

The Minichamps 1:18 scale model (BMW code no. 80 43 2 466 057, in a menacing matt blue metallic) reproduces the Competition version quite faithfully: bonnet and doors open, but not the boot. There are nice two-colour seats and a good dashboard, as well as flocked mats. Safety belts are reproduced, both front and rear. The nice engine bay sports the M colours, while exhaust and suspension details enrich the beautiful underside. The roof simulates carbon fibre, like the small rear spoiler. As usual the wheels are accurately reproduced as are the tyres and brakes. Another well executed model, expensive but worth it.


Renault Nervasport 1934

From the ‘Collection Renault Classic‘ by Norev for ‘Atelier Renault‘, a clever re-use of the replica of Dinky 23B, already seen in the Atlas Dinky Collection, available in blue, green, red or yellow. The reference number is 519121, and it is as usual made in China for Norev. It has a nice tampo printing reproducing the four front lights, another with the Renault lozenge on the left side, and a #1 roundel on the right side.

On the box is printed ‘In 1934, Renault developed a new record-breaking car with the NERVASPORT. On 5 April that year, the Nervasport crossed the finish line of the Monthlery race circuit, breaking the 48 hour world record, the record for a distance of 4000-5000 miles, and nine international records. L’Atelier Renault is paying tribute to this feat with a metal miniature inspired by this legendary car‘.

There is no baseplate, as was the case on the DInky original but on the inside it is cast ‘Norev‘ and ‘made in China‘. A nice item: blue is the right colour in my view, but the yellow model should also be agreeable.


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Minichamps 1:8 scale

By Maz Woolley

Minichamps latest release includes several 1:8 scale models of historic Formula One cars as well as different versions of the Porsche 911. Some are already available, whilst others maybe available for pre-order. These models are made as sealed resin units and painted in multiple passes in the original vehicle colours and finished with a clear gloss coat. The glazing is made to a high standards and looks very real in the photographs shown below.

Models made to 1:8 scale need the detailing to be extremely finely realised with small items like windscreen washer nozzles and speakers for the sound system all replicated as they are on these models. The wheels and tyres are excellent and include realistic side wall markings, as well as stunning ‘alloys’, brake disks and callipers. The models are delivered in a showcase and an optional stand is available for an extra charge. These models cost between 1,499 Euros and 1,995 Euros (when released in May 2021) which puts them well out of the reach of the average collector.

Benetton Ford B194 – Michael Schumacher – Australian Grand Prix 1994


Benetton Ford B194 – Michael Schumacher -Demonstration Run Belgian Grand Prix 2017


Benetton Renault B195 – Michael Schumacher – World Champion Pacific Grand Prix 1995


Porsche 911 (964) 30th Anniversary 1993 – Viola Metallic


Porsche 911 (964) Carrera RS 1994 – Metallic Silver


Porsche 911 (991.1)R 2016 – Silver/Green


Porsche 911 (991.2) GT3RS 2018 – Racing Yellow (White Package)


Porsche 911 (991.2) Carrera RS 2.7 Touring 1972 Viper Green with Carrera detailing


These models are undoubtedly beautiful items, even though most collectors will not even see them outside a museum display. As they are made in small editions Minichamps will be able to find enough collectors with the money and the space to accommodate them.


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