tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85456457376649907572024-02-19T17:22:47.959-08:001/64 Diecast FunVincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-3287657234568967012012-12-03T17:55:00.001-08:002012-12-03T17:55:23.933-08:00[Shooting] Matchbox Buick Century '56Definitly one of the best new 2012 castings, this Century deserved its own shooting. I had some luck and grabbed a way better camera, giving way more interesting pictures.<br />
<br />
Despite a disappointing 2012 lineup, Matchbox made a few good castings this year. Beside the '52 Seagrave, the Century might deserve a shot at "Best New Casting Of The Year". Coming from the 1950's serie called Highway Patrol, all the details are perfectly reproduced, except for the three sidevents that are a tad too big. Light tampos could have been great, but the overall is of a rare awesomeness. Definitly a casting to watch and watch again. Let the pictures speak by themselves.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrjKDpSbJDSTE8vK1mnJsiXOAR3PP4DIFGiqEY94oDE8zG2xXBHBvzSKICqU524aFI6YcbtXR1hXpeFOG1hHdqQ_sik4CZENqjsPCVGnNcjACgo0K3l-NWfZIE8msZTJLvk3-ikiHRB-4/s1600/DSCN0216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTrjKDpSbJDSTE8vK1mnJsiXOAR3PP4DIFGiqEY94oDE8zG2xXBHBvzSKICqU524aFI6YcbtXR1hXpeFOG1hHdqQ_sik4CZENqjsPCVGnNcjACgo0K3l-NWfZIE8msZTJLvk3-ikiHRB-4/s640/DSCN0216.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Xlz60UpZKzYnzJDz2qfm5cO_kaWziWYi2wPaqSVmawulX51RB3BTgzJpHI2fH8EvXHVbYNVnzOrPt-WIbMqC_uYxwFJO3qPd5xTblOz_e7KisWEpZMFVWWIiyDTQzpfgSscVT5jjQBJQ/s1600/DSCN0218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Xlz60UpZKzYnzJDz2qfm5cO_kaWziWYi2wPaqSVmawulX51RB3BTgzJpHI2fH8EvXHVbYNVnzOrPt-WIbMqC_uYxwFJO3qPd5xTblOz_e7KisWEpZMFVWWIiyDTQzpfgSscVT5jjQBJQ/s640/DSCN0218.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Edq-HxSoHKOnOYtvLDtU4w15tTmMtcceWxxh4ANMJQWK6J3fvYr0dqVfEZ4XOE8DZVLfCIly5rpNQqMq0BT0ON79sjYHU9ioZzDhrGauG2Bs0NLjekVW_opXVOZ35g7PEd6ORZg49cEr/s1600/DSCN0219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Edq-HxSoHKOnOYtvLDtU4w15tTmMtcceWxxh4ANMJQWK6J3fvYr0dqVfEZ4XOE8DZVLfCIly5rpNQqMq0BT0ON79sjYHU9ioZzDhrGauG2Bs0NLjekVW_opXVOZ35g7PEd6ORZg49cEr/s640/DSCN0219.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NCJkWfdVAzog1ro4UChbWLbVaq62SDEH8kzfIyZeB4kQaBwPy6JTQxb-c5r1q2nfCIx_AtxVoMt_9Rb32dihyphenhyphen3JJu40kOtJVeJ9hDQuKTCqyHgTpFpCldYWg91U9_OyYOp6SKmz2NJtq/s1600/DSCN0221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NCJkWfdVAzog1ro4UChbWLbVaq62SDEH8kzfIyZeB4kQaBwPy6JTQxb-c5r1q2nfCIx_AtxVoMt_9Rb32dihyphenhyphen3JJu40kOtJVeJ9hDQuKTCqyHgTpFpCldYWg91U9_OyYOp6SKmz2NJtq/s640/DSCN0221.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh4kIL3uqWvWWhwEqcxuI01p-LInT13u4zM3cJBga8iJlbRDV6LJcE2C1IWfJ5ZDofD2-8icDs-LK0vyYdhotAf9OgaOlzoTJ4j0yg1K9slZQQ9M6fsK3vM7Cw4a_dWsYxWJpVGA4cRBm3/s1600/FSCN0196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh4kIL3uqWvWWhwEqcxuI01p-LInT13u4zM3cJBga8iJlbRDV6LJcE2C1IWfJ5ZDofD2-8icDs-LK0vyYdhotAf9OgaOlzoTJ4j0yg1K9slZQQ9M6fsK3vM7Cw4a_dWsYxWJpVGA4cRBm3/s640/FSCN0196.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-76781036782209272122012-10-21T14:18:00.002-07:002012-10-21T14:18:49.638-07:00[German Classics] Squareback & NotchbackBetween all those mythical Volkswagen of the '60s, between the Beetle, the T2 Bus or the Thing, one is often forgotten : the Volkswagen 1500 (also called 1600). Introduced in 1961 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, it was available in a two-door hatchback, fastback and also station wagon (called the Squareback). Just as every VW of those years, they all got a rear-mounted engine air-cooled combined with a rear wheel-drive layout. Mostly known in Europe, a few have been imported in America from 1966. Its career lasted until 1973, and 2.5 billions units have been produced. The 1500 is also widely liked for its tuning possibility, often saw with matte paint. It has been replaced by the well-known Passat. With this beautiful autumn day, i took a few of my 1500's diecasts for a shoot.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="picture" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.oldierent.de/fileadmin/bilder/oldies/VW_1500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://www.oldierent.de/fileadmin/bilder/oldies/VW_1500.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>A typical VW 1500.</i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<div class="title">
<b><u>Hot Wheels Volkswagen Squareback '69</u></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIZcNSC184ADlbfZiwxSgxvPACXtHLv1h7zfaIfcjWOpvYBUJts4CxkS05c-Oq_mliZCfinPofmSNobQbKTClvnkJ3uwUZW8Muk2rkPaK1ZTVvJkd8RLUzfALUsyWVTJtsFkbxcfEVvEg/s1600/SDC10481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsIZcNSC184ADlbfZiwxSgxvPACXtHLv1h7zfaIfcjWOpvYBUJts4CxkS05c-Oq_mliZCfinPofmSNobQbKTClvnkJ3uwUZW8Muk2rkPaK1ZTVvJkd8RLUzfALUsyWVTJtsFkbxcfEVvEg/s400/SDC10481.jpg" width="400" /></a><b><u><br /></u></b>Firstly called "Volkswagen Variant", this casting appeared in 2010 in the Slick Rides special series as black and silver with a KONI decal on the side. In 2011, it was now called Squareback, and appeared in the HW Garage series. We only saw it one time in 2012, decorated with some "Jolly Rancher" decals. Being a high-end HW, it surely has great details, starting from those slick wheels. Mine's the 2010 second edition, still KONI branded. You can admire lots of details on the body, except on the rear where's less attention has been given. Still a great casting, the tuning really gives it a sleeper look. You can feel the quality of this one when you handle it... definitly a favorite.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjiBG1Zaqav_oKw960VSpe7DC8dGQpMsQJ0aI4lT9YVktI3BHWAu6SwBhMb2wolH5cU-gL5qKPbXpu0I5621Vn44BbETlXh2RML1mUEikwqRlkmPM8H0gG83RfKjR7PUkOtwFFa5Szc_X/s1600/SDC10482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjiBG1Zaqav_oKw960VSpe7DC8dGQpMsQJ0aI4lT9YVktI3BHWAu6SwBhMb2wolH5cU-gL5qKPbXpu0I5621Vn44BbETlXh2RML1mUEikwqRlkmPM8H0gG83RfKjR7PUkOtwFFa5Szc_X/s400/SDC10482.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8zrNy2HZ5rEPsQZF5by0zxgzUMJU0sV21paM3exVnwsW4tv7aT8rwWkMShN9SO8mCRor0zPSL_HPlNV_Q6W3sOaizWKgUMXMTAtyLoxJtPbDwB2TAkVNQliBse22MuqE5Fh2nENY51ku/s1600/SDC10483.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8zrNy2HZ5rEPsQZF5by0zxgzUMJU0sV21paM3exVnwsW4tv7aT8rwWkMShN9SO8mCRor0zPSL_HPlNV_Q6W3sOaizWKgUMXMTAtyLoxJtPbDwB2TAkVNQliBse22MuqE5Fh2nENY51ku/s640/SDC10483.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<b><u></u></b><br />
<div class="title">
<b><u>Maisto Volkswagen 1500 '67</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVt66ItTebJX6dt48dMMTluHGghrb180YJr80jeNHfZBgTO_sX4n04SXmhSKZSDGEgLXYituLh405eIRquZEsV1KbZkLzQHEcGMjI3-fr22ycSnuz-iQHzwAncSPB2IDBpT5_6Ulhg02G/s1600/SDC10485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZVt66ItTebJX6dt48dMMTluHGghrb180YJr80jeNHfZBgTO_sX4n04SXmhSKZSDGEgLXYituLh405eIRquZEsV1KbZkLzQHEcGMjI3-fr22ycSnuz-iQHzwAncSPB2IDBpT5_6Ulhg02G/s400/SDC10485.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QOtAvqfwMZ2ibsuQ5bUggtd4WG13QlMytGkrwKifjZCIeuWvgJILTCS9lVg4t_ugwCoM9oopFW99okF4soLrYWMHmp4FwwaXQfy-uga_CQfxndVdx9bR4XKeCqr-lrsZpV1h11E2WfT2/s1600/SDC10486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QOtAvqfwMZ2ibsuQ5bUggtd4WG13QlMytGkrwKifjZCIeuWvgJILTCS9lVg4t_ugwCoM9oopFW99okF4soLrYWMHmp4FwwaXQfy-uga_CQfxndVdx9bR4XKeCqr-lrsZpV1h11E2WfT2/s320/SDC10486.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
On a tuning note again, let's take a look at the 1500 replica done by Maisto. Released in the 2006 "G-Riderz" serie, it's once again a high-end diecast (well according to Maisto usual standards at least). You can note lots of details on this again, starting will all those painted parts, from lights to wipers. Wheels are quite lovely and really detailed. You can feel this "European Tuner" look, with dropped suspensions and this light purple color. Interior is really detailed also, and the rear bonnet can be opened, revealing a chromed engine. This one has also been released in a flashy green and black-red bicolor. Definitly a great one, if you like that style of cars.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD1SKRDnee1QgaYIUaCpkbu4Mtd8TSjhiZlODKV4i8SqLmvVzFt3yEFcgDpBXEaJdquWiFQtJkPexTDTAG0qwVeir3x7sTQ2_h490mTAYKx7br1YYVria8bAqoDbYIcFisXf_e_zStytOQ/s1600/SDC10492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD1SKRDnee1QgaYIUaCpkbu4Mtd8TSjhiZlODKV4i8SqLmvVzFt3yEFcgDpBXEaJdquWiFQtJkPexTDTAG0qwVeir3x7sTQ2_h490mTAYKx7br1YYVria8bAqoDbYIcFisXf_e_zStytOQ/s400/SDC10492.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<br />
Let's finish with a few automnal group shots!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjVNlduUftQT5VUG_xkimn-mXqmyck29smL0OEBUxtp6NU-TvqbYu1W30LWcjmj1KqfcOrK5atE_owXHPbfa7ImQwe9dVWmg0P_mUbIr1K8TpeAmEKzJ160WjqBXRZsy25oIB3GA-O3c1/s1600/SDC10488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjVNlduUftQT5VUG_xkimn-mXqmyck29smL0OEBUxtp6NU-TvqbYu1W30LWcjmj1KqfcOrK5atE_owXHPbfa7ImQwe9dVWmg0P_mUbIr1K8TpeAmEKzJ160WjqBXRZsy25oIB3GA-O3c1/s640/SDC10488.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPswhH-JMNItf_tTjcny9l8sOtNKxKCeZwEhLaqzaN2wRp8TTvaN_1hwLX9RShLuai9CWwCKK4o9ifbJnZkF7dHpLZo9CHp43F9GfSt8HGPuFF8VkF99lZXB9yf3JHAhH9kT2ZMTUfknKI/s1600/SDC10493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPswhH-JMNItf_tTjcny9l8sOtNKxKCeZwEhLaqzaN2wRp8TTvaN_1hwLX9RShLuai9CWwCKK4o9ifbJnZkF7dHpLZo9CHp43F9GfSt8HGPuFF8VkF99lZXB9yf3JHAhH9kT2ZMTUfknKI/s320/SDC10493.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSTuZXCTlmeczfJB3Uv91TLIPc1oF0oIzvI_mNBAjsB3OudCi9d1m127AAh2FInNLrLAWvtbobDGdabJwqjT6dogRSlx_pL_NwzyozVuPcntT6WaVkkdGjQgg7qBCrpiw97tcE27j1qs9/s1600/SDC10476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijSTuZXCTlmeczfJB3Uv91TLIPc1oF0oIzvI_mNBAjsB3OudCi9d1m127AAh2FInNLrLAWvtbobDGdabJwqjT6dogRSlx_pL_NwzyozVuPcntT6WaVkkdGjQgg7qBCrpiw97tcE27j1qs9/s400/SDC10476.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-34068651310058933662012-07-24T16:53:00.000-07:002012-07-24T16:53:17.376-07:00[Restauration] Majorette Land-Rover DefenderJust a little project i finished today!
Here's the real deal i tried to reproduce :
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.alerteproduit.fr/uploads/articles/2bbf21d850799a50ff8470fa30a1e1621af9c44e.jpg?symfony=a6b145854c0e2ff5f7abd2a0454a0c3a" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="http://www.alerteproduit.fr/uploads/articles/2bbf21d850799a50ff8470fa30a1e1621af9c44e.jpg?symfony=a6b145854c0e2ff5f7abd2a0454a0c3a" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
And here's what i just did, enjoy the pics!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJiITVuYPqrUeIueA5WpwhLzAB1ian_1AhmXKB2EMnDaxt0F4ZYctoX_IuP6cN2uF0vl3DmGKbi8461IJcaNS_V2t5eTqBwOuVHhVHyjikLLRRBfPBFCA4AOaVugpHkr3698NX46s2lJUM/s1600/SDC10274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJiITVuYPqrUeIueA5WpwhLzAB1ian_1AhmXKB2EMnDaxt0F4ZYctoX_IuP6cN2uF0vl3DmGKbi8461IJcaNS_V2t5eTqBwOuVHhVHyjikLLRRBfPBFCA4AOaVugpHkr3698NX46s2lJUM/s400/SDC10274.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoywolRitPDc0KD2k-o3z0z4HVLBJ4lHTkA6098JBcH682Jz2sRqWW9YqwX8cHnKxeRIygsKZuf73BG-63CcDk1zzSkkAz-2yL0iaGYib-FTW3d9hdZkZnVkk16lACiIqjixFzhaxQtFmq/s1600/SDC10275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoywolRitPDc0KD2k-o3z0z4HVLBJ4lHTkA6098JBcH682Jz2sRqWW9YqwX8cHnKxeRIygsKZuf73BG-63CcDk1zzSkkAz-2yL0iaGYib-FTW3d9hdZkZnVkk16lACiIqjixFzhaxQtFmq/s400/SDC10275.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6g3BQqrSCqMvzGBzQE6xYbUbtJdzWTT9dUb8EXm8RIgsxn5_7c1ihkio8GCPeXBcvP2v9VJaAZ7LNpQTlyvJDuD9rr_u2qn4sZtL3eFX7NFkDER96v-WQ6sOm3mYaFETICFjvmbERq05/s1600/SDC10277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6g3BQqrSCqMvzGBzQE6xYbUbtJdzWTT9dUb8EXm8RIgsxn5_7c1ihkio8GCPeXBcvP2v9VJaAZ7LNpQTlyvJDuD9rr_u2qn4sZtL3eFX7NFkDER96v-WQ6sOm3mYaFETICFjvmbERq05/s640/SDC10277.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3YCgX2oI6-PU5G50gRDKsOO-F9K0YmhP7M7lXZgV0V2ax0GGxrNsFIgaI9sPq5-Xfte5s9u5XxUEC_sORO1dohhS9PFj3SldKe3rNDQ1WG6d6sr_8NENPfnvBQPRjYqNYn0kIlYM-WaE_/s1600/SDC10278.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3YCgX2oI6-PU5G50gRDKsOO-F9K0YmhP7M7lXZgV0V2ax0GGxrNsFIgaI9sPq5-Xfte5s9u5XxUEC_sORO1dohhS9PFj3SldKe3rNDQ1WG6d6sr_8NENPfnvBQPRjYqNYn0kIlYM-WaE_/s320/SDC10278.jpg" width="299" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDs1QOVph_KnMWcp3oWKHyUp_7KBPPzU0IUbFzW-9qfbtNB8vTubcvSOG0Sz8HTz6xm2nYQcsQs8C03ANTWGqA7cq0Pk0C3ZCYWSgy5_r8r9dvapq8f8Kq8H1-Mr95Nn3FXIsb7n3DE5O/s1600/SDC10282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDs1QOVph_KnMWcp3oWKHyUp_7KBPPzU0IUbFzW-9qfbtNB8vTubcvSOG0Sz8HTz6xm2nYQcsQs8C03ANTWGqA7cq0Pk0C3ZCYWSgy5_r8r9dvapq8f8Kq8H1-Mr95Nn3FXIsb7n3DE5O/s320/SDC10282.jpg" width="301" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6shcUcsPp6_suK1N7Ht90azvXM9IxqVwUkLMOGOH53cnSRbn5OqyZjiu_Aa8D8X5xNZOSnc5IQwvoN85krg2grJE6_4OVpyWKLVzOIZOhrxHMEefCTMRRuRc7TLCtsDdjM8OF93Hl9G9/s1600/SDC10279.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6shcUcsPp6_suK1N7Ht90azvXM9IxqVwUkLMOGOH53cnSRbn5OqyZjiu_Aa8D8X5xNZOSnc5IQwvoN85krg2grJE6_4OVpyWKLVzOIZOhrxHMEefCTMRRuRc7TLCtsDdjM8OF93Hl9G9/s400/SDC10279.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-76103972353284947862012-07-08T15:09:00.000-07:002012-07-08T15:10:17.596-07:00[European Classics] Ford CortinaCortina isn't a familiar name for the usual american Ford fans, but it's been one of the most successful car in the brand's history. Named British best-selling car in the 1970's, it's the predecessor of the Sierra, already addressed in a previous article. Introduced in 1962, the car was named from an Italian ski resort, site of the 1956 Winter Olympics. Even more, a few Cortinas were used as bobsleighs for some publicity. Since we're focusing on diecasts, we'll present the second and the last generation.
<b><i></i></b><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dolomitesworld.com/images/cortina_d_ampezzo_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://www.dolomitesworld.com/images/cortina_d_ampezzo_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Cortina d'Ampezzo, origin of the name.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><u>Second generation : Cortina Mark II</u></b><br />
<a href="http://www.pixelmatic.com.au/cortina/mk2pix/2doormk2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://www.pixelmatic.com.au/cortina/mk2pix/2doormk2.jpg" width="320" /></a>Introduced in 1966 after a brilliant 4 years of career, the second generation of Cortina was way more square and classy. Offered as a 2,4,5 doors saloon and a convertible, the Mark II was named 1967's Britain most popular new car. The Cortina 1600E remains famous, being used in rallies and various races. Lotus also developed it own version called the Lotus Cortina. Compared to the american Falcon (same size offer in USA), in my humble opinion, it was definitly more modern.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjImptLGpF2pvT3URnSj_Lc88O7Jai9zuJX0VEeiacD1c9uDkxVanWEEbRaIXUsV1XZ7tooVVViW2N8LgIn-yCQcgb3pjYJGf_-lhGtrXC0iE93UFFBEr_ytXwdGEcp7n6K3_LIKCmA81i/s1600/SDC10240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjImptLGpF2pvT3URnSj_Lc88O7Jai9zuJX0VEeiacD1c9uDkxVanWEEbRaIXUsV1XZ7tooVVViW2N8LgIn-yCQcgb3pjYJGf_-lhGtrXC0iE93UFFBEr_ytXwdGEcp7n6K3_LIKCmA81i/s640/SDC10240.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><u>Matchbox Lesney Ford Cortina #25D</u></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><u><br /></u></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFivMKyE1QRTIIPYSJlcbKzvNPMm8WHON0dS4jSNvNkMA6vJmInyoeDUeT4oImjEFvJFMp2UdcBr29ekH_MxsLEF3RBGuLMFGo1wIfDLjXTaybovAIuglCRqIMqbPO7E3waGgTyQbCiliJ/s1600/SDC10239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFivMKyE1QRTIIPYSJlcbKzvNPMm8WHON0dS4jSNvNkMA6vJmInyoeDUeT4oImjEFvJFMp2UdcBr29ekH_MxsLEF3RBGuLMFGo1wIfDLjXTaybovAIuglCRqIMqbPO7E3waGgTyQbCiliJ/s320/SDC10239.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Introduced in 1968 in the regular Lesney lineup, this Cortina is one of the classiest Lesney you can find. Under the number 25D, it first appeared in a pale cooper color. It adopted Superfast wheels in 1970, but soon disappeared from the line-up, making the transitional ones quite expensive. A mint condition one with the box can get up to 50$ nowadays... making me a really lucky guy to have one. Found in a flea market a few years ago, it's definitly a masterpiece of my transitionals collection. Take a look at those perfectly reproduced lines, with the intact trailer hitch. This one shines on my nearest shelf :D<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKKoRnTGODnr_eax47TlnQynjZ5dvbwdmqDN7E8PUPVau-eJL_RN7cS-9XH4zzsik1CGxd98yZJXQS3NOlfKZ9QY877gWYjiQsqFkMPPIrOIf_SSQlOSQSwm77aIJHc84rG-Le82Tqj5t4/s1600/SDC10241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKKoRnTGODnr_eax47TlnQynjZ5dvbwdmqDN7E8PUPVau-eJL_RN7cS-9XH4zzsik1CGxd98yZJXQS3NOlfKZ9QY877gWYjiQsqFkMPPIrOIf_SSQlOSQSwm77aIJHc84rG-Le82Tqj5t4/s320/SDC10241.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMOgyWbthnWWkhWRNGKQsUoW60NFHxdYZ-hIla2y2PXU5Wu8mx8ICh4pFxddvmgKrt459t0sF8djFtyYvfUrHxVso86B87-_7d1Dex1mNOMHeVFLr5svrolzhbib7-p8UhJIebzAZfgBm_/s1600/SDC10242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMOgyWbthnWWkhWRNGKQsUoW60NFHxdYZ-hIla2y2PXU5Wu8mx8ICh4pFxddvmgKrt459t0sF8djFtyYvfUrHxVso86B87-_7d1Dex1mNOMHeVFLr5svrolzhbib7-p8UhJIebzAZfgBm_/s320/SDC10242.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation</span></b></u></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color : 9</u>/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 44/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<b><u>Fifth generation : Cortina Mark V</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.jsm-net.demon.co.uk/cortina/pix/mkv3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://www.jsm-net.demon.co.uk/cortina/pix/mkv3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Holding the Britain's best selling car title since 1972, the Cortina's last generation was introduced in 1979. It was mainly a huge restyling of the IV rather than a brand new car. Way bigger than the first generations, it featured a more flat and luxuous style, quite typical of the first 80's european cars. Engine offering also received a slight boost, peaking at 116 bhp. Also known as the Ford Taunus, it was virtually unbeatable in selling, even if the competition was becoming better and better (just think about the VW Passat, Opel Ascona etc.) The Cortina lost its title in 1982, last year of production of the car, being replaced by the Escort on the sales top.</div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gM6IQdWjyS4M0UDpt4M16776OjTPnNHrnv6UilLgASciBITfBBxF2nKZDrFWfJy9y7TCyHqYAZFVZEGT1EdeddWPHRQPDy1gdgaukSc-bdCfE-NF1Gib3FQhS-v69MS8ZkubdJ1zozz4/s1600/SDC10245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1gM6IQdWjyS4M0UDpt4M16776OjTPnNHrnv6UilLgASciBITfBBxF2nKZDrFWfJy9y7TCyHqYAZFVZEGT1EdeddWPHRQPDy1gdgaukSc-bdCfE-NF1Gib3FQhS-v69MS8ZkubdJ1zozz4/s640/SDC10245.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<i><u>Matchbox Superfast Ford Cortina</u></i></div>
<div>
<i><u><br /></u></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN3BVM05hLVAj4UL0AAI6eu6bxxQ2LilHQgjisi26LXYCo_UriXeIgwllYE3ourZELKHQZ7qU7NmcggIdLECCPo6mfXYnuU0frvqVyI568FYfsY_3NDsd4HkbELpwVvD2fMavebUBjS8S/s1600/SDC10249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwN3BVM05hLVAj4UL0AAI6eu6bxxQ2LilHQgjisi26LXYCo_UriXeIgwllYE3ourZELKHQZ7qU7NmcggIdLECCPo6mfXYnuU0frvqVyI568FYfsY_3NDsd4HkbELpwVvD2fMavebUBjS8S/s320/SDC10249.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The 1979's Matchbox Superfast Cortina's replica is quite one of the most populars around. Mostly known in its pale green tint, a few Cortinas were produced with different colors for the Bulgarian market. It's been in the line-up from 1979 to 1982, just like the real car. Again, i'm really lucky to have a Bulgarian pale cooper one, this time with an almost mint box. It's quite a masterpiece, reproducing a lot of details from the real, and again featuring a trailer hitch just like the first one. Unfortunately, mine doesn't roll so well, so it's better exposed!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXVuV5lNHotDtMdTnObIC8d4-ZDaglekqhLoyaqhCfvH70p-O62CvZYvh0Kk2GMeLwxf-DebsiP0EF2LWpXQD-P-Z1RoEooLBrdfpVQzWTCSyQlLnTwz71Sc0KoUWyqnuKlFhImanS9HUB/s1600/SDC10246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXVuV5lNHotDtMdTnObIC8d4-ZDaglekqhLoyaqhCfvH70p-O62CvZYvh0Kk2GMeLwxf-DebsiP0EF2LWpXQD-P-Z1RoEooLBrdfpVQzWTCSyQlLnTwz71Sc0KoUWyqnuKlFhImanS9HUB/s640/SDC10246.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw08kQ3PAuDCC9c7OmVmZqeSbPlwnavE2eOXMG-zVHOvPcy3X41ieHjiWdj8TLdw9UMegt7MuUij0VjQBKmAlFLVV4c_5KSzAVBJNaR0AxIElEWUwtaccxcOxA8h7cDLnHeAoJKKsNZod-/s1600/SDC10248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw08kQ3PAuDCC9c7OmVmZqeSbPlwnavE2eOXMG-zVHOvPcy3X41ieHjiWdj8TLdw9UMegt7MuUij0VjQBKmAlFLVV4c_5KSzAVBJNaR0AxIElEWUwtaccxcOxA8h7cDLnHeAoJKKsNZod-/s320/SDC10248.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation</span></b></u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color : 8</u>/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 42/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sorry for the lack of posts past months, i've been quite busy! Enjoy this one :)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2O5ceHp4AgM-5fl47bf06erF1T_fMx6j3l5Nvz6E5do4ndhAb-m9vlbLUBrWJtzFIIP-_9yP6ogJA3mnlATis-g6TOTlEnMe3P45mAxOvKZSPA-mHJ1AlgKfWus0vCHIWHcrqFim0aeDd/s1600/SDC10254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2O5ceHp4AgM-5fl47bf06erF1T_fMx6j3l5Nvz6E5do4ndhAb-m9vlbLUBrWJtzFIIP-_9yP6ogJA3mnlATis-g6TOTlEnMe3P45mAxOvKZSPA-mHJ1AlgKfWus0vCHIWHcrqFim0aeDd/s640/SDC10254.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDMOuMmYXFbXD40BBYhXiQQzcfo9aF9fUuZSDwk7KJfSGwWM93CglePLc3bifpcZaQ9kdMdH8tYGFIb2Yo02T7FIPmvhcC3MKLf_DnlThdEPlt6c5m04avO5JMwzpDtyd5eYSi5jtK6W2/s1600/SDC10252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglDMOuMmYXFbXD40BBYhXiQQzcfo9aF9fUuZSDwk7KJfSGwWM93CglePLc3bifpcZaQ9kdMdH8tYGFIb2Yo02T7FIPmvhcC3MKLf_DnlThdEPlt6c5m04avO5JMwzpDtyd5eYSi5jtK6W2/s640/SDC10252.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5AP3XC9gM7ynPy9p62moV9C-pkw1CGfpxRuWU3BlcWc-Iebku9j4JTJMxjIDe_D2q_OB-Rk4wpqGTL4Lh-UOkOs8pBrHgBK_tgbuafN19lW5p3tIZJUI-ZJmOIiepOA_E_UFqSqmp5eU/s1600/SDC10251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5AP3XC9gM7ynPy9p62moV9C-pkw1CGfpxRuWU3BlcWc-Iebku9j4JTJMxjIDe_D2q_OB-Rk4wpqGTL4Lh-UOkOs8pBrHgBK_tgbuafN19lW5p3tIZJUI-ZJmOIiepOA_E_UFqSqmp5eU/s640/SDC10251.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-48896685766711333932012-05-20T06:56:00.000-07:002012-05-20T06:56:52.623-07:00[Customization] Nissan HardbodySo it all started with this :
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20090220054631/hotwheels/images/3/3f/Nissan_Harbody_KlAid.JPG" imageanchor="1" style=""><img border="0" height="233" width="340" src="http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20090220054631/hotwheels/images/3/3f/Nissan_Harbody_KlAid.JPG" /></a></div>
That is, imho, an horrible model. So i stripped it apart, changed the wheels, made a complete new base, cut a few pieces out, and i tried to reproduce a "real" Nissan Hardbody, with a small custom look. Here's what i ended with:
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img861.imageshack.us/img861/2681/sdc10203e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="508" width="800" src="http://img861.imageshack.us/img861/2681/sdc10203e.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/8742/sdc10207z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="554" width="800" src="http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/8742/sdc10207z.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/803/sdc10205xn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="477" width="800" src="http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/803/sdc10205xn.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/6580/sdc10206o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="567" width="800" src="http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/6580/sdc10206o.jpg" /></a></div>
Any comment is welcomed :)Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-36776523423548808722012-01-14T18:20:00.000-08:002012-01-14T18:20:29.116-08:00New additions : 14 january 2011Here's my january edition of new additions! Lots of new Hot Wheels, and a few others that were missing for a long time. I want to thanks folks from MCCH who helped me to find these cars!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Maisto Dodge Ram 1500</u></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Quite a great casting for a Maisto! Nice wheels, great tampos and a cool color. Only actual 1:64 latest Dodge Ram. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkP7q8BQVWzr9Iks4P_9V2C_xgpgrwLiJyrMlwraK6-vAJH7AsESKwnQ7VVSlQ0xc0AteLiL3K4uAWjdeGnel0xaE0dTOOahRExo3migxeOZB1EdrEqxlCKpMqKqDC8Y-BcoIKnwKl8r3N/s1600/dodgeram1500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkP7q8BQVWzr9Iks4P_9V2C_xgpgrwLiJyrMlwraK6-vAJH7AsESKwnQ7VVSlQ0xc0AteLiL3K4uAWjdeGnel0xaE0dTOOahRExo3migxeOZB1EdrEqxlCKpMqKqDC8Y-BcoIKnwKl8r3N/s640/dodgeram1500.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyWhyT-F03fwszC8KoTJZyr1W8ptLnKeU9JESH_zHAtk81u6Enk6aFoKdQISuXXL_rTWrHLjFTqtc2KB8HK2i5LlGr6PDavOE4nqH77dhtuRcUYLY95Dk5zPMb1BdN88QFu3NZcotkiVu/s1600/P1090222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGyWhyT-F03fwszC8KoTJZyr1W8ptLnKeU9JESH_zHAtk81u6Enk6aFoKdQISuXXL_rTWrHLjFTqtc2KB8HK2i5LlGr6PDavOE4nqH77dhtuRcUYLY95Dk5zPMb1BdN88QFu3NZcotkiVu/s640/P1090222.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsLqt6kEDS-gaa3aQNrK-Pv3SZCjFnoQtMB-u9FV8aAwtwwm_JSdzj-Q6YUPIS4dABIf09f0hDgmaS7YdWOwPi55kSVQlHHNO3v3NL-PMphabZNxmDVXUsl5XiT5SH4riIG1owNPEUXmV/s1600/P1090223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVsLqt6kEDS-gaa3aQNrK-Pv3SZCjFnoQtMB-u9FV8aAwtwwm_JSdzj-Q6YUPIS4dABIf09f0hDgmaS7YdWOwPi55kSVQlHHNO3v3NL-PMphabZNxmDVXUsl5XiT5SH4riIG1owNPEUXmV/s640/P1090223.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Maisto Scion xB</u></b></span></div><br />
Again, an awesome new casting from Maisto. This one is missing a few tampos on the front, and wheels could be a little better. As every Maisto, windows are badly black. But it's the only 1:64 new Scion xB replica, and quite rare :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPi0DhbNN8bIE_h8hPLHcaUPUewLFRZGzQcx-hbj3C8ckCB3_iwHI3PAl89IZ-mYTinkPCqXP0cX9XFdB5j6ij3wUSu3hfpqY4wU3BJxhtHX-eg5m9fDk6xkWmgrgBle95DBShIK7Y5HiF/s1600/P1090166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPi0DhbNN8bIE_h8hPLHcaUPUewLFRZGzQcx-hbj3C8ckCB3_iwHI3PAl89IZ-mYTinkPCqXP0cX9XFdB5j6ij3wUSu3hfpqY4wU3BJxhtHX-eg5m9fDk6xkWmgrgBle95DBShIK7Y5HiF/s640/P1090166.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ622bYhn8XS5dkRjdQW7ZdsFRf271mWFg1uoMfLrhqudmRZyUEHSSJN3YPJYl6hQZuDiv8FHgM9y-M843Mm2MGOySuepMck0fYJZpgFo1Ew53m_c3PmzMzy-qIa5jcQac60PAnqixDuSF/s1600/P1090208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ622bYhn8XS5dkRjdQW7ZdsFRf271mWFg1uoMfLrhqudmRZyUEHSSJN3YPJYl6hQZuDiv8FHgM9y-M843Mm2MGOySuepMck0fYJZpgFo1Ew53m_c3PmzMzy-qIa5jcQac60PAnqixDuSF/s640/P1090208.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCUnFRhfVBheufYw6CPhp3xeiMl9ppWxvOse43Rd0N6HsnXgYQL3VxmKs2uDEUJyeHTfG892tiKs0feQtOs_yX5l5jgj-Ivsn9iRN5sSPohcr4_sbHVEK1fd97do8ZagrfIHNJOcRFzu5/s1600/P1090209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCUnFRhfVBheufYw6CPhp3xeiMl9ppWxvOse43Rd0N6HsnXgYQL3VxmKs2uDEUJyeHTfG892tiKs0feQtOs_yX5l5jgj-Ivsn9iRN5sSPohcr4_sbHVEK1fd97do8ZagrfIHNJOcRFzu5/s640/P1090209.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Matchbox LesneyRover 3500</u></b></span></div><br />
A long long time wanted that i finally found at a reasonable price on eBay. This casting has only been produced once in this cooper color (a few can be found in yellow, but they're sold around 350$ each), and is quite elusive. Even more, having one near mint is even more harder to get. With a working sunroof, it's definitly one of my favorite casting, of a quite rare england car. I'm a huge fan of these old 70's-80's sedans!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6k15yl4kzply0WHq400fCxORKm3uQofWT2-lS7v2RcNIBc3_sIaGAbFUkgj1WD4YgqrzY-qOnTop20PvYuFwj-KM4qYS-w0LdutfHtUTwWo9YaiztIIhEsEIyVIRO-Dpj6er4bSQav8Eq/s1600/P1090219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6k15yl4kzply0WHq400fCxORKm3uQofWT2-lS7v2RcNIBc3_sIaGAbFUkgj1WD4YgqrzY-qOnTop20PvYuFwj-KM4qYS-w0LdutfHtUTwWo9YaiztIIhEsEIyVIRO-Dpj6er4bSQav8Eq/s640/P1090219.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqAViwm_xoAOn3MhoB2e7ItpOMvXGczwz3AAsF_H_FTc5S2oTn3BbC5lLUTLlAA1L-aqI7X2c8SSMSvFxU56p0bs1-9_cST2afUiqrVyz4dudFO6XuxOym67wqSlt3gsO2W_qVbWVt3nn/s1600/P1090220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqAViwm_xoAOn3MhoB2e7ItpOMvXGczwz3AAsF_H_FTc5S2oTn3BbC5lLUTLlAA1L-aqI7X2c8SSMSvFxU56p0bs1-9_cST2afUiqrVyz4dudFO6XuxOym67wqSlt3gsO2W_qVbWVt3nn/s640/P1090220.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPnnLxrDa0ZLks-RP7FaK67wYlAtpZQ0BGg02_PVubmzdtRASulum18H-NClE9H5TwNDMP_Cbo6nI93NKevEFfyaW3bcy0y_tv_UY5YRH8823KG4ho5rRvh28XhGFngaTCVxJBLMAN_Nuc/s1600/P1090221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPnnLxrDa0ZLks-RP7FaK67wYlAtpZQ0BGg02_PVubmzdtRASulum18H-NClE9H5TwNDMP_Cbo6nI93NKevEFfyaW3bcy0y_tv_UY5YRH8823KG4ho5rRvh28XhGFngaTCVxJBLMAN_Nuc/s640/P1090221.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Matchbox Nissan Fairlady Z</u></b></span></div><br />
Casting coming from 1979, this one is for filling a hole in my collection. I already had the 300ZX of the same years (Kidco), but didn't have the japanese version. As a old Matchbox, it is an awesomely done casting, with opening doors. Those wheels are quite strange for a Matchbox though, they are really small.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtzmxjbONYRAgepxRzZVH1LjmYCiLTQ-4_V_xXaL1wq2EGcpdRrfAIa5NrVAvtKZ7lA-907QE5UDUAN2zlZAt6CMXkNG8XqPI3okiDGc35sKcdf3vVfsviB6FNoEAfFIEzsjWo9gl_oe0S/s1600/P1090216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtzmxjbONYRAgepxRzZVH1LjmYCiLTQ-4_V_xXaL1wq2EGcpdRrfAIa5NrVAvtKZ7lA-907QE5UDUAN2zlZAt6CMXkNG8XqPI3okiDGc35sKcdf3vVfsviB6FNoEAfFIEzsjWo9gl_oe0S/s640/P1090216.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJfbLo0vGwelzxDDX3YyYUnhe8bEjxa48jEwTk-y4vZgvaQkr6onZ3Vt2wgJxVVUYGD3r2PIlE2DioRqIg5JrQNgcdDHVq9ecUaMK0DRj4N12SRVFDYv0s1OKNpUgko_pzwMZPrROxVSO/s1600/P1090217.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcJfbLo0vGwelzxDDX3YyYUnhe8bEjxa48jEwTk-y4vZgvaQkr6onZ3Vt2wgJxVVUYGD3r2PIlE2DioRqIg5JrQNgcdDHVq9ecUaMK0DRj4N12SRVFDYv0s1OKNpUgko_pzwMZPrROxVSO/s640/P1090217.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVgknUaECLItIg1TeJ_2yWTdsG_gfQOm6VygFZDPRf4JEy_LVcrCEJbHC0Y20MdfQ3QQwnujHU3L8X6JkBlLqFuPg5ZpnAQWE6OhClH_BuLWRR467QyRPDw6nIR7372BN8EThUQiMMJVc/s1600/P1090218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitVgknUaECLItIg1TeJ_2yWTdsG_gfQOm6VygFZDPRf4JEy_LVcrCEJbHC0Y20MdfQ3QQwnujHU3L8X6JkBlLqFuPg5ZpnAQWE6OhClH_BuLWRR467QyRPDw6nIR7372BN8EThUQiMMJVc/s640/P1090218.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Johnny Lightning Plymouth Fury '67</u></b></span></div><br />
A high wanted one, already got the Police version a few weeks ago. This is one of the longuest 1:64 i've seen! As every JL, it is very high detailed, with tampos and opening hood. Those wheels are new (or rarely used). The driving wheel is huge! Color fits really well for the car.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgle0HTnKV6e8-w5BlmeKhx0MghYJqukXCKGu0p13Ff5AmXc9k8rEWw388xjwgBeXYaSJ5rqRGq9Fid-nuxIT1PRshPynuEVOojRH9cq5SP-I-aQkVEq8lfvIAChT6lBoP1IDwh4Nh5lrPg/s1600/P1090213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgle0HTnKV6e8-w5BlmeKhx0MghYJqukXCKGu0p13Ff5AmXc9k8rEWw388xjwgBeXYaSJ5rqRGq9Fid-nuxIT1PRshPynuEVOojRH9cq5SP-I-aQkVEq8lfvIAChT6lBoP1IDwh4Nh5lrPg/s640/P1090213.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrC8pLuqFHU92WgZThyphenhyphenmNTmFC96o8aQVdVUjJ799Rselg_23LNlEAp8ZWYyp_m19VuZVxd3FOzX-YN0OfrAxciuu2p8bEPX3NPgOSEzJpB3tof82vXLxsFMx2wYL4buqy_Kima7yngxr36/s1600/P1090214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrC8pLuqFHU92WgZThyphenhyphenmNTmFC96o8aQVdVUjJ799Rselg_23LNlEAp8ZWYyp_m19VuZVxd3FOzX-YN0OfrAxciuu2p8bEPX3NPgOSEzJpB3tof82vXLxsFMx2wYL4buqy_Kima7yngxr36/s640/P1090214.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQU_5pPRI3LzDXB40ssFkcQ0GITCkHGjbD6jTFp3Md-L7cnqq1Ugm71X5W93BOS5PELsxfOjUtg7J1kv_vSDyqXWlaKMK8q96rrw9m54Ev2dXe7WGCNx7mSGNksRdCrn-bcGmWu8gRmEQW/s1600/P1090215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQU_5pPRI3LzDXB40ssFkcQ0GITCkHGjbD6jTFp3Md-L7cnqq1Ugm71X5W93BOS5PELsxfOjUtg7J1kv_vSDyqXWlaKMK8q96rrw9m54Ev2dXe7WGCNx7mSGNksRdCrn-bcGmWu8gRmEQW/s640/P1090215.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Corgi Junior Citroen Dyane</u></b></span></div><br />
The Dyane always intrigued me.Kind of a rip-off of a 2CV.... This one is also a quite rare casting, one of the older Corgi(s). Pretty much well done but lacking a bit of details, such as lights or black bumpers? It is a big too big for a 1:64 though, as it is the small size of the Ram 1500.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhObnC-oLDvYJEXzbHv-ECtgu3Elk6dZOVRwfMy6uk6YxfY-UPUoaYcq6WMv6wBCRMvtwU_s9Tq7BPrMLTg1TMmwSxtTrGllYqhhXM76g1iNdtT89NX48flPc2M6w8LuYNEUtgvTGJIxj/s1600/citroendyane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikhObnC-oLDvYJEXzbHv-ECtgu3Elk6dZOVRwfMy6uk6YxfY-UPUoaYcq6WMv6wBCRMvtwU_s9Tq7BPrMLTg1TMmwSxtTrGllYqhhXM76g1iNdtT89NX48flPc2M6w8LuYNEUtgvTGJIxj/s640/citroendyane.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieDply-yn-fu1rn_LJXAdDSlhZUOYKtSOY0htrbAaYC0oRVCsJMRI7XHg0TKSXQXcWB1rU4I54EaVpe4sPyn5RLKuhbuvgUgW9ZyYwrzZCMYyeY7ayuogUaLtP0vUVfzCVv_bfGd3l2OzH/s1600/P1090211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieDply-yn-fu1rn_LJXAdDSlhZUOYKtSOY0htrbAaYC0oRVCsJMRI7XHg0TKSXQXcWB1rU4I54EaVpe4sPyn5RLKuhbuvgUgW9ZyYwrzZCMYyeY7ayuogUaLtP0vUVfzCVv_bfGd3l2OzH/s640/P1090211.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyW2rM8eBble8TSA-XmwwKM2OX1rji3M4PRjXNRAUOGSzZwHERphf1118b86LnzjmJWDBd4gdBD8naIVVUOr_u4f6pEuA88uVrKyJiyh3WAD7iL3gqJSXXPJk1rbCbT2ThEulCm1odF9Fr/s1600/P1090212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyW2rM8eBble8TSA-XmwwKM2OX1rji3M4PRjXNRAUOGSzZwHERphf1118b86LnzjmJWDBd4gdBD8naIVVUOr_u4f6pEuA88uVrKyJiyh3WAD7iL3gqJSXXPJk1rbCbT2ThEulCm1odF9Fr/s640/P1090212.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Wheels Dodge Charger R/T 2011</u></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">First of a few HW castings i was missing.Clearly not one of the best of 2011s, but still not bat. Problem is, it doesn't look like so much the real car... And tampos are in the wrong place. I mean, those black stripes are cool, but where are the lights? Front calander is awesome though.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOV1iI2FyL163jBf-Ti3pVtoxrHo4kJXuvuU6U44DylGPCkjTJtT66oyHhz11tyikd8c3Fh5lHLWk5VY11m9-zMjUO35e8f-RgXWkrGupLlLjfjdTt_fuhh_3pzycxtlr268rfRBmYIJ0l/s1600/charger2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOV1iI2FyL163jBf-Ti3pVtoxrHo4kJXuvuU6U44DylGPCkjTJtT66oyHhz11tyikd8c3Fh5lHLWk5VY11m9-zMjUO35e8f-RgXWkrGupLlLjfjdTt_fuhh_3pzycxtlr268rfRBmYIJ0l/s640/charger2011.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDuBVpdKZTiclIMZpnTWVHxHsu43FQuAukjaCoAdwnNPR3uSnkVjvG3KUqKF6rRaeuBkvZ-UKVVo_xjj_iO8YkTzlVMxeeE4G_GWThyphenhyphengpffvtslwOihFY1Kze465Ktl9hYnkdw3V2HWS6/s1600/P1090206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDuBVpdKZTiclIMZpnTWVHxHsu43FQuAukjaCoAdwnNPR3uSnkVjvG3KUqKF6rRaeuBkvZ-UKVVo_xjj_iO8YkTzlVMxeeE4G_GWThyphenhyphengpffvtslwOihFY1Kze465Ktl9hYnkdw3V2HWS6/s640/P1090206.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FtHiTFrSeIw3Ob0JupKn__pPP63htM_zddiWvAgvQ9O5_FCE5uVd6q-a27rvF02KG5MzHFNvVJtnK4YyJG6jGWRKv27bvHmWKJh2dyBMlZrczz9-vV2_I3QIPNw2HmfI6fFvBF_kfGko/s1600/P1090207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3FtHiTFrSeIw3Ob0JupKn__pPP63htM_zddiWvAgvQ9O5_FCE5uVd6q-a27rvF02KG5MzHFNvVJtnK4YyJG6jGWRKv27bvHmWKJh2dyBMlZrczz9-vV2_I3QIPNw2HmfI6fFvBF_kfGko/s640/P1090207.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Wheels Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca</u></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Awesome casting of an awesome car. Definitly my style. This black & red combination makes it look a bit evil, and the front bumper is indicating some racing in the air. Red wheels makes it look agressive. Tampos would have been welcomed though... but it's definitly a needed one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdTaX5lSANUnq5a3efD0qGun451khIEX8yAuWxvP-MnqSyl4uaTTVK7FBAaJZY8mHkibEXtx213kff3i8QPDwTYt-TRtsLAr9Eqm5Z8s_qKO9InZ0wMYttKSzFBW2E4FtjFKI_PvbeWc_/s1600/mustangboss302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdTaX5lSANUnq5a3efD0qGun451khIEX8yAuWxvP-MnqSyl4uaTTVK7FBAaJZY8mHkibEXtx213kff3i8QPDwTYt-TRtsLAr9Eqm5Z8s_qKO9InZ0wMYttKSzFBW2E4FtjFKI_PvbeWc_/s640/mustangboss302.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6kGwJzoXebUCvsfyphFugXs8UmTA_GR09oOSMxhC7MZVqhZdfVufh-lpNDheDS8VtZ7InvBRzOQ1tbI9H-OpfNUm93-j59CoKcupSTSKMrKD0bAvjjyb8jk-FtfOff3guzpJVMkMB_Yq5/s1600/P1090203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6kGwJzoXebUCvsfyphFugXs8UmTA_GR09oOSMxhC7MZVqhZdfVufh-lpNDheDS8VtZ7InvBRzOQ1tbI9H-OpfNUm93-j59CoKcupSTSKMrKD0bAvjjyb8jk-FtfOff3guzpJVMkMB_Yq5/s640/P1090203.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fjtR7A6XKiP3qMREF5js1_MK2vszHCGm_680fM_AMOJP_PUGCH10Ehs7djTO46pqTTmoFDza5oeXPLhttGbs1evvo4P2zZHVsrGXYVwsadm46Ovf60QEsGB42g9qThnemaN0WWgehSPy/s1600/P1090204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fjtR7A6XKiP3qMREF5js1_MK2vszHCGm_680fM_AMOJP_PUGCH10Ehs7djTO46pqTTmoFDza5oeXPLhttGbs1evvo4P2zZHVsrGXYVwsadm46Ovf60QEsGB42g9qThnemaN0WWgehSPy/s640/P1090204.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Wheels Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4</u></b></span></div><br />
Now this is clearly one of the best looking cars of 2011. Style was already announced with the Reventon and the last editions of the Murcielago, but this one is stunning. Lines are so much agressive but well-balanced, and the orange color looks like it's burning hot. Hot Wheels reproduced it very well, and is clearly one of the best add in this batch. YOU NEED IT!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwnXHBPSwjX7OVHcjd1wUI8-kKx0EO9m89H2Fc1VT-asGYfGhvZ26P4MS648NBAiaToq9w0drYkTHhx1UO40ZxgkPSujeiEpcoTD0Ke-2Id78TxfUBBsdbXpBCAA9MyMWV8r2Oz90OYCQ/s1600/lamboaventador.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwnXHBPSwjX7OVHcjd1wUI8-kKx0EO9m89H2Fc1VT-asGYfGhvZ26P4MS648NBAiaToq9w0drYkTHhx1UO40ZxgkPSujeiEpcoTD0Ke-2Id78TxfUBBsdbXpBCAA9MyMWV8r2Oz90OYCQ/s640/lamboaventador.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1TF9_0nKUhgUjsfg_b42jzn5WHhS7I5eKNwRaR6kRb3W06DJP8jJbh71XHTA7U56HKePm6GUwR-pBJGnoJg5M5SdkuL2xO5eZ_y0fsgOLJGTesr_KEZdItDEhidG7zEwOMTfuWqUUiELb/s1600/P1090200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1TF9_0nKUhgUjsfg_b42jzn5WHhS7I5eKNwRaR6kRb3W06DJP8jJbh71XHTA7U56HKePm6GUwR-pBJGnoJg5M5SdkuL2xO5eZ_y0fsgOLJGTesr_KEZdItDEhidG7zEwOMTfuWqUUiELb/s640/P1090200.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTp8eK9hMrm2Ht3Pa-Ifc3PIGpV2aTdT-Nocq7v__4CrutMLjPDnhBCKSpnFj0HfEuY7zyCeczCyP1dIldRP2nNqLfxG0oiofo_YGccg7VvCPc9dYsF4ljmUfGMaTq2dKjn60TLR8gg8w/s1600/P1090201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTp8eK9hMrm2Ht3Pa-Ifc3PIGpV2aTdT-Nocq7v__4CrutMLjPDnhBCKSpnFj0HfEuY7zyCeczCyP1dIldRP2nNqLfxG0oiofo_YGccg7VvCPc9dYsF4ljmUfGMaTq2dKjn60TLR8gg8w/s640/P1090201.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Wheels BMW M3 GT2</u></b></span></div><br />
This new casting of 2012 is the racing version of the M3 introduced in 2011. It's a neat reproduction of those LM racing cars. Racing tampos are greatly applied, but a few lights could have been added (although racing cars don't always have these). The rear wing is somewhat cheap and plastic, but was needed. A great new casting for 2012 overall.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMtR3xP7SK1m_2ES14SWxq08gbGifxHtu_6_jzzzHgFYi25XZmr1MXWXl0X7soWackTY5FOEA2jGnOJOGsTuSYf4llUkBJO-ClyUVY28S3sj1QZWVUcArdlRyOr4Ux7M2Kq19zdJMh9OH4/s1600/bmwm3gt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMtR3xP7SK1m_2ES14SWxq08gbGifxHtu_6_jzzzHgFYi25XZmr1MXWXl0X7soWackTY5FOEA2jGnOJOGsTuSYf4llUkBJO-ClyUVY28S3sj1QZWVUcArdlRyOr4Ux7M2Kq19zdJMh9OH4/s640/bmwm3gt2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-Pl2H2FFJzPr8yJmvjt4X55icciEZu1a5sgqBkCIQ8uvaLMNt4N3xYsC5qaV7c2XJ9vhyHtLTsE1JWyyL7-93XsbmNEtcEVyhMJnUaNrMDQK0tmismWU8KQiHTlkUtSzsbx0uOWVcm4R/s1600/P1090197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA-Pl2H2FFJzPr8yJmvjt4X55icciEZu1a5sgqBkCIQ8uvaLMNt4N3xYsC5qaV7c2XJ9vhyHtLTsE1JWyyL7-93XsbmNEtcEVyhMJnUaNrMDQK0tmismWU8KQiHTlkUtSzsbx0uOWVcm4R/s640/P1090197.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8SXCWxtdBlnCyNZ0rIsdBW8s2sWy6dbHmENIF7QaCXS7F_gmErX2NAQ9C3dLC75BAahznrKJGrBaZmcctYCFXwuAdK2d2k_DjgOlIMIOEI3Edi7M6p9LEUPOQA4N6sik9Mfal7Gnl-cik/s1600/P1090198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8SXCWxtdBlnCyNZ0rIsdBW8s2sWy6dbHmENIF7QaCXS7F_gmErX2NAQ9C3dLC75BAahznrKJGrBaZmcctYCFXwuAdK2d2k_DjgOlIMIOEI3Edi7M6p9LEUPOQA4N6sik9Mfal7Gnl-cik/s640/P1090198.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Wheels Chevrolet Camaro ZL1</u></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The new Camaro ZL1 is a stunning car, looking soooo powerful. With this huge bumper, agressive hood, hidden headlights and red/black paint, it's ready to burn down some rubber. Problem with the HW casting is its cheapiness... it looks like fragile! Rear tampos could have been added too. Still a neat addition to my Camaro collection.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yb0xCk714r-xMt8hJicFFkKpdMVSII8smsHuFVC-bG_YgHtW-CgmM-B3lxQz7yUhSrsWKihDDeYxhaPgqBX9iA1ND5oPzXU2Uak8P-JOpl8hMEohyphenhyphen9z4dehsi-ocBv5YWVwkTeB5zpbU/s1600/camarozl1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2yb0xCk714r-xMt8hJicFFkKpdMVSII8smsHuFVC-bG_YgHtW-CgmM-B3lxQz7yUhSrsWKihDDeYxhaPgqBX9iA1ND5oPzXU2Uak8P-JOpl8hMEohyphenhyphen9z4dehsi-ocBv5YWVwkTeB5zpbU/s640/camarozl1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9Jl16DzRvp7-3A-8tZex_DeC6re4RWsK8SqU-bA_OK8szs90gCOKu0rGvn_bWrW914bfz7ljHbEiR8AgEoU6MgiPDwQtWB1DDQKUkw2lQ4BCFMz_9ndz2-tiTBT9mMUBfIuTcFAhLLUQ/s1600/P1090194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9Jl16DzRvp7-3A-8tZex_DeC6re4RWsK8SqU-bA_OK8szs90gCOKu0rGvn_bWrW914bfz7ljHbEiR8AgEoU6MgiPDwQtWB1DDQKUkw2lQ4BCFMz_9ndz2-tiTBT9mMUBfIuTcFAhLLUQ/s640/P1090194.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrIueXhtNZiBTR3zBrjqOl7kKm1CVpMB5ISUqGaBwQtB5kcR7FUqdX6tN9huJUErJIpDxyIeq38soqn-DZJsLiJAy0hA_lEyrXDcJqs-kIuW-QlPH4x2qfJfa333cQwiCoyXyGsrGvTTI/s1600/P1090195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbrIueXhtNZiBTR3zBrjqOl7kKm1CVpMB5ISUqGaBwQtB5kcR7FUqdX6tN9huJUErJIpDxyIeq38soqn-DZJsLiJAy0hA_lEyrXDcJqs-kIuW-QlPH4x2qfJfa333cQwiCoyXyGsrGvTTI/s640/P1090195.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Wheels Ferrari FF</u></b></span></div><br />
The Ferrari FF is one of the strangest looking car released in 2011. The "chase break" style has already been used a few times in the history (Volvo P1800es), but it's the first time that it's applied to a Ferrari. The result is... quite good, but still strange. The front calander is also quite strange, looking "vulgar" for a Ferrari. But although i'm not sure about the real car, the diecast replica is admirably well done by HW, and is needed in any collection!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9C0fOYSGH1UvbAkGpaRP6M69kyhosO65Du54T9sAV3JclerEuweBJPqUyrEV29dEp0nOj1qpC_jt0dgDWabVbql4QBLmVD0X9YRss4peK5xTOEM9aIPmk7D2CErGgEM3AyPAYVxuF6_3/s1600/ferrariff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC9C0fOYSGH1UvbAkGpaRP6M69kyhosO65Du54T9sAV3JclerEuweBJPqUyrEV29dEp0nOj1qpC_jt0dgDWabVbql4QBLmVD0X9YRss4peK5xTOEM9aIPmk7D2CErGgEM3AyPAYVxuF6_3/s640/ferrariff.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PSVUbvkl22efFWcGAghXzi3IpoE1SC2nu2EoutrhSeaNPxWuo0KKWEyOLjNhjcnQ0lIlFDtAelrz5yWfhRCDMdw1g9yPwNmhEwc18Sz0IFJbY7W30qgyEs7sU1d-d5Vg3ybg0mBEfozz/s1600/P1090191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6PSVUbvkl22efFWcGAghXzi3IpoE1SC2nu2EoutrhSeaNPxWuo0KKWEyOLjNhjcnQ0lIlFDtAelrz5yWfhRCDMdw1g9yPwNmhEwc18Sz0IFJbY7W30qgyEs7sU1d-d5Vg3ybg0mBEfozz/s640/P1090191.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtkNE_xf8M7U1w6pVfGuDEljqw8TRGGua_nBAaP6Sga2YtiMAC3G0iKS_kljmZZOJi1JJkLy2CpbqH7B7aN_0Jq7AbN1sKkDeAlSzH3cnxcGVUkP8wtiF9HUO3gmxKoRetqi5N2gKDHFhJ/s1600/P1090192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtkNE_xf8M7U1w6pVfGuDEljqw8TRGGua_nBAaP6Sga2YtiMAC3G0iKS_kljmZZOJi1JJkLy2CpbqH7B7aN_0Jq7AbN1sKkDeAlSzH3cnxcGVUkP8wtiF9HUO3gmxKoRetqi5N2gKDHFhJ/s640/P1090192.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Wheels Volkswagen Sunagon</u></b></span></div><br />
Released in 2011 as a re-tool in the "Hot Ones" serie, the Sunagon has been one of the most elusive Hot Wheels in the market. The original ones (from the beginning of the 80's) are sometimes the most expensive Hot Wheels regulars you can find. This new edition offers brighter colors than the original one (that was brown). This is a great classy HW, with the opening roof and motorcycle at the back. A casting that i needed for a long long time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5-3ycX6szzW_k219l_V44FUMhAmb6FrjXLZX8RVAABK-BAC8km31u215w8MopUSC48Dj0twrUeJRi7vIy66UCkPFNFUOkA4d_Is6h6np2-yqjUMTsw72ZeO9IDF9jwRyxucIKz0-LhFE/s1600/P1090187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY5-3ycX6szzW_k219l_V44FUMhAmb6FrjXLZX8RVAABK-BAC8km31u215w8MopUSC48Dj0twrUeJRi7vIy66UCkPFNFUOkA4d_Is6h6np2-yqjUMTsw72ZeO9IDF9jwRyxucIKz0-LhFE/s640/P1090187.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv16dFsq7-4PNpX0SS0gsOnqKwn8RvYph02k56XogaoLqShRC6hAUyhoqFye0VCvm4R-VdMpe6G0PSLIKQ2B4PdcRbNTkeMm-br6drhigcMeZCDO6r8sZni0sbleEL3X6vQGwFRAr6iY01/s1600/P1090188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv16dFsq7-4PNpX0SS0gsOnqKwn8RvYph02k56XogaoLqShRC6hAUyhoqFye0VCvm4R-VdMpe6G0PSLIKQ2B4PdcRbNTkeMm-br6drhigcMeZCDO6r8sZni0sbleEL3X6vQGwFRAr6iY01/s640/P1090188.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhvwieUhuUxsTXv3I_xJtFNzT4UsDTYIyQOCIto5AUke47h0TFq1wWRAYzRvE2LrRM5zAliB9nerYbsjlg1-eLO7x6QxSUVE4o8T7HThN8GzdtuwyLqTBLaj0W38x38zxOcWQZayT8nrS/s1600/P1090189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhvwieUhuUxsTXv3I_xJtFNzT4UsDTYIyQOCIto5AUke47h0TFq1wWRAYzRvE2LrRM5zAliB9nerYbsjlg1-eLO7x6QxSUVE4o8T7HThN8GzdtuwyLqTBLaj0W38x38zxOcWQZayT8nrS/s640/P1090189.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Hot Wheels Ford Falcon Race Car</u></b></span></div><br />
Finally, this is one of the first Hot Wheels introduced in 2012. Aussies are quite happy with this one, although it isn't a great casting. Looks plastic, the interior is quite horrible (what's with that big plastic rollcage?). The design tampos are not bad, but are missing on lights. I'm not sold on this one, but australian cars are rare, so it's welcomed in my collection.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGLY7pjoKu2kGOAtPqDv6UdyqIVke_Co-juUQe_LbKSC33EzYy6JnWyL0Fd4H2Rg8cYeBWrEfUdCWAZ8Zbtb6z_v5yQG1DRT_U8YHUM2lxm8VJS87_w6SaZTqJZ5TB5Q1Y1ZQUIeop7DL/s1600/P1090184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiGLY7pjoKu2kGOAtPqDv6UdyqIVke_Co-juUQe_LbKSC33EzYy6JnWyL0Fd4H2Rg8cYeBWrEfUdCWAZ8Zbtb6z_v5yQG1DRT_U8YHUM2lxm8VJS87_w6SaZTqJZ5TB5Q1Y1ZQUIeop7DL/s640/P1090184.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fnIYIEd6a87IjUDYltQDwxJhQmAmJKI9EMHz416QnjixziPHGh-pmT2zttTMCZNVn4er2GjKZQZE5JUTP0SOoXwGh8BaGgzTDTzXKe76BaTkQ7tDTd24-Km7g1L6fb7kvTUy2WPiQdR7/s1600/P1090185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4fnIYIEd6a87IjUDYltQDwxJhQmAmJKI9EMHz416QnjixziPHGh-pmT2zttTMCZNVn4er2GjKZQZE5JUTP0SOoXwGh8BaGgzTDTzXKe76BaTkQ7tDTd24-Km7g1L6fb7kvTUy2WPiQdR7/s640/P1090185.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlejyQUTQcMw1AadfLejF6OeJQAkgiTnn5MkEdgC8smgmWoH4ANo7YGWjr_viP3i9ls1FFWsYpvAoXB287XFBWkUS4PNcMzzbfjyRHbNyZyy1KXuA0jwjQsJku2-ZkwgGVV2E9B68NgjYG/s1600/P1090186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlejyQUTQcMw1AadfLejF6OeJQAkgiTnn5MkEdgC8smgmWoH4ANo7YGWjr_viP3i9ls1FFWsYpvAoXB287XFBWkUS4PNcMzzbfjyRHbNyZyy1KXuA0jwjQsJku2-ZkwgGVV2E9B68NgjYG/s640/P1090186.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Which one is your favorite? Thanks for looking! :)Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-31802479222674365352012-01-05T17:41:00.000-08:002012-01-05T17:41:08.181-08:00[Japanese Moderns] Nissan's luxuous brother : Infiniti<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static-jpeg.sport-prestige.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Infiniti-Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="http://static-jpeg.sport-prestige.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Infiniti-Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This article will focus on the "japano-american" brand Infiniti, created in 1989. First years were quite hard for the brand, it was constantly behind Acura and Lexus in terms of sales. Models weren't so much attractive, but things turned around in the beginning of 2000's. With the introduction of models such as the QX4 or the I35, the brand gained a reputation of fiability. The model that put Infiniti on the top of sales was clearly the G35 (copy of the japanese Skyline) introduced in 2003. This article will mainly focus on this model. Actually, Infiniti's lineup is made of lot of variations of the G37 (sedan, coupe and convertible), the M, Ex and FX crossovers and the huge QX56.<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>G37 Coupe</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.autonewsinfo.com/wordpress/wp-content/images/stories//Constructeurs/INFINITI%20profil%20a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://www.autonewsinfo.com/wordpress/wp-content/images/stories//Constructeurs/INFINITI%20profil%20a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
<a href="http://www.japanesesportcars.com/photos/d/31395-2/2009-infiniti-g37-coupe+_3_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.japanesesportcars.com/photos/d/31395-2/2009-infiniti-g37-coupe+_3_.jpg" width="320" /></a>Unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, the Infiniti G37 Coupe is the first coupe of the brand. It was given a brand new V6 of 330 hp paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Infiniti G37 Coupe is clearly a "gran turismo" coupe, less sportier than its cousin the Nissan 370Z. The focus is more on being luxuous while offering a decent level of performance. Since 2009, it is offered as a convertible, and since 2011, in "IPL" version (Infiniti Performance Line) with an improved V6 engine offering 348 hp. This model quickly became one of the reference of the category, but is challenged by the Hyundai Genesis, that is offering a similar performance for a much lower price.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPUK9K_mW1H311awi1cwbqux3DI_3qoBuVwZFW7bYMD9RCIXLsV0oYobKNIg9IpzRJEHjZL3-lB93TwVrfvZkSwNooFIKniXODLhwAHBgd_tOD5u5nZrAVF9AlLbf9wX8sHXDGX7-Ug7g/s1600/P1090149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPUK9K_mW1H311awi1cwbqux3DI_3qoBuVwZFW7bYMD9RCIXLsV0oYobKNIg9IpzRJEHjZL3-lB93TwVrfvZkSwNooFIKniXODLhwAHBgd_tOD5u5nZrAVF9AlLbf9wX8sHXDGX7-Ug7g/s640/P1090149.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The G37 Coupe has been reproduced two times in diecast, and is actually the only real Infiniti made in 1/64 (to my humble knowledge). The first one has been done by Hot Wheels, introduced in 2010 in the regular casting line. Since then, it has been produced 4 times, and i own the first one, in a blueish silver. It is clearly a slightly tuned version, with a midly aggressive body-kit and a great spoiler. Strangely, the steering wheel is placed on the right, but the Infiniti is an american car... Tampos are great, especially on the rear of the car. Side mirrors are clearly missing again though. For a Hot Wheels, wheels are quite good for the car, and they give a nice sporty look. Clearly one of the good first editions in 2010.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZxdZcx63-E8gerW9Pd15BD9ApHbBgG9-_6Ffh7RGXf_s2sst-hxeyQQQt65gIClXyBcdANrUUv06WqeIn-vPqx3zjUM7_gGcckMSenYDepJwdLdLA60fQWKP8ESyOzovoOnpX_LEJeKr/s1600/P1090150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZxdZcx63-E8gerW9Pd15BD9ApHbBgG9-_6Ffh7RGXf_s2sst-hxeyQQQt65gIClXyBcdANrUUv06WqeIn-vPqx3zjUM7_gGcckMSenYDepJwdLdLA60fQWKP8ESyOzovoOnpX_LEJeKr/s640/P1090150.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6LyO9dDLSuGBr0NQxfhRz_t4i9F7vdKnEHJhhnqDjAypFh93E03tzOrs0Opyr8JPe-Byv-J4_kJTt-SBxTALKWwSghXflZVFtBlLyG3a2jA3FnQxwPdhyw_bZZbUh2I1Gmjh8u7xfH5OP/s1600/P1090151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6LyO9dDLSuGBr0NQxfhRz_t4i9F7vdKnEHJhhnqDjAypFh93E03tzOrs0Opyr8JPe-Byv-J4_kJTt-SBxTALKWwSghXflZVFtBlLyG3a2jA3FnQxwPdhyw_bZZbUh2I1Gmjh8u7xfH5OP/s640/P1090151.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Hot Wheels Infiniti G37 Coupe</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 6/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 35/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3YVbZy0n9qqqJ8PddOS7Lu5Qm5bezm4OScEDJMBH9ay_rnrtvSieUalf4joGOrMHD68y3LP6pVN0jtGlWEy24b70qn0FC1y5sSLHxekOeKxJMXH7uSfT3lMuHsirYCrkRG8YniewVDbB/s1600/P1090152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC3YVbZy0n9qqqJ8PddOS7Lu5Qm5bezm4OScEDJMBH9ay_rnrtvSieUalf4joGOrMHD68y3LP6pVN0jtGlWEy24b70qn0FC1y5sSLHxekOeKxJMXH7uSfT3lMuHsirYCrkRG8YniewVDbB/s640/P1090152.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Mattel's orange brand, Matchbox, also introduced the G37 in the 2011 regular casting line. Strangely, it was first offered with a similar color as the Hot Wheels one. It is a more regular version though, with normal bumpers and normal exhausts. It looks more luxuous, with nice attention accorded to the sunroof. Tampos are so well done, and it even features side mirrors. Sadly, it was a big peg warmer, because it is quite unattractive for kids. Even more, with new 2012 Matchbox's orientation, the future of the casting is quite uncertain. Personally, it is clearly one of the best new 2011 Matchbox, and deserves a place in any collection!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbwWOiiSriSOWvdHrdgH_XkNtt1ybcknk941SdN3zlXEZWb-3NuJBURT6lpVSsbXMx2jjMgBLh0SrJvMefbPF1432CcGb6xR6w0njLd74hBVRCHL7gO6u2fgkT1_8r1eL20AWUN_0LmWbq/s1600/P1090153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbwWOiiSriSOWvdHrdgH_XkNtt1ybcknk941SdN3zlXEZWb-3NuJBURT6lpVSsbXMx2jjMgBLh0SrJvMefbPF1432CcGb6xR6w0njLd74hBVRCHL7gO6u2fgkT1_8r1eL20AWUN_0LmWbq/s640/P1090153.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbdvOlfL7ltnnTzLSi71TwJ45uN57ew8hvTBDKOVpGL2jbxNC8kvtgtgRoFVsmP67b7SyH6l707kq9JU4E2ntpTdg4Dtb_JB77HjH-qI-GF4BVJau3aRwC-BPR3Q1w-dZwrCvgOwHmDojN/s1600/P1090154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbdvOlfL7ltnnTzLSi71TwJ45uN57ew8hvTBDKOVpGL2jbxNC8kvtgtgRoFVsmP67b7SyH6l707kq9JU4E2ntpTdg4Dtb_JB77HjH-qI-GF4BVJau3aRwC-BPR3Q1w-dZwrCvgOwHmDojN/s640/P1090154.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Matchbox Infiniti G37 Coupe</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 42/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-weight: 800;"><u><br />
</u></span></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLddRk4ZY5aLPjG0Xa_uRhbY6yt-eWuuUT69DWReEZj1qXpcTiDNrWO0GB-_O2TDWLhojdlt25HkKUOw02kOs6ZemHc-hWMMbOf_IGRbK6_JJ5T9Z09nc8Z2tJAZdcKA7YqEKf2JRNPCN/s1600/P1090155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJLddRk4ZY5aLPjG0Xa_uRhbY6yt-eWuuUT69DWReEZj1qXpcTiDNrWO0GB-_O2TDWLhojdlt25HkKUOw02kOs6ZemHc-hWMMbOf_IGRbK6_JJ5T9Z09nc8Z2tJAZdcKA7YqEKf2JRNPCN/s640/P1090155.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Which one do you prefer?</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<b><i><u>Nissan's few relatives</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://archive.caranddriver.com/var/ezwebin_site/storage/images/buying_guide/infiniti/g/2009_infiniti_g37_sedan/2009_infiniti_g37_sedan_and_coupe_review/1840073-5-eng-US/2009_infiniti_g37_sedan_and_coupe_review.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://archive.caranddriver.com/var/ezwebin_site/storage/images/buying_guide/infiniti/g/2009_infiniti_g37_sedan/2009_infiniti_g37_sedan_and_coupe_review/1840073-5-eng-US/2009_infiniti_g37_sedan_and_coupe_review.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>G37 Sedan</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw9dCrrNrNtnSr3ofZX7lzyUrI9N1rh1Mcid3bKQp675-xzgMevL6W6ixUaXSxsbcPIjTU6BeEr1oHNrc-2TJ3yn6mUH0K6OXy_kxN55hywB7AFG2I86ecDqoXJZS8pIl2NtPthPv12Nm4/s1600/P1090156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw9dCrrNrNtnSr3ofZX7lzyUrI9N1rh1Mcid3bKQp675-xzgMevL6W6ixUaXSxsbcPIjTU6BeEr1oHNrc-2TJ3yn6mUH0K6OXy_kxN55hywB7AFG2I86ecDqoXJZS8pIl2NtPthPv12Nm4/s640/P1090156.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-x_9bd66fhX7EjPvcUkADxNqvb30FfJGWkBt3pB198BlF8UCam9_MIGHlIoa5_sWjDEffznYOKRqi6E2YL44gp7kJblHLHjZbrE84WuFpLFGMQ99_bQZzS2aObAffyyonaUYSMZqvAGJ/s1600/P1090159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl-x_9bd66fhX7EjPvcUkADxNqvb30FfJGWkBt3pB198BlF8UCam9_MIGHlIoa5_sWjDEffznYOKRqi6E2YL44gp7kJblHLHjZbrE84WuFpLFGMQ99_bQZzS2aObAffyyonaUYSMZqvAGJ/s320/P1090159.jpg" width="316" /></a>I call them relatives because those are models that are offered under the brand Infiniti in US, but under Nissan label in Japan. We'll first start with the G37 Sedan, that is the american version of the Skyline sedan. The G37 sedan was unveiled in 2009 and replaced the G35. A smaller version named the G25 was also introduced in 2011, with an engine of 218 hp only. This Skyline appeared in Japan on 2008, and is known as the V36 generation. The 370GT sedan is the japanese version of the G37. It is offered with the same engine as the Coupe. This sedan is well reproduced by Tomica, the japanese diecast maker. As any Tomica casting, it is very high quality with interesting features such as opening doors and a working suspension. The black color suits it very well, looking like a "Mafia" car. I would say that mirrors could been a nice add, and that front headlights would have been better with a few more details. Still a pretty nice casting there!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7je2du9V_8Xly6RgAjQc8zOXptT_ASoilpk14rTSdj-ZhkCryZqhUmsKKdEq8eXWGEPT4DcOQt1VBlt4TV9-JYOtPzPKJJ3boHCXnwrn_p0Vr7BJavfRcxn0a0syDgx_BhypLZj6dlAxW/s1600/P1090157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7je2du9V_8Xly6RgAjQc8zOXptT_ASoilpk14rTSdj-ZhkCryZqhUmsKKdEq8eXWGEPT4DcOQt1VBlt4TV9-JYOtPzPKJJ3boHCXnwrn_p0Vr7BJavfRcxn0a0syDgx_BhypLZj6dlAxW/s640/P1090157.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJ-MsneQmXxM565F7m9g8L9rzMHQa0SPUeGYmIefGOsC9fnvbjJNLlpLyZ7BXjyhM3H_B0f_Buthj1ry-GqRhPdugQyviyy8kex-YyqKKs7y28iP-FL5sREypDE24KjdFVYMUwwnv3EI0/s1600/P1090158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCJ-MsneQmXxM565F7m9g8L9rzMHQa0SPUeGYmIefGOsC9fnvbjJNLlpLyZ7BXjyhM3H_B0f_Buthj1ry-GqRhPdugQyviyy8kex-YyqKKs7y28iP-FL5sREypDE24KjdFVYMUwwnv3EI0/s640/P1090158.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Tomica Nissan Skyline</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 40/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.larevueautomobile.com/fiche-technique/photos/2009/Infiniti/EX37/Infiniti_EX37_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://www.larevueautomobile.com/fiche-technique/photos/2009/Infiniti/EX37/Infiniti_EX37_001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Infiniti EX37<br />
</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-gAUJUrTwAKV2AVN3L6XV-fwB5BrG1DT-1uTIf-6as_1kZwh2e_BBcEFUz8N13KZ9Hryh9kKlrjXUJguv-6KasAxBYNXhGwo3rdo_DrU0tY72zi13jY2suA4Vp3qC3a-4hWUCzu73TVw1/s1600/P1090160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-gAUJUrTwAKV2AVN3L6XV-fwB5BrG1DT-1uTIf-6as_1kZwh2e_BBcEFUz8N13KZ9Hryh9kKlrjXUJguv-6KasAxBYNXhGwo3rdo_DrU0tY72zi13jY2suA4Vp3qC3a-4hWUCzu73TVw1/s640/P1090160.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><i><br />
</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpRYyRBKtvaWHN3YSquKot-dweJp8MKq3hvYCZPsGzaJ8qvXs3Srmfyau0ou4wtx9IyTODMRkfR5OJvtMFGkwas9LQySw-H52-h1_5a_ztbsHcShAkm5nhUgVHEkixnz3h7wKh0EBhj6-/s1600/P1090163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkpRYyRBKtvaWHN3YSquKot-dweJp8MKq3hvYCZPsGzaJ8qvXs3Srmfyau0ou4wtx9IyTODMRkfR5OJvtMFGkwas9LQySw-H52-h1_5a_ztbsHcShAkm5nhUgVHEkixnz3h7wKh0EBhj6-/s200/P1090163.jpg" width="184" /></a><br />
<br />
Based on the Infiniti EX, that is a premium-type crossover, the Nissan Skyline Crossover is another interesting one. It is identified as the 370GT in japan. The EX37 was first introduced in 2008 in the USA, with a 320 hp V6, similar to the Skyline's one. It is also known to the first production vehicle featuring an "Around View Monitor", that is used to show the entire vehicle to the driver while driving backwards or parking. Even more, the crossover features a special "Scratch Shield" paint, that self-repairs fine scratches! It is quite magical. Again, Tomica reproduced the car in its regular lineup. It features an opening rear hatch and working suspension, as well as detailed lights and front calander. The paint is quite classical, but fits the car well. Side mirrors *again* would have been needed, but it's a pretty nice car.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOpV7V1gBAIknc0ndAhMOMcWCNWpMKmMDrXUMoZ_ZJozMTzRllPox0o2WPxU43vFZVisFp719Bf2jn5E8yDU1MblFEimo7MmsGUgs-fU2AlCRrYGIeyBVKhIl49G_3h6KEqhcPVl0Inqz/s1600/P1090161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkOpV7V1gBAIknc0ndAhMOMcWCNWpMKmMDrXUMoZ_ZJozMTzRllPox0o2WPxU43vFZVisFp719Bf2jn5E8yDU1MblFEimo7MmsGUgs-fU2AlCRrYGIeyBVKhIl49G_3h6KEqhcPVl0Inqz/s640/P1090161.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycMDszxIInLjqtViWTjPii7T340A0U4Z4uaGaOruElk7QVllOIKIAUm1RuaZdF2SQXyLC9PdAXqdYEqtZxxpP7kgIkRnOpdrpVluglVszSBLY5hF3CLIlXIFY1TqTrKZhkeEByyNiems9/s1600/P1090162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycMDszxIInLjqtViWTjPii7T340A0U4Z4uaGaOruElk7QVllOIKIAUm1RuaZdF2SQXyLC9PdAXqdYEqtZxxpP7kgIkRnOpdrpVluglVszSBLY5hF3CLIlXIFY1TqTrKZhkeEByyNiems9/s640/P1090162.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Tomica Nissan Skyline Crossover</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color : 7</u>/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 40/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul>Enjoy the pics!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh380hDcZsI2pUAEQo6VIz25LUD4f1C0szqlR2TJwKqGAUVvaYfY1cy1J4MLZnOBGeJ018Vs9o80a0xRFQuS_ClW3H7oBhyphenhyphenbc-4gqN78xsTiduIFYAelkmXsVOAkafPKwMdBD5NXZYhMhXf/s1600/P1090164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh380hDcZsI2pUAEQo6VIz25LUD4f1C0szqlR2TJwKqGAUVvaYfY1cy1J4MLZnOBGeJ018Vs9o80a0xRFQuS_ClW3H7oBhyphenhyphenbc-4gqN78xsTiduIFYAelkmXsVOAkafPKwMdBD5NXZYhMhXf/s640/P1090164.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
</div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-37853250991738722472011-12-29T08:15:00.000-08:002011-12-29T16:48:45.363-08:00[Restauration] Ferrari F40It's been a long time i wanted a realistic Ferrari F40, without paying for an expensive Kyosho or AutoArt, and with an old Majorette beater, i tried to reproduce it!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.linternaute.com/auto/magazine/photo/les-60-ans-de-ferrari/image/ferrari-f40-231894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="http://www.linternaute.com/auto/magazine/photo/les-60-ans-de-ferrari/image/ferrari-f40-231894.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Here's what i managed to do:<br />
First, the red color was a must. In the front, i made a few decals, especially for the lights and the logos.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/3537/p1090056r.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="http://img545.imageshack.us/img545/3537/p1090056r.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/3928/p1090061n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="406" src="http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/3928/p1090061n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can see that i changed the wheels for some better ones, coming from an old Hot Wheels. I also added details on the interior, painting red seats.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/8493/p1090057a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/8493/p1090057a.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/9990/p1090058e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://img705.imageshack.us/img705/9990/p1090058e.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>I then recreated a rear window, added lights (made with some plastic coming from a model kit) and created a decal for the liense plate.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/5830/p1090059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="414" src="http://img716.imageshack.us/img716/5830/p1090059.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/8061/p1090060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/8061/p1090060.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
It's not perfect, especially because the varnish didn't work out well with the black paint. But it's still pretty showable! Thanks for looking :)Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-28852101887756449592011-12-18T05:13:00.000-08:002011-12-18T05:13:45.340-08:00New additions : 17 december 2011<div style="text-align: left;">Hi folks,</div><br />
Since i'm mainly focusing on uploading my collection to my new "Car Collection" page, i don't have much time to do big posts with a lot of research and stuff. Instead, i thought i could make a few posts on what's new in my collection, and you'll be able to find them with a blue writing in my Car Collection page. I plan to do these updates regularly (it means that i have to buy diecasts regularly :D)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">'35 Classic Caddy</span></u></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvYoGbU4GguP7ITpxtPPCydJaqOh9qK-Bue2REHMZWgMBoVP6kiOQukXb8nNZRXU3fwXJMXwUINx7ljsILEDscM7boPQyOso1Bzsf4QO4CNmClesNQlAVBmdyCy-JgrPdehLjDxmMeoL4/s1600/P1080977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvYoGbU4GguP7ITpxtPPCydJaqOh9qK-Bue2REHMZWgMBoVP6kiOQukXb8nNZRXU3fwXJMXwUINx7ljsILEDscM7boPQyOso1Bzsf4QO4CNmClesNQlAVBmdyCy-JgrPdehLjDxmMeoL4/s640/P1080977.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b><u><br />
</u></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.barthworks.com/cars/imperialpalace/photos/35cadillac5s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.barthworks.com/cars/imperialpalace/photos/35cadillac5s.jpg" width="320" /></a>As its name tells, this diecast is clearly a classic. Introduced in 1982 by Hot Wheels, it has been used numerous times over years, and is still in the 2011 lineup. It can be identified as a reproduction of the Cadillac 370-D V-12 Fleetwood Town Cabriolet (can be seen on the pic at the right). Hot Wheels's one is a nice replica, lot of details included, such as the wheels in fenders. The one i got is slightly used, but still really presentable. Unfortunately, you can see bad paint quality on the hood, with a lot of orange peel. The edition i got is 1989's blue with white walls, a quite common one. Still, i didn't have one, and it came in a junk box i got for 1$, so it is welcome :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijsAbRFb2yng7p5WyFpGIpTNA_Z-LdB8CZDnxtppVyJpSRIh7g5cyMmSCtjunf6QObNJP7EScTzkiXbqFsNG65UIpERmmcqQuFUquHu-jliXU-JRoRgYdE5GJ3HEf_hyphenhyphenKYrSZzRUnUe0U/s1600/P1080978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijsAbRFb2yng7p5WyFpGIpTNA_Z-LdB8CZDnxtppVyJpSRIh7g5cyMmSCtjunf6QObNJP7EScTzkiXbqFsNG65UIpERmmcqQuFUquHu-jliXU-JRoRgYdE5GJ3HEf_hyphenhyphenKYrSZzRUnUe0U/s640/P1080978.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5T0bjCNcLkJ9RVRNNfqSbAG3jhP8AUn_bF9wjcarGXtJfyeDRfZdFpm5D-GcyXe6CUuhkaOVpgBmzvxEZe27ZSzEAuENLbAYEim1Nin7h_bmRkVNSVmvrY4_hx92OZzyEG1WhU6O6SQM/s1600/P1080979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5T0bjCNcLkJ9RVRNNfqSbAG3jhP8AUn_bF9wjcarGXtJfyeDRfZdFpm5D-GcyXe6CUuhkaOVpgBmzvxEZe27ZSzEAuENLbAYEim1Nin7h_bmRkVNSVmvrY4_hx92OZzyEG1WhU6O6SQM/s640/P1080979.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Chrysler Firepower</span></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAoJ6kbyo0_xPM6lu9_-BLp9y2UqVELIl9GWwnXPmrntCQlEGw-JmYUPJBavGu2f_XbzcjeRCg5AlvpfRz64il97HK-zgv9sVA_oqt-6ARFaZ3qVwBtlRnoTXrKLyU6XtmlCwuT7m_iA/s1600/P1080982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAoJ6kbyo0_xPM6lu9_-BLp9y2UqVELIl9GWwnXPmrntCQlEGw-JmYUPJBavGu2f_XbzcjeRCg5AlvpfRz64il97HK-zgv9sVA_oqt-6ARFaZ3qVwBtlRnoTXrKLyU6XtmlCwuT7m_iA/s640/P1080982.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/images/large/2146-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/images/large/2146-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>We're coming on a much more modern era, with this awesome concept by Chrysler, introduced in 2006's Hot Wheels regular line. It is a casting that has not been used often, with its presence in 2006, 2008 and in one of the 2011's 20-pack. I like this kind of concept, pretty realistic lines. The Hot Wheels one is "not bad", pretty realistic lines, but missing tampos in front. Even more, the windows are quite strange, and doesn't fit the car so well. But this 2006 edition is welcomed in my collection, and is quite rare. The front tampos would have been a huuugee benefit to this casting though.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSQIdE1hAh8iNSJQRMuLOeQaqNnNevTo18w3Sej-emLJ4eHYDQ6MZI1Lzb2tXdkHESgTeABLl28RiiO_toOmjneAe7Tppbqueo8eajxuhuoC3rXUvw9PHb81oeB8Dhlo2OpdVCiDl2cg/s1600/P1080983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSQIdE1hAh8iNSJQRMuLOeQaqNnNevTo18w3Sej-emLJ4eHYDQ6MZI1Lzb2tXdkHESgTeABLl28RiiO_toOmjneAe7Tppbqueo8eajxuhuoC3rXUvw9PHb81oeB8Dhlo2OpdVCiDl2cg/s640/P1080983.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0f-YASk9CWY0t-nyc8Y5bfDspjIWXAFQsQ8PAbvr0RL97vvQaFN071CcJhGApC_2Bt4wTxJyK2b9qBnpQQR8Ade2bZQJ2vRRX-gbDO5w03J_TSD7vXcHHi6uwyy9aGRltvURYMuZ_-_k/s1600/P1080984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0f-YASk9CWY0t-nyc8Y5bfDspjIWXAFQsQ8PAbvr0RL97vvQaFN071CcJhGApC_2Bt4wTxJyK2b9qBnpQQR8Ade2bZQJ2vRRX-gbDO5w03J_TSD7vXcHHi6uwyy9aGRltvURYMuZ_-_k/s640/P1080984.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Chevrolet Camaro Convertible</span></u></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QNF97xOeclefqL3y6jJcfIoSFmm2RE2ulBbKuqbgWHn_2BANIPLIwySCNB_6xrQ2HHpG0ZZLPzz0-jfhFK5nAXx-FDDaj4pSiKtcUOro-zlzg3VwagewNd55PeyL6_wud8nx28PI-OI/s1600/P1080987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QNF97xOeclefqL3y6jJcfIoSFmm2RE2ulBbKuqbgWHn_2BANIPLIwySCNB_6xrQ2HHpG0ZZLPzz0-jfhFK5nAXx-FDDaj4pSiKtcUOro-zlzg3VwagewNd55PeyL6_wud8nx28PI-OI/s640/P1080987.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.rolyleahycustomimports.com/images/12mnth/0406-95camaro01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://www.rolyleahycustomimports.com/images/12mnth/0406-95camaro01.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span">I have quite the collection of Camaros... but not so much in convertibles, especially in modern ones. So this one was a nice add, and a nice completion to my collection of this legendary American car. Also known as '95 Camaro, or '95 Camaro Convertible, this casting is a replica of the fourth generation of the american car, without the facelift (that happened in 1998). It was quite a monster and real life, way too big and not too much powerful like it used to be in '60s-'70s (this is why it disappeared in 2002). This Hot Wheels casting appeared in the main line in 1995 in a simple aqua color, and is still used in the 10-packs.<i> </i>I'm really fortunate to have found the special 1997 "30th Anniversary of Camaro Collectible Line" one, with its special color. It's an awesomely done casting, with tampos all around, even mirrors! Wheels are somewhat strange, but Hot Wheels are pretty much spot on with wheels.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QWn4PjjLCJZwy08LZp60yE6wiHf3Z576ldB1aqvvZ0tFmAtaI3ETPGXaauFMXWP47A57TInri-BcHSBEoXDPX3dZ0a6y6PkZYVpMHMUo0JkVtFvn3poasIegOGP95ZdCqCBFjtLY0qQ/s1600/P1080988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QWn4PjjLCJZwy08LZp60yE6wiHf3Z576ldB1aqvvZ0tFmAtaI3ETPGXaauFMXWP47A57TInri-BcHSBEoXDPX3dZ0a6y6PkZYVpMHMUo0JkVtFvn3poasIegOGP95ZdCqCBFjtLY0qQ/s640/P1080988.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdpbbG2hPVT8-h0rKrEO-pAJc92FTa9vdbVEuigcpuWYafoTlN-oNqHVRgNFiD87keGAHze4hR6INdm2kem06swOFNFoVwqdwtQAxI1ZswHTU2KQuPDGCwxukx-LbRuoML1oTOPpGFZU/s1600/P1080989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUdpbbG2hPVT8-h0rKrEO-pAJc92FTa9vdbVEuigcpuWYafoTlN-oNqHVRgNFiD87keGAHze4hR6INdm2kem06swOFNFoVwqdwtQAxI1ZswHTU2KQuPDGCwxukx-LbRuoML1oTOPpGFZU/s640/P1080989.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">'73 Caprice Wagon</span></u></b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJrYAlH-wCCkSYrZTi6De8EDXIQmbi0LYkoUxlyanY2i-XdKqsxgLPg776fYWZSblNovhOMsig8vJ1VPYgrV2O5EOcLA0q-JBQMS5-nF1Bvp3dLvJAL00QO7o8x2oGDR3uvREm3YLcUH0/s1600/P1080991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJrYAlH-wCCkSYrZTi6De8EDXIQmbi0LYkoUxlyanY2i-XdKqsxgLPg776fYWZSblNovhOMsig8vJ1VPYgrV2O5EOcLA0q-JBQMS5-nF1Bvp3dLvJAL00QO7o8x2oGDR3uvREm3YLcUH0/s640/P1080991.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br />
</u></b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnKL7XGyVy1uBefWIH4yzX3EuGFDz9reDkgJdjAp64iVgEDtOX7umzvSwNjWquLlfJeQG30f8hLTslZY2UQml7Q8colRQaK4414AsxvySxj4Ky9-3g2x5ugtv53HEBITcMe4YrRNackg/s1600/P1080992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPnKL7XGyVy1uBefWIH4yzX3EuGFDz9reDkgJdjAp64iVgEDtOX7umzvSwNjWquLlfJeQG30f8hLTslZY2UQml7Q8colRQaK4414AsxvySxj4Ky9-3g2x5ugtv53HEBITcMe4YrRNackg/s320/P1080992.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">Of course, we keep the best for the end! I already had a Caprice Wagon, but it was a highly tuned version, and even if i like this casting, i thought it didn't represent the car so well. But with the availability of the Release 18 by Johnny Lightning in my area, i had the chance to put my hand on the Police version, that is a stunner. Now this is a perfect diecast! Take a look at those details : the wonderful paint, that reminds me from the Dodge Monaco, the highly detailed lightbar, tampos, great wheels... it's a nice add in any collection. Originally released in 2007 in the tuned version (that you can find in my Car Collection page), it has been declined in regular, derby and now police. Trust me, you need this car! *Unfortunately i didn't found any pic of the police version.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLEWDb8xMYVPzed6JVeEpOyhRmbuoUdribrRi_OVZnlkEVN0CeBb64fNK1Ht1UXE3MnZ4lvTx95Ux2WT2TC1fQ08lNjesZhkdjnz1SxMIAfyhm3Z6kvC-6Y2P065x9zdahjryMuiUXTY/s1600/P1080993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidLEWDb8xMYVPzed6JVeEpOyhRmbuoUdribrRi_OVZnlkEVN0CeBb64fNK1Ht1UXE3MnZ4lvTx95Ux2WT2TC1fQ08lNjesZhkdjnz1SxMIAfyhm3Z6kvC-6Y2P065x9zdahjryMuiUXTY/s640/P1080993.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRiSO7S_jppqvTngAK9wHEgNVwzoUiq1Cd95yE5Oo9VCo-V98l3_a09kGhlaa7zVjK5r4jht3Dm2KMHqZimczVxKuZNXzKgPIn2qscZtGR5DCpEGqM4Sa-9p6e9IzdQsVqccr_K8KlZs/s1600/P1080994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYRiSO7S_jppqvTngAK9wHEgNVwzoUiq1Cd95yE5Oo9VCo-V98l3_a09kGhlaa7zVjK5r4jht3Dm2KMHqZimczVxKuZNXzKgPIn2qscZtGR5DCpEGqM4Sa-9p6e9IzdQsVqccr_K8KlZs/s640/P1080994.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span">I hope you liked this post, and feedback is appreciated! :)</span></span></div></div></div></div></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-41253390139102450242011-12-08T17:30:00.001-08:002011-12-08T17:30:00.552-08:00Little article there...There's a new page called "Car Collection" listed under the front image...<br />
<br />
You can access it to take a look at my entire collection! It will be updated regularly... Have fun :)Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-5374192848019084322011-12-07T13:03:00.000-08:002011-12-07T13:03:23.626-08:00[Australian Classics] Is it a car or a truck? Part 3 of 3Let's conclude this serie with a different country, the country of kangaroos and koalas, and a country featuring some legendary cars (just think of Holden, Ford Falcon). Talking of important australian cars, this post will feature one of the most well-known of them, i said, the Holden Ute!<br />
<br />
<i><u><b>Beginning of the famous "UTE"</b></u></i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/1951-Holden-50-2106-625x468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/1951-Holden-50-2106-625x468.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Very first Ute.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><i><u><b><br />
</b></u></i><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://richardlewis.org/pictures/thumbs/images/holdenute/16-hx_ute-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://richardlewis.org/pictures/thumbs/images/holdenute/16-hx_ute-01.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>70's Ute.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Let's go back in time, around 1948, after the world war II. General Motors turned its attention on producing an all-Australian car, under the brand Holden. It was first known as the FX Sedan, introduced in 1948. With the industry prospering and the increasing demand for a "coupe-utility" type vehicle, the first Ute was introduced in 1951, many years before the first El Camino or Ranchero. It was quite rugged, but really durable and most importantly, really affordable. It was able to reach a great 105 km/h, as well as being able to climb any hill or take an important load, with a great fuel economy. This successful model followed evolution of the regular Holden sedan and its names, such as FJ, EJ, HQ etc... Last of all these evolutions was produced in 1984, and was similar to the Holden Kingswood. Just as the Ranchero, the petrol crisis somewhat killed the car, with a demand for much smaller vehicles.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhI-BmKTMOvUeLkioQ-ULWyY2AsYat1jvHXyfsbXlqacSdrWnK_zDSWI4Z1mG_gS_-Z9F2oFVga1_-nGBqi19JHj-ASX5N1Mu5IuwZkps5rKhNDoczpVJf7Y5nhXZdQblHZQJW9TrMuTQ/s1600/P1080929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhI-BmKTMOvUeLkioQ-ULWyY2AsYat1jvHXyfsbXlqacSdrWnK_zDSWI4Z1mG_gS_-Z9F2oFVga1_-nGBqi19JHj-ASX5N1Mu5IuwZkps5rKhNDoczpVJf7Y5nhXZdQblHZQJW9TrMuTQ/s640/P1080929.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iLBi9tXMF42YiOQ1IZMKCCsS6-Hl00jndJfudtDUUuBx-dKVVcY7Q88ZAaHsW-uZ8ioXA9N-ZIoodU5Gw9eFVlq60TlqQ1uHX9oG_C_yONhdeKlMTCaPtWijaaxf5C3wYH_c4XSjdNI/s1600/P1080930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iLBi9tXMF42YiOQ1IZMKCCsS6-Hl00jndJfudtDUUuBx-dKVVcY7Q88ZAaHsW-uZ8ioXA9N-ZIoodU5Gw9eFVlq60TlqQ1uHX9oG_C_yONhdeKlMTCaPtWijaaxf5C3wYH_c4XSjdNI/s320/P1080930.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Matchbox, under the old brand Superfast, produced a UTE under the simpler name "Holden Pick-Up", and it first appeared in 1977. It was a plain simple diecast of those years, without any tampos or mirrors, but looking pretty solid. Without the characteristic fancy colors of the 70's Superfast, it looks great. It reproduces well the real lines, and the red flashy color fits it well. Sadly, mine is missing the two huge motorcycles that are supposed to be in the bed. Those are an awesome touch to the casting. The yellow windows are quite horrible though, and would have been benefited from regular ones. Take a look at the front decal... i wonder what this "500" is refering too... maybe some NASCAR or something? The tow hook at the back is awesome, with some caravan. Well, a plain good old casting from the seventeens.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6lge7msF_cuAModbrrxAze2in166SrpSOuXUEDussZBU3O2Xm4mALOj2iAADj8WlmeO_l4MOsBHwi9COzUj9vgPemZTXLH8ZcbOiGPx7NDWBLGJaeGLbuYfzmLfz3p9JGeN5-CXn-zyc/s1600/P1080931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6lge7msF_cuAModbrrxAze2in166SrpSOuXUEDussZBU3O2Xm4mALOj2iAADj8WlmeO_l4MOsBHwi9COzUj9vgPemZTXLH8ZcbOiGPx7NDWBLGJaeGLbuYfzmLfz3p9JGeN5-CXn-zyc/s640/P1080931.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Lesney Superfast Holden Pick-Up</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 6/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 37/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b>Modern interpretation</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.motortrend.com/f/new-cars/from-there-to-here-57-years-of-holden-utes/8516274+cr1+re0+ar1/1991-holden-vp-commodore-ute.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="http://image.motortrend.com/f/new-cars/from-there-to-here-57-years-of-holden-utes/8516274+cr1+re0+ar1/1991-holden-vp-commodore-ute.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.auto-smart-cars.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Holden-Ute-Series.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://www.auto-smart-cars.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Holden-Ute-Series.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Most recent one.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">After three years of development, a new version of the Ute was born in 1990. It claimed to be the "largest ever built", and the most comfortable and powerful. Clearly, it was a change of mind from the rugged first version. The look was much sportier, with slick lines and a "hidden" rear bed. Even more, the extreme HSV Maloo Ute was introduced, featuring a powerful 5.0 l V8 of 241 hp. Aussies clearly enjoyed the return of their famous vehicle, and it became an instant hit. Since then, the Ute has been renewed in 2000 and 2007, and now features modern sporty lines. It offers a wide range of models, from the basic "Ute Omega" to the much radical "Ute SS-V Redline", with its 362 hp (same from the Commodore sedan). It is widely recognized in the lime green color. HSV Maloo is still offered, with a huge RAM air hood.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIAys5YkQDCfLqF9eisRl5xFU7CDFvFBGknONt8Ud-EDJV5j7ucGoYgrqABrzd2INSMqWx1MQHD_hjD_AJZYjn3tpzm-EXm9_8hNrwq4E9Mg4bKcXIL-4dp6l_FaG7kYXoIqR1kMYHMSc/s1600/P1080932.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIAys5YkQDCfLqF9eisRl5xFU7CDFvFBGknONt8Ud-EDJV5j7ucGoYgrqABrzd2INSMqWx1MQHD_hjD_AJZYjn3tpzm-EXm9_8hNrwq4E9Mg4bKcXIL-4dp6l_FaG7kYXoIqR1kMYHMSc/s640/P1080932.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgbsTQerfci65LxO3s9lNYvPAUdLfjH9VWcZXB4jcuC5Vp4y2AgP-g8aSv0tmJzJlQ72TpKncp2F0D28GfDcaPxhkr-8bWGBQcK0-0SLYAVXKDjB_oa_HO-JRUg0m6taoCR3QP8qyc94/s1600/P1080936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKgbsTQerfci65LxO3s9lNYvPAUdLfjH9VWcZXB4jcuC5Vp4y2AgP-g8aSv0tmJzJlQ72TpKncp2F0D28GfDcaPxhkr-8bWGBQcK0-0SLYAVXKDjB_oa_HO-JRUg0m6taoCR3QP8qyc94/s200/P1080936.jpg" width="151" /></a></div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Introduced in the Matchbox's main line in 2010, their replica of the SSV version is just a fabulous diecast. Wonderfully done tampos, flashy and attractive color, perfect lines reproduction, and a great set of wheels. I mean, Aussies car are badly represented in diecast, but this one is a must. It has been elected as "Matchbox diecast of the year" in 2010 by the well-known MCCH (Matchbox Collectors Club Hall). I must say that the rear lights are a bit off, but that's a minor detail compared to the rest of the car. You can only admire Matchbox team's work on this one, and i'm simply hoping there will be more like this in the future!</span><br />
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUxoa4QlYFfIYYhGSTjlH7YSxC4zCLPTiU4V1HXxRHLCutUlwVFuFy8ZP7xdQvS7HVSHOqANFK4Su-UbqBAvj5hY__VpGZ8UCmVlBdDL11s-oTUsqylYiYZ5ncKqKHQVZf5shMB8GxOjI/s1600/P1080933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUxoa4QlYFfIYYhGSTjlH7YSxC4zCLPTiU4V1HXxRHLCutUlwVFuFy8ZP7xdQvS7HVSHOqANFK4Su-UbqBAvj5hY__VpGZ8UCmVlBdDL11s-oTUsqylYiYZ5ncKqKHQVZf5shMB8GxOjI/s640/P1080933.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjPd8miIEGkmHBsT2l3BX857PgE6kpjgDDyCOSrNRQSgpYD0z2ZEk6UEVBUVrinalkIbOvUYDaMSpIiCHZPuC5xvexY8e0z_1SZBwmX-pa3v4mBoF7065RRkCB4Ip2iOHDUNQ8Q5mHXA/s1600/P1080934.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjPd8miIEGkmHBsT2l3BX857PgE6kpjgDDyCOSrNRQSgpYD0z2ZEk6UEVBUVrinalkIbOvUYDaMSpIiCHZPuC5xvexY8e0z_1SZBwmX-pa3v4mBoF7065RRkCB4Ip2iOHDUNQ8Q5mHXA/s640/P1080934.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Matchbox Holden Ute SSV</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 10/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 10/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 47/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
<li></li>
</ul></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Enjoy the pics of those Australians :)</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">Next article will probably talk about generic diecasts....</span></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-76869937161149761902011-12-02T12:14:00.000-08:002011-12-02T12:14:36.690-08:00[American Classics] Is it a car or a truck? Part 2 of 3Sorry for the very few articles in the last months... school is demanding! I'll try to post more, as i bought a lot of interesting castings in the recent weeks. For now, i should at least finish what i began about those strange car-trucks....<br />
<br />
<i><u><b>The original one</b></u></i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.desoto58.com/usa/texas/ranchero59tx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="http://www.desoto58.com/usa/texas/ranchero59tx.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Original one.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><i><u><b><br />
</b></u></i><br />
<a href="http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/12/2009/02/DOTSBE-SFRanchero-804px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="191" src="http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/12/2009/02/DOTSBE-SFRanchero-804px.jpg" width="320" /></a>As mentioned in the El Camino's post, the Ranchero was the first coupe-utility vehicle, introduced in late 1956. The first Ranchero was a beast of car, based on the Ranch SW of those years. It lasted only three years, from 1956 to 1959. What we could call as the "real" first Ranchero was introduced in the same time as the much known Falcon, in 1960. It was much smaller and practical than the first one. Engines offered varied from a pityful 90hp L6 to a powerful 4.7L Windsor V8. It was way more basic than the El Camino, and therefore suffered from the competition. Ranchero's been based on the Falcon until 1967, following style designs of the Falcon. Since 1960, this coupe utility was officially named "Ford Falcon Ranchero", but abandoned the Falcon name in 1966.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxp7Qv6Z9ChAn1oq1lbjZ3PcYmll95xltGTWW_DXJhyphenhyphenVsdP9vNHYF_Wp-_7ClAJHoJ_xCp3yBNhTA3SNd8-DRUPKGU3HgZkU2WguXfQlZt5t9zF-tcEAhFDqSkm8w6EiCBrV2ymAA3QY/s1600/SDC10576.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxp7Qv6Z9ChAn1oq1lbjZ3PcYmll95xltGTWW_DXJhyphenhyphenVsdP9vNHYF_Wp-_7ClAJHoJ_xCp3yBNhTA3SNd8-DRUPKGU3HgZkU2WguXfQlZt5t9zF-tcEAhFDqSkm8w6EiCBrV2ymAA3QY/s640/SDC10576.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHtfKNXvk93WHnWvYRehW-S9w8h2iISscNrf1bOWKTYP1n71-e8lSthUEnG8Iyz2x57rtw6kvnIMFI-7LaUPK5IFLjW46DamMqhQvgeZJCRyPCG9qeJWUMnno_N_5aU9y0U-PTU2k6Hs/s1600/SDC10581.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHtfKNXvk93WHnWvYRehW-S9w8h2iISscNrf1bOWKTYP1n71-e8lSthUEnG8Iyz2x57rtw6kvnIMFI-7LaUPK5IFLjW46DamMqhQvgeZJCRyPCG9qeJWUMnno_N_5aU9y0U-PTU2k6Hs/s320/SDC10581.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Johnny Lightning, as usual, made a nice replica of a cool american classic car. We're talking of the 1965 Ranchero this time, last edition of the first Falcon Ranchero. This diecast appeared in the JL serie Working Class Truck and SUVs, in the fourth release to be more precise. It's obviously a more luxuous version, with some chrome touches and a nice bicolor exterior. Just as almost every JL diecast, it is perfectly detailed, with some awesome small chrome wheels, and nice paint accent. Even more, the opening hood reveals a nice little engine. Altough i would prefer to have the red one issued in the first release, it is still an awesome diecast. But, (there's ALWAYS a but), where are the mirrors?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCePn8nn1RGQXemMFDA-ckNq-I5DrVS-4OPEqsiI5QpxRNQy7hfo-oSyh-g_f8YF-Vb3kISoXiX04RUB2I1qOW8dzs8QLLfr4iso9gVGNVH52w9r7uMfYX67rbyfC7FP_te4tjvp2rg0/s1600/SDC10579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvCePn8nn1RGQXemMFDA-ckNq-I5DrVS-4OPEqsiI5QpxRNQy7hfo-oSyh-g_f8YF-Vb3kISoXiX04RUB2I1qOW8dzs8QLLfr4iso9gVGNVH52w9r7uMfYX67rbyfC7FP_te4tjvp2rg0/s320/SDC10579.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1A2d_b-CprqMG6giHLoQqSIkI1HJX4CLVRB2KR8T5BtoJXUplw9Xl9aoHq1m23MJoBEZgmq5bfDgfUw__CtTclryb6picyP0tIK6n_TqVpXnO9XN75VHhQOYcSfjK6f8_G6DWcjFgy5Q/s1600/SDC10580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1A2d_b-CprqMG6giHLoQqSIkI1HJX4CLVRB2KR8T5BtoJXUplw9Xl9aoHq1m23MJoBEZgmq5bfDgfUw__CtTclryb6picyP0tIK6n_TqVpXnO9XN75VHhQOYcSfjK6f8_G6DWcjFgy5Q/s320/SDC10580.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Johnny Lightning '65 Ford Ranchero</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 41/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 800;"><u><br />
</u></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b>Falcon switch</b></u></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/2/3546/2321/21363660012_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/2/3546/2321/21363660012_large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">In 1968, the old Fairlane/Falcon was replaced by the new Ford Torino, with a much more angular and bigger shape. The new Ranchero followed this and became the biggest one since the original model. This 1969 model is also known as the most powerful one, even offering a 351 Windsor V8 (same as the '69 Mustang). The Ranchero also been redesigned in 1970, with a more agressive look, and a "Ram-Air" hood. It also offered a version called "Ranchero Squire" offering some wood trims on the side. In 1972, the Torino and the Ranchero went under a major redesign (again!), with a larger, heavier design. It also offered a large variety of powerful V8 engines. After all those changes, the Ranchero remained the same until Torino's disparition in 1976.</span><br />
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkG80kvCJ7_r2mSgwVvBGudGeNLKDEdslHkk5JrInmqa9MfM21QaJUOm409uj5amQT1wa44afepAvuaD5J7DqeOwKO6qHYxzhdyqZIOiK95mME2AO5JVwzNMi09I6GGDRJ8gMnYGciDE/s1600/SDC10572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfkG80kvCJ7_r2mSgwVvBGudGeNLKDEdslHkk5JrInmqa9MfM21QaJUOm409uj5amQT1wa44afepAvuaD5J7DqeOwKO6qHYxzhdyqZIOiK95mME2AO5JVwzNMi09I6GGDRJ8gMnYGciDE/s640/SDC10572.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4z1s8wxDO53LgMjXO0PTRckEbhWl02WaZKJFrSqcFmlDbMRDuCWAKqDYAEwxZb54A1poauyiCxpMrQwS9S3Ib-W-NkjdpzIwqB__gCL8SeCNEgBkc9NQF-FpSNlY4MPz0QnQot_3iPU/s1600/SDC10575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4z1s8wxDO53LgMjXO0PTRckEbhWl02WaZKJFrSqcFmlDbMRDuCWAKqDYAEwxZb54A1poauyiCxpMrQwS9S3Ib-W-NkjdpzIwqB__gCL8SeCNEgBkc9NQF-FpSNlY4MPz0QnQot_3iPU/s320/SDC10575.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">About diecast now, i own a fabulous version of Hot Wheels '72 Ranchero (you'll rarely see me use the word "fabulous" about a HW diecast). First offered in 2009 in the HW Classics serie, it was intended to be a high-end diecast. My orange-black 2010 Delievery Serie Ranchero is really well-done. The color is instantly appealing, and the quality of fabrication is stunning. Real rubber tires are just awesome, and the tuning of the car is quite awesome. A few tampos could have been added though, especially at the back of the car. And how about some mirrors? But i must say the car looks "slick", and is a nice add to any collection. I hope we'll also see the stock version in the future.</span><br />
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp13wSSrFXZ99PJYfE2ctdUt6wSREFJCYBpxiXqWg24DSYPNXYGr4tVb-ylqCecYHNP5Er6g-Ms2_wXadYs25ux_XmvgJ0kJl7zSijKJr5e-Qcq-k17LXaR1kc1RcX-iqtwFv6s29JixE/s1600/SDC10574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp13wSSrFXZ99PJYfE2ctdUt6wSREFJCYBpxiXqWg24DSYPNXYGr4tVb-ylqCecYHNP5Er6g-Ms2_wXadYs25ux_XmvgJ0kJl7zSijKJr5e-Qcq-k17LXaR1kc1RcX-iqtwFv6s29JixE/s640/SDC10574.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGU2oIjSwDrmnBZaJfD95df2u_XMV7ysP3i1LDwG90Bsunue_ibpFefT7v5IL6dpdIMnpBNfu9maZInFza1aOIv8Y3ABdJ6HjMquvJJTwKhbmm6BIlZhMISbc_-OejJPwQK_BpK85HvSg/s1600/SDC10573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGU2oIjSwDrmnBZaJfD95df2u_XMV7ysP3i1LDwG90Bsunue_ibpFefT7v5IL6dpdIMnpBNfu9maZInFza1aOIv8Y3ABdJ6HjMquvJJTwKhbmm6BIlZhMISbc_-OejJPwQK_BpK85HvSg/s640/SDC10573.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Hot Wheels '72 Ford Ranchero</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 10/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 10/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 42/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 800;"><u><br />
</u></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b>End of the Ranchero</b></u></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3631/3476779675_04dd57c283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3631/3476779675_04dd57c283.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="text-align: -webkit-auto;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">With the disparition of the Torino, the 77 Ranchero needed a new base, and therefore switched on the Ford LTD II. It resulted in an even bigger car, and with the petrol crisis, it was clear that the market direction wasn't the same. Ford decided that small pick-up trucks would lead the way, and replaced the Ranchero with the now well-known Ranger in 1979. </span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-38649738960807896562011-09-07T16:22:00.000-07:002011-09-07T16:22:42.879-07:00[American Classics] Is it a car or a truck? Part 1 of 3This is the first of a serie of three articles on a kind of vehicle that is somewhat hard to identify. Somekind called the "coupe utility vehicle", it is mainly a regular sedan, with only 2 doors, and a rear part similar to a pick-up. Many of those cars has been produced over the years, but only (as i know?) by American brands. Ford introduced the concept in 1934, on the Ford Model A. Of course, it was more a pick-up than the real concept. We had to wait until 1957 to see the real coupe-utility vehicle appears, in the Ford Ranchero (which will be covered in the part 2).<br />
<br />
In this first part, the most popular of those strange cars will be covered : the Chevrolet El Camino (also known as GMC Sprint and GMC Caballero).<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>First experiences</u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.picturearchive.co.za/Images/large_1959+Chevrolet+El+Camino+blue+&+white+fsv=KRM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://www.picturearchive.co.za/Images/large_1959+Chevrolet+El+Camino+blue+&+white+fsv=KRM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>First 59 El Camino</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The El Camino has been introduced in 1959, as an answer to the growing popularity of the Ford Ranchero unveiled two years before. It was based on the Chevrolet Bel Air/Impala of the year, featuring the "bat" rear-end. Every trim end of the normal car was available, and the customer was even able to put a 315 bhp V8 engine in it... it was only available for one year though. The 1960 El Camino only offered a 170 hp basic engine and the sales completely dropped, and Chevrolet discontinued the model, while the Ranchero was quite popular. El Camino reappeared as a 1964 model, now based on the Chevrolet Chevelle. It featured a more appealing body style, and a complete selection of engines. SS options were available, able to reach a 375 bhp V8 engine! It really started El Camino's career. Unfortunately, i don't have any replicas of those years in diecasts. Johnny Lightning reproduced the 1959 and the 1965... i need them :)<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>Popular years</u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://elcaminoss396.com/images/ElCamino/34FrontSide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://elcaminoss396.com/images/ElCamino/34FrontSide.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>68 El Camino.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
The third generation, introduced in 1968, featured a wider and longer El Camino, still based on the Chevelle of those years. It was the Muscle Cars Mania, and the El Camino wasn't doing exception. A powerful SS-396 version was added, featuring the 396 Turbo-Jet engine, already in use in the Chevelle. Even more, in 1970, a 450 hp engine was introduced, and was able to reach 169km/h on the 1/4 miles! It followed the Chevelle styling changes on every year until 1972 (end of third generation). The GMC Sprint was introduced in 1971, as a re-badged El Camino. It was clearly one of the most popular Chevrolet of these times, and was reproduced a lot of times in diecast.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOYJJYs5ewSoVHbwiIHVytO1n4yDqJqKr2uJcvOVKyOxCJqKTK7-gFxm0P6PwygepCJtf0S19MJ3-MTPAB7u_oW83QNwQTApca3KDPsjtJYVJ07bfSqTgHOSwt1f8uupLeTgywipN5wjk/s1600/P1080330.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOYJJYs5ewSoVHbwiIHVytO1n4yDqJqKr2uJcvOVKyOxCJqKTK7-gFxm0P6PwygepCJtf0S19MJ3-MTPAB7u_oW83QNwQTApca3KDPsjtJYVJ07bfSqTgHOSwt1f8uupLeTgywipN5wjk/s640/P1080330.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
We first need to talk about the '68 one. Hot Wheels first introduced the 69 one as a hot rod (with a blown out engine in the rear cab) in the 2000 casting line, but abandoned in in 2008. The engine was retired of the cab and it was renamed as the 68 El Camino, re-introduced in 2009. And thanks, because the first 69 edition was quite horrible! As you can see, the 68 (here is the first 2011 version) is quite classic, but really well done. I especially like the color, makes it look like a lowrider. Rare thing for a Hot Wheels : the wheels are good! The gold trim make them pop. Tampos are clearly missing though... and the bed is slightly "plastic". An honest casting overall, but one of the recent Hot Wheels you'd want!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXRIMSPN4qkg3hB8k9vY8OpxPWfILoGeLY4ktVfV5xDv7Wn3bTgJGS-QWFJjdvA0xfXkjpxgPkXxTaxOkHQJC00o7sA58tz1jwv8Y7sGbaXJd2VeUY-qgAoSxzItNbYNTg7JPpKcBrYI/s1600/P1080332.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxXRIMSPN4qkg3hB8k9vY8OpxPWfILoGeLY4ktVfV5xDv7Wn3bTgJGS-QWFJjdvA0xfXkjpxgPkXxTaxOkHQJC00o7sA58tz1jwv8Y7sGbaXJd2VeUY-qgAoSxzItNbYNTg7JPpKcBrYI/s320/P1080332.png" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4Wsm0bk8X4ailwiSzVOYc5CNUQMq_3V0MYgj-bGTr1h6JSrdsnfc77CJ-ks-5-bKhYUDQq56mv9QwS2JA86_aDvvMZHEql_eJYzpxqjn92Im8_hVyl89hW3g9FTpZAwd-Bw6kkhtT54/s1600/P1080331.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4Wsm0bk8X4ailwiSzVOYc5CNUQMq_3V0MYgj-bGTr1h6JSrdsnfc77CJ-ks-5-bKhYUDQq56mv9QwS2JA86_aDvvMZHEql_eJYzpxqjn92Im8_hVyl89hW3g9FTpZAwd-Bw6kkhtT54/s320/P1080331.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Hot Wheels '68 Chevrolet El Camino</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 6/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 7/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 38/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.forum-auto.com/mesimages/228674/1970_chevrolet_el_camino_ss_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://images.forum-auto.com/mesimages/228674/1970_chevrolet_el_camino_ss_.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>70 El Camino.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBW7zmpg8uM51g6vkofYNtF_7SJwo26fwtShVn5bHC_Qj3ZrscGyAnYmwyCxXKpnP9ZRNQWoqaTd2bJRRCzZr24Rnj0KHrpjrsURhONNqP_Q9Vy4t8CTCy-wUlIrt1BnExM1Q0-pqx940/s1600/P1080320.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBW7zmpg8uM51g6vkofYNtF_7SJwo26fwtShVn5bHC_Qj3ZrscGyAnYmwyCxXKpnP9ZRNQWoqaTd2bJRRCzZr24Rnj0KHrpjrsURhONNqP_Q9Vy4t8CTCy-wUlIrt1BnExM1Q0-pqx940/s640/P1080320.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">On the other Mattel side, Matchbox also has its El Camino version, the 1970 one this time. It was first seen in 2000 with some fancy decals, but the casting really started to be seen in 2004, mainly with the Superfast version. The one you can see here is the 2008 10-pack version, in a bright yellow color. It hasn't been used since 2009 though. Overall proportions of the real car have been really well reproduced. The color is a pretty good choice, and the wheels are a nice fit. But... where are the tampos? I mean, the front lights look empty. As usual with recent Matchbox, it is a solid casting, but would have been better with more details.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DvjpckUgyYyYMv2h0Wy3tj5Oj2C5qnyS_me5Ht7GXnwihIgdt7Ws3RUFEaSCD9POURBHkuxSO35aKovqa14qOn5rFd_RnhY8qG7gpZw-LVlgtk5TLNWBKHL9uaIrL6T_SRNKe-JEBtk/s1600/P1080321.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0DvjpckUgyYyYMv2h0Wy3tj5Oj2C5qnyS_me5Ht7GXnwihIgdt7Ws3RUFEaSCD9POURBHkuxSO35aKovqa14qOn5rFd_RnhY8qG7gpZw-LVlgtk5TLNWBKHL9uaIrL6T_SRNKe-JEBtk/s320/P1080321.png" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqXf-bX0dd7-ljRBURHyXrVBcC04diitCrajUxFNZWWZFREhPF2yu6yvRzEy4x0p9q6bUDmEx3lWWKA3YNnRsOQUA3q_3DVpizMvKRmHdhfvxVvxdMG4pdZT3pAc_-ZwtTFWVxQ31uAw/s1600/P1080322.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqXf-bX0dd7-ljRBURHyXrVBcC04diitCrajUxFNZWWZFREhPF2yu6yvRzEy4x0p9q6bUDmEx3lWWKA3YNnRsOQUA3q_3DVpizMvKRmHdhfvxVvxdMG4pdZT3pAc_-ZwtTFWVxQ31uAw/s320/P1080322.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Matchbox '70 Chevrolet El Camino</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 5/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 39/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><u>Recent ones</u></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.curbsideclassic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/1982-Chevy-El-Camino-ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://www.curbsideclassic.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/1982-Chevy-El-Camino-ad.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>82 El Camino.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The fourth generation, introduced in 1973, was the largest El Camino produced. Following the American petrol crisis, the horsepower of the engines was downgraded, reaching a low point of 175 hp in 1976. The lines were more squarer, still following its Chevelle sister. No casting of this El Camino era is known (to my humble knowledge). Fifth generation was unveiled in 1978, and was now based on the Chevrolet Malibu, since the Chevelle disappeared. The base model was featuring a really humble 95 hp V6. Era of the "bigger is better" was fading, and the El Camino wasn't able to follow the flow. When the Malibu disappeared in 1983, the El Camino was offered as a simple conversion, with the front of the Monte Carlo of those years. Last El Camino was produced in 1987... but is consistently in rumors for a comeback. It would have been introduced in the form of the Pontiac G8 ST in 2011, but the brand disappeared in 2009, due to the economic crisis.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynk_mrd-fcVRxfqeQPRM7iIcVgkLwidbAwkDWkAgoOyK-aAjV5vfFhuXWyzU3zMJgbXT26YJahJPX1HHKN1LrEaqKrAHey32cdWD0zSLZ9TBituybJFGKMx48gdtSYHcZ7LDDMLEC2jA/s1600/P1080324.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynk_mrd-fcVRxfqeQPRM7iIcVgkLwidbAwkDWkAgoOyK-aAjV5vfFhuXWyzU3zMJgbXT26YJahJPX1HHKN1LrEaqKrAHey32cdWD0zSLZ9TBituybJFGKMx48gdtSYHcZ7LDDMLEC2jA/s640/P1080324.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The last generation has been reproduced a few times. First, Motor Max made a nice replica of the 82 El Camino, along with a trailer and a Pontiac GTO The Judge 1970 (described <a href="http://diecastfun.blogspot.com/2011/06/muscle-cars-gran-turismo-omologato.html">here</a>). This diecast is quite rare, and was mostly available in Canada (one of the rarest cars available here!). The car is really well reproduced, and the orange color is just a perfect match. The front is a bit plastic though... would have benefited from tampos. Nice details are added on the sides though, and what about these lovely wheels? One thing though : that tow hook is HUGE compared to the car's scale. It features an opening hood though. Certainly a must have for any collector, try to find it :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaariDwllGxTI7io9ebsVRLXHMHHNh50fsug7bJPZEoKlAX8uVRVPf0Z7suMM-sn0J9iZ-t7XyV2J3w7EcssfeWjFwS5Gqs5P-bzv1Fgfq2IboYFKVV4KisuY9X9Zui58NqKe-CZaETQ/s1600/P1080325.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxaariDwllGxTI7io9ebsVRLXHMHHNh50fsug7bJPZEoKlAX8uVRVPf0Z7suMM-sn0J9iZ-t7XyV2J3w7EcssfeWjFwS5Gqs5P-bzv1Fgfq2IboYFKVV4KisuY9X9Zui58NqKe-CZaETQ/s320/P1080325.png" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhMJGKdD_Kw_6gDBAYEFFBlXZv4ORItorfendmP8qHtjp_waWvJ2MHtiHBftXgfNAFmpgtjo7ffhQIVqk_B97t3FzLPRA5bUOruQ1261zCxlUb3U9WWq189V37o8QheSA-F5rdAN69zM/s1600/P1080323.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhMJGKdD_Kw_6gDBAYEFFBlXZv4ORItorfendmP8qHtjp_waWvJ2MHtiHBftXgfNAFmpgtjo7ffhQIVqk_B97t3FzLPRA5bUOruQ1261zCxlUb3U9WWq189V37o8QheSA-F5rdAN69zM/s320/P1080323.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Motor Max '82 Chevrolet El Camino</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 7/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 42/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.chevelles.com/elcamino/ec_87_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://www.chevelles.com/elcamino/ec_87_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Last El Camino produced, in 1987</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhx4PhEho4nD3_Q-fh-fw8VNdUsINlZqqU2ELFCY01yWqR52jOs_WpnoPGO6rXBfvuHomUD4bpjr-8gsTWCDtPR3zpBIiWUvIS0vbst_5vYVQo5D4c1LUrkea3x1dJTnyz3ii2qDhWER0/s1600/P1080326.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhx4PhEho4nD3_Q-fh-fw8VNdUsINlZqqU2ELFCY01yWqR52jOs_WpnoPGO6rXBfvuHomUD4bpjr-8gsTWCDtPR3zpBIiWUvIS0vbst_5vYVQo5D4c1LUrkea3x1dJTnyz3ii2qDhWER0/s640/P1080326.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
To conclude this serie of diecasts, we must talk of the Majorette's replica of the 1986 El Camino SS. I own two of those castings : an original green one, and a blue one that i completely restored (but was originally blue). The blue won't be evaluated here, since i added details for my pleasure, so let's talk about the green one. As every Majorette casting, it looks pretty solid, and ready to be mistreated by some kids (luckily, i will never do that!). The real forms of the car are somewhat oddly reproduced... there's too much curves, according to pictures of the real one. It does of course need tampos, and those generic wheels aren't the best fit. The opening doors are a nice add though. If you compare to my own custom, you can see what a few details would have added to the car... still a nice effort.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGjDECy8uz13exQQlzzAg5QeB9z0lXDLs5vwdOmDg2-PRpDjWiivnDfMO6AJE01l94ufn63tIl-911Ian79YWbHNe8l3tMyUyjB0ne79T_-fS5ykGlX2xI9QElur_OH77tXe908Hb20A/s1600/P1080327.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYGjDECy8uz13exQQlzzAg5QeB9z0lXDLs5vwdOmDg2-PRpDjWiivnDfMO6AJE01l94ufn63tIl-911Ian79YWbHNe8l3tMyUyjB0ne79T_-fS5ykGlX2xI9QElur_OH77tXe908Hb20A/s320/P1080327.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpysDCF6ErYFrBXwe5MUnFEv_J-_wC6MwPzYApgP-SAcQaLLCPlh_1FGFsBfT87asYauuipCotV7ITfydOOqJ0ENo-myPW0RT0sKnSss10XWPcV4y4bsnKbRCxKwopHeI_nzFfmwjd0g/s1600/P1080328.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwpysDCF6ErYFrBXwe5MUnFEv_J-_wC6MwPzYApgP-SAcQaLLCPlh_1FGFsBfT87asYauuipCotV7ITfydOOqJ0ENo-myPW0RT0sKnSss10XWPcV4y4bsnKbRCxKwopHeI_nzFfmwjd0g/s320/P1080328.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Majorette '86 El Camino SS</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 10/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 7/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 38/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjIw3hCEgSaXYLZ3VWvl59hOKb-LUi9V67LeueDS2loYcoITdZ0eg_TNIZP_-z_d-anHPZi_R3uf45piXEyS4miXipVWxeX8se2lvLvLR1Abdc9Kt-QQUCdj2QjltUMtV6mjtJ4g8EC0/s1600/P1080335.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikjIw3hCEgSaXYLZ3VWvl59hOKb-LUi9V67LeueDS2loYcoITdZ0eg_TNIZP_-z_d-anHPZi_R3uf45piXEyS4miXipVWxeX8se2lvLvLR1Abdc9Kt-QQUCdj2QjltUMtV6mjtJ4g8EC0/s640/P1080335.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00iTxfpovvJXQQp_Ant-gHqo0a_X4yC2WOlrUkhlbYSDmffEi4JWH9l_YgINUrgK4vMBweemzJgkXIbYHgeiyCVpmKRwav2FvqlmVXD2_EIAqVIQMB2MAFzxlE9KhoJgXHkKJFSJEmug/s1600/P1080333.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="612" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg00iTxfpovvJXQQp_Ant-gHqo0a_X4yC2WOlrUkhlbYSDmffEi4JWH9l_YgINUrgK4vMBweemzJgkXIbYHgeiyCVpmKRwav2FvqlmVXD2_EIAqVIQMB2MAFzxlE9KhoJgXHkKJFSJEmug/s640/P1080333.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
Enjoy the pictures :)</div></div></div></div></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-39274609978649193612011-09-04T05:55:00.000-07:002011-09-04T05:55:19.357-07:00[Japanese Moderns] Japanese Off-Road : The Pajero-First, i'd just like to thanks everybody who's looking at my blog. Views number has been constantly increasing over the past two months, and that is really motivating. Also, according to my statistics, longer/most document posts are the most popular... I'll try to keep it this way. For now, let's enter our subject of the day : the Mitsubishi Pajero (also known as Montero in the Americas, and Shogun in the UK). Being introduced in 1982, the Pajero is certainly one of the most well-known japanese off-roaders. Its name come from a special variety of cat called <i>Leopardus pajeros.</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cryptomundo.com/wp-content/uploads/1100661414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://www.cryptomundo.com/wp-content/uploads/1100661414.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Real Pajero.<br />
</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The current Pajero is in its 4th generation. Please note that the following article will be focused on the third generation (1999-2006), obviously because of the fact that i only have castings from this era. Multiple variations of the Pajero has been produced over the years (Pajero Mini, Pajero Junior, Pajero Sport etc.), but only one of them will be covered (certainly the most interesting one though!).<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>Talkin' Pajero</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://crazy80.c.r.pic.centerblog.net/swulk1dj.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://crazy80.c.r.pic.centerblog.net/swulk1dj.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Original 83 Pajero.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
The first steps of the Pajero come back to 1973, with the first prototype showed at the Tokyo Motor Show. It was initially a three-door, short wheelbase off-road truck.... and it failed. It was seen as a commercial vehicle, but it was clearly not the purpose of the car. Success started with the introduction of the long-wheelbase 5 doors model in 1984. Even more, a luxuous model (easily recognizable with its two-tone paint) has been introduced in 1987, to confirm the Pajero's success. Lots of engines were offered, from diesel to 3L V6. The Pajero has also been reproduced as the Dodge Raider and the Hyundai Galloper in multiple countries.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a6/Mitsubishi_Pajero_DI-D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a6/Mitsubishi_Pajero_DI-D.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Third generation Pajero.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Second generation has been introduced in 1991 and lasted until 1999. It was a popular one, not for the car in itself but mainly because of the notority gained in the Rally Paris-Dakar event. The first Pajero entered the rally in 1983, and started to win in 1985. Up to this day, it remains the most titled truck in this event (although it is being challenged by the VW Touareg nowadays). The third generation lasted from 99 to 2006, but facing declining sales (especially in the US) and increasing competition from classic (Toyota Land Cruiser) or new players (Volkswagen), it has been retired from the american market. The fourth generation is more of a luxuous high-end SUV, but still very capable out of the roads.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7P_8BMhctr6FfoUGv-4Qo45cXo-Rs5Dgp8fl_wiGUhPJvZOBtZ7-H_rcZtTMl7F4MQqysgZz7LQ0345_SGAK6L0vyLYsufZGIjdm1D5QxQvt8QfDpTYZh_93sOWet2I3nScK2Y0r_4A/s1600/P1080119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7P_8BMhctr6FfoUGv-4Qo45cXo-Rs5Dgp8fl_wiGUhPJvZOBtZ7-H_rcZtTMl7F4MQqysgZz7LQ0345_SGAK6L0vyLYsufZGIjdm1D5QxQvt8QfDpTYZh_93sOWet2I3nScK2Y0r_4A/s400/P1080119.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPyuSeEx1gK5f4pJZvPhqQS8dSKGXsiE9ythwRFCGz3zO3yDTB6D1S-GMYFUigzu9r5PKKXhczbomLGU0ucsEBnFp9ByIeEp-j7WASHnyBBLEdsMmAiNAZnwYLtcwGPa7FQ71WbpI2pR4/s1600/P1080121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPyuSeEx1gK5f4pJZvPhqQS8dSKGXsiE9ythwRFCGz3zO3yDTB6D1S-GMYFUigzu9r5PKKXhczbomLGU0ucsEBnFp9ByIeEp-j7WASHnyBBLEdsMmAiNAZnwYLtcwGPa7FQ71WbpI2pR4/s320/P1080121.jpg" width="320" /></a>Talking diecats, i must say that we NEED MORE Pajero diecasts. Of course, a lot has been produced by Tomica, but they're unavailable here, and quite expensive on eBay. I just bought the 4th generation Tomica, but it didin't arrived yet. I'll probably do a new small post to cover it (along with a few additions to older posts). So let's aboard the regular third generation three-door Pajero. Recently reproduced by Welly, as mentioned in <a href="http://diecastfun.blogspot.com/2011/07/japanese-moderns-acura-in-diecasts-are.html">this post</a>, the Pajero has been found in the Easter Eggs series, and is quite well done. Proportions are pretty well reproduced, and the silver color (classic color for a Pajero) fits it well. Wheels are just perfect too... i must admit that it is one of my favorite. Only thing i dislike : there's no interior doors cover, and that makes it look strange. Still, a pretty nice effort by Welly!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmht7AxrSOBjtwy7hBUd9Y83xRaTNUTgKst6E8jineju3EEjZ2rCsqjH8FjthvCwvhqgJhhdt7P-WnqM1o0FfyZGDK-N9BH9Q1rTU304fwljua0rtBmNTFzRcAIvONYkEhTml6sZh8P7g/s1600/P1080123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmht7AxrSOBjtwy7hBUd9Y83xRaTNUTgKst6E8jineju3EEjZ2rCsqjH8FjthvCwvhqgJhhdt7P-WnqM1o0FfyZGDK-N9BH9Q1rTU304fwljua0rtBmNTFzRcAIvONYkEhTml6sZh8P7g/s320/P1080123.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiprboB-bgGLhym9FIL9no8syRjJCZL6rN6J-7nWB22VJ6sh6UVxXIgzZoDrWzNE2fq0t8OPHZliQaztz_ChVcLfpoa7_ftMTF4woCuVCoPXXlpCPBPJBELRLX_vP-OBY-xdKrseUu5I9I/s1600/P1080122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiprboB-bgGLhym9FIL9no8syRjJCZL6rN6J-7nWB22VJ6sh6UVxXIgzZoDrWzNE2fq0t8OPHZliQaztz_ChVcLfpoa7_ftMTF4woCuVCoPXXlpCPBPJBELRLX_vP-OBY-xdKrseUu5I9I/s320/P1080122.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Welly Mitsubishi Pajero</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 40/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzK_zb3TPuxwMGsN7VyIoMgOxoXBLyvrTQ2Y6kK57SA-x8sNDpMyAMoaCEyaJ1RmJMe9KBVnnrpOBekq3cKwqnurYsnkKHHir5mxW1xbYrkrspTnHm-_ZsEg9ttuthM2RnkAMfo4fsng4/s1600/P1080130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzK_zb3TPuxwMGsN7VyIoMgOxoXBLyvrTQ2Y6kK57SA-x8sNDpMyAMoaCEyaJ1RmJMe9KBVnnrpOBekq3cKwqnurYsnkKHHir5mxW1xbYrkrspTnHm-_ZsEg9ttuthM2RnkAMfo4fsng4/s400/P1080130.jpg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFSLtz4ojkdzZsNrvdhdT61hmSEbOYV_5oyRRxDEmxE5OrrdE4pGN-JNVp67nps5ceGRqgtFOnuFFS8Y9ft_TQetAcRRbK_UHS57bm2OClUZwAVaq9ERKW7W2hQ6i5_qeRdCTBuAdnl9Q/s1600/P1080131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFSLtz4ojkdzZsNrvdhdT61hmSEbOYV_5oyRRxDEmxE5OrrdE4pGN-JNVp67nps5ceGRqgtFOnuFFS8Y9ft_TQetAcRRbK_UHS57bm2OClUZwAVaq9ERKW7W2hQ6i5_qeRdCTBuAdnl9Q/s320/P1080131.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a>The same car has been reproduced by Majorette, but in its Paris-Dakar version, referenced as number 292. At first glance, Majorette did a perfect job on the decals. But with a second look... it looks a bit plastic. Not quite a fan of those wheels too, they look cheap and too much generic. And what's wrong with the rear of the car, they forgot it? Besides that, tampos are a great add *on the front*, and the overall proportions are well reproduced. At least, the decals are officials, and reproduces well the 2001 Paris-Dakar edition. I quite like the casting.... but it could have been better. I must give a thumb up for the opening hood though.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzg-ua6zfVqieIm_4Kp8UZyYWacQC1veLOfI7w1epyCETKCewW-4_pWjUnySdTYtC7M-53IF7XwrfvofpqeL8xtN_dMNFW4R1pEF3ZQsC-yTQkW0_0jyDQDXPwg1c9rnSKvklGnforEiI/s1600/P1080133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzg-ua6zfVqieIm_4Kp8UZyYWacQC1veLOfI7w1epyCETKCewW-4_pWjUnySdTYtC7M-53IF7XwrfvofpqeL8xtN_dMNFW4R1pEF3ZQsC-yTQkW0_0jyDQDXPwg1c9rnSKvklGnforEiI/s320/P1080133.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXOMvxCXb7OapWRDVwm91aGkqCJvOhd8r1MDiVNV0YmBq2Vk_nuIV25BGhvzQauQMZ3f1fJioTI-OZCWGxfqbhSwB6xtGZpi8-oWuElpZ0-4T-ChiPlQe1vWivcs0OfOmSEHD_43VVsg/s1600/P1080132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguXOMvxCXb7OapWRDVwm91aGkqCJvOhd8r1MDiVNV0YmBq2Vk_nuIV25BGhvzQauQMZ3f1fJioTI-OZCWGxfqbhSwB6xtGZpi8-oWuElpZ0-4T-ChiPlQe1vWivcs0OfOmSEHD_43VVsg/s320/P1080132.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Majorette Mitsubishi Pajero Rally</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 5/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 7/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 7/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 39/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjftVAVIAdQ37n3Rwft-r0jHIt22qUO_R9XQlh7d8jnc5GLLyJ90gjiAe7cTgqdw74MxvWSM3O15bc4hjPxgxdNjrjRV381kjMtdvfvMM9KJkRJA0M0umvj6di-wfcNgGJtVPohdN5y40E/s1600/P1080124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjftVAVIAdQ37n3Rwft-r0jHIt22qUO_R9XQlh7d8jnc5GLLyJ90gjiAe7cTgqdw74MxvWSM3O15bc4hjPxgxdNjrjRV381kjMtdvfvMM9KJkRJA0M0umvj6di-wfcNgGJtVPohdN5y40E/s400/P1080124.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8WmWSTl9aCuUVBgnHRxTbahot5_26vlDJqZJ1AcwFjNfPS5sBf9EtOpYgxTy97salBf1KfhU7q__GEQ2VE1nNpTELK3l_JN14uG75y0CkScUsN3LX6h3dV09ec9pmHVTuk9e14D_pGI/s1600/P1080125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8WmWSTl9aCuUVBgnHRxTbahot5_26vlDJqZJ1AcwFjNfPS5sBf9EtOpYgxTy97salBf1KfhU7q__GEQ2VE1nNpTELK3l_JN14uG75y0CkScUsN3LX6h3dV09ec9pmHVTuk9e14D_pGI/s320/P1080125.jpg" width="320" /></a>For the special edition part of this article, we need to talk of the Pajero Evolution. Initially introduced as a sport model on the second generation, the Pajero Evo was also a concept introduced in 2003, used to show new Mitsubishi's style. Equipped with a double turbo V6 delivering 450 hp, it was quite a beast. The car is the actual Paris-Dakar Mitsubishi Pajero, in a red racing livery. This concept has been reproduced by an obscure diecast brand called Boley.... Boley only made 9 repertoried cars in 1/64 scale, and they're quite cheap to buy (around only 1$). It is an awesomely detailed car for the price, with interior, mirrors, nice wheels and real glass lights. I must say that the proportions are pretty nice done, and for one time, the car is really 1/64! The color doesn't represent the real deal though.... and i must say that the car looks really fragile. Still a nice piece to have, they'll surely become rare in the future!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWcXaCYL3W0mJPdAh_u5f9-k8Vs5j5ng0DrRykG1hUfgVjlvs98zoCIo0sGxFqXsoTlzgsdxej8oQZsoHiz-vVe2vHhFhsXxmcm1FXJD0IJBD2smGv6w3hDgDL1pYcwYsSDQltew3Bvq4/s1600/P1080126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWcXaCYL3W0mJPdAh_u5f9-k8Vs5j5ng0DrRykG1hUfgVjlvs98zoCIo0sGxFqXsoTlzgsdxej8oQZsoHiz-vVe2vHhFhsXxmcm1FXJD0IJBD2smGv6w3hDgDL1pYcwYsSDQltew3Bvq4/s320/P1080126.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Boley Mitsubishi Pajero Evo</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 5/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 39/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Enjoy the pics, don't forget to comment!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj130NoDYU3K9fApesv3mp_ILZd-9w6Cu_MUYX2T33O0QDn589JJNVLeOfaopc1wgqv5wzgfFcVV5sXbi4BekiZr23ZZ9PnGN2fHG2Zq3QaK8AXRpm8nmSUFZenCzeiTfwVC2cOKgIsZQ/s1600/P1080134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj130NoDYU3K9fApesv3mp_ILZd-9w6Cu_MUYX2T33O0QDn589JJNVLeOfaopc1wgqv5wzgfFcVV5sXbi4BekiZr23ZZ9PnGN2fHG2Zq3QaK8AXRpm8nmSUFZenCzeiTfwVC2cOKgIsZQ/s640/P1080134.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
</div></div></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-30358986668392180452011-08-26T16:56:00.000-07:002011-08-29T05:55:03.296-07:00[American Moderns] CTS, the ultimate modern Cadillac.Back in the 60's, Cadillac was certainly the American symbol of luxury and pride, and was recognized as the ultimate luxury car. Times changed a lot, and the luxurious american brand now has difficulty to survive, with hard competition coming from Mercedes, BMW, and more recently, Lexus and Infiniti. With poor models in the 90's, Cadillac certainly lost a bit of this glorious look that made it famous. Nowadays, Cadillac's style is certainly better than it was in the 90's, and its cars are now fully respectable, even if they're as spectacular as what they used to be (at least they're reliable :)). Here's one that almost saved the brand, and that is an important player in its section : the Cadillac CTS.<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>First generation : 2003 - 2007</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.netcarshow.com/Cadillac-CTS_2003_1600x1200_wallpaper_07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://img.netcarshow.com/Cadillac-CTS_2003_1600x1200_wallpaper_07.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
Originally showed in 2002 as replacement to the horrible Cadillac Catera (which was a pale copy of the already pale Opel Omega), the CTS has been introduced as a 2003 model. It introduced the new Edge Cadillac style, with a huge contrast on the older Cadillac. The CTS was nominated as the North American Car Of The Year, and being featured in the movie <i>The Matrix Reloaded</i>, it quickly achieved some great sales. Originally introduced with a L6 220 hp engine, it quickly switched for a DOHC V6 offering 255 hp, and has been produced until 2007. An extreme version has been introduced in 2004, called the CTS-V, as a direct competitor to BMW M5. Featuring the same engine as the Corvette Z06 (LS2 V8 engine), it was able to deliver 400 hp. Unfortunately, no diecast of the first generation has been produced... what a waste of a paragraph! :)<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>Second generation : 2008-...</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.topgear.com/uk/assets/cms/e8711568-9685-4e10-b94e-d9ca3dbe1043/Large%20Image%20(optional).jpg?p=081001_02:10" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://www.topgear.com/uk/assets/cms/e8711568-9685-4e10-b94e-d9ca3dbe1043/Large%20Image%20(optional).jpg?p=081001_02:10" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>CTS-V</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/120298/2011-cadillac-cts-coupe-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/120298/2011-cadillac-cts-coupe-001.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>CTS Coupe.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.royal-car.com/carblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Cadillac-CTS-Wagon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://www.royal-car.com/carblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Cadillac-CTS-Wagon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>CTS Wagon.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Influenced from the 2003 Cadillac Sixteen Concept (that will certainly be covered in another post), the second generation CTS was introduced in 2008. Even if the first CTS was a great car, the second one is certainly a reference in its market segment. Bigger and more luxuous than the first one, it received Motor Trend Car Of The Year award in 2008, along with being selected in Car & Driver's 10 best cars list. Car & Driver even wrote "Maybe the best American car ever made" in 2010 about the CTS. Two engines are offered on the basic CTS : a 258 hp V6 engine, and a more powerful 304 hp V6 VVT engine. The CTS has also been declined in a Sport Wagon and a Coupe Version. All the CTS are available as the CTS-V, featuring a monstrous LSA V8 Engine with 556 hp. It is clearly one of the most powerful sedan in the market.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOQd1APSacDMNo_YZ4rdMs1Wof_1hqARRo68m8WJ6E_SrTegkoTOrBsQylawjlFiYCSAVRLTVyq6xXJF8BPmwn-0Pwo31Cdx8MP_uFa3hiwx9ysgrhM8Kw-JtYfxU1z0GFxs5biz09tA/s1600/cadillaccts+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpOQd1APSacDMNo_YZ4rdMs1Wof_1hqARRo68m8WJ6E_SrTegkoTOrBsQylawjlFiYCSAVRLTVyq6xXJF8BPmwn-0Pwo31Cdx8MP_uFa3hiwx9ysgrhM8Kw-JtYfxU1z0GFxs5biz09tA/s400/cadillaccts+%25284%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
After all this real car introduction, we surely need to talk about diecasts :)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYa2ofTXzvxw285cJHyD-intaXq_EcRhJ1QEs3qSwBSWgUaU1su2DIaaFHhPZAcv10t0HDdBTE9TYwhhpWyx2ddMCJjOtvJzEdwnvy3vVHJSuFyYZxaeaIy0b76njTum0PjAIoC9h2G4/s1600/cadillaccts+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCYa2ofTXzvxw285cJHyD-intaXq_EcRhJ1QEs3qSwBSWgUaU1su2DIaaFHhPZAcv10t0HDdBTE9TYwhhpWyx2ddMCJjOtvJzEdwnvy3vVHJSuFyYZxaeaIy0b76njTum0PjAIoC9h2G4/s400/cadillaccts+%25285%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a>As the first generation, no diecast has been made around the regular CTS. BUT! All special versions have been covered. First, the CTS-V has recently been introduced as a 2010 New Model in Hot Wheels regular line-up. Only offered in the 2010 range for now, it has been produced in black (first version, which i own), red and silver. In my humble opinion, the casting has been awfully reproduced. The rear and side is not that bad, but the front doesn't really looks like a CTS. And of course, as with every Hot Wheels, the wheels are a bit too much generic, and doesn't fit that car so well. Well, what is really killing the casting are three things : the front grill (where's the Cadillac sign?), front light tampos are not accurate, and what's with the blue windows?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Hot Wheels '09 Cadillac CTS-V</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 6/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 6/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 7/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 5/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 32/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 800;"><u><br />
</u></span></span><br />
<ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwcBqa8CtNtQrt-1IP3HroHKONvPRQeh9icCiu0UjTSxzHsr7YF4rfTJr3CtlIclfWW9A2W1hSdiDFmg6UZ7xN_g_0mrY2irmZ4zeO94A0jSjy7E9S9ZtEICfG0qCYhg609qn67T9W5I/s1600/cadillaccts+%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqwcBqa8CtNtQrt-1IP3HroHKONvPRQeh9icCiu0UjTSxzHsr7YF4rfTJr3CtlIclfWW9A2W1hSdiDFmg6UZ7xN_g_0mrY2irmZ4zeO94A0jSjy7E9S9ZtEICfG0qCYhg609qn67T9W5I/s400/cadillaccts+%25286%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 800;"><u><br />
</u></span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9uc47vHls5p9L4LVaXLKmlJ76TISzGIok8YNtXCU8C1BWnuXzHIpxnu3Clro-yMafKhjezoXLnMNdlIWCgH5zcGQAESZmWYiXypEkLLeWXOaWoXgwJwS6-TaeVlubmzzI6UEx5_nlfo/s1600/cadillaccts+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9uc47vHls5p9L4LVaXLKmlJ76TISzGIok8YNtXCU8C1BWnuXzHIpxnu3Clro-yMafKhjezoXLnMNdlIWCgH5zcGQAESZmWYiXypEkLLeWXOaWoXgwJwS6-TaeVlubmzzI6UEx5_nlfo/s400/cadillaccts+%25287%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a>The other Mattel brand, Matchbox, also recently introduced replicas of the CTS in its current lineup. Let's start with the CTS Wagon, that has been introduced in late 2010, in a red color. The casting is awesomely accurate, and you can really appreciate CTS Wagon's special shape. Even more, the front tampo is outstanding, and all the details make it look really great. I'm quite not a fan of the wheels, but they're somewhat well accorded with the car. Two shades of red has been produced in 2010, and we're at three recolors so far in 2011. It is certainly one of the most impressive casting in the current Matchbox lineup, and a must for any collection. I must admit that i particularly love the shooting brake style of the CTS... and the tampos are simply incredible. One bad thing : bad paint quality.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Matchbox Cadillac CTS Wagon</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 7/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 41/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 800;"><u><br />
</u></span></span><br />
<ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XpkFJL2yFPNZQVtf4zY2DfG3mczH0kC8A6FW1i29hokMTpb9xYPPUvIgp-u53wBIg7UUEFPHkVLfQO0r9hWjRKZ1yj4qiT7oyLTd3hvShPwsEIKrqjx8xXtrTL3RUtFiX02CitEilhU/s1600/cadillaccts+%25288%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XpkFJL2yFPNZQVtf4zY2DfG3mczH0kC8A6FW1i29hokMTpb9xYPPUvIgp-u53wBIg7UUEFPHkVLfQO0r9hWjRKZ1yj4qiT7oyLTd3hvShPwsEIKrqjx8xXtrTL3RUtFiX02CitEilhU/s400/cadillaccts+%25288%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc8klrjmGz9WmKjo2AbFjqhRtCZpVpd3TxrRB3x_PBoPvHcGMJ7EtzlqkdX6zIE2N8QTXqvDawzt_EU4aPS9gzl0tFtO6GPTqqnOQAtblkSW_nI1_ubI9njLu2jnV1tIwS5073dSDBuAY/s1600/cadillaccts+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc8klrjmGz9WmKjo2AbFjqhRtCZpVpd3TxrRB3x_PBoPvHcGMJ7EtzlqkdX6zIE2N8QTXqvDawzt_EU4aPS9gzl0tFtO6GPTqqnOQAtblkSW_nI1_ubI9njLu2jnV1tIwS5073dSDBuAY/s400/cadillaccts+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a>Talking about Matchbox, they quickly introduced the CTS Coupe in the 2011 line-up, almost in the same time as the car was hitting the market. In my humble opinion, it is certainly one of the most beautiful car of the actual market. Introduced as the #32 in the VIP serie of the basic lineup, Matchbox's replica of the CTS Coupe is almost perfect. You can really feel the real car, its angular lines, the odd but awesome rear end... certainly one of the best new releases in 2011. Lots of details are included, tampos are simply perfect (front tampo is the same as the Wagon's one). As i said on the Wagon, i'm not a fan of those wheels though. The silver color is a bit dull, but its fits well the car's style. Certainly one of the must of 2011, you need to find one!</div><div><br />
</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Matchbox Cadillac CTS Coupe</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u> 8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b><u>Color :</u> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 9/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 41/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: 800;"><u><br />
</u></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrh1RcpbJaYfJyqry3Ou4-RuGO96zqlGTIMMVziCucZYsR1cMzOVFClNHnnGxFyyefC9QyCM7NegORNco_acD18OD_L3O7Rb2doFcZ5keLTBNk834eMgLCn1mCAh-ARtwuDaaDuwDGMQ/s1600/cadillaccts+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrh1RcpbJaYfJyqry3Ou4-RuGO96zqlGTIMMVziCucZYsR1cMzOVFClNHnnGxFyyefC9QyCM7NegORNco_acD18OD_L3O7Rb2doFcZ5keLTBNk834eMgLCn1mCAh-ARtwuDaaDuwDGMQ/s400/cadillaccts+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Enjoy the pics folks, all comments are welcomed! I want to improve :)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4uMv9v1ldU3zk8IVrA7XgaWXIw_hxUzpjGcuFeM264XDGHKdeGCHF5i6iVxg_e_tndHuY41kXwmmX3_HQs_wnI0ckmSQpoLBpwRXBnwkI07eGtZr1jq9H9Ar1c7WfEJB9J_fhNuDavA/s1600/cadillaccts+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik4uMv9v1ldU3zk8IVrA7XgaWXIw_hxUzpjGcuFeM264XDGHKdeGCHF5i6iVxg_e_tndHuY41kXwmmX3_HQs_wnI0ckmSQpoLBpwRXBnwkI07eGtZr1jq9H9Ar1c7WfEJB9J_fhNuDavA/s400/cadillaccts+%25283%2529.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"></span></div></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-9208782153418952852011-08-18T16:36:00.000-07:002011-08-18T16:36:17.287-07:00[Japanese Classics] A few Datsun(s).<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://car-logos.50webs.com/logo/datsun/datsun1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://car-logos.50webs.com/logo/datsun/datsun1.gif" /></a></div><br />
This is an article dedicated to Shaz, who asked to see something about Dastun, so here it is :)<br />
Dastun is a japanese brand known as Nissan's ancestor, and was created in 1931.Originally named Datson, Nissan bought the maker in 1933 and changed the o for a u, because son was meaning "loss" in Japanese. You might think, what's the point of talking of a brand that only lasted two years? Well, Nissan kept the name Datsun a long time. Nissan's cars were under Datsun's name (trucks had the real name) until 1958. Progressively, cars became Nissans, but the brand survived in America. In fact, Nissan was associated with their war vehicles, so they invaded american market with only the name Datsun... and the name disappeared completely in 1986.<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>The intriguing one : Datsun 126X Concept</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.conceptnissan.com/1970/1971_126x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://www.conceptnissan.com/1970/1971_126x.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Since the beginning of my blog, the 126X Concept was certainly the car i had the hardest time to find some information about it. Here's what i managed to find : japanese makers went exotic in the beginning of the 70s, with a variety of strange car concepts. The 126X was a mid-engined car, and featured a really esoteric style. It has been only offered in a fade silver color. The engine was a small 3 litre, and wasn't even guaranteed to be able to move the real car : it was really a pure show car. Awesome feature : on the middle strip in the hood, different lights were working with different colors : if the car was accelerating, green lights were open, if the car was slowing down then red lights lit and if the car was cruising at a stable speed then yellow lights had the spot. It is certainly recognized as one of the most extreme concept cars of those years.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8ibAmahub022c9yjinYE1V1WZW4NDjuB6JBa4IjgKAiMeX2rON6lv2ASz1lsGmTj6Qo_gjSGMmcywZyVR2gZD697MS5ektGvFMQlplfW7ns3ATGP-4sr-kvjCg8Wte7clbTHF7JUUtI/s1600/P1070490.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8ibAmahub022c9yjinYE1V1WZW4NDjuB6JBa4IjgKAiMeX2rON6lv2ASz1lsGmTj6Qo_gjSGMmcywZyVR2gZD697MS5ektGvFMQlplfW7ns3ATGP-4sr-kvjCg8Wte7clbTHF7JUUtI/s400/P1070490.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
This kind of delirious styling is certainly appealing to reproduce in diecast, because they will certainly be popular among kids. This is what Lesney tried to apply when creating a replica of the 126X in the Superfast's line in 1973. Although the design is well reproduced, the color are somewhat... flashy. This casting has been only produced three years in the history : '73 (yellow), '79 (yellow with flames) and '85 (blue). As you can see, i own the 1973 one, but mine has a missing rear lid. As i said, i completely dislike the yellow and the horrible orange base, but they make it a really popular casting in these years. The car looks certainly akward, but is well done by Matchbox.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdtO0TXw-8tmGueXcSITscaDuz74j-swLLo7cQ_8i_ZHhph8UQz9U3bowKyS6BCdr_EdbL5ZMYroyQgMcDKpioj90nwtFALN7qKuxMxlqpkzuzYGmkjCoDwbvojV0mH1rE-W-3-SkBy0/s1600/P1070492.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitdtO0TXw-8tmGueXcSITscaDuz74j-swLLo7cQ_8i_ZHhph8UQz9U3bowKyS6BCdr_EdbL5ZMYroyQgMcDKpioj90nwtFALN7qKuxMxlqpkzuzYGmkjCoDwbvojV0mH1rE-W-3-SkBy0/s320/P1070492.png" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDMjQEBJ43Mc3jnlDJE8FY2uH29S_Qu1d4hcey2L41FwD5HrAgZ-fHrENt4l-4iISWSx9ZYOq0DekpDNCnEnhCeuXr_gicikeRfFqODNszDtY5vqQzXw6sPQtdS-0KKXLJmG26jpry8E/s1600/P1070491.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtDMjQEBJ43Mc3jnlDJE8FY2uH29S_Qu1d4hcey2L41FwD5HrAgZ-fHrENt4l-4iISWSx9ZYOq0DekpDNCnEnhCeuXr_gicikeRfFqODNszDtY5vqQzXw6sPQtdS-0KKXLJmG26jpry8E/s320/P1070491.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Lesney Superfast Dastun 126X Concept</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> <b>8/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u><b> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Color :</u><b> 4/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 5/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 32/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><br />
<br />
<b><i><u>Japanese BMW : The 510</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.turbomagazine.com/f/24986690/turp_0105_06_z+datsun_510_bluebird+front_left.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://image.turbomagazine.com/f/24986690/turp_0105_06_z+datsun_510_bluebird+front_left.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
Often recognized as the poor man's BMW of those year, the Datsun Bluebird 510 has been initially introduced in 1968 in a variety of body styles : two-door sedan, four-door sedan, five-door wagon and two-door coupe. It quickly gained admiration from car enthusiasts because of its rally successful career outside Japan. It initially came into the US market with a 1.6L 96 hp engine, which was able to reach 100 mph. It has quickly been replaced with a 1.8L engine. One of the main advantages of the Datsun(s) was the pieces compatibility : engine, transmissions, suspension parts were easily interchangeable between cars. The production ceased in 1973, and due to the impressive rally potential of the car, it is hard to find a 510 in really good condition nowadays. Even more, a lot of the remaining Bluebird has been tuned or transformed into race cars.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wO9umac0TImX7EHPCTq2KsYtj4LOUPjOF00Za5XMbBSZPSp7AmJYNrkxljPjhlU5jUpzS0zRM4AdxyPUHF0YgNYxb1n8-1Tm40oppDSZ3YvOp2xRkWNd8svIThD-rdadgoGq98i9ZC8/s1600/P1070486.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wO9umac0TImX7EHPCTq2KsYtj4LOUPjOF00Za5XMbBSZPSp7AmJYNrkxljPjhlU5jUpzS0zRM4AdxyPUHF0YgNYxb1n8-1Tm40oppDSZ3YvOp2xRkWNd8svIThD-rdadgoGq98i9ZC8/s400/P1070486.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The two-door sedan has been accurately reproduced by Hot Wheels, and been recently introduced in the main casting line (2009). It is one of the best current models in the lineup : car lines are admirably reproduced. As you can see within the pics, it is a small tuned version of the car, featuring a body kit and interior roll bars.As usual with HW, the wheels are somehwat average, and there's no side mirrors. On the other side, paint jobs are really accurate and the decals fit the car well. The version i got is the 2009's cooper third color (first was blue and second, black). You can easily imagine the car racing on a small track, alongside a few other japanese classics! Definitly one of my favorite, especially for the colors.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvV9fvkGWyCY5wuO-Dgb4J3fjAl2G_JTATbsfcJHl1px1w7lCLKKjyYUsy1pTjpRcylIsFZzADIqMv1VWyssluhnLHaj5FsKJPyyaDEhUt0MEs4toyPL07_KnnfkdokdegrXPBxFZBR_Q/s1600/P1070489.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvV9fvkGWyCY5wuO-Dgb4J3fjAl2G_JTATbsfcJHl1px1w7lCLKKjyYUsy1pTjpRcylIsFZzADIqMv1VWyssluhnLHaj5FsKJPyyaDEhUt0MEs4toyPL07_KnnfkdokdegrXPBxFZBR_Q/s320/P1070489.png" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw31RfW-qpal3sn6WzL1qf1dCnmMnNwgt_bX8XzfA-POr9fBUHLkBThbskHYjyGpOY681x9bxBfMeYJvCcFxgVS3G-UvF3qaKoWbWAYBePsq7oOqJxoq-JQirsrc0Krs2yRJmMucvEllk/s1600/P1070487.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw31RfW-qpal3sn6WzL1qf1dCnmMnNwgt_bX8XzfA-POr9fBUHLkBThbskHYjyGpOY681x9bxBfMeYJvCcFxgVS3G-UvF3qaKoWbWAYBePsq7oOqJxoq-JQirsrc0Krs2yRJmMucvEllk/s320/P1070487.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Hot Wheels Dastun 510 Bluebird</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> <b>9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u><b> 5/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Color :</u><b> 10/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 7/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 41/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>The legend : Datsun 260Z</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://zclub.net/gallery/data/501/260ds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://zclub.net/gallery/data/501/260ds.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The 260Z is only one of the many legendaries Z (which will surely be an article soon. Others interesting are the 240Z, 280Z, 300ZX, 350Z and the actual 370Z). Sold in the USA only in 1974, the 260Z has been produced from 74 to 78 in other countries. It is often claimed as the least desirable of all the Z, mainly because of its performance drop, and more "comfortable" approach. It was the first Z to offer a 2+2 option (that is, 2 front seats and two *small* rear seats). The styling didn't have many evolutions over the 240Z, but the interior was redesigned, and the 260Z was also including A/C. It came with a L6 2.6L engine developing 162 hp, able to reach 204 km/h. Comparatively to the older 240Z, it hasn't been produced as a rally car... so it was clearly a "Gran Turismo" car.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiqTUgcTJOaPFRLjHH0KCnleSZlh8B7lcIaqHMdRPhqm9nCh04mMXENe8W1vibYhDijftivzvn6rjfT7gAG3UMWlXGKYodDmOI8pvAokFW4CLRo9REuf7zoLj9dNW2tD06ueikk_jASNM/s1600/P1070498.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiqTUgcTJOaPFRLjHH0KCnleSZlh8B7lcIaqHMdRPhqm9nCh04mMXENe8W1vibYhDijftivzvn6rjfT7gAG3UMWlXGKYodDmOI8pvAokFW4CLRo9REuf7zoLj9dNW2tD06ueikk_jASNM/s400/P1070498.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Majorette rarely produced japanese cars (except Toyota), but the Datsun 260Z is a really nice example of what Majorette was doing best. Referenced as #229 in the old 200 casting line, the 260Z has been offered in an exhaustive variety of colors and decals. The casting is awesomely reproduced, with a lot of details. It lacks tampos and side mirrors, but compensate with opening doors. Such as every Majorette of these years, it's a pretty solid car, all made in metal. I am the proud owner of a red exemplary, and quite rare. It's in almost perfect condition, and is certainly a must have for any Majorette collector (which i am :)).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IslZZrxIpIdwbHl3hN-Z2TUyZwuVmMP0nkygJylty7F9lvrD_uCHfU-dMi2rTzSh5k6HpP-mn5-BJrp0wTRmzaT4_tQcQwSZGM1O48a7MvO7JxHapC3vRALigJ_dlQ68qbOShd6tC0A/s1600/P1070499.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IslZZrxIpIdwbHl3hN-Z2TUyZwuVmMP0nkygJylty7F9lvrD_uCHfU-dMi2rTzSh5k6HpP-mn5-BJrp0wTRmzaT4_tQcQwSZGM1O48a7MvO7JxHapC3vRALigJ_dlQ68qbOShd6tC0A/s320/P1070499.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IgzVgVpzZ6Ol1oDTp1nV5Z7UqHocWK6QiJORfs9C6rYREqxq9PM15FE1at7pgHdmXht_u2EWiInrE8Z4kIWo34Tkb3JJYXcR8GAlNAYHRRUUlyvxzpHe7CWAZvUZ-sYV1EjW4u7IDl4/s1600/P1070501.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_IgzVgVpzZ6Ol1oDTp1nV5Z7UqHocWK6QiJORfs9C6rYREqxq9PM15FE1at7pgHdmXht_u2EWiInrE8Z4kIWo34Tkb3JJYXcR8GAlNAYHRRUUlyvxzpHe7CWAZvUZ-sYV1EjW4u7IDl4/s320/P1070501.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><u><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Evaluation : Majorette Datsun 260Z</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Accuracy (looking like the real car?) :</u> <b>9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Details (mirrors, wheels, other stuff) :</u><b> 7/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Color :</u><b> 9/10</b></span></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Quality of the fabrication : </u><b> 10/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><u>Personal factor (is it a must for my collection?):</u><b> 8/10</b></span></span></b></li>
<li style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"><b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Total : 43/50</span></u></b></span></b></li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Nbq97NlHLEXtwZlFZU1Yjxa-lsvLPtj2PH5QQ5M2s0WD6UaO9a4ABXad_yzTLzz-cvWHwNzNyNhRf17rLJNTuvpJ7rH_2eRMXvLDHnK4xKjj5-k_XOPtUpQZOu8A0DQ1ZITPtvU6u0o/s1600/P1070497.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Nbq97NlHLEXtwZlFZU1Yjxa-lsvLPtj2PH5QQ5M2s0WD6UaO9a4ABXad_yzTLzz-cvWHwNzNyNhRf17rLJNTuvpJ7rH_2eRMXvLDHnK4xKjj5-k_XOPtUpQZOu8A0DQ1ZITPtvU6u0o/s400/P1070497.png" width="400" /></a></div>Enjoy the pics, comment!Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-88501416528025288012011-08-08T18:04:00.000-07:002011-08-18T04:25:39.945-07:00[Diecast] Learning the basics of advanced customizing...I have always been a fan of restauration and customization of diecasts. I usually tend to restore the car the closest possible to its original state, and don't change any parts. But sometimes, the car is so wrecked or messed up that doing this is almost impossible. Other times, i simply already have the car in perfect state in my collection, so it would be useless to add a second. Those two criterias are perfect to create a new car from scratch! But it's absolutely harder than it looks...<br />
The goal here : Starts with a Matchbox Mercury Fire Chief, to become a 1967 Mercury Monterey. Let's roll!<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>Starting with a horrible wreck.</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrUlWmx2sMU_F3eViexlu9sGh19xFLis-n_Hb77N2L9lNqowb9u_HXiIuhKa2Ykj0VJEJO9VHwEm-eZuaSCYK_ZCFRRUSSQGo0mzqu7QyNVzDZcdJJQNUCAQSOfx8ES5-AeTJTz4isB8/s1600/P1070376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrUlWmx2sMU_F3eViexlu9sGh19xFLis-n_Hb77N2L9lNqowb9u_HXiIuhKa2Ykj0VJEJO9VHwEm-eZuaSCYK_ZCFRRUSSQGo0mzqu7QyNVzDZcdJJQNUCAQSOfx8ES5-AeTJTz4isB8/s400/P1070376.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Would you seriously show this ?</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjro32BZuYc1XOsvNKH0gM30ayikcaM_ZPwpYpm1xyXbabKl1w8e9x6N7q2vmO56mjCRkEZItyol66dkrVra6ZK4J-6VAQNElwBdkPa3PzZZN2LMTm_SiSyL7oDY9dqBfbJeMOwrdFe-JI/s1600/P1070377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjro32BZuYc1XOsvNKH0gM30ayikcaM_ZPwpYpm1xyXbabKl1w8e9x6N7q2vmO56mjCRkEZItyol66dkrVra6ZK4J-6VAQNElwBdkPa3PzZZN2LMTm_SiSyL7oDY9dqBfbJeMOwrdFe-JI/s320/P1070377.jpg" width="320" /></a>Every restauration needs a starting point : a car that is absolutely impossible to display. There's a good example right here. One of my coworker just brought me this car : an old exemplary of a Matchbox Lesney Mercury Fire Chief... completely wasted. Wheels were twisted, it had that strange black paint everywhere, windows were half covered with paint etc. So it was a perfect candidate for a little customization. I had a hard time stripping the paint, especially because of that hard stuff, that was impossible to remove...<br />
Even more, then i drilled out the car, one of the windshield pillar just broke!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJDbA9bxnu_SrGpjXSdG17CJyPYQSb4Z0DvvDZ0TVG6H4Kp4W2fVYJe4WCiTYgrfmCB04_Feo7sT75wYnQIyOVI3IY_nhhO8mtIOCUiQ4NzsIUYN0hfmFQms4AUY4ZT8ShmP-UtL04Uw/s1600/P1070398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWJDbA9bxnu_SrGpjXSdG17CJyPYQSb4Z0DvvDZ0TVG6H4Kp4W2fVYJe4WCiTYgrfmCB04_Feo7sT75wYnQIyOVI3IY_nhhO8mtIOCUiQ4NzsIUYN0hfmFQms4AUY4ZT8ShmP-UtL04Uw/s320/P1070398.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjva_-pZda76VIq6IUehvJ3boVfVX8sW5iAaC8YW20rbm-RxRCv50ch8XKpt3X0XfnjqUjztbLHK5ASQigf_tE2-j2JCje1uRzGVrq8zoJ94qQVW8MecwQ1cZudkCwnH6j6J8tPKNCxooo/s1600/P1070401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjva_-pZda76VIq6IUehvJ3boVfVX8sW5iAaC8YW20rbm-RxRCv50ch8XKpt3X0XfnjqUjztbLHK5ASQigf_tE2-j2JCje1uRzGVrq8zoJ94qQVW8MecwQ1cZudkCwnH6j6J8tPKNCxooo/s320/P1070401.jpg" width="320" /></a>That's when the fun begin. After a few tries at stripping down the paint, i decided to leave it like this. There was a hole in the roof, mainly because of the (missing) fire light. I had no choice to buy some putty, and try it (first time i manipulate putty!). This didn't give an overall so good result especially because of my poor sand paper. But i succeeded at at least fulfill the hole. I also modeled side vents, and reworked rear bumpers. I know, those guards are way too high comparing to the real car. I finally cutted out some mirrors from a plastic clothes tag. I also remade the broken pillar out from plastic.<br />
<br />
<em></em><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcghhYzB2bbllG7lOUa_k7y1QF-7qXF0gXf8AL-4bdJMR1kR0cyyxs6bapIFcp8WOXha6pQHhfIx3wzlOIY0FTnV61l9Ej6OF0zmOD75a2g8bQoHCCOt0Zh3r6r25YS7NwWVd9vd7TSY/s1600/P1070407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGcghhYzB2bbllG7lOUa_k7y1QF-7qXF0gXf8AL-4bdJMR1kR0cyyxs6bapIFcp8WOXha6pQHhfIx3wzlOIY0FTnV61l9Ej6OF0zmOD75a2g8bQoHCCOt0Zh3r6r25YS7NwWVd9vd7TSY/s320/P1070407.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Remodeled rear bumper.</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9OdW9shUqHU-VQMY-kTJUOXrmfonZyNyWcIeXwHlyGWx71eLEVIyjNAvP1CK0CFZvXe-PUcbmyZtfBr_ZgLbqaPvjKoz5ywvNtUDBbM5UvHQ_QV6W2f7kPCaCnGYIbPn2GlTZsTe0mSE/s1600/P1070409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9OdW9shUqHU-VQMY-kTJUOXrmfonZyNyWcIeXwHlyGWx71eLEVIyjNAvP1CK0CFZvXe-PUcbmyZtfBr_ZgLbqaPvjKoz5ywvNtUDBbM5UvHQ_QV6W2f7kPCaCnGYIbPn2GlTZsTe0mSE/s320/P1070409.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Added plastic mirrors</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also added a piece on the base. Of course, i had to change the wheels, and i took one of a recent Matchbox Volvo P1800S... unfortunately, the axes were not large enough for the car, resulting that i had to change them. Sad point of this is that the car isn't rolling anymore. I added an exhaust on the car, made from a small nail and some plastic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjbYAc2Ek7GrmZCPwHeUuYJot8hNfeYHPgW6CtWJ_2ylocsXAbs-eaDlueBqoR3XpVmTWaJUupBrOGvSEsrXk8Tri1HG9mZutyXv7kSbRWWwzV34pwewWDbRta134L5kp6olLKy2K5Ykc/s1600/P1070410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjbYAc2Ek7GrmZCPwHeUuYJot8hNfeYHPgW6CtWJ_2ylocsXAbs-eaDlueBqoR3XpVmTWaJUupBrOGvSEsrXk8Tri1HG9mZutyXv7kSbRWWwzV34pwewWDbRta134L5kp6olLKy2K5Ykc/s400/P1070410.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Custom base.</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>I had to do a little work on the interior too. First, removing the fire officers was a must... this isn't a fire car after all! I had to fulfill the floor holes with some putty, and added some texture on the dashboard. Of course, all of this had to be repainted after. I chose to put the interior's floor and dash black, and white seats. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDYyhX0M5_hNwjxYVAFj8hdz0gQRGgR9-shjjlgGnAZfczDHe57wdUGNMqMcBS8ue4u8A-Gt2J0c1RhE35Y_LUe_NdTkzlpfhVa2rGtKx4SPfk6oHplfZWBtP3XE6AhI6ft-8QhKDoR4/s1600/P1070417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDYyhX0M5_hNwjxYVAFj8hdz0gQRGgR9-shjjlgGnAZfczDHe57wdUGNMqMcBS8ue4u8A-Gt2J0c1RhE35Y_LUe_NdTkzlpfhVa2rGtKx4SPfk6oHplfZWBtP3XE6AhI6ft-8QhKDoR4/s320/P1070417.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Interior with added putty.</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><em></em>So i chose to put the car as matte tan paint, to make it looks like an old car. I detailed the base lights and calander, added some white on the wheels, and then made an antenna and some wipers from plastic. Of course, i added details with silver paint, especially windows trim, and the side vents i made with putty. The bumper was completely chromed, with a few red for the rear lights. I should have re-done the windows though, they look quite broken on this car... You can admire a few pics of the finished work below :<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqioergZGbJpCMbq7DnMeVvTx1CtUn-FETDof5bn1FOolx0biKymsBmPW6SoZmgsFL9g5qdVSUZ6FUAbFALnQbW8DvtSQNh1l7Ud5lQEPPM9eH_Me_RNKhOJM3HmtaZU1OzWaxKi865w/s1600/P1070451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJqioergZGbJpCMbq7DnMeVvTx1CtUn-FETDof5bn1FOolx0biKymsBmPW6SoZmgsFL9g5qdVSUZ6FUAbFALnQbW8DvtSQNh1l7Ud5lQEPPM9eH_Me_RNKhOJM3HmtaZU1OzWaxKi865w/s320/P1070451.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV5MgZSAstzesRmCA7O0GSVKgznX4Ih8vb23aTUl-yA6Za8KVZAvUQTcewv4HOM_r9ZxAWVuYov3QThd124XsqJfigl_OdxgF7PAeIicYG3k0VGMEuk5pELOUsqTFDNcMAYxa_PcNlrQ/s1600/P1070453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV5MgZSAstzesRmCA7O0GSVKgznX4Ih8vb23aTUl-yA6Za8KVZAvUQTcewv4HOM_r9ZxAWVuYov3QThd124XsqJfigl_OdxgF7PAeIicYG3k0VGMEuk5pELOUsqTFDNcMAYxa_PcNlrQ/s320/P1070453.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-17-XeUTRf8-svKhEsHa-soaHvjZRtYWCq1_c_flDoosQbDdbPm9My41rat-_e2HXGOqsOPgIT84tOyc8KOeLN3sldj4BCoyQz31P7D-6lTtZwb-yHLS_KECkx4L5dludodvYfk3BCE/s1600/P1070454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-17-XeUTRf8-svKhEsHa-soaHvjZRtYWCq1_c_flDoosQbDdbPm9My41rat-_e2HXGOqsOPgIT84tOyc8KOeLN3sldj4BCoyQz31P7D-6lTtZwb-yHLS_KECkx4L5dludodvYfk3BCE/s320/P1070454.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTzW4YwOR9JjPHF2ccjBVIrZ8_5bf0Y665mLmZfYVrpxPXehi44jDDpImk65clgWz2tbEcd_XjuK2QlLOFvGdv7GR37qlJMJBRjeiOc0t7UVzJJoIgxi8MPmKTvLR6NnWGGafqjBT9K4/s1600/P1070455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXTzW4YwOR9JjPHF2ccjBVIrZ8_5bf0Y665mLmZfYVrpxPXehi44jDDpImk65clgWz2tbEcd_XjuK2QlLOFvGdv7GR37qlJMJBRjeiOc0t7UVzJJoIgxi8MPmKTvLR6NnWGGafqjBT9K4/s320/P1070455.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwE1JBot-GUWb0o53VYArmsKOb1bUKkJVOB-H2Cn8Z_H3f-v5B27Tgq4VMyj7r2ptrWhMpzMZ9E6km5dWNDWxPZevzuQGqRUH9PCixP0d0LR7L2oc6tQjttUtdTvT64wnsPDeh_oWlQw/s1600/P1070457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwE1JBot-GUWb0o53VYArmsKOb1bUKkJVOB-H2Cn8Z_H3f-v5B27Tgq4VMyj7r2ptrWhMpzMZ9E6km5dWNDWxPZevzuQGqRUH9PCixP0d0LR7L2oc6tQjttUtdTvT64wnsPDeh_oWlQw/s320/P1070457.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And here's the real car, a Mercury Monterey 1967, for comparison:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3662/3511365799_995b6852f4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3662/3511365799_995b6852f4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Evaluation of my own work : 6.5/10. It looks good, but a little rough, rear bumper is inaccurate, and windows should have been re-done. I'll surely try to improve next time! I'm actually working on a new one, called Detomaso Longchamp... some news about it to come :)<br />
I'm perfectly open to constructive criticsm, i just want to improve!Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-3613456127329922582011-08-07T15:16:00.000-07:002011-08-18T04:26:11.248-07:00[German Moderns] Porsche strongest's competitor : Audi R8Sorry for the lack of posts folks, work is really taking all my time. Even more, i'm learning to restore with putty, and also working on a computer program to index cars... And of course real life priorities are always more important. But i try to keep on the activity, don't be afraid to leave some comments or suggestions, i'm always open to new ideas to improve my blog :)<br />
Let's start with the subject of the day : The Audi R8!<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>Inspiration of the Audi R8</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.autoportalz.com/sites/images/cars/audi_avus_quattro_dark_silver.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://www.autoportalz.com/sites/images/cars/audi_avus_quattro_dark_silver.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Although the R8 has been released in 2007, Audi's idea to invade luxuous sports cars market isn't new : the first concept car around this theme was shown in 1991 at the Tokyo Motor Show, and was called the Avus Quattro. For a 1991 concept, its design was awesomely slick and the silver paint made it look like a Mercedes concept. Avus was an acronym for <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: black; line-height: 19px;">Automobil-Verkehrs- und Übungs-Straße GmbH, that is a famous german race circuit. The Avus's engine was a W12 (12 cylinders disposed as a W), and its 509 horsepower were able to drive the car up to 340 km/h, and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 3 seconds. It was a real beast!</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Auu_CMxuW4BR68RUWGEuWMqTh6tFZ7DxRO9S9f2Kh1AuMKvtTPcrwJeEmEnjcTOsUx-5KtSgDRC5kxBS-02EFLx5P6vda2u9Umy6x3XubvW-k_PBah_OTyX-Bb4RttjYGF6dMhgcCu4/s1600/SDC10477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Auu_CMxuW4BR68RUWGEuWMqTh6tFZ7DxRO9S9f2Kh1AuMKvtTPcrwJeEmEnjcTOsUx-5KtSgDRC5kxBS-02EFLx5P6vda2u9Umy6x3XubvW-k_PBah_OTyX-Bb4RttjYGF6dMhgcCu4/s400/SDC10477.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC2FEgAyRdqB58tA5t7FAfkR_QoRaOtFrhQ_iaxIgLX5OKiRgqUbY7nvxMfde4E7iQ4jhnvQKgbLrIyQlagMryRIniCNBjswAgDIHb5fArxv7Q9cnIHmUS6lIRTU7ViocFiOlof1caNiM/s1600/SDC10478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC2FEgAyRdqB58tA5t7FAfkR_QoRaOtFrhQ_iaxIgLX5OKiRgqUbY7nvxMfde4E7iQ4jhnvQKgbLrIyQlagMryRIniCNBjswAgDIHb5fArxv7Q9cnIHmUS6lIRTU7ViocFiOlof1caNiM/s320/SDC10478.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Hot Wheels introduced the Avus in the 1993 regular casting line, with its original silver color. Car lines are well reproduced... but unfortunately, as almost every Hot Wheels, the wheels are completely off. It has been produced until 2001, and even more unfortunately, in a variety of strange colors, just as the two ones i got. Respectively, the dark/gold one is the 1998 Dash 4 Cash's one, and the black with red dots is the 1998 Tech Tones Series's one. The casting and the car is overall good, but these colors.... where's realism? Anyway, these are children favorites, and they will surely stay in my collection for a long time.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.7extrememotorsports.com/lemans/cars/audi-r8-02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://www.7extrememotorsports.com/lemans/cars/audi-r8-02.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>2002 R8.<br />
</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.germancarblog.com/images/dtm_party/dtm_04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.germancarblog.com/images/dtm_party/dtm_04.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>ADT real car skin.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">Another inspiration became from the other R8, as the racing car. Introduced in 2000, it's surely one of the most famous modern racing car, especially because of all its pedigree. The Mans Series were really popular among German and English car makers, and Audi thought it would be a good idea to join in. Unveiled in 2000, the R8 is mounted with a twin-turbo V8 engine offering 610 horsepower. The main chassis of the car has been designed like a LEGO model : any part can be changed, and changed quickly. The car was really strong from the beginning, and won the Le Mans 24 hours in all its years of existence : 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005. It also won the American Le Mans Series all those years, the European Le Mans in 2001 and the Le Mans Series in 2004. The car was replaced in 2006, even if it was still competitive.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgFvDk9i2_Nn7AyopSyWlgM1ZrJHU4HPuUyMxU5NQcSqqh6z1igmvn8jCjfdvuCD16WRkpaBTor7s2WMTsX2uq0yw_m-VeomwZQUbp4ub4Qz1BtUjNarSdVUtlsrSgKqmtEstqfWBSe4/s1600/SDC10474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIgFvDk9i2_Nn7AyopSyWlgM1ZrJHU4HPuUyMxU5NQcSqqh6z1igmvn8jCjfdvuCD16WRkpaBTor7s2WMTsX2uq0yw_m-VeomwZQUbp4ub4Qz1BtUjNarSdVUtlsrSgKqmtEstqfWBSe4/s400/SDC10474.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRK1JkFfgZdc6ahss5d08naeK7g_1NwdsPLRa5k2wF-GL2DhpUQ03kHm7sY3U1oYeaAA-yNoToU7H_R3x0eMXvNX4NfTumLMwwuSOp3JxtDBYEgB1cR2IwPQJlCS_oAC6MFnp53eYIrbk/s1600/SDC10476.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRK1JkFfgZdc6ahss5d08naeK7g_1NwdsPLRa5k2wF-GL2DhpUQ03kHm7sY3U1oYeaAA-yNoToU7H_R3x0eMXvNX4NfTumLMwwuSOp3JxtDBYEgB1cR2IwPQJlCS_oAC6MFnp53eYIrbk/s320/SDC10476.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;">The R8 Race Car has been admirably reproduced by the obscure chinese maker New Ray. New Ray is recognized to do quality 1:18 replicas, but its 1:64 diecasts are quite rare... but they worth the search. The replica is the 2005 edition of the R8, and is just fantastic. Everything falls in place, mirrors and decals are well done, the wheels are perfect : it's truly standing out in my collection. I personally prefer the old silver R8s, but the white suits it well. It even comes in a plastic box! It was quite expensive though, around 5$ for the casting... and was found in a small shop in Quebec's Old Quarter.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: normal;"></span></span><br />
<b><i><u>Talking about the car now</u></i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.passionperformance.ca/photos/0/0/00179_2008_Audi_R8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.passionperformance.ca/photos/0/0/00179_2008_Audi_R8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Still not tired after this long introduction ? Let's talk about the real deal now : the real and awesome R8. Introduced in 2007, it's the first Audi's sports car, and is intended to compete with famous brands such as Porsche, Ferrari and Aston-Martin. Offering an aggressive design, the LED lights are making a real impact the first time you see it. Not happy with being the first offer in this domain by Audi, the car is also featuring the first mid-engine V8 developed by the brand. It offers 420 hp to its client, making it able to reach 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, while offering a "bestial" sound. It has been claimed as a real reference in the segment, because of its near-perfect handling, while offering a high level of interior confort. It was a real success and forced Audi to produced more than 20 units per day. It has also been declined as a V10 version, because of few fans were saying that the car was not enough "radical".<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJar4Q8NdCsJFBjIvUBIIhDqCtjSbUipDV2bkHsol2wX-EWD-WZu7qbDBLsNAZ4A7VMgDG_xPj37dP8rVCH1fvMXswlA03TPgaL3Ufed0FY9pvuhV_T9nLPJuOwEEwkL3USHacu74HeOQ/s1600/SDC10467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJar4Q8NdCsJFBjIvUBIIhDqCtjSbUipDV2bkHsol2wX-EWD-WZu7qbDBLsNAZ4A7VMgDG_xPj37dP8rVCH1fvMXswlA03TPgaL3Ufed0FY9pvuhV_T9nLPJuOwEEwkL3USHacu74HeOQ/s400/SDC10467.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The R8 is a car that has been reproduced many times in diecast, in a large variety of scales. In 1:64, Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Siku all made a replica. As i'm not a fan of having multiple variations of the same car (i enjoy the variety), i do simply have the Matchbox, in two units. The Matchbox is an awesome replica of the real car, even if the roof is a tad too high. Wheels suits it well, and the tampos are just perfectly made. I have the 2009 black edition, and the 2010 blue 10-pack one. It has been introduced in 2007 (just as the real car), and has been produced in a large variety of colors since.It's hard to tell which colors fits it best... I might go with the blue, because it makes the car lines stand better. It also includes rear tampos. The 2010 white one and the 2011 recently released red are also really really nice.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq00DCUFrQxs3X3z2ACYUrCeyA3SgmLVtV-egTDHFQI1m4RZWwdsK1p4gjxMAivq8AB0QpABxr4lZijE2DQjXhCdjQ64gtuBm7g7jmOnivnWZrBexxtLux_GJZvyLkNZvtxRgXWgWmx14/s1600/SDC10469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq00DCUFrQxs3X3z2ACYUrCeyA3SgmLVtV-egTDHFQI1m4RZWwdsK1p4gjxMAivq8AB0QpABxr4lZijE2DQjXhCdjQ64gtuBm7g7jmOnivnWZrBexxtLux_GJZvyLkNZvtxRgXWgWmx14/s320/SDC10469.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Did i say i was a fan of the car ?<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>An R8 for girls</u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.histomobile.com/histomob/internet/6/1427501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="http://www.histomobile.com/histomob/internet/6/1427501.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>"For girls" is of course not intended to discriminate R8's fan base. But the R8 Spyder is certainly even sexier than the normal one. Only offered in 2010, the Spyder is made with a soft-top roof, and is equipped with the R8 V10's engine. It is certainly, in my humble opinion, one of the most desirable car of the actual market.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDbxbcLJC8ehCT-66Rj7MrewxXAb62mjHiIMDe-qx0MdgP9ZpoFe-r5R6OooXXYuPgdrsWLUq04QPPzbK4hyC0YCqSpRrkk5C9R3eIj_gA5CoeKQBXgdvIx_F_-qTivn_zBCepaj7lpyY/s1600/SDC10470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDbxbcLJC8ehCT-66Rj7MrewxXAb62mjHiIMDe-qx0MdgP9ZpoFe-r5R6OooXXYuPgdrsWLUq04QPPzbK4hyC0YCqSpRrkk5C9R3eIj_gA5CoeKQBXgdvIx_F_-qTivn_zBCepaj7lpyY/s400/SDC10470.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLQnuyze4Vu_3pKFOrFTC_6X7-obqNpMkP19gcIjy-EJVtvT7Q5_xF0jMdmSCytJkwM6_cvzCMTGBz8RAXIVmq6Xk9THmrbla4aKkRmYEauyaHY-LeTcq-GVjHQJv2fXp__GpN1-qXsE/s1600/SDC10471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLQnuyze4Vu_3pKFOrFTC_6X7-obqNpMkP19gcIjy-EJVtvT7Q5_xF0jMdmSCytJkwM6_cvzCMTGBz8RAXIVmq6Xk9THmrbla4aKkRmYEauyaHY-LeTcq-GVjHQJv2fXp__GpN1-qXsE/s320/SDC10471.jpg" width="320" /></a>Siku, the german car maker, made a replica of the first R8 Spyder shown, that is with a red colour and silver windshield border. As all the Siku, it is really well detailed, but the scale is off : the car is way bigger than a real 1:64 diecast... And what's wrong with the wheels? I mean, where are the holes? On another side, i must that car lines are just perfect, the interior is so much detailed that it looks real, and the lights are a nice add. The red color makes it real sexy too! Siku are quite rare around here in Quebec, but there's a few in a store called "Le Club Jouet"... at an horrible expensive price : around 8$ for a single casting. But when i saw the R8 Spyder, i had to buy it!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_angurGUicXVebB1opppx0GSIO0_mA_fFTGA64DE9qMhwLWPHm2Ot8EAOvYBDQFa6npyD_7pg54Y6VJ58EAnFpcG45le01fkaFA9l6EPKOVLdpZMg-BYFtBFEwlAV2BrXzK32nxoJHA/s1600/SDC10472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_angurGUicXVebB1opppx0GSIO0_mA_fFTGA64DE9qMhwLWPHm2Ot8EAOvYBDQFa6npyD_7pg54Y6VJ58EAnFpcG45le01fkaFA9l6EPKOVLdpZMg-BYFtBFEwlAV2BrXzK32nxoJHA/s400/SDC10472.jpg" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Scale difference is evident here.</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
Enjoy the pics folks!<br />
<div></div><b><i><u></u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><i><u><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLwmhg-6MyhfRwjsHy1jfCeywwPXhYEUld9pm8Ir7qFtQ7I_2Fgvj9iDjvdYFAI_pOXI0Jbbsy40NR7ouH8TalM-rZykHNmuHqwNNOk00IjxjqXboFcyWbT41D2oxOPj-TBL2Xh7Y5GVM/s400/SDC10480.jpg" width="400" /></u></i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-69568023145109814702011-07-28T15:44:00.000-07:002011-08-18T04:26:25.178-07:00[French moderns] Twingo power!Remember the article on the Ford Sierra? Here's another important european car designed by Patrick Le Quément : the Renault Twingo. The first generation of this car was produced during an enormous 15 years, without any important changes. Almost 2,500,000 units were produced in total. The name Twingo is a mix of three words : Twist, Swing and Tango.<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>First generation</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/83/Renault_Twingo_front_20080709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/83/Renault_Twingo_front_20080709.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
Introduced in 1992, the first Twingo has been built until 2007, and is still produced for South American market. What was so revolutionary about the car? Its styling was cute, but nothing astonishing there. The main advantage of the car was its interior space. With an ingenious system of rear seats (that was able to slide to increase rear boot space), it was offering the same amount of space than a compact car. The first engine and transmission were somewhat rough (those were the parts of the old Renault 5), but it has been improved over the years, to become a fully respectable car. The engine was especially replaced with the Clio's older one.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVbji3acmSKhhBAhgDrR8WlQ24GETZahvr4OwGld-ZxqfcVYFSrrKYgcV4TFQiimNmnj1W-NmmQXJeasojZIbLfi8MeyYWG2gmwpKHM6wwZDcq_Ikdq1DzFpm_Mzd9PIo1rpMK0ugEKA/s1600/SDC10457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdVbji3acmSKhhBAhgDrR8WlQ24GETZahvr4OwGld-ZxqfcVYFSrrKYgcV4TFQiimNmnj1W-NmmQXJeasojZIbLfi8MeyYWG2gmwpKHM6wwZDcq_Ikdq1DzFpm_Mzd9PIo1rpMK0ugEKA/s400/SDC10457.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8GO6zGnipRAr_DxBAe8jE4wrO7yvFGUL8E-S_hzhZJF81oaXjqYNCDQ-YY8x65VK0yR5ETNGM_gQo6ObosRrX_6g1lTcY8b5_WLGQoaWTzOHqQ1t2VKFTlg-bM1R2icjtWrqqyzjfC4/s1600/SDC10459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir8GO6zGnipRAr_DxBAe8jE4wrO7yvFGUL8E-S_hzhZJF81oaXjqYNCDQ-YY8x65VK0yR5ETNGM_gQo6ObosRrX_6g1lTcY8b5_WLGQoaWTzOHqQ1t2VKFTlg-bM1R2icjtWrqqyzjfC4/s320/SDC10459.jpg" width="320" /></a>Being a french diecast maker, Majorette was clearly designed to build replicas of french cars. Majorette made a lot of versions of its no.206 Twingo replica, with a variety of colors, even in a racing scheme! The car in itself doesn't have too much details, so it was surely easy to reproduced it. Anyway, Majorette made a perfect job on the diecast, that is really accurate with the real one. It is a somewhat rare casting, mainly because of Majorette's financial problems in the 90s. There's a specific version with a panoramic rooftop produced in a strange shade of blue-green, and this is the one i have. It was one of my favorites cars when i was a child, but unfortunately my original one is destroyed (Majorette's money problems made fabrication quality worser than older castings), so i bought a new one of the exact same variation.<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>Second generation : a hard challenge</u></i></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.caradisiac.com/logos-ref/modele/modele--renault-twingo-2/S7-modele--renault-twingo-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://images.caradisiac.com/logos-ref/modele/modele--renault-twingo-2/S7-modele--renault-twingo-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>With more than 15 years of career, it was quite a challenge for Renault to replace the Twingo, that became a legend. First showed as a concept car at the Paris Auto Show in 2006, the new Twingo, also called Twingo II, was clearly in another direction than the first one. With more than 13% of weight augmentation, it was way bigger and larger, obligation of market's new tendencies. Clearly less original than the first one, it includes some great ideas such as the sliding back seat. The new Twingo's engines delivers way more though, and it has been declined in a few sporty versions, such as the RS and Twingo RS Gordini, and the Wind roadster. It received the "best city car" award in 2011, and should be facelifted in 2012. Even though its style is more convential, it remains a pretty nice car in my humble opinion.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnahG0MHzsXzwDO1_8GaqANyHK9A-2QGdj0lmVF9Zdc2NVIfJJiAqbSZCLDM6Xpvj2RWtGQDXn50jel_WUWsV7rGX9oqwNY4MdICxOCcK8VmS1CtyJ-6L-fJ6S4DsluJeec6qmC6XwS7M/s1600/SDC10461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnahG0MHzsXzwDO1_8GaqANyHK9A-2QGdj0lmVF9Zdc2NVIfJJiAqbSZCLDM6Xpvj2RWtGQDXn50jel_WUWsV7rGX9oqwNY4MdICxOCcK8VmS1CtyJ-6L-fJ6S4DsluJeec6qmC6XwS7M/s400/SDC10461.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsw_7HaqBO8tsgLYzdpQ_WSZRO7yBxCVHksgWnBq4WvjhBZEjLYnZnoDsTEZUnul4HQS4nB7Z7iEJmNoybin4-pKfz6cgRQRdCyLBu1a6sikFMuqhOnFIfGnYIwvof1ZsQ3MXGl-ViheE/s1600/SDC10462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsw_7HaqBO8tsgLYzdpQ_WSZRO7yBxCVHksgWnBq4WvjhBZEjLYnZnoDsTEZUnul4HQS4nB7Z7iEJmNoybin4-pKfz6cgRQRdCyLBu1a6sikFMuqhOnFIfGnYIwvof1ZsQ3MXGl-ViheE/s320/SDC10462.jpg" width="320" /></a>Majorette (who else ?) made a new edition of the #206, called 206B, reproducing the new Twingo II. As Majorette's owner changed, the casting is way differently made than the first one. It is very nicely made overall. The blue color suits it well... but not the big glass lights in my opinion. They look quite rough and unrealistic. Also, why is there no interior door panels? Reminds me of the recent Welly castings...The tampos add a nice touch to the overall car. It is really interesting to see the picture of both, because you can really see Majorette's evolution. Still a nice casting, and mandatory in any collection (quite hard to get in Canada, thanks to my french friends i have one :))<br />
Enjoy the pics and the article! :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiky17_n7BgTt8aP0Cho97pGQuSTLb4fdgcszncuGv8ji5mNHfrfcIu-pDrAmorSeI9FwmgIkFmwaGvKFou4InDpttDrsYNEe9uvuiqrYNfULhrle4dXLKnX6tuwFItjFGgOtRpfn5xO1M/s1600/SDC10464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiky17_n7BgTt8aP0Cho97pGQuSTLb4fdgcszncuGv8ji5mNHfrfcIu-pDrAmorSeI9FwmgIkFmwaGvKFou4InDpttDrsYNEe9uvuiqrYNfULhrle4dXLKnX6tuwFItjFGgOtRpfn5xO1M/s400/SDC10464.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-48850714453120392332011-07-22T18:30:00.000-07:002011-08-18T04:26:53.775-07:00[Japanese Moderns] Acura in diecasts, are there some?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.breakingthenewnews.com/storage/post-images/Acura_Logo_01.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1265651886593" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.breakingthenewnews.com/storage/post-images/Acura_Logo_01.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1265651886593" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Acura is the luxuous division of international Honda japanese maker. Only offered in Canada, USA and Hong Kong, the brand has been introduced in 1986, as well as other similar brands such as Lexus and Infiniti. Originally, all the Acuras were only japanese Honda with another badge, but in the 2000s, a few exclusive models has been introduced. Acura is somewhat a rare brand in diecasts, such as its competitors previously named. Of cource, since it's only offered in America, only american brands reproduced them...<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>1. Acura NSX : racing version</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.acura2010.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/acura-nsx-photos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://www.acura2010.net/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/acura-nsx-photos.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Last NSX version.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><b><i><u><br />
</u></i></b><br />
The Acura NSX, known as Honda NSX in every country outside America, has been introduced in 1989 to promote Honda's savoir-faire in technology. The car was using a central V6 engine offering 274 hp, and the body was entirely made in aluminum. The car was somewhat popular in USA, but was lacking of image comparatively to Porsche or Ferrari. Also, lack of motivation from Honda to bring some modifs to the car killed its career, and it disappeared in 2005, with only 18 000 units sold. A lot of variations of the NSX has been produced, such as the NSX-R, easily recognizable with its white and black paint. Also, the NSX was a big player in Japanese`s GT championship. It also won the LM GT2 first place at the 1995 Le Mans.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh6UNhnTf58DiBUN_V3gybfkak4gUnl81rXVwrPh2KDBSP8NxZKb8T_GEHs6Ci4CnrJOa5Qc8uRYmrw6nmiXL6gl9lrNekbsbLnbNSD98DTYbi1T9B0jNxfRqEvNd5OX4NdVZEJAVOTkk/s1600/SDC10452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh6UNhnTf58DiBUN_V3gybfkak4gUnl81rXVwrPh2KDBSP8NxZKb8T_GEHs6Ci4CnrJOa5Qc8uRYmrw6nmiXL6gl9lrNekbsbLnbNSD98DTYbi1T9B0jNxfRqEvNd5OX4NdVZEJAVOTkk/s400/SDC10452.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-n8siXUZ_Gth7BmANJpunpLfpdF6KzdE2pjTaq1Dn1K-Y6sSz0UawUVJYU9PgjHkuK2ao3L1k5XRWtyURD2y6vbgUZoVL4UMnHilergRZOWEXi3ny7C1N_7N4KJ6DMIWt5OuSGrH1RRw/s1600/SDC10453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-n8siXUZ_Gth7BmANJpunpLfpdF6KzdE2pjTaq1Dn1K-Y6sSz0UawUVJYU9PgjHkuK2ao3L1k5XRWtyURD2y6vbgUZoVL4UMnHilergRZOWEXi3ny7C1N_7N4KJ6DMIWt5OuSGrH1RRw/s320/SDC10453.jpg" width="320" /></a>The Acura NSX has been introduced in Hot Wheels regular line in 2008 as a brand new casting. Unfortunately, it's supposed to be a "tuner version"... i must say some variations are better than others. As usual with HW, some variations of this casting are absolutely horrible, but the one i have is pretty nice, coming from the 2010 Speed Machines serie (a special Hot Wheels line with more detailed cars). Although it's supposed to simply be tuned, it kinda looks like the Japanese GT NSX. The big rear spoiler is well done, as well as the roof scoop. The car is suffering of a lack of tampos, but the colors are pretty realtistic, and wheels are well made too (rare fact in a Hot Wheel replica).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPVB2_xEBFm2gwhNdx4ULsk15rR5zYXlzk0gDlqSwq5pOLVzjIBTzwkhuB9xd_4X_zm3C4e4X8VgQmU-AhyphenhyphenUEgt-LjJdvbcsmD0rq4qE8k7P_IgE0lmMaZ_PyECDpT7lryp3wiWEECccc/s1600/SDC10454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPVB2_xEBFm2gwhNdx4ULsk15rR5zYXlzk0gDlqSwq5pOLVzjIBTzwkhuB9xd_4X_zm3C4e4X8VgQmU-AhyphenhyphenUEgt-LjJdvbcsmD0rq4qE8k7P_IgE0lmMaZ_PyECDpT7lryp3wiWEECccc/s400/SDC10454.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGumVqKen5uQfUvV7913KFoLOui08F2d8tNR9znUyEKAPzL-iDGngkqEnQ5noChJP0Zq6nfPCVRSterhMtlYPTCEMx-NP5p5MLPWYOZxMH6XFMOhDeEVMznpCxtkYWdcxLybubjECgny0/s1600/SDC10455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGumVqKen5uQfUvV7913KFoLOui08F2d8tNR9znUyEKAPzL-iDGngkqEnQ5noChJP0Zq6nfPCVRSterhMtlYPTCEMx-NP5p5MLPWYOZxMH6XFMOhDeEVMznpCxtkYWdcxLybubjECgny0/s320/SDC10455.jpg" width="320" /></a>The NSX was also offered by Majorette, as the number 220 in the 200 casting line. It has also been offered as a Majorette Novacar #117 (remember : Novacar was a cheaper Majorette's line, with plastic bodies, and produced in Portugal instead of France). It has been produced in a large variety of colors, some plain ones and also racing ones. First introduced in 1994, this casting quickly became a rare one, mainly because of Majorette's money problems in the late 90s. I personally own two Novacar replicas. The casting is overall well made, but clearly lack details. The plastic body made the car hardly recognizable. In the two versions i own, the red one more looks like the real one, but the purple one is..... "funky", to stay polite? <br />
<br />
<b><i><u>2. Following the NSX, the HSC</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/crop/200703/2004-acura-hsc-concept-2_1600x0w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://pictures.topspeed.com/IMG/crop/200703/2004-acura-hsc-concept-2_1600x0w.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>That would have made an awesome new NSX...</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>After 2005, Honda made a lot of tries to replace the NSX, but never produced a real replacement. The 2008 economic crisis really cut Honda's future projects in this domain. The Acura/Honda HSC (simply standing for Honda Sports Concept) was one of those tries, and has been introduced at the 2005 Detroit Auto Show. Many journalists thought it was a preview of the future NSX, but Honda clearly stated that it was a pure test concept car. Its slick styling was a pleasure for the eye, and the rear window form added a nice touch. As well as the NSX, the HSC was mounted with a V6 VTEC mid-engine, but also had a 6-speed F1 style transmission. On the other hand, the body was made with carbon fiber, making it really light.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylhwHEztfEYPa9k663k2z7bmf54rKCOFx-g-qvMzRA6uZPN3tq0KintRh8nvfJDofg_nYrujQsEPYVfVOTvkBzM7IY6Ar_NvSgv_l931hE5VgodXT2xEWGQeFiiCj6IWF2XKFJlWfGCI/s1600/SDC10451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylhwHEztfEYPa9k663k2z7bmf54rKCOFx-g-qvMzRA6uZPN3tq0KintRh8nvfJDofg_nYrujQsEPYVfVOTvkBzM7IY6Ar_NvSgv_l931hE5VgodXT2xEWGQeFiiCj6IWF2XKFJlWfGCI/s320/SDC10451.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKoZsFbwCbF-aumFQ_s8-5tD1dFF1c3COmYLvzWuiCOIJZ5O2p5ZT5RModWH9VFvc5neHg3vEose86haAn7417r1ma43ydPX5EYkehIr6vXx0C1t94nxPIX-i_a6DDo4YPf__yu4NREaI/s1600/SDC10450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKoZsFbwCbF-aumFQ_s8-5tD1dFF1c3COmYLvzWuiCOIJZ5O2p5ZT5RModWH9VFvc5neHg3vEose86haAn7417r1ma43ydPX5EYkehIr6vXx0C1t94nxPIX-i_a6DDo4YPf__yu4NREaI/s320/SDC10450.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Only showed in silver, the original Hot Wheels HSC has been introduced in 2005. Although the car was missing tampos and the windows were black, it was a nice replica of the real version. I love those kind of concepts in my collection.... but not so much the one i have. Why? Because i own the 2007 Honda HSC offered in the Exotics 5-pack of the same year, and well, it's ORANGE! I don't dislike the color in itself, but it's totally unrealistic. Also, the front looks really undetailed in the orange color. I would surely be happy to exchange it for a silver one... At least i bought the 5-pack for other cars, not this one.<br />
<br />
<b><i><u>3- Acura's most important one : The Integra.</u></i></b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_2AbFyYZx0cM/S4Nzp_U7IBI/AAAAAAAAAI8/bnZa8Bm1h9A/s640/a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_2AbFyYZx0cM/S4Nzp_U7IBI/AAAAAAAAAI8/bnZa8Bm1h9A/s400/a1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>First Acura Integra, 1989 generation.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The Integra has literally been Acura's savior, it was the brand's bread and butter in the 90s. The first generation debuted in 1986 in Japan, under the Honda's badge. The car was offered as a 3 and 5 door hatchback, as well as a 4-door sedan. Also sold as a Rover in Australia, the original one had hidden headlights. It has never been so much popular in Europe, but USA loved the model, and it quickly became a big player in this market, and made Acura known. The 5-door hatchback has quickly been discontinued in 1990, and has never been imported in the US. The new generation introduced in 1989 has been really important in Honda's history, because it came with the first VTEC engine ever. This generation was known for its engine's toughness, that was easily able to reach 500,000 kms on the counter.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://image.superstreetonline.com/f/18290829/130_0904_11_z+integra_type_r+front_side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://image.superstreetonline.com/f/18290829/130_0904_11_z+integra_type_r+front_side.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The famous third generation Type R.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
The third generation introduced in 1994 is certainly the best known one. Offering a much more modern styling, it also became sportier, mainly with the introduction of the Type R version. Only offered in white, the Integra Type R offered surprising performances for a compact car : it was able to do the 0-100 km/h in only 6.2 seconds. This generation lasted until 2001, but the small sport car market was really starting to decline, so the fourth generation has been introduced in 2002. The name Integra has been abandoned in Acura's offer (renamed as the Acura RSX), but still used by Honda in Japan. It was only offered as a sport coupe this time (3-door hatchback), but never encountered success of the previous generations. It has been discontinued in 2006... and sadly, the market restarted a few years after. The gap has been filled by the cheaper Civic Si.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipd2EeYFFEXlUUBPNehbGQYVDelEw0_Nbf18ig_kqxo4rPD7dXGpbBcjSSUmWvmfaAKmMG8G6jsgNHE599diV1f2CgVPlH6wjmiju7ojQrgt_ae70CZ7t_r7UUNJoswG8rS8m6kSX3tTE/s1600/SDC10447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipd2EeYFFEXlUUBPNehbGQYVDelEw0_Nbf18ig_kqxo4rPD7dXGpbBcjSSUmWvmfaAKmMG8G6jsgNHE599diV1f2CgVPlH6wjmiju7ojQrgt_ae70CZ7t_r7UUNJoswG8rS8m6kSX3tTE/s400/SDC10447.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO46NqLHzvp5hnQKlw2M2Vi5hX6sVua-dFP-OHfi_-4C9nYcFpnEnepg9_fCqdw-nzQSTIzfrTx4Bxkt5XTctz4jofN6qA7Fo2Nq_0UAFPgMU9t3OFHnoo_RP0ji3P0Jul72DMr9PHDI0/s1600/SDC10445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO46NqLHzvp5hnQKlw2M2Vi5hX6sVua-dFP-OHfi_-4C9nYcFpnEnepg9_fCqdw-nzQSTIzfrTx4Bxkt5XTctz4jofN6qA7Fo2Nq_0UAFPgMU9t3OFHnoo_RP0ji3P0Jul72DMr9PHDI0/s320/SDC10445.jpg" width="320" /></a>Johnny Lightning introduced an awesome diecast of the Integra third generation model in the Import Heat serie, in 2003. The casting has mainly been used as tuners with vinyls and flashy colors, but there's a few nice ones. Originally intended to be a Type R replica, JL also made a normal 3-door hatchback one in the Classic Gold serie, and this is the one i have. Details are simply stunning on this model, and the blue color fits it well. Mirrors are there, and the overall shape is perfectly reproduced... it's one of the best castings i've seen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtqZ-VoJXV8u4JUvxPSHB_Mhuiom2Dq79YBB6uIJfghofHP4ESMwI5b_PA4PC5zOZHoHVSJBXv-Uo2ppR3p39ce7_LiW0OXJEtY-FDRB7GuGH38yxnV5WU7-QBTgw4ASPokwo6YLG1GDs/s1600/SDC10448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtqZ-VoJXV8u4JUvxPSHB_Mhuiom2Dq79YBB6uIJfghofHP4ESMwI5b_PA4PC5zOZHoHVSJBXv-Uo2ppR3p39ce7_LiW0OXJEtY-FDRB7GuGH38yxnV5WU7-QBTgw4ASPokwo6YLG1GDs/s400/SDC10448.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCwMS98FJf4DBDRCH6NhQ9UHPOJERYEqQTphJPB4mbLQFZdvtF5Fh6IWjk_5CTMQq0StnuKcT31ZyiJMItt9zAj9xIiuQgRsXSqPmMotLWPlj7gs_Lclg40X8rZrbR1roblCtC4jH-no/s1600/SDC10449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCwMS98FJf4DBDRCH6NhQ9UHPOJERYEqQTphJPB4mbLQFZdvtF5Fh6IWjk_5CTMQq0StnuKcT31ZyiJMItt9zAj9xIiuQgRsXSqPmMotLWPlj7gs_Lclg40X8rZrbR1roblCtC4jH-no/s320/SDC10449.jpg" width="320" /></a>There's also a nice replica of the last generation, identified with the "DC5" tag. Reproduced by Welly, it's the Type R version, easily identifiable with its big rear spoiler and body kit (unfortunately, it's the Honda and not the Acura one). Originally offered in white, i have the yellow one that can be found in Welly's Easter Eggs (kind of Kinder Surprise eggs, but no chocolate and cars inside. That's a nice idea, you buy an egg, but you don't know which car is inside...). Welly's older castings are a bit miserable sometimes, but this one is particularly nice, and details are well reproduced. It's suffering from a lack of more detailed tampos, but it's really looking like the real one. Detail i don't like : why are there no interior body panels? It makes the interior looks strange...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFY7qUhMc86kWGFIlXM-rEQMeAtLP-Wyz4HJrXe49k474nwI_YCRbtmDcnI5EhoHdpxjIhk6oYDLiQQqdC5jdxUfbY3PYCmHGVQyMcsZedBPCOsaXvb5M16KW5mu_V8LJ5BSQDZdUrFA/s1600/SDC10456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFY7qUhMc86kWGFIlXM-rEQMeAtLP-Wyz4HJrXe49k474nwI_YCRbtmDcnI5EhoHdpxjIhk6oYDLiQQqdC5jdxUfbY3PYCmHGVQyMcsZedBPCOsaXvb5M16KW5mu_V8LJ5BSQDZdUrFA/s400/SDC10456.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Enjoy the pics, throw some comments in here :)Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-67020782355991187462011-07-17T08:05:00.000-07:002011-08-18T04:27:17.636-07:00[Japanese Classics] Toyota MR2, the unexpected oneThe Toyota MR2 is one of the most legendary models in the japanese maker's history (along with the old 2000GT). Its mid-engine and real wheel drive made a great contrast with usual family cars sold by Toyota when it was introduced in 1984. In fact, it was the first mid-engined mass produced japanese car. It was also introduced in a few races, such as the 24 Le Mans hours, or the GT300 championship.<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>1984-1989 : Angular lines</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.cargurus.com/images/site/2007/05/12/11/42/1989_toyota_mr2-pic-32245.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://static.cargurus.com/images/site/2007/05/12/11/42/1989_toyota_mr2-pic-32245.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The first MR2 was certainly not a practical and family car, and was completely unexpected from Toyota's customers. Its design was more than a marketing product, it introduced a real design philosophy (it was inspired from the japanese origami, aswell as some italian cars such as the Lancia Stratos and the Fiat X 1/9). Some parts of the car were designed in collaboration with Lotus. Its engine was reching upoto 118 hp, but thanks to its super light-weight, the car was able to offer some great performances. In 1987, a Supercharger version was offered, with a 4 cylinders engine delivering 145 hp. The original MR2 is listed eight on Sports Car International's "Top Sports Cars of the 1980s". A rally MR2 version has also been produced.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_pSbySm4GCjhmRwwICMBgvgw4oqMOCvQ2MuMx-DP_-HQOhz7YjWoaKscU-dsSRq394eYaeXn1mRKql7PonT_f71YCURbST06U9rh34hmVRQtzdBDWGy3rdmqfnRkHyvxmlvItbJDc2M/s1600/SDC10428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_pSbySm4GCjhmRwwICMBgvgw4oqMOCvQ2MuMx-DP_-HQOhz7YjWoaKscU-dsSRq394eYaeXn1mRKql7PonT_f71YCURbST06U9rh34hmVRQtzdBDWGy3rdmqfnRkHyvxmlvItbJDc2M/s400/SDC10428.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lLx7FfXiOoNarFV4G63lUUykS_hFSS79BoL-LdjUptLyBIQBVU3jGWKSEqGjW0eHFeJ4wwEo8gSGXNyKXx3HHjz9IZbFt0Da0Jih5oWvtlFOOjFb7VG8mUkqXvzBQsiK3UibxKMR8nA/s1600/SDC10429.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9lLx7FfXiOoNarFV4G63lUUykS_hFSS79BoL-LdjUptLyBIQBVU3jGWKSEqGjW0eHFeJ4wwEo8gSGXNyKXx3HHjz9IZbFt0Da0Jih5oWvtlFOOjFb7VG8mUkqXvzBQsiK3UibxKMR8nA/s320/SDC10429.jpg" width="320" /></a>First offered in 1986 by Matchbox, the first MR2 is an elusive diecast. Matchbox only produced 4 variations of the casting, white, green and two different blue. I have the first one issued in white, with the "Pace Car" decoration. It's one of those fantastic Matchbox Superfast made in the 80's : the car is 100% accurate with the real model. I'm not sure of the color choice (the MR2 was often known as black). but it does fit the car well. Tampos are missing and would have been appreciated especially at the back of the car though. But the overall quality stands up, and it's certainly a must have for any collector. Did i mention i was a fan of the real car too?<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>1989-1999 : Ferrari's inspiration</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/127831/toyota-mr2-1990_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://www.auto123.com/ArtImages/127831/toyota-mr2-1990_001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The MR2 has been completely redesigned in 1989 (it only reached North America in 1991 though). The first generation was angular, the second was all smooth and silk lines. It was clearly inspirated by the Ferrari F355. It was often refered as the poor man's Ferrari, and many body kits became available to make it look like a Ferrari! Many engines were offered, starting from a 130 hp to the high-performance GT-S, delivering 218 hp. It was only offered until 1995 in America, but lasted till 1999 in Japan. It was mainly recognized to have a sharp oversteer comportement (some loved it, others hated it!). It has also been declined in a rally car and entered the 1995-96-97 24 Le Mans hours.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHA61iLzSFjshUX8I4mPoPD9bkHe7UTo82LKN-QAAIVdrhCwBdtGq1EtsGsAlgzYo02l1KkBWhbqGtdAoIRTOCgrP5egxkJYeJd-07thiUXF-YU0e45RK7AEG1PqyFiiM3GeUuKravHGI/s1600/SDC10431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHA61iLzSFjshUX8I4mPoPD9bkHe7UTo82LKN-QAAIVdrhCwBdtGq1EtsGsAlgzYo02l1KkBWhbqGtdAoIRTOCgrP5egxkJYeJd-07thiUXF-YU0e45RK7AEG1PqyFiiM3GeUuKravHGI/s400/SDC10431.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_zIFHB1x2LZ_kUsglPMbpsCqDGDI4DWlFplJOdCRT6n86CVsJG4v9q2ZTXPZkPboOVjDu9HQVVAXQOqM5ti6oYx6oArZUv8vjHjyAF4O-nzspARCt_pIsQKX_MfV2hv7XQ7q3Skk7Rg/s1600/SDC10433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6_zIFHB1x2LZ_kUsglPMbpsCqDGDI4DWlFplJOdCRT6n86CVsJG4v9q2ZTXPZkPboOVjDu9HQVVAXQOqM5ti6oYx6oArZUv8vjHjyAF4O-nzspARCt_pIsQKX_MfV2hv7XQ7q3Skk7Rg/s320/SDC10433.jpg" width="320" /></a>Hot Wheels introduced the second gen MR2 in its 1991 regular casting line, as a rally car version. It was strangely similar to the first gen Matchbox one, with the colors and the Toyota name on the car. It has been regularly offered until 2002, and also been offered in 2008 in a special pack. The casting is not bad, but clearly lacks tampos. The wheels are also not appropriate for the sporty character of the car. Otherwise, the front rally lights make a great effect, and the overall shape is well reproduced. I own the 1993 one, and clearly the later versions are better made (tampos are really improved).<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>1999-2007 : Body change</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/54/Toyota_MR2_Spyder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/54/Toyota_MR2_Spyder.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The third generation of MR2 was supposed to be a big part of Toyota's plan to attract younger customers, as a result of a drastically change of mind in the car : it was now a roadster. Even more, its name changed : MR-S in Japan, MR2 Spyder in USA and MR2 Roadster in Europe. This new generation hasn't been offered in Canada though. Its style was clearly inspirated from the Porsche Boxster of these years. The 138 hp engine was a huge drop from the precedent one, but the weight also dropped, so it was still a powerful car (Lotus inspiration again ?). All customers agreed that the car nearly had a perfect handling. Problem was, the marked was cleary down for this kind of small sports car, and sales dropped to only 901 units sold in the US in 2005. Therefore, the model was discontinued in the US after this year, and completely abandoned after 2007.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXwvooEAvL9sRLZaF_f7fuScb4wofm_bpkjv0uId0JsRjF6dHf937U680dfE2W9HJTr8dYRKP_guvQyJ2xaJblOxXY4cCf-IJt_xmuKA2F_rR_EHTVRr52j69WuuRFnfN0Ejq_VXLjaU/s1600/SDC10434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikXwvooEAvL9sRLZaF_f7fuScb4wofm_bpkjv0uId0JsRjF6dHf937U680dfE2W9HJTr8dYRKP_guvQyJ2xaJblOxXY4cCf-IJt_xmuKA2F_rR_EHTVRr52j69WuuRFnfN0Ejq_VXLjaU/s400/SDC10434.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSXHMOr7gJRI8ugUPzD5OiOkALKClQYq8jujTkGpPmMfKAgROrYXOKmAihMlzikxic0Fr_2zcL005cE2lksW-mLeswava3sHU_QbuxQmWnrB1zO0KhgkD3ZnVD-_gFVBm19X9LQPwBRq0/s1600/SDC10435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSXHMOr7gJRI8ugUPzD5OiOkALKClQYq8jujTkGpPmMfKAgROrYXOKmAihMlzikxic0Fr_2zcL005cE2lksW-mLeswava3sHU_QbuxQmWnrB1zO0KhgkD3ZnVD-_gFVBm19X9LQPwBRq0/s320/SDC10435.jpg" width="320" /></a>Very few third generation models are offered in the 1/64 diecast scale, and the best is certainly done by the obscure maker Malibu International.... Malibu International? It seems that this maker is actually a chinese maker, but only offering models in the US (Wal-Marts).... It has only few diecasts, but very interesting ones, such as this 2004 Toyota MR2 Spyder. It has a lot of details, and one of the most accuratly reproduced diecast i've seen for a long time. Lights and interior are just perfect, such as the wheels and the overall shape... Even the scale is really well done, as it is way smaller than other same scale cars (remember that the MR2 is a really small car). Only problem is overall quality, it's somewhat cheaply made. I must say this is a must-have and quite rare addition to any collection. The white color fits perfect.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlCIx7KcJqmm6So0XLFR3rg8q_8tA7FFPs_Q-yEb5gEm1D2KIPP729QY0TIhY6Coj3sfow79kFVhnkDXfTsGd6aDym7MDNw1O67teo1MpgL-DRKfGfiYbyzvJUfJICihFu_vGmmGGWgXI/s1600/SDC10436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlCIx7KcJqmm6So0XLFR3rg8q_8tA7FFPs_Q-yEb5gEm1D2KIPP729QY0TIhY6Coj3sfow79kFVhnkDXfTsGd6aDym7MDNw1O67teo1MpgL-DRKfGfiYbyzvJUfJICihFu_vGmmGGWgXI/s400/SDC10436.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Enjoy the pics!Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-9279540590093551122011-07-10T10:39:00.000-07:002011-08-18T04:27:48.296-07:00[Diecast] Those generic fire trucks...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kellyskindergarten.com/Games/GamestoMake/images/firetruck.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://www.kellyskindergarten.com/Games/GamestoMake/images/firetruck.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Since my blog is supposed to be about diecasts, i think that i'm talking a bit too much about real cars... I'll try to focus more about diecasts, but hey, it's always interesting to read about car stories. Generics are often necessary in a casting line, and even if they're not that much praised by collectors, there's a lot of interesting stuff there. Of all my diecasts, i have exactly 87 generics, often trucks or busses. Although i don't like them as much as others, they make a great completion for any collection, and some are really well made!<br />
<br />
<br />
In the world of generics, there's some categories that i don't collect. Actually, some cheaper brands like Motor Max or Maisto and all the chinese brands are doing generic cars, a think that i don't like. Usually, it's because they don't have the money to buy real licenses. On the other way, Hot Wheels is known to make a lot of crazy generic cars (sometimes, they can't even be called as "cars"), a thing that i'm not fond of too. It's more for kids, but it's mandatory in any diecast brand! Kids make sales, and sales make money.<br />
<br />
On the other hand, Matchbox make a lot of generics, but they look like real, they just don't have any brand. That's what i like here, it's often nice adds to a collection, without getting ugly or completely unrealistic. For example here, the fire trucks (for me) don't need to have real brands, but you NEED fire trucks in any respectable car collection!<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>1. Hot Wheels Classic : the Fire Eater</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjigYt95EOgjJSB-BD1Up8JoKnq9sPCp7qZzgnXrK9bJ8tfMJpXsKBFJ2kj_tUAiO-H2TUbvSsynew77WAtFIL7mtVqexRLdNp_oX_yjtI8Kkuqxd4Li4FB0owP24E0ck2PLUHtjorqpvQ/s1600/SDC10377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjigYt95EOgjJSB-BD1Up8JoKnq9sPCp7qZzgnXrK9bJ8tfMJpXsKBFJ2kj_tUAiO-H2TUbvSsynew77WAtFIL7mtVqexRLdNp_oX_yjtI8Kkuqxd4Li4FB0owP24E0ck2PLUHtjorqpvQ/s320/SDC10377.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The "Fire Eater" is well known by any Hot Wheels maniac.This casting, representing a old school Fire Truck, has been used for years : introduced in 1977 in the special Flying Colors serie, it is still used in 2011 regular casting line! It has an immortal style, and has been produced in a variety of colors : different shades of red of course, but also silver, yellow, green, white... It has only been used in specific years : 1977, 1982, 1988, and then every year from 1995 to 2011. I own two 1982 ones, and for me, these are the best. For a generic, it includes a lot of details, even if it's cheaper than a real casting.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSVUsqIktorZFzOyeef18R1uVaBajZpVc-mwMn0J3la0vukrRHMDGWWD-aozbaqLjKWdnaeGZ_-GPKVzIdVnZ3wrEQhzcdkxBHhbkaEFqeP7eK4GG5L-TDjA-1cq60SyD2tnpGDKxZas/s1600/SDC10380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeSVUsqIktorZFzOyeef18R1uVaBajZpVc-mwMn0J3la0vukrRHMDGWWD-aozbaqLjKWdnaeGZ_-GPKVzIdVnZ3wrEQhzcdkxBHhbkaEFqeP7eK4GG5L-TDjA-1cq60SyD2tnpGDKxZas/s320/SDC10380.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
You can see that one of them isn't in a so good shape... i have this one since i'm a kid, and i tried to repaint it when i was like... 7 or 8 years old... and the result wasn't that good. The other one has been given to me by a coworker, but i had to unscrew it because front wheels were broken. To resume... both aren't in their original shape! Will i buy another one? Maybe... but this isn't my priority for now.<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>2. Matchbox "Fire Engines"</u></em></strong><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzjEe5HV1HWbLgM6sOU4try8gqLJ6yBqupnmg9Bst9oXtNr-7P8Bcvm6A6ZHxq17ee62frg4-4nft5PmuijNIijPnuCB0jjCxubBilTgCetAFZJlh8QVozHDXcb7Co1ibImnmO-oVReyE/s1600/SDC10390.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzjEe5HV1HWbLgM6sOU4try8gqLJ6yBqupnmg9Bst9oXtNr-7P8Bcvm6A6ZHxq17ee62frg4-4nft5PmuijNIijPnuCB0jjCxubBilTgCetAFZJlh8QVozHDXcb7Co1ibImnmO-oVReyE/s320/SDC10390.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyk-d9ZU1H9tBg4Kex3e8dDDIaKeYn8b9fclvlEz7NprF9qxU6RY20paXmUfMwJIHprlf2b9XbX5fD5DKyybpkM27lP4GBwdl05XBebTPrh1p_mCQxOeKE1hj8QZqbWPdrAxiY-nfcUCE/s1600/SDC10392.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyk-d9ZU1H9tBg4Kex3e8dDDIaKeYn8b9fclvlEz7NprF9qxU6RY20paXmUfMwJIHprlf2b9XbX5fD5DKyybpkM27lP4GBwdl05XBebTPrh1p_mCQxOeKE1hj8QZqbWPdrAxiY-nfcUCE/s320/SDC10392.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>In Matchbox's history, there's two castings referenced as a simple "Fire Engine" name. There's an old Superfast Fire Engine released in 1982, often called Oshkosh Fire Engine. It has also been issued in a variety of liveries until 1999. Its color was usually red, but a few yellow and white ones were released, as well as a gold one. This Matchbox #134 is a nice casting, and the working ladder is a real nice bonus. Only disappointing thing : no interior, you can only see a big pillar when looking inside the windows. I own the fluorescent red edition, and i remember finding it at the flea market a few years ago.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx1ahkHz2gomqvGoKGRT3KOcijFhtK8hTWnNyUVGFqXX7x2Awzl08AXqv1tyzXFJoPnmjN-Z_1LVBsXAfNiABzpLixpwwVC5RD5T6pEqC_pLjfUzLDXiFKBK8ycgteE1OCaMunEVuX2mk/s1600/SDC10388.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx1ahkHz2gomqvGoKGRT3KOcijFhtK8hTWnNyUVGFqXX7x2Awzl08AXqv1tyzXFJoPnmjN-Z_1LVBsXAfNiABzpLixpwwVC5RD5T6pEqC_pLjfUzLDXiFKBK8ycgteE1OCaMunEVuX2mk/s320/SDC10388.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpo1CtT9r6nq9WpVRqAz0Sh3inBOs3cXEf1sr5rLOUocxPsKJ6j0CTH8DjDRnwK8YU4MKXX3HWUWb0UDaL6UF6SClVf-UJI8riSi23qGbWovtfYyNE2YYhcVtAsvwVS7xngYatCzrC-k0/s1600/SDC10389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpo1CtT9r6nq9WpVRqAz0Sh3inBOs3cXEf1sr5rLOUocxPsKJ6j0CTH8DjDRnwK8YU4MKXX3HWUWb0UDaL6UF6SClVf-UJI8riSi23qGbWovtfYyNE2YYhcVtAsvwVS7xngYatCzrC-k0/s320/SDC10389.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The other Fire Engine has been released in 2006, and is mainly used in the 5 or 10 packs. I never bought that one directly, being part of a 2010 ten-pack i needed. In my humble opinion, it's an average casting. Fire tampos and ladder are great, but it's missing lights tampos, and that fluorescent yellow color is absolutely awful. Also, the ladder isn't even working, and could easily be broken. Also, the model isn't THAT realistic... it's obviously for kids.<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>3. Matchox "Hazard Squad"</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEZGDyFOfHVz1c-NSvKvMizDzhipY3UTwo6aB2YaOxOKdbkNy3FUDO_sms-n1ZYfNw5acBDVokIPblB3WsblbzYu_LyLp-eWITKkPMN8tNRJ-578bxZv7SgNa0FDkRs4MSJDDt5P2QGw/s1600/SDC10386.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHEZGDyFOfHVz1c-NSvKvMizDzhipY3UTwo6aB2YaOxOKdbkNy3FUDO_sms-n1ZYfNw5acBDVokIPblB3WsblbzYu_LyLp-eWITKkPMN8tNRJ-578bxZv7SgNa0FDkRs4MSJDDt5P2QGw/s320/SDC10386.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNh9GQcMyPCxEz1Gpq-xEu_GpTOXbKfb7-Hl7n5-jEuinV5aBE9FwTng2iKJZSUlFcj3oTjiRz0VxR0zBCXUX2J24B3iOWW9rRtq9JBkqEQ55kk1uKiRj1hPpCHg6BTM2FP9_2FC_NJ4/s1600/SDC10387.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNh9GQcMyPCxEz1Gpq-xEu_GpTOXbKfb7-Hl7n5-jEuinV5aBE9FwTng2iKJZSUlFcj3oTjiRz0VxR0zBCXUX2J24B3iOWW9rRtq9JBkqEQ55kk1uKiRj1hPpCHg6BTM2FP9_2FC_NJ4/s320/SDC10387.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The Hazard Squad was a highly anticipated new 2010 casting by Matchbox collectors. And it has a reason : it's one of the best generic made ever by matchbox (in fire trucks enthusiasts's opinion). The mold in itself is great, but the tampos are simply so much detailed that it makes it awesome. The front is awesomely detailed, but there's unfortunately no interior. It has originally been released in a 5-pack as a yellow color, but i own the first regular line edition, with a red color. I don't think this casting is "fantastic", but it's well-made and deserves a place in my collection.<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>4. Majorette "Pompier"</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqyb1SHXzoRZOry4ygPXjcMacAm0MZvb-H-0qw7fdrFdft196elE22ljhy60EYQFe5_yO_KgpnG5KU72yu61jkjB5fZjYhNDzqzQDM0ZjiWRrKC12Fh9OQ1uvtwQT5VXctT6XxM-ZjI8/s1600/SDC10393.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXqyb1SHXzoRZOry4ygPXjcMacAm0MZvb-H-0qw7fdrFdft196elE22ljhy60EYQFe5_yO_KgpnG5KU72yu61jkjB5fZjYhNDzqzQDM0ZjiWRrKC12Fh9OQ1uvtwQT5VXctT6XxM-ZjI8/s320/SDC10393.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmWohQXxsFLUZ4HYGgZ-Y528V5Geq5f08MwU32JGPYkh1QnPT9nr1HtlPuzOiLjmAoIb1hI4JIsRnWfxPxDkvBD2NAEoIXk2Y4iEG5OwlGS_Cbz2BmqrgiFKercUhzFSfoD6Jz6_HEqw/s1600/SDC10394.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtmWohQXxsFLUZ4HYGgZ-Y528V5Geq5f08MwU32JGPYkh1QnPT9nr1HtlPuzOiLjmAoIb1hI4JIsRnWfxPxDkvBD2NAEoIXk2Y4iEG5OwlGS_Cbz2BmqrgiFKercUhzFSfoD6Jz6_HEqw/s320/SDC10394.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Another interesting one is the "Camion de Pompier" #207 in the old Majorette's 200 casting line. Of course, "Camion de Pompier" simply means fire engine. It has a basic design, but is rather well made, such as any Majorette of those years. The 2-step ladder is an awesome feature, and it can move in any direction. It has been only produced in the same red over the years, but there's a few variations in the ladder color. I own two units with a silver ladder, but one of them is missing the second ladder. There's also another Pompier slightly modified that has been produced in the Sonic Flashers serie, meaning that the car was doing noise and making lights when you were pushing on the top. Those features aren't working anymore on the one i have though. As you can see, the model is larger, and the ladder support is different. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59vvCYiXJSpHDtNfeI6SzWsfUitcpz_qjvbLSA6AC5UnxvujPW0tysjFHUcLYOTh4PuinmKPyqknjUbcWHai7_7C2bNmzhLvXtJHWWHLvO1mQYQs5HoU3S9lzfUlIUTR7Z1NHJ5JdoRU/s1600/SDC10395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59vvCYiXJSpHDtNfeI6SzWsfUitcpz_qjvbLSA6AC5UnxvujPW0tysjFHUcLYOTh4PuinmKPyqknjUbcWHai7_7C2bNmzhLvXtJHWWHLvO1mQYQs5HoU3S9lzfUlIUTR7Z1NHJ5JdoRU/s320/SDC10395.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sonic Flasher one.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><strong><em><u>5. Hot Wheels "Rescue Ranger"</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoZyru-FqcHJCn02G1N7qzJViFCCSOzqvFI_S3_Vde1r7B2jnmhyphenhyphengWHY-WDhH91we4izdpBaIywRyh37KDfXCe5O8auMFq_NevB-YPBhA1DjuaDhRn2KLQMRkm4-eVyNHzJDRD9xw7uE/s1600/SDC10396.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoZyru-FqcHJCn02G1N7qzJViFCCSOzqvFI_S3_Vde1r7B2jnmhyphenhyphengWHY-WDhH91we4izdpBaIywRyh37KDfXCe5O8auMFq_NevB-YPBhA1DjuaDhRn2KLQMRkm4-eVyNHzJDRD9xw7uE/s320/SDC10396.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFf1yYMLtvpVYIY2UuzJlsx05aynjckvXII98cVO_7MI8H8nKtmpML3iz0CZYW0lmr3ZPmJ8tbYBNzSDrZ3Ov8TecC-Nu7dG3MCJ4vMwtwU7iY1cecFHgflCiInzzaM83lUUcj_QMoQEE/s1600/SDC10397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFf1yYMLtvpVYIY2UuzJlsx05aynjckvXII98cVO_7MI8H8nKtmpML3iz0CZYW0lmr3ZPmJ8tbYBNzSDrZ3Ov8TecC-Nu7dG3MCJ4vMwtwU7iY1cecFHgflCiInzzaM83lUUcj_QMoQEE/s320/SDC10397.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Finally, there's another legendary fire truck in the Hot Wheels range : the Rescue Ranger. It has been originally introduced in 1975 with the name "Ranger Rig" aswell as "Emergency Squad". Those were the same casting, but with different liveries. The Rescue Rig only lasted for this year, and the Emergency Squad has been produced until 1988. The name changed in 1986 for Rescue Ranger, and it's in the regular line since then (there's still 2011 units!). The original 1975 one is green, but it has been also produced in a variety of colors, such as red, yellow, white, silver and orange. There's also some Hot Rod versions. Originally all in metal diecast, it's now unfortunately made of plastic, and it looks more like a kid toy. I own the 1988 last Emergence Squad produced. Such as the Fire Eater, i tried to put some red paint on it as a kid, and it's not really well made. At least, it's a nice casting, and i prefer this old one than the new plastic ones (that also have some funky tampos, and the hot rod versions are simply horrible).<br />
<br />
Enjoy the pics and the read!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CkkFCH9W5nBRkwemmBE0ZTLBvjSwzm1z8LT7Dz1qHKLp8hZ-3tVp-DoPSWmelpVtbJnKFX0V7pk9VM66B82p0-CHOW6Td5xya5Du3yntaiofXF1DItB2coSYNYZe1PCOXlHtbreBd1I/s1600/SDC10398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-CkkFCH9W5nBRkwemmBE0ZTLBvjSwzm1z8LT7Dz1qHKLp8hZ-3tVp-DoPSWmelpVtbJnKFX0V7pk9VM66B82p0-CHOW6Td5xya5Du3yntaiofXF1DItB2coSYNYZe1PCOXlHtbreBd1I/s320/SDC10398.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-68557313549754186922011-07-09T08:16:00.000-07:002011-08-18T04:28:12.221-07:00[Euro-American Classics] European Ford Taurus : the SierraEuro-American? That's starting to sound weird... but a lot of models of american brands have been specially produced for European countries. Ford is a big adept of this kind of work, and the well known Fords in Europe aren't the same as USA... for example, Mustang, Focus, Taurus, F-150 are all unknown cars for Europeans. Let's talk about the Taurus's european cousin, the Ford Sierra (don't mix with the GMC Sierra sold here!)<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>An european Taurus</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fr.yakmee.com/images/main/sample/ford/sierra/1982_hatchback_3d/ford_sierra_1982_hatchback_3d_495b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://fr.yakmee.com/images/main/sample/ford/sierra/1982_hatchback_3d/ford_sierra_1982_hatchback_3d_495b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>The original 1982 one.</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>When you first see the pic of a Sierra, it's hard to believe that the model was introduced in 1982. Designed by Patrick Le Quément, it was intended to replace the more classics Ford Cortina and Taunus, but is shocked a lot of people, mainly because of its futuristic style (futuristic for the 80's, you understand :)). Its styling was called the "aero" Ford design, but a lot of people nicknamed the car "Jellymould" or "Salesman's Spaceship" because of it. Sales were effectively low at the beginning, but it paid off around 86-87, and the car became really popular.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/pacmanz/my%20drives/1991FordSierraSapphire2.0iGhia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v319/pacmanz/my%20drives/1991FordSierraSapphire2.0iGhia.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>1991 Sierra Sapphire.</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Initially, the car was sold as a 5-door sedan and 5-door wagon, as well as a 3-door hatchback. Strangely, even if it was intended to be a large family car, no 4-door saloon was offered, and this was another reason of the lack of the popularity of the beginning. Ford addressed this mistake in 1987 by introducing the 4-door Sierra, along with a facelift of the car. The 4-door was named Sierra Sapphire. The Sierra is registered as the tenth most popular car sold in Britain's history, with a total of nearly 1,300,000 units! In the beginning of the 90's, it was clear though that the car has fallen out of step against more modern Japanese rivals, and it was replace by the Mondeo in 1993.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-kEuZ39mUFf8zgnNJi_Y_96rNcCVqrKVkIt-SqeHtP7Z3g2LmUY0utoAFPFk1V8Rjtb3gk1RbsGjiEM5GXNbwuA_KdC0PvE3EWLtGfQM4NTJ_lqsdhKo8zKy-ILOSh8sBDi2nuPw5v88/s1600/P1070214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-kEuZ39mUFf8zgnNJi_Y_96rNcCVqrKVkIt-SqeHtP7Z3g2LmUY0utoAFPFk1V8Rjtb3gk1RbsGjiEM5GXNbwuA_KdC0PvE3EWLtGfQM4NTJ_lqsdhKo8zKy-ILOSh8sBDi2nuPw5v88/s320/P1070214.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGY0RsfLkjz8BWo0TlXutcGFjgtE0FfmyX3JHBR3Me4Dpqky71DJT-VIy6DRHJwU9eu8MJ74odhjPzIcxbA0KdqXQoPIHZSpU5H35G6TsUuREp644F0EmqpEhaAj-rcFNpd8EbL6otyPg/s1600/P1070215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGY0RsfLkjz8BWo0TlXutcGFjgtE0FfmyX3JHBR3Me4Dpqky71DJT-VIy6DRHJwU9eu8MJ74odhjPzIcxbA0KdqXQoPIHZSpU5H35G6TsUuREp644F0EmqpEhaAj-rcFNpd8EbL6otyPg/s320/P1070215.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Majorette, the mighty european maker, introduced the Sierra as the number 272 in its regular casting line. As you can see with the pictures, it is the 5 door original sedan, before the facelift. As always with old Majorettes like this, it's an awesome casting, really accurate, with opening doors and working suspensions. Unfortunately, i tried to repaint the one i have when i was a kid.... and well it didnt give a sooo good result. I saved the car recently, but before i bought a drill, so it's still average. The original had red decorations everywhere though.<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>Sportier versions</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ru.bavariancar.lv/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=82342&stc=1&d=1300909789" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://ru.bavariancar.lv/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=82342&stc=1&d=1300909789" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Sierra XR4i.</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
In 1983, Ford introduced a sportier version called the XR4i. The car was easily distinguable with its huge rear spoiler and strange multiple rear pillars. It was equipped with the same 2.8L as the Ford Capri. Unfortunately, it was recognized as over-stylized, and never been so much popular in its time. It was also sold in the USA as a Merkur, a special brand created by Ford to sell european cars. The XR4i appeared in a lot of races, noticably in the BTCC racing league. Further sporty versions were introduced after 1985, such as the XR4x4 (four wheel drive with a V6) and the famous Sierra Cosworth (famous for its rally success). Turbocharged versions were also availabe, reaching up to 280 hp. Those were real killers!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdzC_i-aNUKD4VmH6IcLDjwzNFYMQQPJYFNj9Mihvd0dXtS6B50If7q5zg36loy1YZMBGzgajhJHM_5Ia6PLywE0z5rSExZQd-I-QTmClRoIuN6A1OlxxdeD5_RTW84xKUX0QIEzWs9Ho/s1600/P1070226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdzC_i-aNUKD4VmH6IcLDjwzNFYMQQPJYFNj9Mihvd0dXtS6B50If7q5zg36loy1YZMBGzgajhJHM_5Ia6PLywE0z5rSExZQd-I-QTmClRoIuN6A1OlxxdeD5_RTW84xKUX0QIEzWs9Ho/s320/P1070226.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ0xK3VKz7P5WbyrD7qdZnGFvcqpA46eSsPvptGwMWEl_1pCEEYqHmraAKdNyDU6wxG4uAm6dF_Pw7Onuk6L5QFjA9bI4GbEmBUh0ffT_ZHr4ghcPMtM-EbdvuQPYueCF8473q4jZEpeg/s1600/P1070228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ0xK3VKz7P5WbyrD7qdZnGFvcqpA46eSsPvptGwMWEl_1pCEEYqHmraAKdNyDU6wxG4uAm6dF_Pw7Onuk6L5QFjA9bI4GbEmBUh0ffT_ZHr4ghcPMtM-EbdvuQPYueCF8473q4jZEpeg/s320/P1070228.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Matchbox produced a nice version of the XR4i from 1982 to 1997 in its regular line. It was produced in a variety of colors, from flower "kid-version" to a fire department one! The one i own is the yellow with black interior one. Strangely, it's written XR4x4 on the sides, even if it's a XR4i... This Matchbox #120 is really well made (i must admit, i'm a huge fan of those 80's Matchbox). It lacks the side mirrors, but the spoiler is really well made, and the sunroof is a nice addition!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxavYB6j7W5A3A0hyphenhypheniRg8CrgJbxzpiiclNxZSX9HZX-jYrw-CyuBT1WKot0uXuU-fr9ILdCKwI-9R34uE0Wh9W6p_Nc4s7DMyAo3wnEvuT4h7G4BAYk0Fl7GNiPIwoMIyEWmiSva8J3bY/s1600/P1070219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxavYB6j7W5A3A0hyphenhypheniRg8CrgJbxzpiiclNxZSX9HZX-jYrw-CyuBT1WKot0uXuU-fr9ILdCKwI-9R34uE0Wh9W6p_Nc4s7DMyAo3wnEvuT4h7G4BAYk0Fl7GNiPIwoMIyEWmiSva8J3bY/s320/P1070219.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8BOAgjiYTGtfoM8pzwbrApvLYfUpBy3daFSam8msDj6BvyPhPOzufYGzrPh4lrb0q-enrvyk-js-D5JWIyPHJrYWXoR9VICMNjHVzzv7HtCoIo4zCmtqLJtz-hnp5wUyL4WD8OYVdPsQ/s1600/P1070222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8BOAgjiYTGtfoM8pzwbrApvLYfUpBy3daFSam8msDj6BvyPhPOzufYGzrPh4lrb0q-enrvyk-js-D5JWIyPHJrYWXoR9VICMNjHVzzv7HtCoIo4zCmtqLJtz-hnp5wUyL4WD8OYVdPsQ/s320/P1070222.jpg" width="320" /></a>I also own an intriguing white Welly Ford Sierra XR4i. Welly earned a reputation of copying other diecast brands (not with their recent diecasts though), and this one is a clear rip-off of the Matchbox one. Although it's nowhere identified as a Ford Sierra, you can easily recognize the model, and the blue oval on the hood screams Ford. Cheapier than the Matchbox, it's still a nice diecast in my humble opinion, and the rear spoiler is admirably well done. Offered in the Speed Wheels serie, it was one of my favorite as a child (why? i don't remember that :)), and i still keep it carefully.<br />
Enjoy the pics! Don't be afraid to leave comments!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPt6KzjHXznNqLTeW_KzHadyzWOvxLWv4LVr1y_gmXwKvxFUXsuYoOXqa7F-N4q8pStSUGg7dLTEnWsgYTnaSrKZF3ru5maIjP5-AmXlMXDMDZxkpLGtnGM1_3YyY7nBepDXUh2XS37g/s1600/P1070225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWPt6KzjHXznNqLTeW_KzHadyzWOvxLWv4LVr1y_gmXwKvxFUXsuYoOXqa7F-N4q8pStSUGg7dLTEnWsgYTnaSrKZF3ru5maIjP5-AmXlMXDMDZxkpLGtnGM1_3YyY7nBepDXUh2XS37g/s320/P1070225.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEzLAlXoEjbFv8C3SJXpS6mraEvRru44ZjgLiey3y0OHrBqx5qZLdeXOQ5AqfjV0uoKr5l47h4sCDB1v3cLq73O_p6I5ok9mbdp0-IsMxeKgIhl_ASHxYIoEozPmnptC8X6_7xAfIi9I/s1600/P1070230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="109" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCEzLAlXoEjbFv8C3SJXpS6mraEvRru44ZjgLiey3y0OHrBqx5qZLdeXOQ5AqfjV0uoKr5l47h4sCDB1v3cLq73O_p6I5ok9mbdp0-IsMxeKgIhl_ASHxYIoEozPmnptC8X6_7xAfIi9I/s320/P1070230.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-23061448008329663142011-07-05T15:49:00.000-07:002011-08-18T05:17:54.830-07:00[Japanese Moderns] S2000, nice way to celebrate an anniversary<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.motorlogy.com/wp-content/uploads/honda-s2000-2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.motorlogy.com/wp-content/uploads/honda-s2000-2009.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Bit boring for a sportscar, no?</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Let's ride to another continent now, to Japan in fact. First shown as a concept car in 1995, Honda launched the S2000 roadster in 1999 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the company. The S2000 was name according to its 2L engine. The original S2000 was introduced with a 237 hp VTEC 4 cylinder engine, working with a 6-speed manual transmission and a Torsten limited slip differential. This roadster was reputed to be really hard to drive on normal roads : its VTEC engine was only delivering its power on very high RPM, such as 8000 or 9000, just like a moto. The sound of the car was actually just like Honda's moto.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.caradisiac.com/images/0/1/3/3/20133/S0-Salon-de-Tokyo-Honda-S2000-Type-S-jacky-ou-pas-86251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="http://images.caradisiac.com/images/0/1/3/3/20133/S0-Salon-de-Tokyo-Honda-S2000-Type-S-jacky-ou-pas-86251.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em>Type S Version.</em></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
In 2004, several improvements were introduced to the car, especially a new suspension and lower RPM rate for the acceleration. The redline was lowered to 8200 rpm. A sportier model (Type S) was also introduced in Japan, using an aluminium hard-top and aggressive skirts. The car has been fairly popular until 2006, but then the sales started to fall down (essentially because of the car being older and hard competition of newer Mercedes SLK and BMW Z4). The 2008 USA car market crisis literally killed the car, with only 2500 units sold in all the year (74% decline), so the production ceased in 2009, and the replacement project was cancelled. It will surely become a classic in the years to come.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Any diecasts of the S2000?</u></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2k2wml4mLUE8vGcJHV3PxqCSPVckUSvaI_lQR_O-LliPFBroL74jyJ4fyihVyY_ioWZURzr5UH2oo2Av8oH0_BrqzQspqsVLFdwaEhtPN54EIT2kDtOmp398EHITgdcb04ITgBP0Asl0/s1600/P1070199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2k2wml4mLUE8vGcJHV3PxqCSPVckUSvaI_lQR_O-LliPFBroL74jyJ4fyihVyY_ioWZURzr5UH2oo2Av8oH0_BrqzQspqsVLFdwaEhtPN54EIT2kDtOmp398EHITgdcb04ITgBP0Asl0/s320/P1070199.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcw623Rm3KDCXp2ZiRzWYYNOq6tNJ6J9KFUl0keWj4-qmwtfR5h8_sMGguimBsJtkpvJP5QETlag5eWOpTCCA63UZYKDGzbumY_TFmEU40lTVIRkl_UNwqQwUUmZfKLM7QWnklJYNruM/s1600/P1070200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQcw623Rm3KDCXp2ZiRzWYYNOq6tNJ6J9KFUl0keWj4-qmwtfR5h8_sMGguimBsJtkpvJP5QETlag5eWOpTCCA63UZYKDGzbumY_TFmEU40lTVIRkl_UNwqQwUUmZfKLM7QWnklJYNruM/s320/P1070200.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Of course! First i got is a Maisto regular line one. Maisto's aren't recognized to do high quality diecasts in their regular line, but this one isn't that bad. I must say, tampos would have been nice, side mirrors are needed and the big plastic window looks really cheap, but in overall, it looks like the real car. It's a good add to a collection without paying big bucks for a AutoArt for example.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcOfJFVza3R1qlRWTScxEU2dPiAJyU109PXIE-tBK50scbGqnHVwdpo4XpYL1jRN9WdCXi7KlDD9j1klXvVjhx0A2XodYOROM83NoBT7PmQwgk_o4BrKzUTtR_qjFkmS45-bjFOMFvigg/s1600/P1070201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcOfJFVza3R1qlRWTScxEU2dPiAJyU109PXIE-tBK50scbGqnHVwdpo4XpYL1jRN9WdCXi7KlDD9j1klXvVjhx0A2XodYOROM83NoBT7PmQwgk_o4BrKzUTtR_qjFkmS45-bjFOMFvigg/s320/P1070201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9q3j0-sx9_nzrNBEeWKXqgBW0pG7U0ea_AB44bgE1owNLHZvr_hQI-ktnRZ3gUHkY5PUzDI92WwteLkmee3z60eD6msYKvFQvs-GXo2nYy3AoXkP14rj6qI_LV9Wy094QPLEVcB_QH_Q/s1600/P1070202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9q3j0-sx9_nzrNBEeWKXqgBW0pG7U0ea_AB44bgE1owNLHZvr_hQI-ktnRZ3gUHkY5PUzDI92WwteLkmee3z60eD6msYKvFQvs-GXo2nYy3AoXkP14rj6qI_LV9Wy094QPLEVcB_QH_Q/s320/P1070202.jpg" width="320" /></a>In the 2011 casting line, Hot Wheels released a tuned version of the S2000 that is really well done. With a wide body kit, huge spoiler, sporty rims and a flashy yellow color, it looks really great! The overall form of the car is well reroduced too. It was designed by Matchbox's member Ryu Asada. It makes me remember the black S2000 of the first Fast and Furious movie, and fits well in any collection too. The yellow line on the black rims really add a nice touch.<br />
<br />
Enjoy the pics!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ICyQmpeRCSTHm5TjMjiW5IvadpZhQjppD8awkz_xEjKzMQYO_ruSZ-0MPWzcrK_2yWOXVfcMvtnM54Z6XRyJzFRXa-BmFj2huB0TKUoil_qOcjc_14bus4MR90qJ9tSNOhUX3ZRK1tU/s1600/P1070204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7ICyQmpeRCSTHm5TjMjiW5IvadpZhQjppD8awkz_xEjKzMQYO_ruSZ-0MPWzcrK_2yWOXVfcMvtnM54Z6XRyJzFRXa-BmFj2huB0TKUoil_qOcjc_14bus4MR90qJ9tSNOhUX3ZRK1tU/s320/P1070204.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8545645737664990757.post-6189555784576301572011-07-02T17:09:00.000-07:002011-08-18T05:18:12.031-07:00[American Classics] AMC(s)!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cartype.com/pics/203/full/amc_logo_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="http://www.cartype.com/pics/203/full/amc_logo_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Almost everybody knows that the three big American car makers are Chrysler, Ford and GM. But from 1954 to 1987, there was another american big one : American Motors Corporation, usually known as AMC. Created in 1954 from the fusion of Nash and Hudson, AMC written a page of the american car history, especially by developing the Jeep brand. Unfortunately, competition of the "Big Three" had been hard for AMC. The brand has been bought in 1979 by the french giant Renault, before being sold to Chrysler in 1987. Only the Jeep and Eagle names survived to this last sale.<br />
<br />
Strange fact : the name AMC had been adopted as the official name only in 1970. From 1954 to 1958, Nash and Hudson were still used. Then, from 1959 to 1969, the name Rambler was used for the big sedans the company was producing. The Nash name survived until 1962, with the small Nash Metropolitan. AMC is recognized as the first american company to promote "small cars", thing that maybe saved the company in 70s, in the petrol crisis. Unfortunately, it also caused company's death, since when the crisis stopped in 1985, Americans wanted to buy big cars again, and AMC only had compacts and intermediates to propose. <br />
<br />
AMC is neglicted in the diecast world, but there's still a few interesting ones, mainly from the 70's. I wish we would had some 80's AMC sometime...<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>Record-breaking, original one : AMC AMX</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://luxedb.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/AMC-AMX-car-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="http://luxedb.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/AMC-AMX-car-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The AMX, standing for A<em>merican Motors eXperimental</em>, was one of the most original american cars of its time. Only produced from 1968 to 1970, it was described as a muscle car, but because of its short wheelbase, it was only compared to the Corvette. It was also the only 2-seater steel-bodied car of its time (previous one was the Ford Thunderbird). The AMX had also been recognized has the "Best Engineered Car of The Year" for two consecutive years, 1969 and 1970. Interesting fact, the original ad campaign in 1968 for the launch of the car was in cooperation with Playboy Entreprises.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6-JYjFi5MpswEgzAzQJ8o9jhSPeQTGoi5yeBQ5WMmWbtH33Nbdnh1AXhB2HN6vgT350GLhDPSNq9it0ztW4oIdR7hyphenhyphenm4BuIG6a2BzvdmrXGYeRxT8HZ61ST2MKuxbtqKRr6egGbi-Ow/s1600/P1070182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6-JYjFi5MpswEgzAzQJ8o9jhSPeQTGoi5yeBQ5WMmWbtH33Nbdnh1AXhB2HN6vgT350GLhDPSNq9it0ztW4oIdR7hyphenhyphenm4BuIG6a2BzvdmrXGYeRxT8HZ61ST2MKuxbtqKRr6egGbi-Ow/s320/P1070182.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
There were lots of engines offered, from V8 225hp to 315hp big V8 block. In 1969, the Super Stock AMX has been introduced, offering a 420 hp, able to do a 10.73 seconds on the quartermile. It didnt even have a heater, but it was a true performance car. Two specially prepared AMX were able to do some new high speed and endurance records at Texas's Goodyear race track. Officially, the car reached an astonishing 304 km/h, but the driver affirmed that he was able to push the car over 322 km/h. Those AMX were pieces of art.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JpSu4GljhsErh54gJTmmw0ReJG87BV_DSA1T5bTIj6KMtotzM050H7rj-vzSRG2upkEhvfwv5HiKjEyySmsvf9tGTee-kkcwFqHLylXa4ua78uGFs5AbsbGrmyoW34FjYEOj-Tg8nrg/s1600/P1070184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-JpSu4GljhsErh54gJTmmw0ReJG87BV_DSA1T5bTIj6KMtotzM050H7rj-vzSRG2upkEhvfwv5HiKjEyySmsvf9tGTee-kkcwFqHLylXa4ua78uGFs5AbsbGrmyoW34FjYEOj-Tg8nrg/s320/P1070184.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhboVexBqSLwMCNf0Z9fAP7EtC8TIPJCFqLpgfUhMy9UBWmyhpQXL9oTyHMqWGo-He9_8a3OMY31kkyhQWk0jtzEHvaRZ3kRhKvY1urSZP5NsgG9StsQzDkcmHYHzZCVZJxZpXw4FEj6Kc/s1600/P1070183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhboVexBqSLwMCNf0Z9fAP7EtC8TIPJCFqLpgfUhMy9UBWmyhpQXL9oTyHMqWGo-He9_8a3OMY31kkyhQWk0jtzEHvaRZ3kRhKvY1urSZP5NsgG9StsQzDkcmHYHzZCVZJxZpXw4FEj6Kc/s320/P1070183.jpg" width="320" /></a>The Johnny Lightning diecast replica i own is painted with the legendary colors of those two record-breaking AMX : White, Blue and Red. Released in 2005, as usual, JL did an awesome job with the car. It really feels the overall look. With the opening hood, you can even take a look at the terrific engine of this beast!<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>AMX as a Javelin extension</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://membres.multimania.fr/voitureantique/hpbimg/AMC%20Javelin%20AMX%201974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://membres.multimania.fr/voitureantique/hpbimg/AMC%20Javelin%20AMX%201974.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The AMX evolved as a performance extension of the AMC Javelin in 1971. It became a 4-seater, but was still a high performance car. The Javelin AMX offered multiple racing packages for the car enthusiast, such as the "Go Package" , with the choice of a 360 or 401 cu engine. The 1972 Javelin broke record sales for AMC, but never reached numbers as high as the competition (big names were in there, like the Mustand and the Camaro). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-PvP70ozhT90R0S2bW76FdYGaSHpJFBDz26WTZBpgNrE5dTXJwakQnx_2X9rxZx9deDwIcQDuYC3hyphenhyphen1snjw0t65eNwWckHUv-wlUnLguBHHeTHC0PXp_8yjb174EdLKCY2ZOr60PTKo/s1600/P1070176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-PvP70ozhT90R0S2bW76FdYGaSHpJFBDz26WTZBpgNrE5dTXJwakQnx_2X9rxZx9deDwIcQDuYC3hyphenhyphen1snjw0t65eNwWckHUv-wlUnLguBHHeTHC0PXp_8yjb174EdLKCY2ZOr60PTKo/s320/P1070176.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>In 1974, the car market was changing a lot, and there was no more place for cars such as the Javelin AMX, mainly because of the petrol crisis. Cars were going smaller, and AMC needed place to build its new Pacer. Nowadays, the Javelin AMX is really prized among collectors and can reach astonishing prices. Originally introduced in 2009 as a new casting in the Hot Wheels regular line, the Javelin i own is the 2010 regular one. Designed with the AMC racing colors (red, white and blue again), it shows a really aggressive look. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIFNuTcQlErA-hE1GOLt9cMbFKpRbjwwILnEhipGByVeSN_BRcWOaCua54AIiB_f4YBFFsh5WzmO-Ats6hbGU-7S5qtPUcyuJY4J7lHGT4mUlKuFfxcl2vOJvqhXxA7BN76GLeiYQY8A/s1600/P1070177.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIFNuTcQlErA-hE1GOLt9cMbFKpRbjwwILnEhipGByVeSN_BRcWOaCua54AIiB_f4YBFFsh5WzmO-Ats6hbGU-7S5qtPUcyuJY4J7lHGT4mUlKuFfxcl2vOJvqhXxA7BN76GLeiYQY8A/s320/P1070177.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Casting's well made, but Hot Wheels's quality is never as high as a JL one (i'm talking of the regular line here, the HW Garage serie is pretty good). Colors are pretty well chosen though, but more details on the body would have been appreciated, as well as tampos. It's still a pretty nice add to any collection.<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>First American compact car : Gremlin's introduction</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/1970-1978-amc-gremlin-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="http://static.howstuffworks.com/gif/1970-1978-amc-gremlin-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The AMC Gremlin has been introduced in 1970, and is recognized as the first American subcompact-car (even if the Crosley and the Nash Metropolitan has been there before). Competing with the six-months later released Ford Pinto and Chevrolet Vega, it was also designed to compete with the legendary Volkswagen Beetle. In my humble opinion, the Gremlin's obviously one of the ugliest American car produced... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEh-0-Tj14FdaWfAVL_bNgEwZ8f87m6AyLJI3wKu9v-tbvnu5m_47AK1GrKoje9WRzjt3gC9R1cqo2Hz577uRXmm5SgfZBNbMsuYSQNv5cT0DTwth7MclGOxp7mAGwMwlS2jmtfmImmaw/s1600/P1070185.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEh-0-Tj14FdaWfAVL_bNgEwZ8f87m6AyLJI3wKu9v-tbvnu5m_47AK1GrKoje9WRzjt3gC9R1cqo2Hz577uRXmm5SgfZBNbMsuYSQNv5cT0DTwth7MclGOxp7mAGwMwlS2jmtfmImmaw/s320/P1070185.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The Gremling was described as a stable and comfortable ride... for the front passengers. Of course, with the car being so small, the two rear seats were reserved for children. Competing with the VW Beetle, it had a style immediately recognizable in the streets. The car has really been popular from 70 to 74, but an inflatory economy put a hard shot at the sales in 1975, and they declined until 1978. As the Pacer was introduced in 1975 too, it was already over for the Gremlin. Over 8 years, AMC often offered Volkswagen engines under the hood of this special car. The Gremlin has even been used as a dragstrip racing car, or to experiment hydrogen or electric engines.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL81LKKpZh4J_p-xqDMaz5v82tH8pvWj8FWmKnyJdw-G7YM5rfeoqr_YvUTyeX7uSL87aaYDlUBEWxUl3XSGpcr1hyphenhyphenMZ7qVhtBSVAz7oIDJMe7l2XXIXNz0Nkmy35Nsl__BO7-emNYbmY/s1600/P1070186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL81LKKpZh4J_p-xqDMaz5v82tH8pvWj8FWmKnyJdw-G7YM5rfeoqr_YvUTyeX7uSL87aaYDlUBEWxUl3XSGpcr1hyphenhyphenMZ7qVhtBSVAz7oIDJMe7l2XXIXNz0Nkmy35Nsl__BO7-emNYbmY/s320/P1070186.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Offered in 2006 by Johnny Lightning, the diecast is simply awesome. The pale yellow gives it a real oldtimer look, and the overall car is awesomely reproduced. It's truly one of my favorite pieces of my collection. Even though the car is fugly, its unique style gives it a special feeling. Yellow wheels add a nice touch. Only thing missing is the side mirrors!<br />
<br />
<strong><em><u>AMC Pacer, nicknamed "The Aquarium"</u></em></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.javelinamx.com/javhome/articles/75pacrad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="http://www.javelinamx.com/javhome/articles/75pacrad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The Pacer is certainly one of the most iconic cars of the late 70's. Contrasting with the boxy design used in those years, the Pacer offered a controversial rounded, fully glassed style. Even more original, during the development of the car, it was supposed to be equipped with a Wankel rotary engine produced by GM. Just before the release, in 1974, GM decided to stop developing the engine (durability issue), and it left the Pacer with a straight 6-line cylinder flat engine for its 1975 introduction.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWtIM7MNSZUj-nwGEZyLdJR2o13NGpMfqykXVGGZ3y_Kq1deFgoxos1eP3wAnVFxlERMx3LXg0IyzkdYujpF7bqM5o7qPQpKKFlWFqMXzF0bFWFOIIWr0ITQw5UxNo4fnIBD-f4oEnOU/s1600/P1070188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRWtIM7MNSZUj-nwGEZyLdJR2o13NGpMfqykXVGGZ3y_Kq1deFgoxos1eP3wAnVFxlERMx3LXg0IyzkdYujpF7bqM5o7qPQpKKFlWFqMXzF0bFWFOIIWr0ITQw5UxNo4fnIBD-f4oEnOU/s320/P1070188.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The car received a lot of criticism, good or bad. Some described it as the "car of the future", others said it was the ugliest car ever made. For those years, it was surely original. It was designed as an alternative to the huge American cars, in years where the petrol was about to become really expensive. It sold well for the first 2 years, but after 1977, the Japanese competition along with a few reliability problems killed the Pacer's career. It disappeared in the year 1979. A lot of variants had been offered, such as the Wagon or the Pacer X (sporty version). Even an electric Pacer has been produced, but at a starting price of 12 000$, it was SO expensive!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXnrRjOdyyLjIgLEj-H8PeoOABZbeX9yALZ-oLZ2r8Y067HxgOzTT4Yo9fE41DvfQR2QO1vKue38N0F6dACrREf6xnl-XcQSpXFoY3Zlinx0Qs-6i-imd9pZdGx_HzuK9P4I62zzDtZ8/s1600/P1070187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQXnrRjOdyyLjIgLEj-H8PeoOABZbeX9yALZ-oLZ2r8Y067HxgOzTT4Yo9fE41DvfQR2QO1vKue38N0F6dACrREf6xnl-XcQSpXFoY3Zlinx0Qs-6i-imd9pZdGx_HzuK9P4I62zzDtZ8/s320/P1070187.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The nickname Aquarium came from my father, who was working in an AMC/Jeep garage in these years. The big glasses got a problem : they weren't so well sealed, so they had a lot of cases of water infiltrating the car... then they gave it that name.<br />
<br />
Talking diecast, i have a nice replica of a 1977 Pacer X made by Johnny Lightning. The front of the casting is a bit off imo, but it's nice overall... it got a "cheap" look though. Tires are great! Side mirrors would have been a nice add.. i think i would have prefered the brown Classic Gold serie one, but that yellow Pacer is still a must for any car collector.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJ_0zMSNtxpY9tI-v3RfCRSliXYZIt8NhtXdABf0usrhQqtP90baaJAT8jL1ljU3A6gQ1X9chDiAH_KxHxLhzvimjct2GOljLDbYXF73-Y4yPFIlSNy4qPJOEkEZgUgmIcAjgWug8grw/s1600/P1070189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJ_0zMSNtxpY9tI-v3RfCRSliXYZIt8NhtXdABf0usrhQqtP90baaJAT8jL1ljU3A6gQ1X9chDiAH_KxHxLhzvimjct2GOljLDbYXF73-Y4yPFIlSNy4qPJOEkEZgUgmIcAjgWug8grw/s320/P1070189.jpg" width="244" /></a></div><br />
Enjoy the pics!Vincent Séguinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07802856022927796954noreply@blogger.com0