Schuco 1/18 VW T2a Porsche Support Minibus

In 1968, the second generation Volkswagen T2 Minibus was introduced. It was built in Germany until 1979. Models before 1971 are called T2a while models after 1972 are called T2b. This second-generation Minibus was slightly larger and considerably heavier than its predecessor. At 1.6 liter displacement and 48 hp, the engine was also slightly larger. The new model had half-shaft axles fitted with CV joints, which raised ride height.The T2b was introduced by way of gradual change over three years. The first models had unique body features, such as curvaceous bumpers with the front bumper wrapping around to form the step when the door was opened, front doors that opened to 90 degrees from the body and crescent air intakes in the D pillars. They also had unique engine hatches, and up until 1972 front turn signals set low on the nose, giving rise to their German nickname 'Low Lights'. Over its long life, VW made the T2 in a wide variety of configurations including the classic Minibus, delivery van, and the Combi, a useful platform for custom commercial designs. See more

SCHUCO 1:43 VOLKSWAGEN T1 SOLINGEN FIRE DEPARTMENT VAN

The classic Volkswagen T1 Minibus was first produced in 1950 and continued to be made until 1967. Its duties ranged from functional to fun, seeing duty as delivery van, service truck, emergency vehicle, family car and getaway camper. With its low cost, high reliability and ease of maintenance, it was a hit with all its owners, but is probably best remembered as an iconic symbol of ‘60s counterculture. The VW van was among the first 'forward control' designs in which the driver was placed above the front wheels. Thanks to wind-tunnel testing, the Minibus was aerodynamically superior to the Beetle despite its slab-sided shape. Never known for its power, the Minibus started out with only an 1131cc engine making 25 hp. By the end of its production, engine displacement grew to 1.5 liters, producing a whopping 42 hp. No matter the size, however, the engines were always air-cooled, a VW hallmark. Buy it now

LLEDO DAYS GONE - 1937 SCAMMELL TRACTOR 'BERTRAM MILLS'

A slight change of plan at the end of 1996 saw DG80, the Scammell Tractor, released in the livery of Bertram Mills Circus. The orange and blue livery will fit in well with a 'circus' display. See more

SCHUCO 1:43 OPEL CORSA - THE CITY OF NURNBERG

The front-wheel drive Opel Corsa was first launched in April 1983 to replace the Opel Kadett C. The first Corsas were three-door hatchback and two-door saloon models, with four-door and five-door versions arriving in 1984. The basic model was called just the Corsa, which was followed by the Corsa Luxus, Corsa Berlina and the sporty Corsa SR. Six years later, the Corsa received a facelift, with a new front fascia and some other minor changes. The models were then labeled LS, GL, GLS and GT. Power came from a variety of displacements including 1.0 liter, 1.2 liter, 1.3 liter and 1.4 liter gas engines which were short on performance but strong on economy. There was also a 1.5 L diesel engine available.

Feature:
Limited Edition of 1000 pieces worldwide
Accurate 3.25" long model of Opel's supermini painted for the city of Nurnberg Public Works
Exquisite detailing including orange roof beacon, multi-color Nurnberg city crest, gloss orange paint with corner warning markers, windshield wipers (including rear window), clear plastic headlight lens and tinted tail light lens
Superb interior includes steering wheel, floor-mount shifter, legible dashboard dials, rearview mirror and even red seat belt recepticles
Diecast metal construction with plastic detail parts Includes clear display case and base

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ITALIAN WITH BAGGAGE

In the same month of July, the Fiat 1500 (56b) with a roof-rack joined the range. It is probably one of the most common regular wheel models to be found at swapmeets and of course the real vehicle can still be seen today as a Lada with only minor alterations.

The plastic interior was modified to include extensions ahead of the ‘M’ in Matchbox on the base. The roof luggage was originally brown but this was subsequently changed to tan. The main variation came in the 1968 GI Gift Set, when the Fiat was painted in all-over red with tan luggage. This is considerably harder to find than the normal green version.—Model Collector

THE TAYLOR JUMBO CRANE

The Taylor Jumbo Crane (11c) replaced the ERF Petrol Tanker in June. It was usually found in all-over yellow with a red double chain hook. When the weight box was painted red, a few hooks appeared with single chains in either red or yellow plastic.
The jib was subject to a number of casting changes. These centered upon the top and bottom lattice work which originally was cast open but this gap was later closed. The final jib version included a small cross brace between the top plates.

A King size version, also in plain yellow, was released at the same time. The miniature model was available for five years before it was replaced in April 1969 by the Scaffolding Truck.

ERTL 1/18 - 1996 PONTIAC FIREBIRD TRANS-AM

The 1996 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is a sleek-looking car, and this model certainly captures the shape. While it does have such features as steering, opening bonnet and doors, perhaps by today's standards it is lacking a little. For example, the interior looks somewhat plain, while the seats do not tilt; equally on our sample the side doors were not a perfect fit. However, if such details do not worry you, this will prove an enjoyable model to own. Buy it now