MAISTO 1/18 PORSCHE CAYENNE TURBO SILVER

This is one of the most impressive models I've seen from Maisto. They are a difficult company to fully figure out- often their products have ranked as average at best, but they are more than capable of performing real quality works, as this model shows. Built in Thailand and released in a glossy metallic silver paint with tan interior, this model of the Cayenne is 1:18th of the real thing. It weighs something over a pound, is about 10.5 inches long and 4 inches wide.


Functionality: the driver's and front passenger's door open, and while the hinges squeak something awful on mine, the doors are more securely mounted than I've seen on some models. The hood and rear liftgate open as well. The hinges on those are a bit stiff, somewhat like the doors, but again all these moving parts are mounted pretty well. Also to be considered is the fact that because all the opening parts are a bit stiff, they don't swing open and shut whenever they feel like it, and you don't have to do anything to make them stay open. Now, the rear passenger doors, left and right, do not open.


Appearances: this model looks realistic, just as it should. The underside, hood, interior, and exterior all have a remarkable look and feel of quality and detail to them. Maisto's Cayenne also has a certain sharpness to its appearances. Taut, well-made. Just like the German automobile it replicates.


Understand, of course, that this is not meant to be a toy. Something more simple, and durable, would probably be better if that's the kind of use you have in mind. But this Cayenne could probably hold up well if treated with care, even as a toy. Just don't get careless and break it. Know it's a model first and foremost. Reviewed by Alan Edward Creager "Master & Commander") Shop here


This is a quality model, and certainly more durable than some models I've come across. Prices aren't too bad, either, from what I've seen. This is definitely one of Maisto's better works. --Alan Edward Creager "Master & Commander") Shop here

SUNSTAR 1/24 BEDFORD 1949 OB COACH DUPLE VISTA GREY CARS

Introduced in August 1939, the Bedford OB chassis was designed specifically for public transport. The off-set differential on the rear axle combined with the mounting of the engine and the gearbox at a slight angle permitted a sunken, central gangway for easier passenger access. However two months later, following the outbreak of World War II, production was stopped after only 73 chassis had been manufactured. In January 1942, production of a more utilitarian version known as the OWB recommenced.In October 1945, production of the OB resumed and the Bedford OB chassis went on to play a major role in the re-equipping of many transport fleets as demand rose sharply.

Over 40 different coach-builders used the chassis, but by far the biggest was the Hendon-based firm of Duple, whose Vista body was to become synonimous with the OB coach. However, the Vista body underwent many changes during its life. Unlike the original pre-war and the first 46 post-war Duple Vistas, which had an entrance door which slid behind the main side body panel, the door on the following models slid open into an external recess.

During 1947, the destination and fleet-name boxes were modified,a rounded outer edge replacing the earlier angular one. In 1948, due to material shortages, the characteristic side “flash” was omitted and replaced by a single aluminium bead about 3 inches below the waistline, and the operator's name plate box was removed from the rear. The original 4-spoked steering wheel was replaced by a 3-spoked version. In 1949, the side flash and the operator's plate returned. Later that year, the luggage door locks, which had been operated by a T-key, were replaced by a single locking handle and the rear direction indicator lights were changed. The large chromed bumper over-riders were removed, a deeper rear bumper/body trim was added which incorporated the wording Bedford-Duple and a Duple motif was added to both sides of the 1950. As an option for sight-seeing services, quarter-lights in the roof were offered which necessitated. Shop here 

VANGUARDS 1/43 JAGUAR XJ SPORT ULTRAVIOLET

The XJ Sport uses the 3.5 litre version of Jaguar's super smooth V8. It may produce 'only' 262bhp in this smaller form, but the clever aluminium construction of the car means it weighs a mere 1615kgs. This enables the XJ Sport to turn in a respectable 0-60 time of 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 150mph.

This diecast model Jaguar XJ Sport is Ultraviolet and features working wheels.

1:43 scale (approx. 10cm / 3.9in long) - made by Vanguards.Limited edition of 2510 pieces worldwide complete with numbered certificate. Shop here

MINICHAMPS 1/43 AUDI 100

In the late 60s there was still a hint of VW styling in Audis, as this model highlights. Very neat chromework and a smart interior add to the appeal. Shop here

SCHUCO 1/43 AUDI TT COUPE DIECAST MODEL

Audi revealed the second-generation TT on April 6, 2006. It uses aluminum in the front body panels, and steel in the rear, to enhance its near-neutral front-to-rear weight distribution. It is available in front-wheel drive or 'quattro' four-wheel drive layout, and is offered as a 2+2 Coupé or as a two-seater Roadster. Factory production commenced during August 2006. Powertrain options include one of two inline four cylinder engines: The all-new 1.8 liter Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection or the more common and established 2.0 liter TFSI. The Fuel Stratified Injection technology was derived from the Audi Le Mans endurance race cars, and offers improved fuel efficiency as well as an increased power output and cleaner emissions. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with the six-speed 'S tronic' as an option. The new TT now has a multi-link fully independent rear suspension to compliment the front independent suspension. The new TT also features a revised rear spoiler; which automatically extends at speeds greater than 75 mph, and retracts again below 50 mph.Shop here

SCHUCO 1/43 AUDI A5 CABRIOLET DIECAST MODEL

The Audi A5 is available in two-door coupé and cabriolet versions and is a modern manifestation of the grand tourer tradition. The design is based on Nuvolari quattro concept car. The coupé was introduced in 2007 while the convertible was unveiled at the New York Auto Show in 2009. Besides being strikingly beautiful, the design is notable for its departure from Audi's trademark engine mounting position over the front axle, instead being located behind the front axle in an effort to achieve a more even weight distribution between the front and rear wheels. A variety of sophisticated engines are available including a 3.0 liter V6 supercharged engine option for the cabriolet. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or 6-speed Tiptronic automatic. Shop here

WELLY 1/24 VW 2001 MICROBUS

Another reasonably detailed model, with opening features, but as the subject matter is more unusual, this will be a welcome addition for VW enthusiasts. Shop here