MATCHBOX COLLECTIBLES: AEC 'S' TYPE BUS 'DUBLIN CORPORATION'

The AEC 'S' type bus (YET05) is featured operated by Dublin Corporation. This well decorated model is prototypically covered in advertisements which naturally add a flavour of the location and period. As examples of the detail now being included by Matchbox, note the fleet numbers on the front (behind the driver) and rear (on the platform), the 'Watch Your Step' warning on the platform, and the fact that the seats are separately painted in light brown (in contrast to the dark brown floor).

FORDSON POWER MAJOR DIECAST TRACTOR MODEL

This 1:16 model is a highly detailed and accurate replica of one of the most famous British tractors of all time. The bonnet opens as it does on the real thing, as does the tool box. All the leads and fuel lines have been incorporated and, of course, the steering and the hitch both function. The Power Major was eventually superseeded in 1962, having appeared in 1958, but this original version is still held in high regard.

MINI SEVEN & LAND ROVER/TRAILER ROBERT STACEY ACROPOLIS RALLY 2004

This Limited Edition captures the spirit of the Acropolis Rally 2004. The set features the Mini 7 driven by Robert Stacey, conveyed on a trailer hauled by a Land Rover. Features include accurate badging and detailed vehicle interiors.

RANGE ROVER METROPOLITAN POLICE

The Range Rover Metropolitan Police in the battenburg livery is probably one of the best police models Corgi has ever produced. Several police forces in the UK have been experienting with this livery, with the model depicting the phase 2 design with siveral and panels and reflective red pin striping added. Again the crest is excellent, and the model comes with authentic registration number, roof markings and rear stripes.

1955 CHRYSLER IMPERIAL

1955 Chrysler Imperial Diecast Model White 1/18 Die Cast Car By Signature Models

In 1955, Chrysler first marketed the Imperial without the Chrysler name under the slogan "the flagship of the forward look". Indeed, the company wanted to keep its new premier marque so distinct that it set aside an assembly just for the Imperial -"a completely separate and distinct line of automobiles." However, the Imperial marque lasted until 1975 although the Imperial name has lived on as a Chrysler model. The new marque paid off in 1955, helping to increase Chrysler's sales after three years of decline and move Chrysler back to second place ahead of Ford. Indeed, Imperial sales more than double in 1955. The two-door Newport model had a 130-inch wheelbase and Chrysler's hemi-head, 331.1 cubic inch V-8 that could produce 250 horsepower.

FERRARI 250 GTO DIECAST MODEL CAR

Ferrari 250 GTO Diecast Model Car 1/18 Black Die Cast Car by Kyosho

The model is the Ferrari 250 GTO, which has a change to right-hand drive, new seats and steering wheel, and a re-sprayed interior.

1965 FORD MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE BURGUNDY DIECAST MODEL

1965 Ford Mustang Convertible Burgundy Diecast Model 1/18 Die Cast Car By ERTL Matco Tools

The introduction of the Mustang mid-year in 1964 was an unqualified success. Over 120,000 were produced setting the stage for 1965 when a remarkable 559,451 Mustangs were rolled off the assembly lines in Dearborn, Michigan, San Jose, California and Metuchen, New jersey. 73,112 of these were convertibles, which cost $2,614 with the standard Inline 6 engine. About 2/3rds of the customers decided to take one of the optional 289 cubic inch V-8's.

One new model, a fastback, was added to the line and other changes from 1964 were minor. Although Ford continued to trail Chevrolet in total sales, they sold 500,000 more cars than 1964 and cut the difference from 600,000 to less than 200,000.