stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Sept 19, 2004 3:08:47 GMT 1
Dear Sirs: This manufacturers impact over the toy and model industry was quite deep and for five decades it became a household word.Of course,I am refering to Matchbox. Its early history is quite well known;hence,I will not over these details.The first models were considered crude by today standards;yet,they were modeling-and with some accuracy-real,known cars.Some of these are also on the unique basis,like the Vauxhall sedan,1956 and 1959 Ford Wagon,1958 (?) Cadillac.These came from the 'regular wheels' period.These were better molded and again no many miniatures are found of them:1965 Ford Galaxie,1964 Chevrolet Impala 4-door,1968 Mercury Parklane.In all,thanks to their distribuition system,Matchbox was known globally by the mid-1960's and as I understood,one of the very few die-cast cars offered in the US. Of course,people were noticing.Siku converted to diecast because of that;Majorette numbered their cars as Matchbox and there were illegal copies of these.I have some from Hong Kong that are plastic copies of the first Matchbox models. By 1968,Hot Wheels appeared.As I can state,their car were more 'sporty' as opposed to buses,sedans or farm vehicles,and they could roll better than anything else in the market.Goes without saying that these are a legend themselves right now. Matchbox tried to compete by bringing the Superfast wheels to the market.Consequently,there were vehicles,by 1970,that had the 'regular' and 'superfast' wheels.Adittionally,the 'imaginary' vehicles,a 'la Hot Wheels appeared,but that almost buried Matchbox and no collector have much affection for these.Unique vehicles from this period includes the Holden pick-up (similar to the one which appeared in 'Mad Max') and the 1977 Mercury Cougar Villager Station Wagon ( the real car,as the most of the 4-door Cougars were produced for only one model year),circa 1989 Lincoln Town Car (not a limo,fortunately), the Mercury Sable Wagon ( Taurus relative) and of course,the 1986 Ford LTD Crown Vic police car. Is also known that by 1982 Universal from Hong Kong took over Matchbox.During this period,the number of toy ranges expanded and cars with extra details were offered as well and these will cost more than the 1-75 range.These,along with similar offerings from Majorette,paved the way for the 'Muscle Cars' from Racing Champions Ertl.The Super King Range include some 1/64 models of trucks and buses. By 1992,Tyco took over and the 'fancy painting' era started.By then,Matchbox were considered 'serious' models as opposed to Hot Wheels,but under Tyco,they were being thrown to the toy range again. One of their most sucessful models was the Dodge Challenger-from 1986 to around 1996 or so;two castings of this vehicle were made and the Tyco version had the 'fancy' colors of their usual models.No 'unique' cars came to be during this period but their 1997 Ford Crown Victoria was one of the first at this scale. And it was big news at the modeling world when Mattel bought Tyco and Consequently,Matchbox.This is a mega-company now,but rumor has that the former was concerned about the popularity of Playing Mantis/Johnny Lightning and Maisto.Again,except for the Pontiac Vibe and Checker Marathon ( the wheels of the latter suck!) not many unique models were offered.And,by now,65% of the Matchboxes are imaginary vehicles with wheels that...............Another reason of groaning from the collectors of the brand.Ironically,by the take-over,Mattel stated that Matchbox would offer 'real' cars,but............... The line of cars became unreal by 2001; yet,there were some real models as well,altough these became the minority. 2004 saw the highest amount of unrealistic cars - more than 50% of its new releases. But 2004 also saw the 'Superfast' series and these are vehicles from the 1-75 series with lots of details added on. As a matter of fact,it is 35 years since the first superfast series rolled from the assembly lines. I just hope that Matchbox does not dissapear as did Mercury when Mattel took over it and converted that manufacturer to a toy-producing line. This is its site: www.matchboxtoys.com/us/index.asp Notice the Matchbox around the world entry.These are the 'local models' I been mentioning all along.The cars will be under different numbering but at times there is a model that is exclusive (at times in terms of livery) to that market. There are several sites that also give listings of the overall Matchbox models,plus lots of literature is avaliable.After all,this is a mega brand. Some of the new,2004,superfast series: cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=36511&item=6927553631&rdcgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=761&item=6926644446&rd=1
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Sept 21, 2004 5:17:59 GMT 1
Dear Sirs: In 1968,they appeared: Mattel's Hot Wheels series.Goes without saying that the diecast arena was ruled by Matchbox until then but the Hot Wheels had 'hot' designs and were considered the fastest cars of the world.Their first car was not a tractor,either,but a Camaro. The specialty of this company was the 'imaginary' cars.Some of them,like the Deora were based on showcars.Also the AMX II was offered (AMC did not had the resources to build this show car) and later versions had a different name.The first ones were built in the US,but by 1970 or so these will be molded in Hong Kong and the by the 1980's,Malasya.These are the main producers;Hot Wheels are also manufactured in Thailand,India,Mexico and in Brazil these were offered under a different name. Unique vehicles from this company includes the Dodge Aries (Station Wagon) and Mirada,Oldsmobile fastback (late 1970's),Cord,Duesenberg,AMC Gremlin and Pacer Wagon,Auburn,Stutz Blackhawk,Chevrolet Citation,1980's Chevrolet Malibu taxi,Talbot Lago and some others;the list is extensive.Thing is,most of these are 'costumised' (like the Gremlin Wagon: it has the engine at the rear) and it was said that collectors do not care much about the 'imaginary' models.To make things worst,they started in 2003 a range of 'tooned' cars,and as the name implys,the caricature of a car ( and interesting ones too such as a 1950's Oldsmobile-what a waste!) is molded. They bought Matchbox-their main competitor-by 1997,and the latter was reduced to the 'cartoon' and toy producer.Unreal police cars and taxis,limos,ambulances and so on.Their competitors,such as Playing Mantis/Johnny Lightning are,at least molding real and unique cars at all times.Some goes to Welly and Motormax.Maisto tried the 'imaginary' cars and these do not sell. Fact is,the few 'real' cars molded by this company-Aries,Bugatti,Duesenberg-are well executed and they have a more detailed set of vehicles that,despite their $7.00 retail price,sold good and models as the 1962 Plymouth,1948 Ford Wagon,Buick Riviera were included.SUV's include the Suburban,but this is from a separate series,as is their Saturn Ion,one of the few models from this make.Foreign cars from Peugeot (only one,the 604),Porsche,Mercedes,BMW were molded as well. Mega Company,indeed.But cut out the 'tooned' and 'imaginary' cars...............well,as I understand,in America,there are more collectors of Hot Wheels than Matchbox. And then,there is the speculation.The first Hot Wheels, which had the red circle at the wheels are very valuable items because,accordingly, these were made in low numbers and since their play value was so high,these were played to death,literally.Also,the most valuable of them all are the few red line cars that were made in 1977, the last year when this feature appeared; or the Volkswagen van with the surfboard. These were sold on auction at thousand of dollars; some other vehicles,such as a semi trailer,also have similar value. But,as I said above,the 'tooned' cars have to go. It is a waste of casting,to say the least.Worst: Maisto is introducing similar lines! Also,there are the collectable lines -or the items that cost $8.00 or so - and these are very well done.The recent ones,such as the Bugatti and 1956 Ford Sunliner are just superb. Site below: www.hotwheels.com/us/search_brand.asp?brandSkin=common&brand_id=8305 Below,their more detailed series: www.hotwheels.com/us/search_brand.asp?brandSkin=common&brand_id=7817
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Sept 29, 2004 5:07:54 GMT 1
Dear Sirs: Ah,Playing Mantis/Johnny Lightning..... Up to now,the only Karmann-Ghia Coupe that existed in 1/64 was molded,in plastic,by AB (the Vallassis Brothers). No interior and a tad crude. Playing Mantis released,at their Volkswagen Series,their 1963 Karmann Ghia Coupe.Red,white top,and it is quite nice as the rest of the cars that they do.This series also features the new Volkswagen Transporter;a nice item indeed and I think that is a tad better than the Matchbox version. Also,at their Hot Rod series,the Studebaker Golden Hawk. The only 1/64 model of it that I know was made by Hubley,40 years ago! Also,they released a 1983 Oldsmobile Cutlass; hence the one from Hong Kong that I spoke about is not the only model of it any longer. That is what I like about the Mantis: they are always molding cars that no one bother to, sometimes in any scale. The Olds belongs to the Classic Gold group release,and it can be seen below: www.playingmantis.com/jl/news_details.php?articleid=762 The Karmann-Ghia and the new transporter belong to Volkswagen II series and these can be seen below: www.playingmantis.com/jl/products_details.php?productid=359
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 1, 2004 1:08:56 GMT 1
Dear Sirs:
High-end makes made well in 1/64,be it Cadillac,Lincoln,Mercedes-Benz,BMW,Lexus or Infiniti.
Lincoln is represented by the circa 1964 Continental by Matchbox;Mark III by Lindberg,Mark IV by Tomica and Yat Ming;Mark V by Matchbox and 1988 Town Car by Matchbox.The circa 1958 Premiere was Molded by Playing Mantis/Johnny Lightning,and there is a 1940's Lincoln as well,but I am not sure who manufactured it.
Cadillac is well represented,starting with a circa 1935 model by Hot Wheels;a circa 1953 model was molded by the same company,but as a McDonald's give-away ( the Kid's Meal giveeaways are done by Mattel for McDonalds'these are not,at most cases,part of the Hot Wheels line). Mattel also provided a circa 1957 and the extravagant 1959 convertible (so did Playing Mantis/Johnny Lightning about the latter). The final Eldorado Convertibes and hardtops from the 1970's were offered by Playart and Lindberg;Playing mantis.Johnny Lightning brought a Pace Car model.Of late,there is a circa 1977 four door De Ville by Tomica and Yat ming;circa 1996 Seville by Tootsetoys and a circa 1999 De Ville by Maisto. Alas,Hot Wheels 1958 Cadillac was considered a high notch model;excellen represantation of the real car; Matchbox also offered one as one of the first 1-75 models. Finally,the Allante was offered by Matchbox and Majorette.
Chrysler make is the top of the line from Chrysler Corporation.Yet,no many miniatures were made of it in 1/64.The Imperial,which at times was a separate make,was offered,as circa 1964 model,by Lone Star. If these can count,the circa 1984 Town & County convertible was offered by Road Champs and there are miriads of PT cruisers-Playing Mantis/Johnny Lightning,Matchbox,Motormax,Maisto,Chinese brand and perhaps more.The prototypes-a two door version was molded by Hot Wheels and Maisto; a roadster was offered by Maisto when these were refered as Plymouths.
I will not even try to go after the Mercedes-Benz offerings,just mention that Siku,Corgi Jr,Hot Wheels,Matchbox,Playing Mantis.Johnny Lightning,Maisto,Welly,Motormax,Playart,Yatming,Guisval,Buby-to mention a few-offered a ton of models from this manufacturer.Siku will offer the oldest ones; from the 1960's on, Matchbox will be a good source; the remaining are for 1970's - current models.My pick will be: the 450 SE from Matchbox and the 240 D from Corgi Jr.Alas,Welly has a good amount of the modern ones,be it the C or E series;I got several of them from this manufacturer.Majorette had decent representations from the circa 1984 190 E;Hot Wheels also did offered the SLR series. And many more,of course,and I am not bothering with the SUV's.The convertibles and the Gullwing version was decently reproduced by Corgi Jr.
I do not know of any BMW 501 models in 1/64;Siku may have done some of these.A decent amount of the 3 and 7 series exist.Majorette,Corgi Jr,Matchbox,Hot Wheels,Playing Mantis/Johnny Lightning,Motormax,Welly have a good selection of models,especially of the 1990's roadsters.No models of the current 745i yet;I hope Welly does it (it offers this car in other scales).Again,most of the BMW;s are current (1960's on) models.
The Lexus is represented quite well. All series-I,G,LS are repoduced.The LS is offered either as a Lexis or Toyota Celsior (Zee Toys for Lexus;Tomica for Toyota and it offers a couple of Generations of it). The I series is offered by Maisto or Jada Toys;the G series is offered by Jada Toys.The roadster is also represented by Jada Toys.
Infinity has a model and it is badged as its Nissan Counterpart,by Tomica.
Rolls Royces were always avaliable from Matchbox;this ended by the Tyco period.ERTL also had one,and so did Tomica and Yat ming.Hot Wheels also molded one of these,but as a custom.Playart and Zee Toys had a two-door version At the moment,I do not see any renditions of the new one,which I consider quite ugly.
From the makes from the past,Packards also have very few renditions,the current one being the Caribbean Convertible from RCE.They did a good job at that;nice additiion at any scale.
Duesenberg also go reprduced.One of these was a 1931,4-door model by Hot Wheels.The molds from this model was recently destroyed (last run series).A SJ type convertible was offered by RCE and this is a nice three-incher;very well captured and impressive as the real model was.
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 4, 2004 15:13:06 GMT 1
Dear Sirs:
In all,one wants to know what kind of vehicles are avaliable to add to his/her collection.Now,a profile of what is avaliable in 1/64 may be interesting for,say,Chevrolet cars.No Camaros or Corvettes-yet.These are quite well represented,and Playing Mantis/Johnny Lightning have entire series for these cars.
1948 Chevrolet Coupe Jada Toys,Revell Diecast,Mattel 1951 Chevrolet Fastback ERTL 1951 Chevrolet Sedan Goden Wheel 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air Jada Toys 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Matchbox,Mattel,Playing Mantis,Racing Champions 1955 Chevrolet Nomad ERTL,Playing Mantis 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Playing Mantis 1956 Chevrolet Nomad Playing Mantis 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Majorette,Matchbox,Mattel,Playing Mantis,Racing Champions,Zee Toys 1957 Chevrolet Nomad Playing Mantis,Zee Toys 1958 Chevrolet Impala Racing Champions,Revell 1958 Chevrolet Station Wagon Hubley 1959 Chevrolet El Camino Jada Toys 1959 Chevrolet Impala Mattel 1960 Chevrolet Corvair Hubley 1960 Chevrolet Impala Racing Champions 1961 Chevrolet Impala ERTL 1963 Chevrolet Impala ERTL,Playing Mantis 1964 Chevrolet Impala Yatming; 4-door: Matchbox 1965 Chevrolet Impala Mattel 1965 Chevrolet II Nova Playing Mantis 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle Playing Mantis 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396 Welly 1968 Chevrolet Nova ERTL,Mattel,Playing Mantis 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle Mattel 1971 Chevrolet Impala Imperial Toys 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle Convertible Welly 1971 Chevrolet El Camino Playing Mantis 1971 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Playing Mantis 1974 Chevrolet Vega Lindberg,Zee Toys 1976 Chevrolet Chevette:ERTL,Kidco 1976 Chevrolet Monza Mattel,Zee Toys 1977 Chevrolet Caprice Playart 1981 Chevrolet Citation ERTL,Mattel,Playart 1982 Chevrolet Impala Majorette 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Aerocoupe ERTL,Mattel 1990 Chevrolet Beretta Mattel,Zee Toys 1992 Chevrolet Caprice Racing Champions 1995 Chevrolet Caprice Golden Wheel 1996 Chevrolet Impala Playing Mantis,Revell 2000 Chevrolet Impala Matchbox 2001 Chevrolet Impala Welly
Light trucks: 1950 Chevrolet 3100 pick-up Mattel,Welly 1955 Chevrolet pick-up Mattel,Tiger Wheels 1964 Chevrolet Van Lindberg 1972 Chevrolet Pick-up Zee Toys 1975 Chevrolet Van Matchbox 1976 Chevrolet Blazer Imperial Toys,Zee Toys 1982 Chevrolet Blazer Matchbox 1984 Chevrolet S10 Blazer Mattel 1995 Chevrolet Pick-up Matchbox 1997 Chevrolet pick-up Playing Mantis 1997 Chevrolet S10 Blazer Majorette 1997 Chevrolet Tahoe Matchbox,Playing Mantis 1999 Chevrolet pick-up Welly 2000 Chevrolet Suburban Maisto,Matchbox 2002 Chevrolet S10 4-door pick-up Jada Toys 2001 Chevrolet Suburban Motormax,Welly 2003 Chevrolet Traiblazer Maisto 2004 Chevrolet SSR pick-up Playing Mantis
Show cars: Chevrolet Bel air Maisto
Of course,this list is far from complete and these covers that well known Chevrolets.
Is to be noticed that Playing Mantis does have a range of years for their Chevy Novas or Chevelles,but it seems that the grilles and details are almost the same.
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 6, 2004 5:50:06 GMT 1
Dear Sirs:
At times,I have a surprise or two on my researches.
Summer was a Junky Hong Kong brand and Sav On carried the brand. Despite that,some interesting junk were molded by them,including the 1972 Matador. Recently,I discovered that they also released a Checker Marathon (before Golden Wheels and Matchbox) and Tucker (before Playing Mantis). I also remember a 1970's Toyota Coupe and some other assorted cars,but the cars that I mentioned above were a complete surprise for me.
I will try to find these. Pretty sure that I will discover some other interesting models -even if junky - as I go along.
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 9, 2004 18:20:50 GMT 1
Dear Sirs: The Mattel - Matchbox conglomerate is big enough; now there is RC2 which encompasses ERTL,Racing Champions,William Britain and now it seems that Playing Mantis - which manufactures the Johnny Lightning line - is part of this group. If that is so,then this will be another Mega Company around, and they are more focused to collector's needs than Mattel (just look at the 'tooned' cars offerings from the latter). In all, most of the details are known: as Mattel,with their Hot Wheels cars burst into the diecast scene, it made most of its competion to rethink their product offerings. Matchbox created the superfast line as a consequence, Asian manufacturers also offered lines that that were named closed to Hot Wheels and at that time,Topper,the original creator of the Johnny Lightning series, burst into the scene with,granted, 'custom cars' ,but as I followed the story,these were faster than the Hot Wheels cars,and if found, will command premium prices. The company had court problems and by 1971 or so it was no more (a case of a company which appeared and disappeared as quickly). By 1994,it was back,thanks to the efforts of Thomas Lowe,who got the rights for the name (hence,it is their tenth annivesary now). First, re-molds of the original Topper models were made; by 1995, the company started to issue their own,original vehicles and since these were 'premium isuues' (all diecast body and chassi,lots of detail,priced at $3.00 each) they took the market by storm (with a veangence,you may say). Not only that,they introduced cars that were inexistent to 1/64 and their selection of original cars is still very high and so are their quality. There is a member club and special vehicles are issued for that group, but some of these were and are avaliable to the general public. ERTL is also quite known. Its founder started business by building toy tractors at his basement. The agricultural related vehicles were and are their main specialty. By the late 1970's and early 1980's a line of 1/64 cars were avaliable and as I read, these are 'sleepers' and they were quite well made and as Yat ming,not yet as discoverd by the collecting public.Alas,their Dukes of Hazzard Dodge Charger is quite known, but others such as their 1980's ford EXP and Shelby Chrager, among others, are not. There was also a line of semi trailers,and the Mack tractor and cattle carrier trailer I own is quite impressive,down to the bulldog hood ornament.These were part of a 'Trucks of the World' series;I can not quite recall the other tractors that were avaliable. Then,there were a wide selection of agricultural tractors; is fair to state that they produced most of the tractor models one could want; the same is true of their construction equipment.mainly the offerings of Caterpillar. Another line of toys were offered. They line of 'American Muscle Cars' in 1/64 (early 21st Century) is truly the Minichamps of the 1/64 community;some of these are still offered as 'Route 66' collectibles. By the late 1980's,they appeared:Racing Champions which offered -and still does - NASCAR racers. Granted,their first offerings were nothing than a not-recognazible blobs,but as time went by,they made real racing vehicles (in all areas of racing) and they competed with Action Rcaing Collectables, which burst into the scene in the 1990's and their vehicles were realistic from the beggining and some of the older racers were offered,along with racing support equipment such as trucks with racing trailers and the like. By 1996,they introduced a line of premium-made cars (there so many NASCAR racers one can sell), known as their Mint series and these are also high quality casting as well. These lasted until today at, again, the 'Route 66' series,altough very few new offering are avaliable since 2000. By that time, ERTL was acquired by them. I am not this sure about William Britains. This is a venerable company and their specialty are military equipment and toy soldiers. I also not sure when they became part of the RC2 group but this will cover production of military-related equipment,and this is also a well known brand.Their vehicles are at the large scales,however. Hence,that what it is. I been talking about Playing Mantis for a while and raving about their products and new releases for a while; now that are associated to RC2, this makes a company that has high quality model producers associated to it. My answer to Mattel would be: drop the 'tooned cars' (they do not sell anyway;these are the most found lines at the stores; problem is,Matchbox is 'dancing' at the same lines.It is interesting to notice that Playing Mantis at first issued 'imaginary cars' but immediately consolidated their position by offering real -and very well made - vehicles). Also,since there is a surge on slot car racing,Playing Mantis also got onto that,including offering bodies for 'tired' Aurora cars.There were special series,at the beggining, that were not offered at the regular series; same thing abou a line if 1/55 scale NASCAR cars (these are almost impossible to find). Another exclusive series was the pewter series and I seldom saw that.I do not have any of these and by now,these are also impossible to find. Rumour was that Playing Mantis would release a line of 1/87 scale vehicles (their 'Partridge Family bus,molded close to that scale.along with the Utilimaster Stepvan were good models at this scale). So did ERTL; model of semi trucks and tractors were offered. Now that the Mantis is part of the RC2 group,I see that as a possibility,and their models will be good as are their 1/64's. Frankly,I hope that will happen;lots of nice models will be offered. For further details,see the sites below. www.rcertl.com/www.johnnylightning.com/
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 12, 2004 14:45:52 GMT 1
Dear Sirs: Since the discussion about the Ford Pinto was going at the members area,I will state that this vehicle saw some miniature renditions. One was made,on around 1/55 scale by Zylmex/Zee Toys (got that last year) and the wagon was reproduced by Hot Wheels (as a panel van-1/64 scale- with several liveries,including Incredible Hulk). I do not know if it graduated as a promo. The Chevy Vega also had a fair amount of models in 1/64. Zylmex/Zee Toys made a model of it; Hot Wheels had a dragster version and the best version was the one made by Lindberg (very accurate wheels and the car looks right,too). AMC's Gremlin was offered by Hot Wheels as a regular version or dragster;the second one comes from Lindberg and again,the model looks quite accurate.I also got the Miny Lindy one last year. The Pacer was reproduced as a wagon by Hot Wheels. Tomica made the sedan,and that was copied by a company from Hong Kong. A superb model came around 1999 by RCE (their mint series). A cheapo version of it was offered as well,by the same company. Chrysler's 'Captive Imports' such as the Mitsubishi Galant from the 1970's that was rebadged as a Dodge or Plymouth was offered by Matchbox.Interestingly,this car had either a higher number than 75 (belonged to the 1-75 series) and/or was part of the Japanese series.It also part of the regular 1-75 series,but with other graphics on. Making a follow-up at the Saab models,Matchbox did released the Sonnet at the early 1970's and this is a very nice model; at the same period,Yat ming molded their model (the rear hatch does not open as does the Matchbox one).Majorette had the 900 series,I believe and Matcbox launched the new one which debuted by 1988. Maisto released a 2002 Saab 9X concept and as I understand,this is difficult to find.See it below: cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=6927520407&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 16, 2004 4:33:52 GMT 1
Dear Sirs: Hubley,or the Hubley Manufacturing co. made several types of toys and by 1966 was acquired by Gabriel Industries.By 1978,Gabriel was absorved by CBS (yes,the Columbia Broadcasting Co; I also have some of their toys). Hubley's manufacturing facilities were located in Lancaster, Pensylvannia and existed since 1894,but by now is mostly a memory. Toys were manufactured by this company,but it also offered a good range of cars and trucks plus plastic promo vehicles ( quite difficult to find and these can go easily at the three-digit prices). There was a range of 1/64 vehicles and these were called the Real Types and Tinytoys ( the latter was a commercial vehicle range) and that was a response from this manufacturer,at the 1950's, to the sucess of Dinky and Corgi. These vehicles debuted around 1961, and for the cars there was a Canadian and US version, and the former called its vehicles 'Real Toys' and there are variations between the Canadian versions, specially at the packaging and vehicle frame. The Canadian versions had a Rexdalle,Ontario adress. Below, a list of the Tinytoys vehicles: 603K American La France pumper 604K Le Torneau-Westinghouse Haulpack Dump truck 605K Le Torneau-Westinghouse Tournatractor 606K Cook Brothers Cement truck. Only model I know from this Los Angeles Based truck manufacturer; I just got it. 615K American La France Aerial Ladder 616K Le Torneau-Westinghouse Tournapull Scraper 617K Chevrolet pick-up and Chris Craft Boat trailer 618K Chevrolet pick-up and Horse trailer These models listed are very nice and quite detailed,with windscreens and interior details for the consruction equipment. Their size varies between 4 and 8 inches. Below,the Real Toy and Real Types listings: Real Toys Real Types RT 010 Dodge -- RT 020 Ford Fairlane -- RT 030 Ford Thunderbird 421 RT 040 Chrysler Imperial 423 RT 050 Studebaker Hawk 422 RT 060 Chevrolet Station Wagon -- RT 080 Chevrolet Corvette 420 RT 090 Buick 428 RT 150 Accident Squad Car -- RT 160 Police car 555 Ford State police RT 170 Station Wagon Fire Chief 553 Chevrolet Fire Chief RT 180 Taxi 554 Ford Taxi RT 190 Ambulance-Suburban 552 Chevrolet Ambulance RT 200 School Bus 756 RT 210 Metro Delivery 575 Delivery truck RT 230 Bread Delivery -- RT 240 T.C.A. Air Freight -- RT 250 Ford County Squire 427 RT 260 Ford Suburban Delivery 551 Ford Panel Truck RT 290 Coca Cola Truck 752 Soft Drink Truck RT 300 Dump Truck 754 RT 320 Chevrolet Fleetside truck 424 Chevrolet Pick-up RT 330 Ford Falcon 425 RT 340 Chevrolet Corvair 426 RT 350 GMC Firebird III 550 GM Fire Bird III -- 755 Chevrolet Truck In all, these lists are based on packages desciptions. When the Real Toys and Real Types descriptions match, the Real Type list is left only with the reference number only. When these are different, the description is cited at both sides. -- stands for not avaliable at (either) range. These vehicles are on the acceptable side in terms of detailing and many are one of a kind such as the school bus and Dump truc (both Chevy;1960's) 1958 Ford (police and taxi) and 4-door Chevrolet Corvair. All metal;no interiors. The differences between the Canadian and American types were cited; at times,however,some of the American versions have the 'modified' details of the Canadian Versions; and the Chevrolet Dump truck is noticeable different between the two versions ( Color,bumper details,etc.). The CBS toys that I got are slot racers,such a 1976 Chevrolet Nova. CBS gave up their toy business a while ago. Unique models includes the Chevrolet Corvair (it is a four-door; RC2 offered a 2-door version a while ago) ,the 1958 Chevrolet Station Wagon and a 1958 Ford Fairlane. Playing Mantis just molded a Studebaker Golden Hawk; Hubley also offered one of these. I also believe that CBS toys did offered other slot car racers besides the Chevrolet Nova,but this is another story. Buby also offered a Ford Falcon and this is the American, not Argentinian, version of it. While the Hubley version is a two door,Bubby's offereing is a 4-door sedan. Hubley Toys can be found often at eBay; their 1/64 cars - depending on what one is searching - are seldom listed. Some of the Hubleys are pictured below: cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=2504&item=6932188123&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVWcgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=2592&item=5927505990&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW
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Post by willie on Oct 16, 2004 16:49:41 GMT 1
Can anyone tell me anything about two HO scale Prefo Auto Trans slot cars I am looking for. The Melkus model # 10151 and the Ford Tyrrell P34 model number 10152. I do not know if they are 1/64 - 1/87 th or similar scale. I collect HO F1 and Indy slot cars and have a free site with no adds if anyone is interested. www.trackhobbies.com
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 19, 2004 12:53:27 GMT 1
Dear Sirs:
The site above is very interesting;it even features 'worked' slot cars.
As slot car hobby is doing a come back,firms like Playing Mantis are offering bodies for your tired Aurora/AFX/Tomica bodies.Likewise,Tomica may still offering similar products and Scalextric catalogs are issued yearly,but these are larger vehicles.
Despite the fact tha these are circa 1/64 scale vehicles (1/55 or larger at times), these are commonly called HO cars.
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 20, 2004 15:03:22 GMT 1
Dear Sirs: Road Champs is today remebered by the series of police cars that it produces on an annual basis in 1/43 scale since 1993. In the past they were part of the JRI group and it seems that it involved Yatming and another 'generic' company- Ja-Ru - ( the toys from the latter can still be found; at most,Yatming's knock-outs). Road Champs also had a brief line of 1/64 vehicles and it was one of these cases when a new entry to the market offers something new. Most notable was the circa 1984 Chrysler Le Baron Convertible and circa 1983 Buick Riviera, also convertible. The problem with these cars were their execution: not that good at times. Later on, by the 'police car' period,some more cars were offered, such as an Honda coupe, Toyota Camper truck and MR2 along anothers. Another line of vehicles included a 'fix-up series ( one can take the vehicle apart) and this series included the 2000 Chevrolet Corvette and Ford f-150 Lightning. Their 1/43 cruisers been absent from the stores since at least 2001 and some of the cop cars been commanding three-digit prices. One of their 1/64 scale Mercedes coupe has separate tailight moldings; the model is so good. There was a 1963 Corvette, but it rusts quite easily, specially at the wheels. Lately,I did not saw any articles from this company around. The company is now owned by Jakks Pacific,and at their site,there are not many details what cars are molded,altough is stated that cars,emergency vehicles,buses and aircraft are offered.Site is given below: www.roadchamps.com/webcast.html
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 21, 2004 6:02:52 GMT 1
Dear Sirs:
It happened in 1/64 scale: there are more models avaliable than the real car!
Below,the report of the models of cars that are seldom seen at the streets and/or models of vehicles that are unique to 1/64 (and at times avaliable only at this scale):
The first case is about a Mercury- the Cougar. As the Thunderbird,it was intended to be a 2-door vehicle,but,as the Thunderbird, it got its four-door version by 1977,and unlike the T-bird,a station wagon version,also and all this in 1977 and it was the only year that these vehicles were produced. By then,the Mercury used the body of the new- by then- Ford LTD II. In the 25 years that I been in the US, I saw the real cars only once or twice. By 1978 or so, Matchbox number 74 was a model of the Mercury Cougar Villager Station Wagon and this is the case that there are more models than the real car. The model is somehow easy to spot.
The Majorette #216-- is the case when there is the only model of the real car,in this case the 1970 Plymouth Gran Fury ( always as a cop car). The model by itself is difficult to find,hence its price- on auction conditions or hobby places- can vary dramatically.Not only that,the model looks very right.
Motormax also has the only model of a real car: the circa 2003 Ford F150 crew cab pick-up. It is molded in 1/64 and 1/43 scales and both are very well done;the 1/64 version can go as low as .50 cents at some places but this particular item is also a pain to find.I got the little version at eBay.Replace the wheels and this will look right.
Motormax also molded the Toyota Tacoma pick-up,again,circa 2003 model. And,except for the racing version from Hot Wheels, this is the only model from this truck,which is a new design to the long running SR5 pick-up which,ironically, has very few models (Tomica,Majorette and a third party- stompers,I believe).
It seems that Motormax is doing this on purpouse,in order to compete at the very competitive 1/64 scale market from the US. They also are the only to offer the model of a Toyota Camri (fourth generation,I believe) and this item is even more difficult to find and i shows at eBay (not very often) expect competition. Also,they offer the new generation Corolla, but this one is easier to find.
On the case of the Lexus,the earlier LS version was offered by Zee Toys ( again,a scarce item) and Tomica ( as a rhd Toyota Celsior). At the same hand, the newer (redesigned) LS series is only offered by Tomica again as a rhd Toyota Celsior. The I series is offered by Jada Toys and Maisto and these are easier to find; the G series is offered by Jada Toys.
I will not bother with the Cadillac trucks;there are plenty of models of these.Maisto offers the only model of the late 1990's de Ville sedan,Jada Toys has the only model of the CTS,and Tootsetoys (yes,Tootsetoys) had a miniature of the popular STS ( not only model of it;Anson had an 1/18 scale version of it). Jada Toys also had a 1953 and 1962 Cadillac models but I am not sure if these are unique models.
I do not know much about Adam Brothers coupe,but Yat ming did molded a model of it in the 1980's. I can tell that,as a Bertone,that was an exclusive vehicle. Similary,Tomica had a model of an exclusive Japanese car- the Dome O. Matchbox also did manufactured a Carabo in the late 1960's.
The list can go on. Mattel also had its 'only' versions,such as the Dodge Aries (as a station Wagon),Ford Fairmont coupe ( as a racer),Dodge Mirada ( I did not saw one of these for years now) as a racer as well. On the late 1970's,GM offered a series of fastback sedans with Chevrolet,Buick,Pontiac and Oldsmobile badges. Mattel did picked the Olds version,as a racer.Again,I can not remember when I last saw one of these in the streets. The models themselves are not an everyday sight.
Norev and Majorette never bothered to mold 'imaginary' cars; hence,they filled a gap for the collectors who wanted french cars such as Peugeot,Talbot,Renault and Citroen.Alas, european Chryslers were also offered by Majorette and Mira of Spain.Also,from Majorette,one can get the Ligier coupe. To my surprise,Siku -yes,Siku - offered cars such as the circa 1964 Oldsmobile sedan,1958 or so Mercury Villager Wagon and Edsel (except for the late one,which was molded by RCE, these are also the only models for this cars). Also, Siku did came with DKW's,Goggomobiles and BMW Isettas, but these were modeled by others.
Tomica did offered only models of Japanese cars, but also did modeled the only SUV made by Lamborghini; again,only model of it. Also add the Toyota AA (the original Toyota car),Nissan President ( a large car with V8,for the Japanese market since the 1960's) and Toyota Century (same thing as the Nissan)
Road Champs is known by their 1/43 scale series of police cars. They also fiddled with 1/64,and came with the only models of the Aries-based Chrysler Le Baron Convertible and 1980's Buick Riviera.
And by all means,that is not all.There a lot of unique models around.Some as easy,some are not that easy to find.
There are the ones which will be considered as toys,and that is the case of Stompers,or vehicles that have correct body styling,but ride on 'monster wheels'. These guys offered a Subaru coupe similar to the one which starred at the original Cannobal Run; also, an AMC Eagle, and the original Ford Ranger. There are no other models of these vehicles so far I know; I do not have the Subaru and saw it only once. Ditto for the Ranger and Eagle; however,these are the ones I own. Hot Wheels molded the Dodge Rampage pick up;the real thing is not seen at the streets any longer. Plymouth also did a version of it, and Stomper did molded it. I just find my version yesterday and forgot that I had that. The list of unique models done by either Hot Wheels and/or Matchbox is also extensive - and I am not talking about imaginary cars in here.
Impossible to find and I still looking for this ones: Zee Toys Plymouth Fury Taxi (it showed up only twice at eBay) and circa 1966 Opel Rekord coupe (only once at eBay; I even did not suspected that this one existed. Likewise,I just found a Zee Toys item that does not show up this often (never saw it at eBay): modern,circa 1990's, Peugeot Rally car (a two door coupe,with a big wing at the rear). I even did not knew I had that!
I already mentioned the Hong Kong sourced 1980's Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. It is not so unique right now,because as already mentione,Playing Mantis just molded something similar.
At the late 1990's, a line of 1/64 diecasts was avaliable from Tootsetoys. Unique models included an Explorer two door version and a Cadillac STS,which was mentioned above.
I thought that the Checker cab was only offered by Golden Wheels and now by Matchbox. Wrong.I learned that a junky Hong Kong Company,which also offered the AMC Matador and is called Summer- did offered it. Did also offered the Tucker (again,I thought that only Playing Mantis did molded it).
Playart - the predecessor of Model Power - did offered (again,I discovered it at eBay and it went at $76.00) the Rover 2000 sedan, DAF coupe and Volvo 343. These are unique models for 1/64; they did graduated to the other scales.
Also there are the scarce items,such as the Hot Wheels Volkswagen bus with the surfboard sticking from the rear. This item already commanded tens of thousands of dollars at toy auctions.
Scarce items from Maisto will be the concept cars they molded at this scale. After all,there is only one of these. List at the next thread.
As always, there are more of this scarce or unique vehicles around. It is interesting to notice that when a new manufacturer wants to compete at 1/64,it will offer the miriads of Corvettes,Vipers or Mustangs but will throw in models that are unique to this scale, at times,depending of its nationality. Hong Kong or the Chinese will mold unique items from the American or European market.
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 22, 2004 5:10:07 GMT 1
Dear Sirs: I remember the first Hartoy toys. I saw them at the supermarkets, and these were vehicles with Coca-Cola graphics in there. Unique model: Dodge Ramcharger. Very,very few models of this vehicles and that can almost be confused with a Blazer or Bronco. These models appeared on the late 1980's. By the early 1990's, the company molded a Mack BJ and Ford F6 trucks and all kind of logos were added to these. Fantastic models for their price,to say the least. At the mid-1990's, their premium range of semi-trailers were introduced. As Winross, these trucks were oriented toward the truck companies,and in a sense,these are promos for the trucking companies. If one is a member,and can get discounted prices for their items. Goes without saying that these rigs are state of the art products and in all aspects,very collectable. An interview with the owner of the company revealed that quality was the first priority at these articles and he works within the trucking companies. Their site does not give more details of what is offered;hence I appealed to eBay. I have the Mack BJ and Ford,but none of the semi trailers. cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=223&item=6932129632&rd=1cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=13611&item=7108917572&rd=1
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stanhas87
87thScale addict
1978 Dodge Monaco CHP
Posts: 4,906
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Post by stanhas87 on Oct 23, 2004 17:54:01 GMT 1
Dear Sirs:
American Police cars fared well in 1/64.
The list below excludes 'sporty' Police versions,such as the Camaro or Mustang (there is a ton of models of these,anyway, but includes SUV -or special vehicle police packages).
Mattel did offered the 1977 Dodge Monaco and at one of its sets,a reasonable copy of the 1980 Ford LTD Crown Victoria. This model is seldom seen - or known.
Matchbox had the 1963 Ford Fairlane, 1965 Ford Galaxie,1968 Mercury Parklane,1976 Plymouth Fury,1987 Ford LTD Crown Victoria, 1997 Ford Crown Victoria.
ERTL offered the 1980 Pontiac Bonneville,1974 Dodge Monaco -as the Bluesmobile,but this is a cop car,nevertheless.
Majorette had the only model of the 1970 Plymouth Fury and circa 1982 Chevrolet Impala which is still in production. It come with either generic or CHP markings in it.
Yatming had the Dodge Coronet,Monaco,Caprice Classic (a bit smaller than 1/64). And the Coronet seems to be a copy of Tomicas original and it was molded by several other Hong Kong/Chinese 'junk' makers,including Ja-ru. The Monaco seem to be restricted to Yat ming only,but it would appear with Yat ming or no markings at all at its base. Yat ming's 3 inch models were marketed,in the early 1990's, under several package brands and for a series of diverse costumers,including Kay Bee toys and Woolworth's; hence,the cars would either have Yat ming,Made in.... or nothing at all at their bases.
Golden Wheel ofered the 1950 Chevy 4-door and Checker Marathon Police cars.
Tyco had a 1972 Plymouth Satellite Slot racer.
There are a good amount of manufacturers who are offering the current/1997 Ford Crown Victoria. Matchbox,Golden Wheel,Johnny Lightning did offer the 1997 Ford Vic;Racing Champions,Authenticast,Welly,Motormax,Maisto,Realtoy,Fast Lane did offered the Vic Mk II. Very few of these will come with real department Markings.Welly had NYPD,CHP,LAPD marked to their cruisers;Racing Champions had city police departments and the ones from Authenticast were State Police
The Checker from Golden Wheel had 1960's NYPD livery in it.
Johnny Lightning offered the 1974 Dodge Monaco (it started as the original Bluesmobile,but later it was offered in several liveries,including Chicago Police and New York State Police;the latter had to be obtained by mail when new; now one finds it a eBay),1963 Ford (it started as a model of the 'Andy Griffith Show police cruiser) 1966 Ford Fairlane (started as Joe Friday's ride) ,1990 Ford LTD crown Victoria (it started as the second version of the Bluemobile) in several Police Department liveries. A Caprice with Puerto Rico markings was offered. The Mantis also employed a play that is done by the other manufacturers: calling the 1974 Monaco as 1977 (there are differences,but the casting was not changed) or the 1963 and 1966 Ford other models or vehicles from other years,without changing castings. At all,Playing Mantis had the highest amount of different police car models,followed by Matchbox.
The final Caprice was offered by Racing Champions,(1992 model,with the oblong rear wheel opening)Yatming(1991 model,same as the RC2 version). Welly,Yatming and Maisto's offerings are from 1991.Golden Wheels(1993 model with round rear wheel opening and the third,rear window comes all the way down) ,Johnny Lightning (1995 model;round rear wheel opening and the third,rear window,as the Busch model,does not come all the way down).Most of these,except for the Yatming,had city police markings on them.
Playart released the 1977 Caprice as a generic police car. Only model of this car.
Tomica had the generic police department 1975 Dodge Coronet.
Zee Toys had a 1975 Plymouth Fury. And they also offered - only model of it - but unfortunately,not this well done - the 1984 Ford LTD -or Baby LTD,as it was known because it rode a mid-sized wheelbase. The real car was discontinued in 1986 and the cops liked its performance and it was comapared with the Mustang's, but its brakes were inadequate to stop so much power and that was its major flaw. In Los Angeles,the Sheriff deoartament had a good batch of these,specially at the time of the 1984 Olympics. The model is black and white and has 'SWAT' markings in it. It also ended at the hands of other Chinese makers,and it looked even worst. One could find it as a part of a Pepsi promo set.
Finally-and by all means,that is not all-Imperial Toys had a 1971 Chevrolet (I can determine the model; it has three taillights and Impala's grille - the Impala and Caprice had different front grilles at the time - Police agencies used the Bel-Air or Byscaine models and these had two taillights and grilles similar to the Impala).
The 2000 Chevy Impala is offered by Matchbox. At first, a 'high-end' model was offered (a model the costs around $4.99) with NYPD markings,painted details and an opening trunk.The version that graduated to the 1-75 range is current,has not painted anything and no opening features. Welly offers a 2001 model,altough up to now I did not saw that.
Chevy Blazers Police models were molded by Matchbox and Imperial toys and these are from different years and have generic markings in them; the Matchbox version has a whip antenna.
Chevy Tahoes were molded by Matchbox,Golden Wheel and Playing Mantis. The Matchbox version have generic markings; Golden Wheels have state markings on them,and Playing Mantis reproduced a copy of a Chevrolet Police Vehicles version ( I have photos of the 1/1 scale car; the model matches it) and State agency markings.
Ford Bronco's Police version were offered by Zee Toys with Black and white markings.
Ford Explorer Police version is offered by Maisto. Generic markings
Chevrolet Suburban Police version was molded by Welly. Generic markings.
GMC Yukon Police version is offered by Welly.Generic markings
Matchbox offers Police version of the Expedition.Generic Markings.
And I am sure that there are models of these vehicles; some.like the new offerings from Matchbox are not real vehicles; some others like the offering of Mattel and Chinese companies did not inteded to be Police cars at all. Finally,some of the RC2 models are two-door sedans and as I find a listing of these,I will pass them along. They do not seem realistic to me,however.
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