CastHeads Magazine Volume 3 Issue 2

BRAND NEW SECTION! CASTED BY JADA. THIS MONTH BRINGS

NICK TALKS

NASCAR

FEATURING THE CAMARO ZL1

MUSCLE

THE RED WHITE & BLUE ISSUE

ALSO THE PHOTOGRAPHIC ART OF :

CANDY CARS

50

by EVA GIESELBERG

YEARS OF THE CHALLENGER

THE CULTURED CASTHEAD SPENDS HIS SOCIAL DISTANCING WITH THIS EPIC PHOTO EXHIBIT OF SOME CLASSIC RARITIES

Photo by Mr Grooves | IG @mr.grooves

EDITORS NOTES So far this has been the weirdest year for the entire world. But we remain positive and scientifically mankind has never been more prepared to overcome this pandemic than before. For most this has been a wonderful time to get back into the hobby and spend some time with the cars they love. The Internet is full of some fantastic videos as well as some creative photography and time has allowed people to get really creative with their custom builds and dioramas.

We also see a lot of brands opening back up and postal services resuming which means you guys are already or will soon be receiving your new scale model purchases with more time to enjoy them. All news isn’t all bad.

We at Castheads have been socially distanced and like you can’t wait to see the end, but we do encourage you to stay home and stay safe with your family and collection.

For some this may be harder on the finances, we pray that it will get better sooner for you.

We hope you enjoy this issue, its full of our favorite Muscle Cars to help you stay strong and rest assured we will continue with releasing new issues and fresh content as much as we can to help uplift the your mood.

Finally its out... The second issue for the year is here (since you are reading this - hopefully) and with this pandemic rippling across the world , bringing with it positives and negatives to citizens of Earth.

Many people were affected, but through this we saw the resilience of the human spirit, the generosity of some, the "stepping up to the plate" and going the necessary distance of our essential workers, healthcare personnel, sanitation and public order officials in most nations, most of all, Planet Earth got a break.

The flora and fauna started to flourish just in the course of 2-3 months, and the massive hole in the Ozone Layer is now repaired.

We also noticed families reconnecting, more interaction between people divided across borders and nations, and many many people started getting in touch with their hobbies and passions which has been put aside for "more important" life aspects.

Castheads believes that we are moving forward to a whole new world, where connecting with your fans are more important than fake numbers on a social media page, quality trumps quantity and ensuring that you provide engrossing and uplifting content is more important than ever.

Once again we wish you good health and urge all of you to stay safe!

Stay safe... And stay sane.

Nigel J De Zilwa Co-Editor

Lance K Müller Co-Editor

LIGHT ESSENCE P U R E A N D C R Y S TA L L I N E F R E S H N E S S

IN THIS ISSUE 08

DIECASTING COUCH

18

CASTING REMARKS

20

NASCAR & THE AMERICANIZED JAPANESE ICON

25

DAYS OF THUNDER MEETS THE 2019 CAMARO

31

TARMAC WORKS GARAGE TORQUE

36

PEAKY BLINDER

41

SPACE VETTE CADET

46

GANGSTER RIDE Z28

52

S CLUB SEVEN

56

THROWBACK TO A CLASSIC

61

FORD'S LORD OF LE MANS

65

CASTHEADS COUTURE

66

GIORGIO PIOLA

69

HEEL TREAD

74

40 GLORIOUS INCHES

80

UNLEASH THE HELLCAT

87

JADA CASTED

92

ACTION REPLAY - PATRICK PCHALEK

102

EVA'S CANDY SHOP - EVA GIESELBERG

114

THE CULTURED CASTHEAD

PARTNERS

Contributing Writers: Nigel J De Zilwa Lance K Müller Nick Müller Photographers Lance K Müller Nigel J De Zilwa Gotabaya Abeyagoonasekera Patrick Pchalek Eva Gieselberg Alberto Jorge Rodriguez Creative Direction / Design Lance K Müller & Nigel J De Zilwa

PARTNERS WITH

diecasting couch

New Releases & Hot Picks

Otto Mobile

Mercedes-Benz 560SEC AMG (C126) 1987 AMG is known for taking already powerful vehicles and making them even more, both within and without. They took the W126 sedan and amped it up to 385hp and took away two doors and styled it up to be a true beast on the autobahn.

Otto Mobile offers the model in Anthracite Grey and black interior and is limited to just 2000 pieces.

OT823 Scale 1:18 Status: Mid 2020

GT Spirit

Koenig Specials F355 Liberty Walk is no stranger to mixing the European/American and Japanese design aesthetics to all sorts of exotic automobiles. It takes a special kind of tuner/stylist to take a much loved Ferrari 308 (what Magnum PI used to thrash around the lush Hawaiian roads) and give it some out of this world styling to make it surreal.

Candy red with front bumper, matte black fenders, sitting on ADVAN wide low profile tires wrapped around matte black rims. Truly exotic model to have in any collection.

GT270 Scale 1:18 Status: Mid 2020 Solido Models

FIAT 500 ACQUA FRIZZANTE SAN PELLEGRINO 1968 What happens when three great brands get together?

Something magical like this aqua blue Fiat 500 in San Pellegrino livery made to great detail by Solido.

This closed roof model sports white wall tires with metal hub caps and detailed interior. This model needs to be added to any collection for its "attraente" factor S1801406 Scale 1:18 Status: Available

New Releases & Hot Picks

DIECASTING COUCH Hot Wheels Screen Time

TMNT Party Wagon The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles swept the globe in a tidal wave of bodacious turtle mania from the mid 80 to the early 90s. You couldn't take a step without bumping into something that had the mugs of Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michaelangelo.

Hot Wheels follows up their super limited San Diego Comic Con 2019 Party Wagon with this basic Hot Wheels Screen Time release for the masses (that's you and me folks).

Sporting the bright yellow body with the turtle shell roof and front wheel cover, silver turrets and (thankfully) painted headlights.

Sadly no clear windows to see what's inside... Maybe it holds some surprises that we may yet see in future releases.

Scale: 1:64 Status: Released

Amalgam Collection

RENAULT E.DAMS Z.E. 15 (2016) - GEN1 SEASON 2 Formula E racing is increasing in popularity and the teams, cars and drivers are getting the same recognition as F1. Amalgam Collection has produced a range of Formula E models and this is Renault's E.Dams ZE15. Overall, the Z.E. 15 earned five wins, four further podiums and 270 points for Renault Sport e.dams, claiming them their second successive Teams’ Championship title. Sébastien Buemi won the Drivers’ Championship whilst teammate Nico Prost came third. Renault Sport e.dams’ haul of points is still the largest amount of points accrued by a single team in a season of Formula E.

Fine craftsmanship coupled with minute attention to detail is a hallmark of Amalgam and its models Limited to 99 pieces Scale 1:18 Status: Available

CASTHEADS

Black Widow™ & 1966 Chevy® Corvette®

#31749

Opening hood and doors. 1:24 scale. Diecast gure.

GENERAL MOTORS TRADEMARKS USED UNDER LICENSE TO JADA TOYS, INC. © 2020 MARVEL.

@JADATOYS WWW.JADATOYS.COM

New Releases and Hot Picks

DIECASTING COUCH

Jada Toys

Mystery Machine with Shaggy and Scooby Doo Jada is turning up the nostalgia heat with this seminal model celebrating an iconic vehicle from the Gen-X childhood.

The Mystery Machine took the awesome fivesome on many many adventures and those pesky kids foiled the plans of many a ghost, ghoul, or goblin.

The model features opening doors and is accompanied by metal figures of that world famous duo, Shaggy and Scooby Dooby Doo!!

Scale: 1:24 Status: Available

Schuco Modelle

Triumph TR 250, British Racing Green The meeting of classic British engineering (yes, it was held in high esteem at a certain time) and stylish Italian coach-building came together to present us with the Triumph TR5. To cross the pond and make it in the new world, the model had to undergo a few more further changes.

They added two Stromberg carbs when offering it to the US market and gave it the TR250 designation. This model came with many versions. Schuco offers the convertible in traditional British Racing Green and that distinctive transverse line on the front hood.

Scale 1:43 Status: Available

Majorette

Suzuki Jimny Many brands have presented the popular, what is lovingly referred to as the "Baby G Wagon" in a myriad versions. But this is the first time that Majorette is releasing this lovable little go-everywhere.

Decked out in Kinetic Yellow and sporting black roof, wheel fenders and plastic headlights.

Scale 1:64 Status: 2020 New Releases

15-03-2020 on premium VoD & Direct Access

Produced by: iScale GmbH • Große Elbstraße 162 • D-22767 Hamburg • Germany • www.iscale.eu Discover the Magic of Miniatures

CarLoverDiecast • www.cldc.store

Bespoke scaled model restorations and repairs undertaken

G&S Miniatures Call/Whatsapp +94 77 226 5268 or email gnsminiatures@gmail.com

gnsminiatures

New Releases and Hot Picks

DIECASTING COUCH

Tomica Limited Vintage

Mazda Porter Cab One Side Open - Bridgestone Small light trucks is a true JDM phenomenon and really took off in the 1960s. Compact, dependable and so "kawaii" (cute in Japanese) these trucks became a part of life.

The Mazda Porter Cab became quite popular when it was introduced in 1969.

This model (LV-185c) sports a yellow and red livery with "Bridgestone" branding in Japanese. It comes with three rubber tires to be included in the bed and is an ideal addition to the Tomicarama Bridgestone Tire Shop (05b) which is sold separately.

Scale 1:64 Status: August 2020

Tomica Limited Vintage Neo

Ferrari F355 Spider (Red) The Ferrari F355 debuted in 1994 with a 3.5 liter, 5-valve V8 engine and a host of new technologies. It came in the Berlinetta (coupé, 1994) and Spider (convertible, 1995) versions. The Spider was Ferrari’s first vehicle with an electronically actuated soft top.

The TLV comes in the ubiquitous Ferrari Rosso Corsa, opening engine hood and beige interior.

Scale 1:64 Status: September 2020

TOMICA LIMITED VINTAGE Ferrari 365 GTB4 DAYTONA (red)

Other new releases coming soon to our store.

www.jlhobbymy.com | jlhobbymy@gmail.com | O FFIC I AL E X CL U S I V E DI S T R I BU T OR F OR

JLHobby

New Releases & Hot Picks

DIECASTING COUCH

TSM Models - MiniGT

Nissan GT-R R32 Gr. A #87 HKS 1992 Group A. MiniGT keeps setting the bar higher and higher with each release, and it's no different this time.

The Nissan GT-R R32 JTC Group A racer comes in a green and black HKS and ADVAN livery. Designed and manufactured to the usual exacting standards of MiniGT, this skyline is sure to be a hit with collectors across the world.

Scale 1:64 Status: Available

BM Creations

1989 Suzuki Swift (Cultus) The Suzuki Swift (aka Cultus and many many other names) is a supermini hit the Japanese market in 1983 and made quite a big name for itself all over the world.

BM Creations presents this model in its Second Gen version with the TwinCam 16-valve tampos on the side. There is where these models become even more interesting.

Both models comes with two extra set of wheels, one 7-spoke white rims with low profiles and one chrome/ gold duo-tone set. Thats just the start. The wheels are also direction adjustable!

And that's not all, you can change the camber of the wheels and lower it to give that ultimate tuner look We can't wait to get our hands on these models!

Scale 1:64 Status: Coming Soon

Esval Models

1953 Studebaker Manta Ray This model was built by two guys from California on a 1951 Studebaker Commander. Glen Hire and Vernon Antoine of Whittier created this concept car with a fiber glass body. With flowing lines of jet aircraft and design cues from the fancier side of the Atomic age.

Esval presents it in 1:43 scale with a removable top so that you can display the coupe or convertible.

It is also updated for 202o with a new color, an eyecatching gold.

Scale 1:43 Status: Available

CASTING REMARKS

PONTIAC M2 Machines Scale 1:64

JUDGE GTO Not all, American muscle cars really define the genre in such a visceral way as the name PONTIAC. The mere mention of it immediately drums up mental images of cars like the Pontiac Grand Prix, Grand AM and the Trans Am, even the most famous 80’s childhood hero / dream car in a TV series was a Pontiac further solidifying the reputation. The GTO by most car historians is known as the first Muscle Car that set the trend to come by amalgamating one of their loud, horsey V8s to a lighter more agile intermediate body, making it lighter, faster and above all more affordable.

Fast forward a few years later and the GTO has taken on a more racier edge moving into more drag racing competitions and creating a cooler name for itself ‘The Judge’ This M2 machines version of ‘the Judge’ is gorgeous. The dark orange satin paint with black hood is a killer combination and the recreated details for a 1:64 are fantastic which is why M2 machines have such cult following yet demands quite a fair price. Let’s break it down. Tires have perfectly good GoodYear

Eagle branding on them and the model comes with three extra sets of tires if you feel the need to switch them up for a change.

This particular model is based on the drag race version so the rear tires are thick and juicy like a yummy steak. Body work is incredibly detailed and just to let you know how detailed, the hood has 4 significant protrusions. One, is the center line that extends and continues down the nose, then on either side of that the ‘only for show’ air intakes and finally popping up in front of the drivers side is a little bump which is in real life is the hood mounted RPM tachometer, what!!!!. They also, haven’t forgotten the rear spoiler synonymous with this model. Decals and tampos are faultless no mistakes & a lot of care has gone into making sure the important bits are there like GTO badge on the front grille and the ever so tiny ‘The Judge’ decals on the spoiler and front fenders. These decals have historical importance as the they represent America’s pop culture and art at the time and how that seeped into muscle car culture.

Words + Pics + Design | Nigel J De Zilwa

CASTING REMARKS

Majorette Scale 1:64

ASTON MARTIN VANTAGE GT8

Underrated casting from Majorette’s 2019 range is this slick Aston Martin Vantage GT8 in gun metal silver and luminous green highlights. Honestly, we are shocked at how this flew under the radar. Also the reason why it made it here.

High marks for paint job. The gun metal grey is shiny and polished with what looks like silver flakes in the paint but also scaled right so the flakes don’t look huge in the paint. The green highlights

on the front splitter and side mods are cool but as always, we like the little touches like the green highlight on the inset grille as well as on the rear light array.

Finally, Tomica-esque suspension and opening doors round this out to be a very good model for your collection.

The headlamps are not painted on, instead Majorette class’ up their models with glass looking plastic, appreciated immensely by collectors of 1/64. The rear lights are painted on, but you will also find the tiny Aston Martin logo and name badge as well and both legible.

Hot Wheels Scale 1:64

GULF FORD FAIRLANE

First , its in GULF livery, so that alone is a victory for collectors. Celebrating 50 years in 2019 Hot Wheels was on a rampage with 50-year anniversary cars than spanned from their mainlines right through their specials. This one came from the ‘Favorites’ series.

This was also touted to be a drag car in real life so expect to see big rear

wheels thick and juicy like an Angus steak. There are a few decals on the car and the Gulf Livery is quite nice. But what really made this car special for us was the wheels.

The chromed out Drag Version wheels are very similar to the actual FORD Galaxie drag car that carried Ford’s famous 427 engine knocking out 410 Bhp.

Sadly, it was too heavy and had to bow out of drag racing replaced by a much lighter earlier model.

Still, it makes a great Hot Wheels for the collection.

CASTING REMARKS

Majorette Scale 1:64

PORSCHE 911 CARRERA S ‘going away to the Hamptoms’ ski versions we are looking at a total of about 13 new models / variations.

Judging by the Toyfair model we can only imagine how slick these would be. Plastic Headlights, opening bonnet and doors and all round a very good casting. We love the Matt red paint it seems to suit the car no end. You have

Why review the TOYFAIR 2020 Majorette exclusive? Because it’s a taste of things to come. This year Majorette is releasing a heavy dose of Porsche diecast models.

From ‘plain 718’s to ‘cop cars’ to

got to hand it to Majorette they do some nice paint work. Under the front hood there is tiny space for your really tiny Gucci luggage or really tiny groceries. The logos and other printed/painted name badges and rear lights are pretty good with no complaints at all.

Best of all! Rubber wheels so it rolls pretty well along our Dream Customs city road designed mouse pad.

Words + Pics + Design | Nigel J De Zilwa

CASTING REMARKS

Jada Big Time Muscle 1:64

AC SHELBY COBRA 427 JADA Toys have got their hands full with the ‘Big Time Muscle’ Series from 1/64 to 1/24 scale it’s a wide and growing selection and some of them of just super cool. The premise is, take a classic muscle car and add on some body mods to give the car that modern Fast n’ Furious tuner vibe, voila some super interesting castings.

Our super favorite pick is the gorgeous Shelby 427 with a burnt orange paint job that looks like the Chocolate Carmel wrapper in Quality Street sweets. Beautiful smooth metallic paint with two black matte painted racing stripes the go from end-to-end.

The windscreen is black bordered, and they have even remembered to put the head safety cage on

the drivers side. The front grille is painted black as is the front and rear buffer making it a winning combination of colors. The tires are rubber slotted on to the black rims, made to look like low profiles and in two sizes small in the front and thick juicy tires at the back like a thick juicy German steak, proper drag race configuration.

Finally, there is JADA’s proprietary stance, the low rider style we love. Keep it simple keep it low and the result is an allround cool casting that deserves a place in the collection.

& THE AMERICANIZED JAPAN

NASCAR Lionel Racing Scale 1:64

TOYOTA CAMRY

For the uninitiated, NASCAR stands for the National Association for Stock Car Racing and its America’s biggest annual motor sporting event. It was founded in 1948 and has seen some amazing racing and crazy pileups in over 70 years of race history.

NESE ICON

This year has been a strain on the motor-sport industry and fans alike with lockdowns and the likes, but the NASCAR series is set to bounce back this month kicking off from the 17th. For car collector fans NASCAR cars hold a certain allure. Not all collectors are into the sport, but the cars and the livery designs certainly pick up keen interest.

For me I have a love affair with the Toyota CAMRY I’ve had one, not a new one, certainly not NASCAR model just a plain old Toyota made sofa that has an engine with a bit of grunt. But that was a car to be in love with and anything with a CAMRY badge I must have.

So how did the plain Jane of Japanese saloons end up beefing around the oval

with other classic American Muscle cars jostling quite violently sometimes for dominance far away from home?

First you have to know that the Japanese CAMRY and the American CAMRY are two different kettles of fish. In fact in America racing Toyotas are built and tuned by….you guessed it, TOYOTA Racing Division aka the famous TRD in the US. Secondly, NASCAR is not one event broken up into several races like Formula 1 instead the racing happens in several different events of varying sizes called Series.

Some were massive with hundreds of laps in endurance and some were smaller capped at 40 laps for example. It was

at one of these smaller series called the Goody’s Dash or the Baby Grand Nationals in 2000 when TOYOTA started on the NASCAR ladder with a V6 Toyota Celica driven by Robert Huffman. By 2003 Robert had pushed through to be the champion of the series in a TOYOTA. After this TOYOTA was invited by NASCAR to participate in the Truck series where they became champions and NASCAR heroes with the TOYOTA Tundra it was here the brand TOYOTA and TRD made a legitimate name for themselves and was finally ready to enter the bigger series. This they did with the TOYOTA CAMRY. And two of their prolific championship winning drivers to date are Kyle Busch and Martin Truex Jr.

MARTIN

TRUEX Jr.

Started his partnership with TOYOTA in 2010 when he joined Michael Waltrip Racing. It wasn’t the best season for neither driver, team or constructor having several accidents and a blown engine including the worst wreck of his career at Martinsville. Since then to date he has been instrumental in building TOYOTAs trip to the top of the NASCAR ladder both on track as well as in the factory back home actively helping in the development of the TRD Division built CAMRYs. In 2017 racing for the team FURNITURE ROW Martin won the Series Championship after winning 8 of the 12 races in the series a personal best for him. It also made him TOYOTAs second NASCAR Series Champion making sure that the only reason why TOYOTA would look back would be to see how far the competition was.

In 2018 he had a lot of success winning several races but also marred by a late wreck at the Daytona 500. But back in 2019 he fought his way to the top with a new team and new CAMRY taking second place in the final standings.

Pictured here is one of the FURNITURE ROW Team cars in the WIX Filter livery as WIX was a filter supplier to the team during their Championship Year of 2017. The winning 2018 CAMRY. We love the black and yellow livery and as always Lionel NASCAR models do a fantastic print job on their 1/64’s.

KYLE

BUSCH

Also known as ‘The Candyman (any guess why?) is a TOYOTA driver through and through. In the NASCAR championships he drives the CAMRY, in the Xfinity Series he drives the TOYOTA Supra and in the NASCARS Truck Series he drives the TOYOTA Tundra under his own team. He is probably one of the most successful NASCAR drivers in his generation winning the NASCAR Cup Series in 2015 and 2019. In 2018 he became the first NASCAR driver to win at every active NASCAR CUP SERIES while winning 51 races in the NASCAR TRUCK series at the same time.

It is safe to say that Kyle Busch has written himself into the Hall of All-Time greats in NASCAR. His achievements are quite long, and he has proved himself to be a formidable racer ready to do anything on track to ensure a victory. Almost building his reputation to be like the Michael Schumacher of NASCAR. On February 21 2015 during the Xfinity Series he was involved in a multi car accident which left him with a compound fracture in the lower right leg, a small fracture in the left foot and a sprained left finger. However, he returned to racing in May winning his way through the year till the final outcome of a Championship win in November.

By now looking at the car by Lionel Models below you may have guessed why Kyle Busch is known as the Candy Man and to be very honest it one of the coolest liveries we’ve seen on any sports car and quite apt too.

Multicolored candy-coated chocolate with a nut inside. But. Jokes apart if you are a NASCAR fan this is one definite model to own as Kyle Busch claws his way into the NASCAR hall of fame. And if you are not a NASCAR fan you will own this car because you are an M&M’s fan.

DANICA PATRICK We pay tribute to women racers because it’s not an easy thing to be especially in a very male dominated sport which is motor sport in general. So, to be able to make a name for yourself as woman takes a special amount of tenacity and dedication, two words that perfectly describes one of NASCAR’s famous women Danica Patrick. Staring her short NASCAR career in 2010 life on the track was not a bed of roses. Her rookie year saw her climb through the placements at times going from 12th to finishing 6th and once starting at 13th and finishing 6th it was also marred by a multicar accident tin Daytona leaving her to finish in 35th place.

In 2013 she became the first woman to win a series cup pole setting the fastest time at the Daytona 500 qualifying. She also became the first woman to lead the race at the DAYTONA 500 under the greenlight finally ending the race to be the first woman to be placed in the TOP 10 at 8th place. She continued to push the boundaries of women racing and continued to break the glass ceiling for women in NASCAR. Sadly, she retired from professional racing in 2018 with her final race at the Daytona 500.

It’s no surprise that Hot Wheels has quite a few cars dedicated to Danica simply because they were one of her main sponsors in NASCAR and so no reason to waste a perfectly good PR opportunity. Unfortunately the Hot Wheels now, are really hard to find and when you do the prices are exorbitant but if you do get a chance, pick one up its an important part of motorsport history

NICK MÜLLER

r e d n u h T F O S Y A D

0 19 2 E H T S T MEE

RO A M A C T E CHEVROL

by 1/24 scale diecast

Lionel Racing

"No, no, he didn't slam you, he didn't bump you, he didn't nudge you... he rubbed you. And rubbin, son, is racin..."

This quote from the 1990 Hollywood blockbuster "Days of Thunder" with Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Robert Duvall and Randy Quaid, which is still a real cult film today.

But even those who aren`t much into NASCAR know the movie. At least you should know it - if not, you have to do it.

THE THROWBACK PAINTWORK

As you may know, the NASCAR circus uses the annual race event at the Darlington Raceway in South Carolina as an opportunity to bring up vehicles to the start in throwback-paint schemes.

For this year's race event (Bojangles' Southern 500) at the beginning of September, Hendrick Motosports has

come up with something very special and has designed the Chevrolet Camaro with start number 24 in style of the Chevy Lumina from the movie.

With a perfectly staged vehicle presentation, the racing team was able to enthuse the fans throughout. They were also not disappointed when Hendrick pilot William Byron did the first laps with

the car and secured the pole position.

In the end it was just enough for a 21st place at the finish line.

THE MODEL

The Chevy makes a good impression not only on the race track, but also in the collector's display case at home.

The model shown here was produced by the official model car manufacturer of NASCAR "Lionel Racing" in 1/24 scale.

As usual at Lionel Racing, the windows, the interior and the chassis of this model are made of plastic. The body is made of metal.

The striking yellow-green color scheme immediately catches the eye, which in combination with the large city logo makes the racing car unmistakable.

The front section of the model shows all the details of the original vehicle. The radiator grille with Chevrolet logo. The air intakes and the headlights are just decals. The air intake for the V8 engine is located below the radiator grille.

If you open the hood, you can take a look at the V8 engine. The engine is kept rather simple in the standard version of the model. If you want more details, you should go for the more detailed and more expensive Elite-version.

The cockpit is, as already mentioned, completely made of plastic and equipped with steering wheel, driver's seat, roll cage and other racing details such as wiring etc.. Here, too, the safety net must not be missing - this model is made of fabric, which gives the vehicle an even more realistic look.

The fuel tank under the boot lid, which cannot be opened in the standard version, is filled with a 98 octane fuel from "Sunoco", specially developed for racing.

The rear lights are, like the front headlights, only imprinted. The exhaust tailpipes are located on the right side in front of the rear "Good Year Eagle" tyres.

The yellow roof shows the huge black starting number "24" . In addition, the 1/24 scale models have movable roof flaps that prevent the vehicle from taking off uncontrolled during or after an accident.

In the rear window there are three round recesses which can be used to make changes to the suspension settings during a pit stop. If you look through the rear window, you can find the serial number of the model vehicle manufacturer lasered into the plastic, since these are manufactured in limited edition (949 pieces).

MY TWO CENTS

The anticipation of the model was huge - and I was not disappointed. The throwbacklook and the recognition value are simply perfect. That`s why this is my NASCAR highlight of 2019. The model already seems to be a much sought-after collector's item, and it`s already pretty difficult to get one at all. In addition, the models are already traded at double price.

AVAILABLE ON PRIME VIDEO Rated PG-13

TORQUE

GARAGE

NEW STANG’S IN THE STABLE Strap in and hold on TARMAC WORKS fans because these guys are about to drop some new models and they ARE NOT HONDA’S of any kind.

In fact their new lineup for the coming months has downplayed the JDM movement and its quite refreshing.

Before we go any further we’d like to remind you about the cool new packaging that will be released soon, a throwback to our love of vintage car culture and brands with the new oil can packaging and the response has been overwhelmingly accepted by collectors all over the world (well, except for a few whiners).

TORQUE

GARAGE

The list of new releases include some new Porsches, RWBs some NEW VOLVOs which is super exciting, new E30’s, new display cases and SOME AMERICAN MUSCLE.

Part of their GLOBAL64 lineup TARMAC WORKS gets the chance to drop two versions of the FORD Mustang into our collections. Now there haven’t been any discussions or any ideas of what the colors will be but, what we do know for fact is the there will be two models, one based on the street version and the other will be a racing version. TW has also promised that the cars will roll as well which means they have been listening to their collectors and give the masses what they want, wheels that roll, bro!

TORQUE

GARAGE This leap will also mean that TW is gunning for the American market as well as the European market with the VOLVO series which is a really great move considering the competition that keeps mushrooming across ASIA. Another great piece of awesome news is their tie up with MINI GT on what everyone is expecting to be and LBWK project. There are so many reasons why this is a good thing and one of them is the fact that they will be stepping out of RWB shadow for a bit and branching off into other tuners. Let’s hope a ‘PRIOR Design’ Mustang will be in the works one day in the future.

MUSCLE HUSTLE

GT Spirit Scale 1:18

2020 Ford Shelby GT500

PEEKY BLINDER Yes! My headline is a hat tip to the Shelby Family in the TV Series Peaky Blinders because there is nothing more stylishly scary than one of them in full suit shouting “By order of the Peaky F*@#$%# Blinders” That’s what this GT Spirit Shelby Mustang is “Stylish and Scary” I thought the PRIOR Design Corvette from GT Spirit was beautiful, but this has totally taken my breath away. To be honest when I found this was coming to us, I did the Perfect Strangers Dance of Joy much to the dismay of family and friends. Its not a very pretty site. This Mustang however, is. Every inch of it oozes class and it truly is, a devil with the details.

MUSCLE HUSTLE

Body work is perfect right down to every line. There are no gaps between body work after all it is a resin model with opening parts. The tires fill the wheel arched nicely and the ride height is nice and low. Low profile tires wrap around nicely on to the gloss finished wheel trim. The disc brakes and calipers are easily visible with the BREMBO branding quite clear. The blue metallic paint work is clear coated giving

the paint rich depth and smooth feel to the touch. The racing stripes are perfectly straight and symmetrical. The front grille sports the SHELBY snake emblem as well as ‘GT 500” embossed on to the front buffer. The mesh work inside the grille and front air intakes to cool the brakes is both intricate and flawless and what I like about these sorts of models are the little things I keep discovering.

Words + Pics + Design | Nigel J De Zilwa

MUSCLE HUSTLE

For example while I write this I’m looking at the model in great detail and I notice SHELBY embossed ever so subtly on the front air splitter which I didn’t see before. Then there are the lights.

I really like the detail some of the more expensive 1/18 scale models carry and this no exception. The light, lens and reflector fins inside the head lamp are re-created to perfection and you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between this and the real thing in a proper close up picture.

The SHELBy snake is prevalent everywhere just in case you forget for a moment about what you are looking at.

The interior in this is par excellence. You will be astonished at the level of detail GT Spirit has gone through just for a chair.

MUSCLE HUSTLE Interior details are a clear indication of the dedication to quality this brand likes to keep. From the drivers instrument panel to the seatbelt clips, from the paddle shifters to the drive mode selector everything has been accounted for to make sure you have the exact picture of what the real thing is all about. Even the screen on the entertainment display bears the Shelby Snake logo. The duo tone seats are the perfect representation of racing bucket seats with tiny RECARO branding on the side (goosebumps at that detail). They have even added the heater / de-fogger and radio antenna lines on the rear windscreen. The rear like the rest of the car doesn’t lack any details. Carbon fibre rear spoiler, chromed exhaust tips, FORD performance plate even the rear reflectors have been included.

In conclusion, if you are a Shelby fan and you are looking to include some real muscle into your collection this is the model you want to get, it truly is a beast and looks so in every way. I guarantee this will be the pride and joy of your collection so hop over to your favorite model car supplier and order one for yourself today.

And I say this in my best Arthur Shelby voice “By order of the Peaky Blinders!!!!”

1979 FORD MUSTANG BOSS 429 Part of JADA’s Big Time Muscle series this Supercharged Mustang Boss is both good looking and very heavy. I made the mistake of dropping it on my foot. The fat rear wheels are insane the fattest I’ve seen on any 1/64, gloss black rims, nicely detailed rear all round not bad. I have only two complaints. 1. I think the lights in the front could be better detailed and 2. The logo on the front grille looks more like Chevrolet than Mustang. Some may love it and some may hate it. We like it.

Long before movies like Fast n’ Furious, the Corvette was pretty much a household name thanks to a man named Jim Rathmann who owned a Chevy Dealership close to the ‘Space Coast’ which is NASA’s official launch site. With permission from Ed Cole the president of GM at the time Rathmann embarked on the craziest marketing tactic in the world. Let’s celebrate US Astronauts by giving them a car fitting to their on the edge lifestyle. But, due to legal restrictions NASA astronauts could not except a free car as it would be considered a gift, so it was sold to them for $1. That’s about 100 times less than what you would have to pay for this GT Spirit model.

Astronaut’s strange affinity to 'vettes started as early as 1959 when Alan Shepard turned up at training in a Corvette. He was then gifted one when he returned to earth in 1962 as an appreciation for his bravery. Since then to this day astronauts have driven and continue to own Corvettes.

GT Spirit Scale 1:18

CORVETTE STINGRAY C2

Guess who owned thi for sale, it was also dr Corvette star gazing d

Back down on earth in to release this striking

is model the C2? Neil Armstrong. Of course his was blue and was recently up riven by famous car journalist James May, so if you feel inclined to do a bit of do a search for that episode.

Maisto Scale 1:18

n little old scale model world our friend at GT Spirit have taken the opportunity g red beauty with low profile tires and black deep-dish rims. Yes, it looks like

Letty’s 'vette from the franchise, but this is not an Fn’F car nor is it marketed as such. However, the designer maybe a huge fan which may equate to the similarities. For me the C2 is the most beautiful of the 'vettes its shape is gloriously evergreen and stands out in any era of car design. It was the first Vette to have ‘The Stingray’ moniker and if you

look at both this car and an actual Sting Ray you would see the similarity at once.

Not only was it groundbreaking in design but in technology as well. The C2 was also one of the first American muscle cars to employ the use of a quad disk brake system the most effective way to stop 425Bhp hurtling into orbit.

More 1/18 'vettes on the way with MAISTO releasing four color variants of the new 2020 'vette C8 with an expected release in June / July 2020. The color variants will be Red, Grey and Yellow with a COSTCO exclusive in Orange with black racing stripes. These will be under Maisto's Special edition range which of course usually has opening parts and active steering.

Do astronauts still buy Corvettes? Of course, Scott Kelly one of the few who spent over 500 days in the International Space Station has owned the C6, C7 and plans on getting himself the C8. Its seems the 'vettes space adventures will continue. Maybe, the first car in space should have been a Corvette and not a stupid Tesla.

MUSCLE HUSTLE

VETTEC6 Jada Toys Scale 1:24

CHEVY CORVETTE C6

This is the C6.R of racers Oliver Gavin from the UK and Olivier Beretta from Monte Carlo who together have won both the 24Hrs of LeMans and the Petit LeMans back to back for Corvette Racing. They are both career racers and have been racing together for Corvette since 2004.

This model by JADA is actually a particularly good scale replication of the real car. The headlights hold individual dual lens, the exhaust comes out the side from under the door. The Livery and branding are precise, and the casting of the bodywork has also come out pretty well. The doors open to reveal a single seater with roll cage. There aren’t any painted or stickered bits on the inside and to be honest the interior is quite standard but if you feel inclined to spruce it up with a bit of paint and creativity now is the time to do it. The side mirrors are rubber which, for clumsy folk like me is great because when you accidentally swipe across it they just bounce back it to place. Overall, its not a bad 1/24 scale race car to own if you are a fan or Corvette and Corvette Racing.

R E T S G 8 N 2 A G DE Z I R

It was the Summer of '84, summers in Kuwait were dry and still, but open roads as far as the eye could see circumventing endless desert sands like a long black snake in a sea of gold. I can remember my cousin in the front seat egging my father into doing a nice long burnout. My father revved the 5.7 liter V8 so hard it sounded like Beelzebub screaming in anger at being woken up from his afternoon nap (which was probably our fault)

My father throws in the first gear and the tires screech like a demon being reprimanded by Beelzebub, my body thrown into the backseat by proper American torque. The car drunkenly zig zagged for a few meters before biting into the tarmac and correcting itself. Second gear and the tires squeal again much like my cousin in the front seat. My father had bought a 1979 Z28

Of course he always drove it like he stole it and never missed an opportunity to drag race a fellow Muscle Car owner at the traffic lights (as long as my mother wasn’t in the car). And, at that time Kuwaiti's luuuuurved American Muscle. The most popular being the Pontiac Trans Am Firebird. This is where I fell in love with Muscle cars and my first crush...the Z28.

MUSCLE HUSTLE

Getting these two cars from JADA was quite emotional and to be honest writing this article has had me looking up old pictures of Kuwait and feeling all nostalgic inside remembering my childhood and the cars I grew up with. Like my dad my uncles had a thing for American cars so there I am as a kid sitting on the bonnet of a 75’ Pontiac Grand Prix in old photographs.

Enough trips down memory lane, onto the cars at hand. Again these come from the Big Time Muscle series and if I were to get my hands on a Z28 today I would do it up exactly like these. Drop the ride height to give it the low rider stance. Single color metallic paint job (racing stripes are a bit too much embellishment) my heart favors the black but my mind

Words + Pics + Design | Nigel J De Zilwa

MUSCLE HUSTLE

favors the red. Deep dish alloy wheels again very similar to the ones on the these models because I just love these wheel sets.

I really love how JADA amalgamates these classic cars with modern nuances and they didn’t overcook it. The doors open as well as the front and rear lids. Under the bonnet painted in chrome is a fairly detailed V8. I mean its not as detailed as we like it to be but its ok. What’s great was, these cars weren’t built to look complicating they were built to go fast and that’s it which means it isn’t a very complicating model to re-create.

The doors open as well as the front and rear lids. Under the bonnet painted in chrome is a fairly detailed V8. I mean its not as detailed as we like it to be but its ok.

1969 CHEVY CAMARO

However, there is one thing that disappointed me about these models and that was the rear light.

Instead of being plastic lights they decided to go with painting them but if they had done plastic these cars would have gotten a perfect score. But I’m willing to look past that fact and maybe later on see if can get someone to construct some rear lights for me.

This 69 Camaro is from the Bigtime Muscle series that came in 1/64 like the others it is super heavy and sports an impressive paint job. Metallic green like Hot wheels Spectraflame paint with gold racing stripes going down from end to end. The supercharger unit protrudes from the bonnet and once again the drag racing setup for the tires with big thick chunky tires at the back branded BF Goodrich. Unlike the Mustang this one has a better-defined nose with the SS badge on the front grille. If we liked the Mustang we definitely love this.

MUSCLE HUSTLE

This is the SALEEN S7-R, the racing version of the road going S7.

A hand-built car that has become somewhat of a cult classic in the race circuit. In total 14 of these were hand-made to race ready condition and were built to compete in the GT Class events like the American Le Mans Series and 24Hrs of LeMans.

S CLU IXO SCALE 1:43

SALEEN S7-R

Words + Pics + Design | Nigel J De Zilwa

MUSCLE HUSTLE

This 1/43 scale model by IXO is now a bit of a rarity. It has been discontinued by IXO but if you are lucky and willing to spend up to around 70 Euros for a 1/43 model there are a few on the web that start from about 55 Euros (without shipping). It’s a fantastic replica f rom end to end with the tiniest details attended to right down to the minuscule red tow hook on the front. Even the interior has amazing detail even though this is not a diecast model that can be opened. From the rear glass, you’ll be able to see the anti-roll bars and from the front you can barely make out the detailed racing seat with blue 4 point harness seatbelt, red fire extinguisher next to it, a yellow case with straps which I’m assuming is a first aid kit. You can even make out a silver hose sticking out from the center console that acted as a cooling tube for the driver. Now, here is the kicker.

UB 7

In 2004 Luca Cordero di Montezemolo then CEO of FERRARI and chairman of FIAT gathered a whole bunch of motorsport press and VIP’s from around the world to witness the debut of the new Maserati MC12 in the FIA GT 500 km endurance race held at the Enzo e Dino Ferrari Autodromo in Imola. Jean Todt and the entire Ferrari F1 Team were brought in as engineering and track support for the MC12. There were also three Ferrari 550’s and three Ferrari 575’s all flying the flag for Italy and Ferrari. The winners that day, Michael Bartels and Uwe Alzen decimated the Ferrari’s, Lamborghinis and the debutante Maserati MC12’s in this same VITAPHONE Saleen S7 R. The second American supercar to destroy Ferrari and on their home turf no less. Can you imagine what Montezemolo was feeling when he said “We were no match for the Saleen today”.

Top Marques Scale 1:18

SALEEN S7 The birth of the S7 is rife with rumours that it started life as an Aston martin project developed for Le Mans and the abandoned by the lack of financing and corporate jiggery by none other than are famous American friends FORD. When they went from being minority shareholders to outright owners, they decided to back Jaguar’s race program and drop Aston Martin’s. But after reading several accounts and investigative reports I can tell you its not true. The SALEEN S7 was developed ground up. What purported these rumors was the fact that the company RML that built the Saleen was also the company that was working on Aston Martin’s race program.

Ironically at the same time Steve Saleen was cutting his teeth on his new motorsport tuning company by tuning and beefing up….FORD MUSTANGS. Oh the wicked web of motorsports.

So far looking for some good scale models for the Saleen have been pretty unfruitful. I’m not sure whether SALEEN is tight with their licensing or whether its because it’s such an underrated car that is usually overshadowed by more popular brands like Lamborghini and Porsche. Either way I found a few done by IXO, Motormax, Hotwheels and the ones featured here by Top Marques Models.

Top Marques Models had a total of 5 color variants for the S7 Twin Turbo. Unfortunately, the Red, Blue and Silver

are currently out of stock. But to be honest a car like this deserves to shout loud and proud in your collection and either the Yellow or Orange would do just that. Both in stock. (A little secret: the yellow one is available at the Asian Warehouse in China so if you are shipping to Asia it may be cheaper and definitely faster) If you are wondering about quality of detail with Top Marques you can be assured of the fact that these guys are premium and what you get for the price is definitely in the same range as its competitors in terms of detail. Sadly, we couldn’t get our hands on one in time for this magazine re-lease due to the prevailing global situation but, the website has some alluring images that has had me drooling for days since I discovered TM’s SALEEN range. And yes, I am a huge Saleen fan. I love underdog brands that do brilliantly. I sincerely hope the next I check the website I will see all the Saleen’s gone, because I believe the world needs more SALEEN. Hot Wheels Scale 1:64

SALEEN S7 Thankfully Hot Wheels has the license to produce SALEEN S7s which means there is always the cheaper option. And of course, they have it several different variants. This one though is one of the nicer color combo’s that we’ve seen with a bit of racing livery thrown in. There is also a Hot Wheels Speed Machines version as well, but those Speed Machines are hard to find and quite costly. Happy Hunting.

THROWBACK TO A BBURAGO CLASSIC

In our second issue I decided I wanted to show off my 1:24 scale Dodge Vipers starting from the 1st generation R/T down to the 5th Generation GTS.

All of them either by Bburago or Maisto and honestly, they are some of my favourite cars in my collection. The details are pretty amazing, opening parts and the paint has work has survived our harsh tropical humid weather.

After the article and mag was re-leased I got a message from a reader who said he was getting rid of some his old models and inquired as to whether I would be interested in a 1:18 scale Gold Collection Italian made Bburago that he was willing to let go..to a VIPER fan. One mans’ meat is another mans poison blah blah blah, I was at his place 3 days later cash in hand. Clearly, I have a problem. But it’s a 1:18 VIPER I justified to myself, at a great price and in the color yellow. To this day I’m quite happy with my purchase.

Unfortunately being a second hand model and one that is now over 10 years old I had to expect a certain amount wear and tear. After all this is a model being let go. I would try and buy and entire container yard with containers before I would consider letting any of my models go. And, true enough there are a few blemishes and a bit of paint rash, but the world of customizers and restorers grow daily and I’m pretty sure when I’m ready I can have this baby restored up to spec.

Bburago Scale 1:18

DODGE VIPER RT/10

Having said that, there is no paint chips, side mirrors are both attached on solidly, the dashboard instruments sticker has remained sturdy and the glue surprisingly has withstood the test of time. The tires are fine no rubber degradation, both seats with their 4 point harness belts are still intact. I opened the engine bay which is always a sight to see due to the shape of the lid like fangs ready to strike driver and passenger.

The hinge was worn and the lid wouldn’t stay up without support.

So the hair clip pictured holding the bottom up did not and does not come with the car. But the small bonnet locks still work so you can turn the car upside down without the bonnet flopping open.

Hot Wheels Scale 1:64

Hot Wheels Scale 1:64

DODGE VIPER R/T DODGE VIPER ACR

I surprised myself with this. Usually I put a cap on what I’m willing to spend on Hot Wheels and with this I took the cap, burnt it and then stamped on it. But I couldn’t resist this Hall of Fame version with that beautiful wine red paint job, stunning deep dish chromed rims and real rider wheels. Makes the mainline version look like toilet paper.

Dear Bburago and Maisto if you guys read this, keep up the good work an make more VIPERS and then send them all to ME!

This other Hot Wheels beauty is one of the Christmas specials that randomly get churned out once in a while. Again, the paint job is a stunning metallic green with black bonnet and silver snowflakes. I also like the unusual silver painted interior a break from the black norm. If you are VIPER fan like me get this is the Hot Wheels ACR Viper to get.

The engine was fine no missing or broken parts. All in all a very good buy. I know Maisto and BBurago get a lot of flak sometimes especially about their price points which is surprising. One would think in a world where scale models could go for thousands of dollars having a far better and lower price point would help struggling collectors. But these guys prove that you can have something this good at a great price point. Also, there are times where the brands mess up a bit but I for one don’t judge a complete collection over one lousy model.

Everyone has their ‘off’ days.

D’SLe MANS FOR D OF LOR

GT40

When your great great great grandfather trounces the world champions in a single 24hr race your whole life is spent living up to that reputation in every way, especially when, from that time on your entire family have been nothing but awesome cars.

The 2017 newly designed FORD GT is as every bit daunting on the track. The determined stance, focused on one thing which is to go very very fast. You don’t have to be a professional of any sort to appreciate the aerodynamics that has gone into the design of this car to make it cut through the air like a hot knife through butter. This can do a quarter mile in under 11 secs as the collective of FnF fans sound out a collective sigh. This 1:18 scale by MAISTO

though it looked quite plain in the catalogue really turned out to be quite the looker on the office shelf. One of those situations when the pictures don’t do justice. Unfortunately, with a global pandemic in effect we were not able to do the car any justice and shoot it in its natural habitat which is on the race track. But take our word for it, slip this out of the box and you’ll be happy you bought it.

The car that was sent to us is in the GULF colors which is a huge plus point as we are all GULF livery fans. The usual parts open with the doors as well as the front and rear lids. The rear lid

opens up to the engine bay which doesn’t show much of the engine but I must say although I really like this model and they have done an excellent on the exterior of this car I am missing the retractable rear wing, which would have been a nice addition.

The wheel rims are double strand five star spokes painted in matt silver, these are some of the nicest rims I’ve seen on MAISTO. Also, since the rims are nice and open you get to see the large disc brakes and bright orange Brembo branded brake callipers.

The headlights look really sophisticated and half expect them to light up because they look so realistic. They are also set into the body very nicely without any uneven gaps. Definitely not be displayed from a side view.

The FORD GT is a highly sculptured car. Lots of angles, aerodynamic pillars, air flow vents, air intakes, wind diffusers, so much going on and to be honest I can see how difficult it would be to make sure the body is recreated perfectly. MAISTO has done an excellent job. It really looks like a work of art on the shelf and at any angle. For me I can certainly excuse the plain interior which again is fine just lacks a bit of pizzazz. But the exterior is spot on.

CASTHEADS COUTURE

STRAT-3 Being a motorsport and hardcore F1 fan (Scuderia Ferrari in victory of disappointment) I was drawn to the STRAT-3 like a moth to the flame. And although it comes in 5 color variants I do like a little bright colour in my life, so my personal choice was yellow. Under the reflective sapphire glass, the sub dials are a homage to the F1 steering wheel design, so they say. Personally, I feel they are more inclined to be reflective of your speed and tachometer and rev counter.

Even the straps are designed to look like racing tire grooves.

MOVEMENT: Swiss Made Ronda 5070.D Quartz WATER Resistance: 10 ATM CASE DIAMETER / HEIGHT: 46 mm CASE MATERIAL: Titanium BAND / MATERIAL: 26 mm x 22 mm CROWN: Screw Down CRYSTAL: Sapphire with Anti-Reflecting Coating

AVAILABLE STRAP COLORS

Motorsport and time keeping go hand in hand much like the creator of these fantastic timepieces that has got us completely ga ga in the office. Giorgio Piola is no stranger to the world of motorsport having been a commentator for Formula 1 for decades. He also has been the author and producer of the book Formula 1 Technical analysis which graphically and meticulously studies Formula 1 cars tracking the mechanical and technical changes the cars undergo on a yearly basis.

In addition to being a motorsports journalist and enthusiast his creative talents have taken him into the world of timepieces and he has created a line of high end watches where he incorporates ‘the art of racing’ which is quite clear in all his designs which are nothing short of desirable.

The G5 is going to be my holy grail, I’ll be honest, I cannot afford the $1,990 price tag but I do curse my expensive taste. I’m so in love with this watch its not funny. It has a lot to do with my strange obsession with slotted disk brakes. The G5 is a limited edition with only 500 pieces on offer AND a 6-month installment plan which is quite fair, Hubolt wouldn’t do that. The body is made out of forged carbon, the back surface of the dial, carbon fiber and the slotted bezel is a mixture of titanium and aluminum. Its things like this that prove that Santa doesn’t exist because I have never seen anything like this under my Christmas tree.

MOVEMENT: Swiss Made ETA 7750 WATER Resistance: 10 ATM CASE DIAMETER / HEIGHT: 48 mm / 10 mm CASE MATERIAL: Forged Carbon CASE BACK: Titanium with Exhibition Opening BAND / MATERIAL: 29 mm x 22 mm / Blue Rubber CROWN: Screw Down CRYSTAL: Sapphire with Anti-Reflecting Coating

AVAILABLE STRAP COLORS

LIMITED EDITION 500 PIECES

G5

Strat-3 HMS The HMS CHRONO will pair well with my red chinos, a red merlot and some Sunday jazz. Its understated, stylish and beautifully simple. A plain dial with one color highlight is the watch you wear to the casino or after party post F1 race. In a place where pulling out your Samsung to look at the time is totally unacceptable.

In fact, when you wear this watch you shouldn’t even carry your own phone.

You will need to have a phone valet / assistant. Also, with anti-reflective glass you won’t have to keep moving you head to read the time, unlike with a smart phone which is just so uncouth.

MOVEMENT: Swiss Made Ronda 715 Quartz WATER Resistance: 10 ATM CASE DIAMETER / HEIGHT: 46 mm CASE MATERIAL: Brushed or Matte Titanium BAND / MATERIAL: 26 mm x 22 mm

CRYSTAL: Sapphire with Anti-Reflecting Coating

AVAILABLE STRAP COLORS

CROWN: Screw Down

HEEL & TOE COVERED

L E E H TOE &COVERED Comfy socks are hard to find, and socks that appeal to the petrolhead in you... Even harder.

Heel Tread, out of Portugal feeds that need like no other.

Ranging from motorsport liveries to patterns taken from specific details in legendary models

Inspired by the famous Mustang driven by Steve McQueen in the movie. That eye catching green with splotches of red with a dark green toe and heel cap.

These perfect pair gets its color from the Deep Purple of the 3rd Gen Stingray and the black checkerboard pattern of the logo.

One of our favourite color combinations is the distinct Gulf Racing livery. That baby blue and striking orange coupled with white is the perfect pair for the ultimate fan.

We love it when a plan comes together, like this pair with the iconic grey and black divided by the red stripe as seen on the GMC Vandura from The A-Team.

THE LEGENWAIT FOR IT -DARY FORD

40 GLORIOUS INCHES! SOLIDO FORD GT40 24h le mans 1968

LA N CE M üller

AT LE MANS 1967 saw the end of Ferrari's dominance in Le Mans. After the legendary 1-2-3 finish, the FORD GT40 became the most talked about race car in the world and captured the hearts of American racing fans.

But in 1968, things changed immensely for racing in general and Le Mans in particular. Because of the civil unrest in France, the race was postponed for early September, at the onset of Autumn

when the nights were longer and there was always the possibility of dangerous wet and slick weather.

There was other issues to contend with. Automotive brands were exiting the race, leaving only teams and privateers to race, this coupled with the new rules banning big block V8s, limiting capacities and the arrival of the lighter, more nimble Porsche 907/8s brought challenges to for the GT40s The sophomore outing for the GT40 Mk I was under the banner of team JWA in the now world famous Gulf Oil livery and was piloted by the team of Pedro Rodriguez from Mexico and Italianborn Belgian Lucien Bianchi in the #9 car baring the #1075 chassis.

Out of the three Gulfliveried GT40 raced, they were the only car to finish the race in first place, and guarantee a second win for the Ford Motor Co.

Solido Model presents this desirable #9 race winning model in 1:18 scale with all the correct accoutrements and gorgeous Gulf Oil livery. Opening doors complete the model thoroughly.

For a model costing less than €50 (US$ 55 at current exchange rate) the interior details are very well appointed.

No Le Mans collection will be complete without this parked next to the others.

Available at www.solido.com or resellers all over the world.

The significance of the double horseshoes on the car stems from the Gulf No-Nox gasoline campaign in the 60s.

THAT FINISHED FIRST! 1968 FORD GT40 Mk I Widebody #S1803002

Solido also presents the GT40 in pristine white with blue racing stripes. Sporting chrome forged wheels, dual intake vents and black interior. It's a great matching set, the road and race versions of this legendary model.

Photo by Patrick Pchalekz | IG @wunderbunk

If you are reading this on the 4th of May, Happy Star Wars Day!

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye is probably one of the longest names for a production car. It is also one of the straight-out-of-the-factory to offer 800 horsepower. Thats supercar territory. For under $100k.

Heavy, ungainly around corners and a stiff handle are some of the epitaphs that's been thrown at it... But honestly who cares! Its one of the most funnest cars that's around right now.

The visage t h at p u ts fear i n to th e h eart o f men

The Dodge Challenger has been around for about 50 years. It has set various milestones in its long and storied history and has had its ups and downs. We prefer not to discuss the 1978 to 1983 part of its life. Lets start in 2008 with the current iteration of the car.

Reintroduced to the American market, the Challenger took its styling cues from the original and was one of the first modern pony cars to retain the look of its ancestors.

GT Spirit Scale 1:18

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye

The si lh o u ette o f a tru e m o n s ter.

R e ar whe e l dr ive th at bri n gs wi th i t fi re an d bri ms to n e

GT Spirit breathes hot embers to the model with its 1:18 behemoth. It weighs just like its 1:1 counterpart. One of the few models that has an amazing weight to it. The model is limited to 999 pieces, so you need to be quick to get your hands on it. Released in November 2019, to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Challenger, this model is presented in Triple nickel paint, wide-body kit and those wide discs with Brembo calipers.

We highly recommend you add this to your collection.

The vie w mo s t d ri vers s ee o n a dai ly b as i s .

OTHER GT SPIRIT DODGE CHALLENGER MODELS Dodge Challenger SRT Tuned by LB Performance (GT176)*

DODGE CHALLENGER R/T SCAT PACK WIDEBODY (GT248)

*out of stock on gt spirit SHOP, may be able with resellers

Dodge Challenger Hellcat SRT (GT168)*

Dodge Challenger Demon (GT213)*

Batgirl & 1957 Chevy Corvette - Jada Toys Photo by Patrick Pchalekz | IG @wunderbunk

Welcome to our new section of JADA CASTED, a special little place dedicated to some of the cool new and current offerings from the world of JADA TOYS.

D E T S CA

What’s awesome about JADA is not only do they do Diecast Model cars but, they have some really cool diecast figures in their product portfolio as well. They also some really cool licenses that range from TV Series Cult classics to superheroes from both MARVEL and DC and of course Fast and Furious.

This issue we kick things of with some really cool JADA adaptations of MARVEL’s superhero cars of which JADA has released quite a few. We picked our favorites and we bring them to you in our loud and crazy format. If you are a MARVEL fan you are in for a treat and then some.

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SPIDERMAN & 2017 FORD GT

Not the usual car commuter by any standard but this Spiderman FORD GT is pretty cool. Shiny two tone metallic paint job features a web graphic on the red portion of the car along with the FORD badge which is really slick. The dark blue portion is plain except for the Spidey logo on the rear fenders.

Opening parts include opening doors and opening front luggage lid to store a tiny backup Spidey suit.

doesn’t The rear engine cover lift the or p open but… you can dro ty. We nif ite qu active spoiler which is ances nu an rm also like the little Spide black the e lik n built into the car desig r to ila sim hts outline on the headlig

SPIDERMAN’s eye liner and we with our spidey senses we sense slotted disc breaks.

The Spiderman figure that comes the car is also top line. We love that red paint and the well sculpted figure that free stands without the base. Its also quite heavy and feel extremely premium. You definitely want to get this.

Capt. Marvel & MUSTANG BOSS MACH 1 this car n o s t r pa Opening with the engine e d h all roun lid and doors. T d e t lid, boo ips are gold plat t exhaust out the side. e and com

Another free-standing heavy figure that comes with the car but we love the angered action that we could use for many photographic situations. Finally, look at the size of those rear wheels. They are massive and by themselves they will be able to flatten any evil nemesis that comes your way.

A very fitting car for the Superhero who throws it down like a boss. Captain Marvel gets herself this grunty super low rider Mustang decked out in Red, Blue and Gold. And on this rare occasion the gold is not gaudy at all in fact it goes really well with the combination of colors.

But what’s really BOSS about the model are those deep dish multi spoke rims that are so shiny you could comb your hair in the reflection. And, again the designers have carefully manged to make the wheel a nice part of the design as opposed to being totally over the top.

CAPT. AMERICA & FORD MUSTANG

Of course Captain America would be assigned an all American classic and icon of American Muscle which is of course the Mustang, Also no one would be able to fit his shield into anything smaller. So, Captain America beefs up his travels with a 'stang.

Like the Boss Mustang all the parts open on this Mustang and it also carries the Avengers badging painted on to the rear fender. Dual silver tipped exhaust at the back plastic lights and large GT badge finish off the embellishments.

We do think though the wheel rims should have been kept black without so much red. The Captain America styled design look really nice and suit the car immensely and the side door wings are a hat tip to the original Capt America that came out in the early 40s with wings on his helmet on either side. This shows the amount of research the designer goes through before the design is made.

The figure is very badass looking es pecially with the impress though to shield. I can’t o much on how th e single freestan super awesome. ding figures look

BLACK WIDOW & C2 CORVETTE Unfortunately, this has just been released and so we haven’t been able to get our hands on it like the others to be able to give you the complete rundown. But what we can say, is that just by looking at it, its going to be very popular amongst the MARVEL fans.

she e think w e r u g hair he fi As for t ve had shorter d ha n an should ohansso Angel J t t le r a rlie’s like Sc the Cha eone in h it w ’s t wha e som ooks lik L ?

Charlies e s a o p is m a ow ign te lack Wid o. the des B e h T . fan l to Angels looks very coo it body su

Not an astronaut but maybe she has been in space. We can never tell with the ultimate spy. What we do know is that she’s got Stingray Vette C2 and in that color combination for us it’s the best so far.

Also, by the looks of it we can expect at least the doors and the engine lid to be the opening parts.

Action Replay!

Patrick loves playing with and taking pictures of toys... both the wheeled and the non-wheeled variety. Then he plays with them even more.

Bringing out the action in them without merely consigning them to 2d pixels on a hard drive or social media feed. You can feel them, and sometimes just see them in your mind's eye. Go on, keep looking and tell us that we are right.

Hi, I’m Patrick Pchalek, a toy photographer and passionate collector from Germany. Beside collecting and shooting action figures in different scales I’m also into collecting scale models. So what’s better than combining photography and the passion for cars?

I think most of us started to collect and play with cars when we were young kids and back in the days it was all about fun and playing around. That feeling is what I try to keep for myself in a busy and hectic world nowadays.

Nothings more (ok, a few more things are good too) satisfying than open a new model and explore the many

details and design. Yes, I still play with my toys because that's what they’re made for (although I understand in box collectors). If you want to take pictures of your cars then its the best way to discover new ideas for photos.

Like a lot of European collectors my collection also mainly consists of 1/18 and 1/43 models. The larger models are great for outdoor photography sessions while I prefer to shoot my smaller models inside at my small studio where I can add practical effects like rain or dust. As you can guess my models have to deal with a lot of different situations but be assured no cars where harmed during the making of my pictures.

There’s a lot of creativity in the diecast community especially when it comes to diorama builders and custom cars. It’s great to be a part of it!

Even if 2020 isn’t the best year let’s make the best out of it because we’re driving forward with full speed. Thank you for reading and also huge thanks to Lance and Nigel at Castheads for the feature.

See more on his IG feed @wonderbunk

"Never forget to play!"

- Patrick -

E CA S

EVA'S ANDY SHOP Serving up a delectable selection of sweet minimalist diecast photography

Serendipity is a word used to describe the fortuitous finding of things that are truly wonderful.

It was indeed serendipitous to stumble upon the art (yes, it is truly art any way you look at it) of Eva Gieselberg.

Eva hails from the town of Ravensburg, near Lake Constance in Germany. She defines herself as a creator of minimalist diecast photography, where she takes miniature models and puts them in the most colorful scenes and brings out joy inducing palettes.

These aren't pristine, brand new out-of-the-blister models... Most of them are beat up and scarred, missing paint chips and axles that have given up long time ago. But each of these models looks like they were played with, enjoyed to the fullest and in their lifetime brought immense happiness to someone somewhere.

She is a motoring journalist by trade and a passionate classic car driver. Her rides of choice are a white Volvo 1800 ES built in 1973 and a P145 station wagon, one year older. After taking pictures of 'real' cars for various automotive magazines, Eva changed the size of her models. Back in spring 2015 she started her colorful and minimalistic diecast photography series #CANDYCARS. In her technically and aesthetically compelling photo editions, it is the interplay between model car, color and light that arouses strong emotions in the viewer and makes them smile. Whether in galleries, at exhibitions or in digital media - people start conversation when watching the little vintage stars. Maybe it`s the stories, that every single dent on the cars is telling us. Because what they all have in common: They went through many hands and have been loved a lot - not only in children`s rooms. Most of Eva´s models are from Lesney/Matchbox, Siku, Majorette, Dinky Toys and Corgi Toys, built in the 50s, 60s and early 70s.

The artist works with the aesthetic reduction of minimalism.

Adhering to the motto ‚less is enough‘, Eva`s graphical photographs play with the orientation of colors and shapes of vintage toycars.

She states, "We associate these little car models from our childhood with pleasant memories. Beautiful shapes, classic design and vibrant colors – the cars are a universal carrier of good mood". "I am fascinated by the color and the special aesthetics that come about when the small cars are put on the stage".

All photographs are fully composed during the photo shoot.

Subsequent digital image manipulation is dispensed with.

Selected images are available in German art galleries or online at candycars.store and you can learn more in her website www.candycars.de

Photographed by Patrick Pchalek | IG @wonderbunk

R E M E M B E R

Water is precious R E D U C E

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R E U S E

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R E C Y C L E

THE CUL TUR ED CAST HEAD In the age of the global pandemic there is one thing many of us can fall back on, to relax and ease the anxiety. There is nothing like a hot cup coffee (or tea) and a good book. It can be any book but for the Cultured Casthead it has to be a good car book.

THE CUL TUR ED CAST HEAD TOP MUSCLE is great photographic journey into quite a few American Muscle cars. Some of them hard to find, and some of them hard to ignore, even some of them you may have never seen before. Beautiful photography captures the essence of the cars and how important they have become in shaping the current car industry today The book also touches on the history of these cars from where they were built and why they died.

Close up shot of engines, interiors, materials and colors that defines era’s a proper trip down memory lane in a high gloss large format coffee table styled book.

THE CUL TUR ED CAST HEAD

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sed in graphy tips u to o h p r a c e rs d ich also inclu erized for hou h m w s y e h m p u ra o g y to e l pho ll will eav es of beautifu ndy Leffingwe a R r e h p Over 200 pag ra g t by the photo this very shoo t Sunday. on a very quie

THE CUL TUR ED CAST HEAD We usually buy our books from BookXcess Malaysia which has a large stock of remainder books from all over the world. These include some fantastic car books like this, at insane prices and they ship around the world. If you are lucky to live in Asia or the Middle East you would probably catch them at their traveling book fair called The Big Bad Wolf book sale.

Dodge Viper ACR 1:28 Special Edition - AUTOart Photo by Alberto Jorge Rodriguez | IG @18impressivecars

Kyosho Ferrari 250GTO 1:43 Photo by Lance K Müller

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