CastHeads Magazine Volume 5 Issue 8

diecast

Click on the  and add models to your favorites

STATUS lets you mention the condition of the model

Many details already available in the drop down menus, i.e. scale, color, vehicle brand etc.

and

can include more specific details in the NOTES

with

brand new

models

Majorette Land Rover Defender 90

Since its introduction to a mainline selection, the Landy has been getting better with each casting. This time we see it from the Racing Series and comes in a more digital urban camouflage livery.

While it looks like it was made for the urban jungle, it feels right at home in the great outdoors

Scale: 1:66 | Status: Available

Schuco Modelle Mercedes Benz 280SL Pagoda

Released in 1963, the Pagoda came with a removable roof arched inwards, reminiscent of the curved roofs of Asian temples, which was designed by Paul Braque.

Schuco re-released this model in the Pro R18 range in silver with the black roof and black hub caps.

Scale: 1:18 | Status: Coming Soon

SOLIDO 1968 Ford GT Mk1

There is nothing more we can say about the model from Solido except that you will see quality improvements with each model update. One thing we can say however is that this red and white schema is simply gorgeous. The black wheels with the silver single nut and white raised lettering makes it look even better. And presents a 1:18 scale blank canvas for those who want to take this model to the next level.

Scale 1:18 | Coming Soon

Otto Mobile Toyota Yaris GR

What happens when you give a humble 3 door hatch a dose of steroids and pump it full of amphetamines?

You get this rally-ready, earth-munching, tarmac burning Hot Hatch that has become highly desirable to almost everybody all at once.

Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda and WRC legend Tommi Mäkinen was involved in its birth, and Toyota’s own Master Craftsmen for its production.

Otto Mobile offers the model in Platinum White Pearl with the black accents.

Scale 1:18 | Status: Available

GT Spirit Rimac Nevera

Electric supercars are changing the landscape of what used to be eco-centric stocky boxes for the environmentally conscious. RIMAC, the Croatian-born manufacturer is on the way to releasing the limited-to-150-units Nevera and Nico Rosberg bought the 1st out the factory.

While many will argue to its non-unique look, and or unexciting color, we are sure the GT Spirit model will have stunning detail, and will take center shelf in any super car collector’s display.

Scale 1:18 | Status: Coming Soon

Jada Toys Anime Hollywood Rides 1986 Toyota Trueno (AE86) and Aggretsuko

Jada Toys race to dominate the cuteness market is heating up with the upcoming release of this well beloved Trueno that is legendary among pop culture and model car fans.

This time around, we get the eponymous character from Aggressive Retsuko, an Original Net Animation that explores the world of a 25yo Japanese office worker through an anthropomorphic Red Panda who likes to let out her frustrations by singing Death Metal at karaoke bars.

The series, now on it’s fourth season is undeniably popular and has a 100% rating on RT. If you are a fan of Retsuko and the others, this is definitely an add to your pop culture collection. Opening parts and fully licensed by Sanrio.

Scale: 1:24 | Coming Soon

DIECASTING

Racing Champions Mint 1969 Chevy Camaro Z/28

If one was to choose between being really really fast or looking good while driving just really fast, the Camaro Z28 will most definitely win the desirable sweepstakes.

While the standard Z28 had a lot going for it, this model from Racing Champion wears the drag shoes that enables it to go from grocery getter to track burning monster. The deep blue paint and the white racing stripes just makes it look outstanding. It’s part of the Mint Release 1 and is limited to 6800 pieces.

AutoWorld 2020 Chevy Corvette

The 2020 version of this American Exotic was more bada** than its predecessor in all aspects. An eight-speed dual clutch tranny mated to a LT2 6.2ltr V8 putting out a massive 495 out of the factory floor, Who cannot love this American bred road rocket.

Auto World model is lathered in Elkhart Lake Blue (interesting) with black rollers and accents. Its part of the Diecast Premium 2022 Release 2 and is Version B.

Scale

Johnny Lightning Street Freaks 1981 Chevy Citation X2

The Citation was part of Chevrolet’s foray into more compact cars that had kicked off with models like the Nova and Monza. This was the first to have front wheel drive and smaller that previous models. The X-11 was a faster, funner model that came as a 3-door hatchback and 2-door club coupe. They even put a solenoid switch to open a flap to let in extra air!

The Johnny Lightning model is presented in bright “look-at-me” yellow, blacked-out glassware, model correct decals and chrome speed wheels.

Toyota Hiace Widebody Hello Kitty Capsule Summer Festival

The cuteness is being overladed with all the pastel colored Hello Kitty models Tarmac Works is dropping. An AMG GT-R, one VW T1 bus, we are getting not one, but two Hiace Widebody panel vans and one with a roof rack! This was released a month ago in time for the Summer festival. So kawaii!

These are other Hello Kitty models are fully licensed by Sanrio, so rest assured this is legit merch.

TARMAC

It’s about time models came in truly unique packaging and Tarmac Works, a brand known to push the limit, sets another benchmark with this unique presentation for its eRacing model. Collaboration between Trust Racing and GReddy. COMES IN NEW TRUCK PACKAGING

The cuteness continues with another feisty feline model

this time

OFFICIAL COLLABORATION WITH SANRIO

Get an early start on stocking up for the winter with these gorgeous models from Tarmac Works. Be the first to get your hands on the inaugural model to be released in the new packaging concept that’s sure to set the bar for future releases.

The collection also includes another great addition to the Hello Kitty lineup with a widebody Hiace in a brand new oil can package.

Also this time, Tarmac Works releases the Lamley Group collaboration, two new Ferrari 458 Italia GT3s and two-toned addition to the Old & New releases. Still here? Get pre-ordering.

It’s raining Silvias and this time we dig the royal purple with a hint of metallic and the gold wheels.

Tarmac Works collaborates with a veteran in the diecast influencer realm with this sweet white Silvia S14.

Piloted by WRC Champion Sebastian Loeb in the French leg of the GT Tour in 2011 as part of the AF Corse racing team.

Henrique Cisneros drove this to a Round 1 win at the Detroit leg of the competition.

IXO MODELS COLLABORATION

Another restomod presentation and this time around in the eye-catching Rothmans livery used in the Porsche 962 racers.

PORSCHE TAYCAN TURBO S

NaRaYa is a fashion house out of Thailand that makes all types of bags out of fabric. They are colorful and playful, just like the pattern that adorns this Taycan Turbo S. The real car graced the Bangkok Motor Show in 2021 and was a collaboration between Porsche Thailand and NaRaYa, who designed the Royal Elephant and golden silk motif.

The

a car that already looks like it’s about

take on

of

wide

collection

makes this

of the

sure to catch the attention of any

first

This is it. Mini GT strikes again with the release of this Kaido House series. Yes, I single out this one due to the very famous Cherry Blossom theme, which strongly represents one of the Japanese culture. Such a pretty in pink, isn’t it? Without any intention of pushing aside its well-made main features, let’s see some extra points of this model: a pair of rear-view mirrors made of rubber so they don’t easily break, and the details of the engine that are quite impressive for this scale. The verdict: absolutely not guilty to have this wagon rolling nicely into my collection.

1:64 | Status: Available

Majorette Groovy the

Bringing Back!

The new deluxe release from Majorette is just outta this world man. It’s funky, it’s groovy and it’s a selection of Volkswagens that are just switched on and kicking.

Each tin has a unique lettered logo of The Originals, and each model is sweeter than the other.

First out the box is a customized Golf GTI Mk1 featuring a monochromatic flow-y color scheme with some wide fender flairs and opening hood. A closer look at the grille reveals the red line that defined the GTI over the normal Golf model.

The more happy love music themed VW T1 crew cab pickup is the next out of the tin. The paintwork on this is just gorgeous with shiny metallic gold highlight on the artwork. The flat bed in the back has a notice that is ripe for customizing. The model also features the new Fuchs-type wheels wrapped in rubber tires.

Another Golf Mk1 with more racier colors and decals. This model features the Fuchs wheels in gold. The checkered flag affirms its sportiness.

The great for summer VW Beetle in florals and cool as blue/white theme is popping. Comes with a surfboard to enjoy oneself down at the beach.

No VW collection would be complete without the eponymous food truck and this T1 colors and motifs are really sweet. Has a definite Caribbean vibe to it mon.

We get another T1 and we aren’t complaining at all. This love peace music theme bus is banging with the cool to the eyes color scheme. The pastels are sure to please.

All these models have a metal base, suspension and opening parts riding atop rubber wrapped wheels

BAVARIAN STARS IN THE SHAPE OF CARS.

Serious 1/64 scale collectors are going to love these. Two beautiful cars that have achieved iconic status and are not over-saturated in the market. How many E36 LWs do you see in 1/64? Hard enough to get on a larger scale this is a great inclusion to Schuco’s catalogue of 1/64 scale cars. Already beefed up with a healthy plethora of European cars ranging from Mercedes to MINI the E36 is a collector’s item.

Unfortunately, most of what makes this car so special is really under the hood and within the car’s bodywork but, the Schuco design team kept the special lightweight aero side mirrors, the famous M Sport flag and my personal favorite the magnesium sport wheels. 3 things that define the E36 lightweight at a glance is perfected on this 1/64.

SCHUCO

We follow the E36 up with another famous BMW. The 2002 BMW model is often confused with the year of manufacture. This series 02 BMW is available in Schuco’s paper box collection which is 100% plasticfree packaging and designed well enough to look in the box amongst the displayed collection. Details are to die for because Schuco is a higher-end brand that drops like a Premium Tomica.

The weight is perfect, they roll well and the details that bring out the nuances that are loved about the actual model are always well represented. It’s no surprise that American Diorama Figures can do nothing more than just stare at the amazing quality and detail Schuco has to offer.

THIS IS BMW SCALE CAN GET A BMW YOUR

PIECE

Big CatBeauty Star

Cat

When it was released to the public at the 1961 Geneva Motor show, the world gasped in wonder. Aerodynamically advanced, impeccably crafted, probably the first British fast back to appear on the scene, regarded to date as one of the most beautiful cars ever created our collections are never short of space for a Jaguar E-Type

Painted in a thick coat of British Racing Green, this is a good example of why collectors like us enjoy this hobby so much and the time we can afford to collect, compare, catalogue and archive. While brands like Schuco deliver such detail and replication we become the custodians of the car brand, keeping memories for generations to come.

With collecting comes great power and responsibility. Schuco really brings delight in their 1/64 range, this is a great casting in terms of body work and being put together, nice little details to be found here and there.

Personally, I think Schuco have a great opportunity here to release something special in terms of this casting.

They already have a fantastic base to work with, they just need to push the envelope a little bit more and maybe make some nice, spoked wheels that

give you a glimpse of the rare at the time disc brakes that were standard on the E-Type.

Also considered such an influential design in the automotive world I’m pretty sure a 1000 of these in a superpremium version would definitely be a huge hit. Seems like something we should try and make happen.

WELCOME TOTHE WONDERFUL WORLDOF

&

Miss

The owner and creator of TARMAC WORKS is quite the fan of a lot of the pop culture he grew up with and comes up with ways of bringing some of those childhood icons into the modern day using the car models as blank pieces of canvas. The result has been some clever collaborations with brands like Moon Eyes, HELLO Kitty and of course Mr Men and Little Miss.4

So far there have been three models released under this collab the latest being an RWB with Mr Strong in his container case. Another model is a Toyota HiAce that comes with a combo pack of Tin Packaging and a custom pin. There is also a further collab with Schuco where a multi-colored VW Beetle was released as well.

MR. STRONG

The RWB is a creation of the TARMAC WORKS team and there isn’t an actual Mr Strong RWB in existence. Not that it can’t be done and to be honest think of this on an actual car. That would be radical, to say the least. We just love the way Mr Strong has been plastered in various positions right around the car keeping the vibe fun and playful. The touch of blue is also nice giving the car a bit of definition.

TW has a great catalogue of RWBs so far in both 1/64 and 1/43. Tried and tested with their quality control getting better and better each round. Also, this isn’t an existing RWB in the world so it’s kind of exclusive to diecast collectors and Tarmac Works fans. It is a licensed product on all fronts, so it is approved by RWB as well which makes it official.

MR STRONG LOVES TO EAT EGGS 12 OF THEM A DAY! HE CAN LIFT 65 ELEPHANTS AT ONCE AND IS AFRAID OF HEIGHTS. WHICH IS WHY HE LOVES HOW LOW RWB IS. HE CAN BEND BARS AND TIE KNOTS IN THEM PERFECT FOR WORKING IN AN RWB GARAGE.

LEGION OF RACERS NISSAN GT-R NISMO GT3 2020 CHAMPION

Who are the Legion of Racers?

Tarmac Works is a forward-thinking brand that has its finger on the pulse of the culture they are a part of. In 2020 Virtual racing kicked off in a big way and what you may not know but the e-racing world was exploding with events that were pitting Virtual racers Vs. Actual Racers who liked E-Racing. It got serious, Leagues became powerhouses that were taking down actual GT racers and Formula racers.

ONE SUCH LEAGUE IS BECOMING A GROWING FORCE IN E-SPORTS HAILING FROM SINGAPORE AND THEY HAVE BEEN WINNING THROUGH STIFF COMPETITION ON AN INTERNATIONAL SCALE. THEY ARE KNOWN AS THE LEGION OF RACERS AND SHARE A VERY CLOSE BOND WITH TARMAC WORKS. THERE HAVE BEEN MANY CARS VIRTUALLY RACED BY THEM AND HAVE BEEN RE-CREATED IN REAL LIFE BY TARMAC WORKS. JUST ANOTHER COG IN THE AMAZING TARMAC WORKS MACHINE.

THIS GT NISMO WAS DRIVEN BY JONATHAN WONG AND WAS CROWNED OVERALL CHAMPION OF THE LEGION FOR 2020. WITH THE TEAM SPONSORED BY TARMAC WORKS, THEY DECIDED TO GO WITH THE MR MEN AND LITTLE MISS LIVERY WHICH AS YOU CAN SEE IS A VERY STRIKING VISUAL AND IT’S ONE OF THOSE MODELS WE THINK YOU SHOULD HAVE AS PART OF THE COLLECTION.

MORE 1:64 PRANCING HORSES FROM IXO AND TARMAC WORKS

CASTING

Tarmac Works crowned kings of Collabs makes massive strides in terms of delivering what collectors want. There is a massive demand for FERRARI on a 1/64 scale but so far only a few can deliver in terms of available licensing deals. And to be honest, FERRARI is extreme when it comes to even the tiniest license deal. So, when TARMAC WORKS announced a tie-up with IXO to do FERRARI. Collectors’ ears were set ablaze instantly across the globe.

This is the 3rd FERRARI release of a special edition model which is a FERRARI 488 GT3 raced in the 2018 BLANCPAIN GT Series driven by PITI BHIROMBHAKDI and CARLO VAN DAM part of the KESSEL Racing team which takes part in 5 endurance championships every year. This particular model was second in the PRO-AM category of the GT Series in 2018.

Beautifully painted TARMAC WORKS has done a stellar job on the metallic paint work and is a stunning addition to their FERRARI lineup. Unfortunately, you won’t be seeing any road-going Ferrari but you will get a healthy selection of raceready and race-winning FERRARI from many race championships. For FERRARI collectors, it’s going to get expensive.

RISING STARS IN 1/64

SINGER PORSCHE TIFFANY BLUE

Making massive strides into the detailed 1/64 market is POP RACE and when we say massive strides, we mean MASSIVE. They have an impressive line-up of models with a focus on race and pop culture designs in Motorsport and the auto industry, like SUPER GT race cars with EVA Racing livery for example. (Eva Racing is a JAPANESE racing team inspired by the popular sci-fi manga EVANGELION). But they have also managed to snag a slice of ‘special’ space in the collector cupboard with their SINGER Porsche series.

As an abashed PORSCHE fan, I will throw myself at all the tuner Porsches I can get my hands on and so far, we have had RWBs, GUNTHER WERKS and RUF. Now one of the more design refined tuner and modifiers outfit known as ‘Singer’ comes to life in 1/64 scale from POP Race, my knees are weak and my legs turn to jelly, I have died and gone to PORSCHE heaven.

SINGER PORSCHE CNY RED & GOLDEN DRAGON

One thing that I’m sure many of you are already asking yourself is ‘Does it roll?’ and the answer is a resounding YES! Not only do they roll but they also roll really well on their rubber wheels. The body material is diecast and not resin but the model doesn’t feature any opening parts. It does however feature lovely bodywork especially getting those wide wheel arches right and then making sure the wheels fit perfectly with just enough room to roll.

The paintwork is also impressive. No overspray, solid thick coatings, encased in the smooth clear coat, no drip marks, nothing but a very well-done job worthy of a premium badge.

It’s all put together really well the metal work looks good, the lights are plastic front and back, ATTACHED side mirrors, twin centre exhaust pipes, photo-etched logo at the back POP RACE can easily be considered on par in terms of detail with the other brands that are acing it in the premium category.

FAR, THE COLOR VARIATIONS THAT POP RACE HAS FOR THE SINGER

ARE JUST

THE TIFFANY BLUE

NOT TO

SINGER TARGA

This is the perfect example of a lot of little amazing things coming together and the result is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING SHORT OF STUNNING. Some models were just created to be idolized and adored. POP RACE has gone and made one. It’s a SINGER TARGA. Pioneering the TARGA style, it is one of PORSCHEs most iconic designs. Just like our German friends to build a ‘safe’ convertible and then make it look beautiful.

The first SINGER TARGA release from POP Race will be finished in this gorgeous metallic gray with the contrasting Spanish sunset orange interior, a beautiful combination of colors and selecting these combinations is one of the things the brand SINGER prides itself on.

ABSOLUTELY NOTHING SHORT OF STUNNING!

If you find yourself drooling at the prospect of owning this, then you better get your pre-order in because the hype around this has been real. A lot of collectors want to get their hands on this already. The good news is it won’t be the only TARGA release with a few more in different colors slated for the end of this year into the next.

All of this is excellent news for you. More 1/64 brands concerned more about licensing and details means we can expect to see more awesome stuff. Right now, POP RACE is working on the release of the 2022 GR 86 and the SUBARU BRZ in some awesome color variations. We expect to see more from POP RACE!

ZONE IN TO THE

ONE SIXTY4

Maserati Ghibli

The first model we looked at was the four-door grand tourer from Maserati. Finished in Blu Emozione. Decent details on the grille and the headlights, taillights and decals are done properly.

Metal Speed Zone, or more popularly known as MSZ drops their 1:64 models like a ton of bricks on collectors with five very fetching models. All of these models are fully licensed and is quite well made. The first drop consists of one Maserati, one Toyota, two Audis, and one Volkswagen.

The wheels are comparable to those found on Matchbox versions, and fit the presented models quite well, as in visually. The models and details of these models enable them to rise above being a toy brand to a more collector oriented model car maker.

All the models have diecast metal bodies and plastic bases/wheels with suspension built into the base. The best thing is, that the bases are screwed in and not riveted, offering many possibilities for customizers to engage in a little exploration with these models.

Audi A7 Fastback

The flagship luxury sedan from the German marque is detailed in stunning bright Tango Red with most of the details, including the lights and decals rendered well.

Toyota Camry

The new Toyota Camry is presented in brilliant white with plastic windows AND panoramic sunroof. The only thing lacking in the model is more detail on the lights and grille.

Audi Q7

The next model we had a look at was the black obsidian, and highly glossy luxury SUV from Audi. Front and rear lights rendered properly and the front grille is quite detailed for an entry level 1:64 model

Volkswagen Amarok

The last, but not the least, is the 4WD model from VW. Amarok is the fun outdoor vehicle from them and is presented in bright red. The rear bed has a plastic insert as well as sports bar attached to it.

MAJORETTE’S TRAILER

TRAILER FLASH FLASH

Volkswagen

Sport

with

Caravan

Trailer Flash

We love a good Hawaiian vibe and this set surely sets the tone. Great for spending a day along the tropical coast along the Equator. The sleek Airsteam Sport 16 lets you live the high life in utter comfort when you do.

Volkswagen T1 Pickup with Boat + Trailer

Trailer Flash

The crew cab T1 pickup is the perfect vehicle to haul around the O2 tanks to go diving as well as the boat that will take you to the best spots around the world. The marine theme is spectacular in this new model in the VW collection.

The Beetle, your most reliable set of wheels to take you and your retro Eriba Puck caravan to the beach. Chill in an exotic locale while having the comforts of home at your fingertips. The vintage look really suits this set.

Volkswagen Beetle with Eriba Puck Caravan

The newest addition to the Volkswagen lineup is this sweet T3 with the sliding door. The van tailer combo features a very Mexican feeling, great for exploring the Cancun shores with the gang.

Trailer Flash

Volkswagen T3 with Eriba Puck Caravan

The life giving ocean, home to many species and essential to survival for humankind is facing a grave crisis. Plastic pollution.

dispose of your plastic and paper properly. Reduce, reuse, and recycle.

be a responsible Casthead.

in the interest of Planet Earth. Home.

Beach Bumming

Mid-sized models, those that fall between the highly popular 1:64 and the famous 1:43 are mostly considered toys. Those with any type of pull-back of action, or light up ability get automatically consigned to the kids section and or as presents for the children.

But then there are highly detailed and fun models out there, especially from Asian brands. MSZ produces an entire selection of licensed models in the 1:32/1:36 scale with opening parts, accessories and great features.

Since CastHeads Magazine is for all scales and tastes, we decided to look at a few from MSZ, and this Toyota FJ Cruiser with a trailer full of canoes is quite fun. Great of setting up camping scenes and help your diecast photography skills by not being small. Great for keeping yourself, and if kids are involved, also keeping them entertained.

MSZ DROPS A PRETTY GOOD 1/36 SCALE FOR THE CASUAL COLLECTOR

Call me carzy (intended mis-spell) but if I see it, I get it regardless of the brand and finish which maybe a little difficult as my collection grows with more collectible models in terms of rarity and detail. Looking at the MSZ M4 you can see it is stuck in between deciding what it wants to be in terms of collecting.

CASTING

BUDGET This is a well-priced 1/36 scale you get for detail and features this provides. With flashing lights and a sound chip you can take some really cool night shots without having to photoshop the lit lights onto the car. You can shoot as is.

DESIGN Love the black with the gold highlights. It works perfectly with the car and though this model features the large kidney grille it isn’t as obtuse as it looks in real life.

DETAIL True there are some 1/64 scale cars with better detail than the largest 8K TV you can find but this doesn’t cost as much and has enough detail to be a collectors start to the money pit shit show they are about to embark on. One things for sure, when that pesky 7 year old nephew comes by for a visit this will make his day.

JAPAN’S SUPERSTAR SALOON THE TOYOTA CAMRY

They say the TOYOTA Corolla is the biggest selling brand under the TOYOTA marque but I disagree. Based on a very scientific data gathering method called watching TV there is one car in the TOYOTA range that never fails to make an appearance. Even in the latest TV series, (except the Rings of Power and The House of Dragon) you will always find a TOYOTA CAMRY lurking in the corner.

Saloon

Never with anything less than a 2.0 Litre engine, this is the luxury saloon of the TOYOTA HILUX dependable, reliable (some CAMRYs have clocked 1,000,000 km and are still running today) sturdy and Mercedes Luxury for cheap chips. I’m constantly surprised at the number of collectors out there who love these types of Japanese cars and have spent their whole lives collecting the entire range of some of the iconic star models.

MSZ brings their contribution to the saga with a 1/36 scale 2022 CAMRY complete with a panoramic sunroof, working lights and opening doors. Details are best on the exterior, being licensed models, they do go through a stringent look by the TOYOTA licensing team but more than anything else MSZ models have charm. They look good on a shelf or desk and as much as I am an adult I do activate the lights and sounds sometimes playing with myself... and my CAMRY.

The StrangeTale Ken&Mary of

- The Strange Tale of Ken & Mary

Nissan had a hit with the release of the Skyline brand beginning in the late 50s. But it truly came to it’s own with the third generation releases in 1968. Everybody now knows the 2000GT, the 2000GT-R, the 2000GT-X. But we are going to focus on the fourth gen 2000GT-R (KPGC110) version and the strange tale behind one of

the most memorable and unique marketing campaigns conducted in Japan.

The sunny, dreamy story of a young couple enjoying themselves gave the model the name it’s mostly identified by now, The Kenmeri.

It all started with an idea to show an idyllic scenario.

First some context. The KPGC110 Skyline is one of the rarest, with only 197 models made. It took almost another ten years for model to bear the vaunted Skyline badge. But how did this low-run production car become famous across the world? Why do people still look at the model longingly and why do they call it the Kenmeri?

It all began with an advertising campaign featuring a young “American” couple, Ken (initially played by Jimmy Zinnai) and Mary (Diane Krey), in love and enjoying the great outdoors in the Nissan Skyline.

The couple drove around, enjoying the natural beauty of the Japanese countryside, and the country fell in love with them.

Ken and Mary, with their optimistic outlook on life captured the mood of Japan at that time, riding high on its economic resurgence.

All the ads lasted roughly seven minutes, which is nothing compared to todays. Nissan hired an award winning production company called Ni Ten to shoot these ads.

The tv commercials, combined with all the print ads, meet and greets shot the characters and the actors that played them to stardom in Japan.

Ken and Mary had fans in all the parts they went to, and people actually wanted their autographs. To say they were big in Japan is an understatement.

Tale of Ken & Mary

But after two years of being one of the most recognizable couples over there, it was time for the fairy tale to come to an end. While many things contributed to Ken and Mary disappearing from the limelight, the most devastating was the death of Jimmy who died in an motorcycle accident.

Diane’s family had to move back to the US and since her

contract was almost up, she decided to step down from her role.

But thanks to the presevation of the ad, YouTube and popularity of the Skyline marque, we get to see Ken and Mary enjoying themselves in this car.

Just to clarify, the car they drove was a blue Skyline GT and not the GT-R

“I used to do meet-and-greets at car shows and dealerships, and occasionally I’d do a radio interview-I had to learn a phrase, ‘Natsu wa, zuzushi... tokoro ni ikitai na.’ If I didn’t leave out a word, it means, ‘In the summer, I like to go someplace cool.”

It’s nice that the legend will live on not only in cyberspace, but every time we see or collect a Nissan Skyline 2000GT-R (KPGC110) Kenmeri.

The Maisto 1:24 model is good reminder of that strange tale. Done in all white with the bolted on fender flairs, black wheels and nothing extraneous to take away from the model.

No glitzy graphics or too many unneeded badging. It’s a good addition to any collection. Only thing is that it’s left-hand drive, so this is an export model. Would have love to have this in RHD just to get the authentic JDM feel.

And these two beautiful forbidden fruits fall out. Loud and aggressive-looking M4s complete with M-styled halo headlights and contrasting paint jobs. Are these really 1/24 scale? Yes, they are, and they look pretty good in terms of detail. It’s really a new era of collecting and we are seeing an uptick in awesome models in all scales.

MAISTO SHAKES THE BMW TREE

As you can behold for yourself MAISTO has got it going on here with a smooth matt-black finish that looks like it has had a few coats to really make the texture stand out. Really well-detailed wheels in that striking lava hue. And though we are not talking about highend interiors the detail on this is leagues ahead of some of the older models they have. I would go as far as to suggest that MAISTO does a signature 1/24 line and just give this model the beans.

Personally, I prefer the black model over the orange because that car looks su preme in MATT black and those orange highlights that really would have pushed the envelope would have been if the front grille and front aero package were actually perforated instead of that etched plastic.

Looking inside the orange roll cage is a nice touch and the bucket seats look as uncomfortable as the real thing. Carbon Fibre rear wing, Check. Carbon Fibre rear wind diffuser, Check. High coolness factor, Check. Both these models are Superstars in our book, really good detail, really good price and of course it really looks good,

Batman

“Endure, Master Wayne. Take it. They’ll hate you for it, but that’s the point of Batman, he can be the outcast. He can make the choice that no one else can make, the right choice.” - The Dark Knight

Batman

This is super simple! If you are a Batman Fan diehard, then head over to the NEXT LEVEL webstore by JADA and buy this supremely cool, BATMAN Car and BATMAN figure for your collection. While you are at it see if you can pick up the BATMAN car from the original Motion picture. From the latest BATMAN movie release starring the guy who was a Vamp comes a GT Coupe version of the Dark Knight tumbler.

NEXT LEVEL

Jada models are special editions that have a limited release run and a special version of a casting they already have in play. What makes this particular model so cool but also super irritating is the black chrome finish. The body is entirely chromed out but not in the bright silver chrome instead a dark shade that looks almost like caramel and retains fingerprints like a CSI database. You will need some sort of gloves for handling this.

Detailed rear engine, fat tyres and the assurance that the bat will always have our backs we love this piece of movie culture and we really appreciate the hard work done by the team to make this look pretty amazing. We totally get behind this model and as we said earlier you can get the earlier model in the same finish as well.

LIL’ HUSTLER

HUSTLER

First of all, I’m going to start by saying if you are a 70s–80s child who loved cars from those years you will love the little period-correct details that make this super simple pickup look fantastic. Starting with those steelies. The wheels on the Hustler look classic drumming up memories of helping dad in the hot sun change the tyre on the side of the road wheezing while carrying those super heavy steelies or at least trying to roll them.

The front grille is also well-created with that clunky-looking steel bumper that used to be burning hot by afternoon searing a bit of flesh when you get too close and brush past. Simple models like this are always easy to put together because they are simple enough to start with

True to its namesake the DATSUN 510 was a little hustler transporting goods through the industrial years and revolution for most countries proving its reliability and tenacity to keep going. This single-cab version is a great reminder and testament to that time. A superstar in its own right, simple and sweet Lil Hustler from Maisto is quite the character.

LAMBORGHINI’S COUNTACH LPI 800-4 LAST V12 HURRAH

THE COUNTACH BEING SUCH AN ICON THERE IS NO WAY YOU CAN SHOWCASE THE NEW MODEL WITHOUT A TRIBUTE TO THE CLASSIC. SO, WE TRACKED DOWN AN OLD LP400 MADE BY POLISTIL WHEN IT WAS PART OF MCG 30 YEARS AGO. HOW APT THAT WE GET TO SHOOT THE TWO OF THEM TOGETHER. THE ONE CAR THAT REVOLUTIONIZED SUPERCARS WITH THE ONE CAR THAT SIGNALS A WHOLE NEW REVOLUTION.

MAISTO BEING A LONG TIME LICENSE HOLDER OF LAMBORGHINI

Meant that they would be one of the first to get it out in 1/18 almost immediately after it was launched. It wasn’t very long before MAISTO announced the LPi 800 as part of the 2022 lineup with the promise of special edition color variations. I am dying to get my hands on the Orange version which looks stunning. Now, judging by the latest hype on social media it’s clear that this has been a bestseller for MAISTO over the last three months.

Honestly, we didn’t think MAISTO would mess this up in any way because the pressure was on, a lot of eyes were on MAISTO and the pre-judgment comments were already flying up and down with the usual moans and groans from purists and few who think that if you can’t afford USD1,000 for a car model you shouldn’t be in the hobby. But as most of us were aware, MAISTO had just pulled off a stunning LAMBORGHINI SIAN there was no doubt in many minds MAISTO would deliver.

MAISTO DELIVERED IN ACES AND SPADES.

Except for there being no windows (which has never been a problem for me), the critics have been mostly silent. For good reason. The 1/18 scale body has copied the actual car to perfection, with very well-detailed badging which is important because Lamborghini didn’t want people to forget the Countach. Opening parts reveal a lovely well detailed red interior, a painted V12 engine, and branded racing seats pretty much the highest detail you could expect from MAISTO at their stunning price range.

IN FACT YOU COULD VERY SOME SCALPER ACTION IN THE 1/18 WORLD, WESOME STRANGE PRICING PRIVATE SELLERS.

VERY WELL SEE ACTION HAPPENING WE HAVE SEENPRICING ONLINE FROM

Unfortunately for those of us who grew up thinking the oil would never end have to come to accept the fact that the LPi 800 Countach which is a hybrid mind you doesn’t just signal the end of Lamborghini’s IC engines but signals the end of IC engines from everyone in the very near future. The good news, MAISTO will be around for a long time delighting us with magical models like the LPi 800-4 2022 Countach.

A HUGE THANKS GOES OUT TO MEHAIEL DAVID JAN SELLAYAH FOR LENDING US HIS LP400 BY POLISTIL TONKA FOR THE SHOOT.

2+2 LUXE APPEAL

KOENIGSEGG GAMERA

WHAT DO YOU CALL A CAR SO EXTREME, THEY DON’T FIT THE BILL OF SUPERCARS ANYMORE. KOENIGSEGG CALLS THEM ‘MEGA CARS’. WE CALL THEM ‘STUNNING’ AS WE PICK OUR JAWS OFF THE FLOOR. I WANT TO KNOW HOW THE DESIGNER THOUGHT THAT A YELLOW NAME BADGE ON THAT BEAUTIFUL SLATE GREY BODY WOULD STICK OUT LIKE A SORE THUMB…PERFECTLY. HOW?

IN LOVE WITH THE SHAPE OF YOU

UNLIKE A LOT OF SUPERCARS TODAY, THIS OOZES REFINEMENT. IT’S REFRESHING IN DESIGN BECAUSE IT LACKS THE ANGLES AND THE MILLION AIR VENTS, AERO ASSISTS, FINS, AND ALL THE EXTRAS THAT MAKE THE CAR LOOK LIKE A WEAPON. NOPE, THIS WENT THE OTHER DIRECTION. LONG, SLEEK, UNIFORM EVERYTHING JUST FLOWS INTO THE NEXT COMPONENT OR BODY PART SEAMLESSLY. IT’S A FOUR-SEATER SUPERSPORT CAR OOZING WITH SO MUCH TECHNOLOGY AND LUXURY IT’S THE CAR BILLIONAIRES HAVE STREET RACE MEETS IN.

EVERYTHING IS TUNED AND CRAFTED TO PERFORM LIKE A SYMPHONY DOWN THE FREAKING EXHAUST TIPS. IT RUNS A 2-LITRE ENGINE ASSISTED WITH AN ELECTRIC SYSTEM AND HEAVY SWEDISH BLACK MAGIC TO DEVELOP AN OUTPUT EQUIVALENT 1100BHP WITH FUEL EFFICIENCY. WHAT IS THIS CAR?!?!?!

OF COURSE SOMETHING THIS BEAUTIFUL DESERVES TO BE TOUCHED BY THE HAND OF GT SPIRIT AND THEY HAVE DONE AN EXCEPTIONAL JOB OF BUILDING THIS ON A 1/18 SCALE. I CRY AT NIGHT WHEN I THINK ABOUT THE FACT THAT I CANNOT OPEN THIS CAR AND GET INSIDE AND MARVEL AT THE AMOUNT OF DETAIL THEY PUT IN FOR THE INTERIOR. ESPECIALLY WITH THE GEMARA THAT HAS AN INSANE INTERIOR DONE UP IN YELLOW. EVERYTHING ELSE THAT YOU CAN COME TO EXPECT FROM GT SPIRIT BY WAY

OF ATTENTION TO DETAIL IS PRETTY MUCH SPOT ON AND THERE IS NOTHING THAT WILL LEAVE YOU WANTING. AS ALWAYS ONE OF MY FAVORITE BITS IS THE WHEELS AND GETTING TO SEE THE BRAKE CALLIPERS IN BRIGHT COLORS IN THIS CASE YELLOW

. THE GEMARA IS YET ANOTHER FEATHER IN GT SPIRITS’ CAP LOVE SEEING THE WORK THEY ARE DOING WITH KOENIGSEGG AND WE CAN’T WAIT FOR MORE GORGEOUS 11/18S LIKE THIS.

“Makeit GoFast, Daddy!”

I am about to start a war, or at least an animated discussion

The Dodge Challenger is the Supercar of Muscle Cars.

Since it’s arrival to the great Muscle Cars wars of the early 70s, the Dodge Challenger was the epitome of brute strength and singular styling. Then when the world needed it most, it disappeared in 1973 (we won’t even consider the so called 1978 version).

Until 2008. Dodge brought back the Challenger to take on the pony cars of both Ford and Chevrolet. It was the amalgamation of both retro styling and modern bits and pieces. 425hp out the doors (or showroom floors) and two doors, no space for kids or groceries. Men AND women loved it. Fun driving was back and it was glorious. It didn’t need turbos or superchargers to go fast, just cubic inches, and boy did it have plenty of them. The newer models are offering upwards of 800hp from the factory... imagine what tuners are doing to them.

We got them all as time went by. SRT8s, R/Ts, SRT Demons, Hellcats, Redeyes and so many others, each more delectable than the other. It was also a great time to be a collector who loved muscle cars.

If you are a hardcore MOPAR fan, collecting every model of Challenger is of course a given. And Solido aims to fulfill your miniature metal dreams.

Feast your peepers on the 2020 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody. It’s a massive model, and heavy to boot. You better have your display shelf reinforced to have this bad boy on it.

THE LOGO TO

“Faster

Daddyfaster!”

I was fortunate to receive this model for an indepth review. The only place to shoot this was outdoors, among the sound of combustion engines, fuel fumes and open skies.

The hefty model, decked out in the Dodge staple TorRed, stood out against the sandy concrete and graying clouds in perfect contrast.

The widebody, with Scat Pack graphics and decals, sat on Graphite Crystal wheels that, get this, actually turned... and ROLLED! So posting this model was made a lot easier.

Personally, it was fun, just like it’s real world counterpart. I look forward to more Dodge models from Solido... eagerly.

600LT

MCLAREN SALUTE TO RACING

As Formula 1 winds down for the year we look back and see many models have been created in likeness and tribute to the teams and racers that delight the thrill seekers in us. Team McLaren Racing is having an upand-down season but their resolve remains strong and dedicated to pulling as many points in. It’s great to see McLaren racing again.

This is just a brilliant and striking version created by the SOLIDO design team and there are a couple of actual 600LT’s in the world with this design wrap done but we are not sure if SOLIDO were the first to use the design or if it was used a wrap first but SOLIDO have done an excellent job on all the details right down to those orange McLaren brake callipers.

CASTING REMARKS

This is the second 600 LT from SOLIDO, and I must say the interiors are getting better and better. Wellmolded dashboard with all the curves and grooves replicated. If you look close you will see the orange stitching highlighting the dash edges the detail has trickled down to the steering wheel.

The carbon fibre parts and trim are well-defined, and the entertainment system inside carries the McLaren logo onscreen. The only thing that I hate doing is attaching the side mirrors 1. Because I can never find the right glue and 2. Being super clumsy with the wrong glue is truly a recipe for tears.

to Racing

Back to the exterior of the McLaren and it is becoming increasingly hard to call this sort of quality entry-level anymore, which is a good thing. It means that you are getting a great quality product intent on improving at a great price. I do wonder at times if SOLIDO will start doing engines as well soon because that would make them super competitive.

A great and colorful addition to the supercar fold. Built so well that it can sit with the rest of the collection holding its own. What I love about SOLIDO is that it feels handleable. You don’t get scared holding it or showing it off which is half the fun of owning some of these models.

MAISTO’S

Fairlady

Lo and behold the queen of Emerald City! I screamed with excitement when we unboxed this. Of course, I loved the Datsun Z series. I grew up with these cars, my dad had friends who drove them, andI wore oversized Ray BanAviators in these cars. This is my jam and Maisto has made it extra extra sweet

COLOUR

The most striking thing about this model is that snake/emerald metallic green that purrs on the eyes. This car needs nothing else to look stunning that’s how gorgeous the paint and color are. Out of all the Zs Maisto has done this one is at the top of the must-have list in 1/18. Whoever came up with this color is a genius and that person needs a raise.

EVERYTHING OTHER THAN THE PAINT

Taking a look at a lot of fair ladies over the weeks, we finally got down to looking at extensive pictures of the actual car to see how close Maisto had got the basics. And obviously, someone on the design team has a lot of love for this model. All the exterior parts have been designed and created to match the original perfectly more like a homage. I would say this is a perfect homage to such a great car.

INTERIOR

With opening parts surrounding the car, I was a bit worried that all this effort had gone on for the exterior of the car and the interior would disappointing. Fortunately, and thankfully that wasn’t the case. The designer had gone the extra mile to make sure that certain parts including the steering wheel and gear knob were painted in wood color.

ENGINE

Pop the hood and we see even more signs of Fairlady love. Better detailed molded engine and hints of color highlighting the carburettor cover and what looks like an engine brace bar to keep the handling tight and reduce rollover. Does it make the model look better? Of course, it helps with the overall look and feel of this model which is the lines of a more premium Signature version.

COLLECTIBLES

SWEDISH

A beautiful body isn’t everything, according to one of the print ads from Saab when it was marketing the Sonett III back in the 1970s.

We agree. But it’s also great to look at. Also, it has pop up headlights operated by a lever just like the real one.

We personally think that this is DNA Collectibles first car with moving parts! Yes, you can manually pop up the headlights of the model. How cool is that?

Okay, the Sonett III is an car that had many men involved in it. A few Swedes, some Americans and an Italian designer. No wonder this look like the best of America and Europe.

CASTING

It was a limited run little sports car that had a Ford engine, Swedish build and technology and design by an Italian carrozeria. It featured roll bars, rack and pinion steering, impact absorbing bumpers and, would you believe it, a fiberglass body. Seats that had adjustable cushions, bucket seats and leather wrapped steering wheel.

DNA Collectibles has designed and built this model with their usual eye for detail and quality. It’s available in four colors and some of them are pretty limited. While the yellow model is limited to 349 pieces, the red, green and the above pictured blue is only limited to 249 each. We wish that one of them shows up at the CastHeads Garage so we can take a real closer look. www.dnacollectibles.com

SHUTTERCASTERS SHOOT SUPERSTAR SUPERCARS

Divyanshu Singh Gaur

Raharjo

Anthony

GIALLO

As the 75th year comes around for Ferrari, they look towards their legacy for both motorsports and car culture. Few people remember that it’s actually a special Yellow color that sets Ferrari apart.

Global sports company PUMA together with Ferrari is excited to unveil the Giallo Modena Special Edition Collection, which celebrates the legendary car and motorsport brand’s iconic yellow.

Global sports company PUMA together with Ferrari is excited to unveil the Giallo Modena Special Edition Collection, which celebrates the legendary car and motorsport brand’s iconic yellow.

During the year that marks the 75th anniversary of Ferrari, the release of the Giallo Modena Special Edition debuts an exclusive Replica T-Shirt. The eye-catching yellow of the apparel embraces the sense of racing passion, pride and emotion that are linked to Ferrari DNA.

As the title of the collection suggests - Giallo Modena - is the Italian name for the specific shade of yellow which has adorned the Ferrari badge for the entirety of the legendary marque’s existence. In fact the particular shade of yellow of Giallo Modena draws its roots from the shield of the city of Modena where it all began in 1929 with Scuderia Ferrari, and then in 1947 where the car company Ferrari was created by the pioneering engineer Enzo Ferrari.

Since 1951 Giallo Modena has been central to every Ferrari shield manufactured. Along with the iconic red colour synonymous with Ferrari, Giallo Modena is well regarded as Ferrari’s second soul.

The Giallo Modena Special Edition is the latest chapter in a long and thriving relationship between PUMA and Ferrari which dates back to 2005. What’s more the PUMA and Ferrari legacy - which spans over a 17 year period - sees the two iconic businesses celebrate multiple F1 wins, and world championship titles at the pinnacle of world motorsport together.

For fans to join the celebration of Giallo Modena in the year of Ferrari’s 75th anniversary, the replica Team T-shirt Giallo Modena Special Edition will be available online on puma.com, via selected PUMA stores, as well as in Ferrari boutiques and on store.ferrari.com. www.puma.com

INTO THE IONOSPHERE

updates the might ION series of footwear for Autumn/Winter 2022. v3 is elevated to the ionosphere with new styling and new tech.

I ONFHybri d

The highly anticipated collection, which is a third generation evolution of the iconic ION F shoes, fuses unique materials, structures, and elite FERRARI design cues to produce a shoe which is truly made to stand out from the crowd. The inspiration for the silhouette of the ION F embraces the state-of-theart front wing of FERRARI’s pioneering SF90 Stradale sportscar.

Pioneering, fast, and luxurious in equal measure, the ION F proudly displays the FERRARI wordmark and a metal pin ‘Cavallino Rampante’ emblemFERRARI’s iconic Prancing Horse, as well as featuring a stylish magnetic buckle and a sock like construction for the main part of the sneaker. A TPU panel at the back of the sneaker, wrapped by an unbreakable and sculptural PU Foam support in the

shape of a wing, provides additional traction and ultimate comfort.

The ION F Hybrid and ION F Puff differ in terms of color and boot material; with the ION F Hybrid finished principally in black with the boot material utilizing a mono mesh material with a digital inspired knitted pixel graphic. ION F Puff is finished in red and white and is constructed out of neoprene with custom embossing details in order to capture the look and feel of a winter puffy jacket.

P u f f

NOI