THEN & NOW NISSAN
GT SPIRIT AND OTTO MOBILE MASTER THE JAPANESE ART OF DESIRE
ONE
ONE 43 OF DIECAST
MCHOF NOMINEES
ONE43
ONE 18 OF DIECAST CASTHEADS WEARPUMA
MCHOF NOMINEE
ONE24 - ONE18
www.castheadsmagazine.com
OVERSEA EVENT EXCLUSIVE
LIMITED EDITION TOTAL of 5,208
・2025 INDONESIA DIECAST EXPO (1st Release)
・2025 TAIWAN DIECAST EXPO 164
・2025 HOBBY CULTURE FESTIVAL CHINA (HANGZHOU) ・TOKYO AUTO SALON HONG KONG 2025
LV-N353b NISSAN SKYLINE 25GT-T with optional parts (Blue)
LV-N Ferrari F40
LV-N343b Mitsubishi Fuso Canter Garbage Truck (White)
LV-N331b NISSAN Cedric Van V20E Deluxe
Service Car
LV-N329c Honda Acty Truck Town (Silver)
Dino 246 GTS (Blue)
‘Highly sought after’ is one way to describe TLVN Ferrari’s, and after a bit of a lull, TOMICA is back with regular Fezza releases. How gorgeous is this Dino with a detachable roof painted in Ferrari’s factory blue shade called
Kodomo no Kuni x Datsun Baby Restored Car (Red) & Figure
Kodomo no Kuni is a welfare park that was inaugurated in 1965, designed to benefit the mind, body and soul of children. When it opened, Datsun donated 100 Datsun Baby’s that were 200cc and used a torque converter instead of gears. It was designed for children, and the Children received a special Children’s Car Club membership. Release of this cute car is expected to be April 2026.
69’ DODGE CORONET SUPER BEE
Recently, Auto World has been releasing a concentration of Super Bee cars, and I am busy collecting them. Many articles and reviews have been written in the magazine about some of these Super Bee cars, which are explicitly detailed and probably the best line of muscle in 1/18 scale at the moment. Whether you are starting your collection or adding to it, you can’t ignore the fact that you want this Coronet in your collection.
While Auto World maintains its business in 1/18, Johnny Lightning has some Super Bee Coronets for the 1/64 collector. You must appreciate Johnny Lightning is sticking to their lane and concentrating on making sure the entire American Automotive History is cast in iron (or ZAMAC). Throwing a few imports. New series coming up from JL featuring the 1970 Coronet Super Bee, and as always you can get buzzed
BLACK AND WHITE VIBES WITH JOSHUA VIDES
A new drop is expected from Tarmac Works, and these are crazy in terms of art cool. Diecast companies are connecting with everything from art to fashion, with some amazing results.
Tarmac Works seem to be the Master of this game with each collab proving to be more outrageous than the last. Also, it is never-ending. They are certainly keeping collectors on their toes with a regular bit of exploding candy.
Like these new cars from a collab with Artist Joshua Vides of the Black and White persuasion. And they chose possibly the most popular cars that are NOT a GT-R 35 or Skyline. Thank God! The choice of cars is never as black and white as it seems….
and these muted colours. This is an amazing piece, and I’m certainly looking forward to this little piece of nostalgia. If her Majesty the Queen were alive today, she would want one of these in the Palace. This is a lovely rendition of the Defenders’ most popular body shape and has been the base for some crazy modifications.
This is going to be a popular choice when it drops, so best get those pre-orders in as soon as they hit stores. A classic like this will get snapped up pretty fast. This is the best you can get for the price compared to the competition.
LAND ROVER 110 IN 1/18
We are going to be seeing a lot of BMWs starting in December with both Otto Mobile and GT Spirit. Beginning with this slick M5 in Burnt Orange. GT Spirit has some of the best-priced resin models with a catalogue of some awesome cars. If you haven’t had the pleasure of owning a GT Spirit yet, trust me when I say the details are fabulous, and I have converted many metallurgists to the resin cause with GT Spirit. One time it involved an M3, true story.
When it comes to dropping Rally and Rallyebased cars, you know it, Otto Mobile has some of the best 1/18 resin cars for rally fans. So, let’s look at Carlos Sainz Sr.’s FORD Rally Escort from 1997 with the highly underpromoted livery on cars, REPSOL. Honestly, it looks exciting and not the regular FORD you see in 1/18. Also, funnily enough, though it is branded with PlayStation sponsorship, it is the one model that hasn’t featured in any PlayStation games. At least from what I‘ve seen.
SECONDS IN DEMAND
956-106B Richard Lloyd Racing
1,534/-
Wrist candy is a must for car-cultured fiends and motorsport lovers. After all, in the world of Automotive culture, timing is quintessential. REC Watches kicked off a unique take on watch development a few years ago, building their watches using materials taken from ICONIC machines. The 956-106B Richard Lloyd Racing is constructed using materials from the disk brake of the actual car. Only 508 pieces are available to buy at a shocking price.
Obviously, a lot of insane craftsmanship goes into extracting, shaping and designing the materials to fit your wrist and make every man on the planet drool incessantly every time you check the time.
SOLIDO released a 1/18 scale version of the car as well around 2022 which can still be found on various sites online. Should you decide that you have to have a REC watch and it is worth doing 12 month installments, then by all means get the car as well!
From the TIFOSI Range of watches, you can find this beautiful homage to Silverstone. A lovely tribute to the UK-based track with Swiss Luminova on the hands and indexes, Stainless steel case and Japanese movement inside. As the official partner for the Silverstone Festival this year, Omologato created only 300 examples of this gorgeous timepiece, which also makes it a nice collector’s edition timepiece.
Click to order
Shaken, stirred and bashed about how I like my MARTINI. One of the most celebrated liveries that adorned champions in just about every form of Motorsport around the world. And the MARTINI colours themselves have become a fashion statement itself. Also, a very good excuse for Omologato to celebrate the LANCIA 037 with a TIFOSI range timepiece.
Beautiful crystal whit dial with the famous MARTINI stripes running down the side off centre continuing all the way down the bespoke fabric strap. The fabric strap itself is perfect for those hot summer car show days where you want fabric style breathability.
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Strap a LUMINOX on me and call me a happy couch surfer. One of the ultimate active wear watches, I should know, I have one, and it has survived. Now LUMINOX gets out of the wet suit and into the driver’s seat with RED BULL Racing. Limited edition watches that use LUMINOX lighting technology, which I can attest, work amazingly evenly in a pitch-dark room and don’t use electricity. Intrigued? Well, they used to be strictly diving watches, but now they’ve come into the real world.
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Looking for some of the most unknown Italian models to spruce up your level of car knowledge? Do you think you know all the Ferrari models that have ever existed? Are you on the hunt for some super obscure, handcrafted models created purely for collectors?
KESS Models has impressed me with their lineup of 1/43 scale cars, and I’m not ashamed to say it, but where the heck did all these models and types come from? Brands like KESS, which is Italian really show us how much there is to the car brands we
love when we scratch the surface. Models that have not survived to be auctioned in the halls of Hagerty but live on in memory, thanks to Italian model creators who have kept a close eye on making sure some of these cars never get lost to history.
1/43 KESS-MODELFERRARI - 275 GTB/C
SN.6885 COMPETIZIONE SPECIALE 1965
LIMITED EDITION
RESIN MODEL
EURO 94.95 - CLICK PIC
1/43 KESS-MODELFERRARI - 330 GT 2+2
SN.6109 MICHELOTTI CABRIOLET OPEN 1964
LIMITED EDITION
RESIN MODEL
EURO 94.95 - CLICK PIC
1/43 KESS-MODELFERRARI - F40 SNOW DRIFTING IN JAPAN WITH PILOT DRIVER 1993
LIMITED EDITION
RESIN MODEL
EURO 104.45 - CLICK PIC
METHOD MADNESS MIKE
From the RED BULL family of extreme sports people meet MAD MIKE. Often confused with the droopy eyed Mad Mike from West Coast Customs… different kind of mad. This is Mad Mike Whiddett from New Zealand and typically eats rubber for breakfast as a Drift Driver. He also seems to favour cars of the Wankel persuasion and you will see his signature smoke screen emanating from many Maazdaa’s mate….
Front wheels cambered, deep dishes served at the back Mad Mike’s wagon wonder comes to life with INNO64 magic. From burnt rubber tracks base to the slick JDM / MAZDA Speed styled MADLAB branding on the sleeve, this is one of those models you would like featured in your WANKEL collection. And it looks like one livery that’ll be sticking around for a long time in motorsport is “Red Bull”.
MAZDA RX3 STATION WAGIN DIGP 2024 SERIES
For the detail bandits, you will love that the rear spoiler isn’t just stuck on the back like a floating shelf from IKEA called LINDÅSEN. We have lovely thin struts. Blue roll cage inside. Tiny red tow hook at the back. All these tiny little details you tend to miss but really appreciate with the newer higherend, higher detailed brandsI don’t mind if INNO64 does a thousand GT-R’s if once in a while we get a few gems like this in between.
FANHOME has becomequicklyone of the leading one stop pop culture online shops for collectors and enthusiasts. But there are still some mysteries about the model making world and we caught up with two amazing gentlemen from DeAgostini who took the time to answer our questions insightfully, cleared up a lot of myths and put our minds to rest.
To date, what has been the most popular car build that FANHOME has released?
Gianluca Latini
Globally, our bestselling automotive models, are the Fast & Furious Dodge Charger R/T, the Knight Rider KITT (a modified 1982 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am), and the Back to the Future Time Machine (Delorean).
In the United States, the most popular car models released by Fanhome are the Back to the Future Time Machine (Delorean), followed by the Fast & Furious Dodge R/T and Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34).
entertainment franchises are extremely popular. But classic muscle and racing cars from the golden age of the American automobile industry, like our 1:6 scale of the 1967 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 or the 1966 Ford GT40, famous for winning four Le Mans in a row in the late 60s, are also very popular in the United States, and we plan to continue expanding this niche with both new models and the re-release of older ones.
Also worth mentioning is the growing F1 fans base globally and in the US: the Max Verstappen Red Bull Racing RB19 from earlier this year has been an enormous success in every country where we launched it. The mythological John Player Special Lotus Renault 97T, driven by Ayrton Senna in the 1990s, although an older model from an era when Formula 1 was not well known to the public in the US, was also very successful. You can definitely expect to see more F1 models from Fanhome in the coming months.
What role has technology played in bringing these scale model replicas closer to the real thing?
Stefano
Certainly, when it comes to digital and electronics aspects, technological developments in recent years have helped bring innovative solutions to our products. For example, the size and memory capacity of today’s PC boards enable applications that were unthinkable years ago. The same is true for control APP for our products (e.g. R2-D2 droid), which leverage the enormous potential of Android and iOS systems.
In addition, technological developments in production and materials have allowed our scale reproductions to be increasingly detailed and realistic.
Can you describe how a typical model is developed from the idea phase through to design and final manufacturing?
Stefano
It depends a lot on the product in question.
For cars/vehicles, we usually scan the original car, then develop a 3D model for approval, followed by the prototype (first in gray, then colored), and finally, develop the molds and check the pre-production samples before starting with mass production.
In other cases, licensing support is required to retrieve all the reference materials needed to prepare the 3D model, or we rely on external experts and consultants.
all the materials needed for development, but often they’re not enough, so we consult closely throughout the design process to ensure every detail is reproduced as realistically and accurately as possible.
As for cars, we mainly proceed by scanning the original car while other times for confidentiality reasons this isn’t possible, for example with the Red Bull RB19.
In this case, we contacted a professional photographer who works in the paddocks and drew on his archive. In other cases, we receive the 3D file directly from the license (OBJ or STL), which is an excellent starting point for developing our 3D model.
How does Fanhome work with the real-world automotive brands, or studios, to render these designs? Do you get access to original designs, photos and/or other materials to assist in this process?
Stefano
Here too, it depends on the project and the license. But we always work closely with each auto brand to ensure the accuracy of the design. The brands provide
Do you find that interest in model building has increased or declined over the last few years?
Gianluca
Large-scale model builds were first introduced by De Agostini in the early 2000s and have grown in popularity ever since, and in my opinion, this trend
continues. The Fanhome brand was developed to focus on pop culture and launched in the U.S. and Europe in 2020, and customer response has been tremendous.
One of the reasons behind this growth is that in a fast-paced, increasingly complex digital world, fans love cultivating a hands-on hobby and completing a rewarding building project.
“Our challenge at De Agostini is to integrate our products with continually evolving design and manufacturing solutions that are driven by high technology and AI. But retaining a commitment to high quality, accuracy, and realism.”
What are some of the myths about model building that sometimes keep people from leaping into a project like this, and what dispels those myths?
Gianluca
The features and final appearance of each model are impressive, but someone who has not yet built one may think… “this is too difficult, or I am not a handy person.” I will emphasize that no prior experience is needed.
We consider the U.S. a fundamental market for the future growth, and are investing heavily in improving our distribution infrastructures, developing new products specifically for the U.S. market, implementing new customer service processes and systems and launching exciting promotional activities;
within the next five years our aim is to establish anhome as one of the leading pop-culture collectibles brands in North America.
Most importantly: we understand very clearly the commitment we have to each one of our fans and collectors, and De Agostini guarantees that we will
Everyone, regardless of experience level, can easily complete any of our models. Painting, gluing, or soldering is not required; just follow easy push-and-click and screw-in instructions.
And if, for whatever reason, someone gets stuck during the process, Fanhome offers free video buildalong guides, and countless other how-to videos can be found on YouTube to help! We want our customers to embrace and celebrate their fan passions, and we strive to make assembling a model a fun and memorable experience.
On a different level, it is essential to remember that De Agostini, a giant international company with more than one hundred years of history, is a household name in many European countries where it carries a strong reputation for the quality of its products and the reliability of its service.
But in relatively new markets like the U.S., we don’t enjoy the same level of awareness and recognition. For this reason, fans may sometimes feel unsure about embarking on a two-year project with a company they don’t know well, and I understand those doubts.
I can reassure these fans that we are here to stay.
What are some of the benefits of the subscription platform?
Gianluca
First and foremost, there is a practical advantage: by subscribing and receiving the building components in installments, you can spread the cost of the models over many months.
Second, as all De Agostini and Fanhome subscriptions may be canceled at any time, no questions asked, fans can evaluate the project during the first two or three installments which are often heavily discounted. And then they can decide, virtually risk-free, whether to commit to a medium-term modeling adventure.
Third, for me a truly essential aspect, there’s an emotional value in building a stunning model like the Back to the Future Time Machine, or any other our fans love, over time: each monthly package becomes an event, something exciting to look forward to, an anticipation for hands-on fun and personal reward, a moment to share with friends and family. It’s awesome.
Do subscribers need to worry about sourcing spare parts?
Gianluca
Absolutely not. When placing our production POs, we allocate a relatively large buffer for spare parts and replacements.
In all honesty, I admit that on rare occasions, we have “dropped the ball” in our end-to-end supply chain management, and this has resulted in less-than-ideal customer experiences.
However, in all cases, we have gone above and beyond to correct the errors and ensure that our customers received all the necessary components to complete their model. I’d like to stress again this very important point: De Agostini / Fanhome guarantees that each of our active subscribers, without exceptions, will always receive all the necessary parts to complete their builds as long as they do not cancel their subscription.
How often does FANHOME drop new Automotive releases?
Gianluca
It varies and may depend on many factors but, as I said, automotive models, either racing, entertainment-based, or general automotive, are very important categories in our product development strategy.
In 2026, we plan to release at least three large-scale build-up models in this vertical, as well as two collections of 1:43 models.
How long does a typical build take from start to finish?
Gianluca
Again, this depends on the complexity of large-scale buildups, but in general, it takes between 18 and 24 months to complete a 1:8 scale model. When possible, we offer fast-track options to complete the build in 12 months or less, as well as full kit alternatives that allow fans to receive all the parts at once in one shipment.
Have there been any instances of customers ever customizing their builds?
Gianluca
Customizing our large-scale models is very popular among our fans. There are many online communities where modelers share their building experiences as well as tips for modifying and customizing the final product.
Some of them went on to turn this passion into a successful business, such as Mike Lane from the UK, who, while a subscriber, started developing customization parts for himself and his friends, and now sells excellent mod kits for almost all our largescale replicas everywhere in the world.
Any news about future releases, maybe one teasing tidbit?
Gianluca
have just released the
In the first semester of 2026, we have some great and exciting cars coming up: the Michael Shumacher Ferrari F1-2000 and the 2024 Lamborghini Revuelto, which we are going to replicate in a great livery.
That’s more than a tiny titbit!
We
1989 Batmobile from the Tim Burton Batman movie, arguably the best Batmobile ever designed (alongside the 1966 TV series one), and one of my personal favorites.
MICHAEL SCHUMACHER
FERRARI F1 2000
CELEBRATING A CIRCUIT
Going down as one of the most legendary car series ever produced Nissan’s GT-R program will be revered with awe and adoration for many decades to come.. Nissan has set itself up to become something more than legendary.
A Lancer EVO is legendary; a TYPE R may be legendary. But a Nissan GT-R is almost…God-like.
Inno64 champions the way forward when it comes to the GT-R’s and the different iterations that resulted directly from the work conducted by the mad geniuses at Nissan. Straight out of the stable, Nissan made it known that their GT-R meant ‘no playing’. If you saw a GT-R badge, in the rear view, it would probably pass and leave you way behind in seconds.
Like all Japanese sleepers, they were built on the idea of winning or conquering the JTCC. In the early days transporting cars around for international races was not a normal procedure and therefore not infrastructurally easy. So, motorsport was heavily localized, and Japan had their own Rallies, Endurance races and Touring Car Championships which were quite grueling and benchmark setting.
complained about the number of releases that they do for the GT-R yet to prove the haters wrong the cars get sold out every time.
This circuit legend was driven by KUNI-SAN or internationally know as Kunimitsu Takahashi. A prolific GP Motorcycle rider and later car racer. A Japanese equal to Ken Miles in terms of dedication to the sport and race craft. Kuni-San was pivotal in the development of the Nissan Touring Car range working on the famous R380, 2000GT and the 240Z.
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on PORSCHE in endurance races in 1966. After which PRINCE Motors became NISSAN and the designer of R380 built the Skyline GT-R badge. Do you see the resemblances in the Z?
Additionally, he cemented the success of the 2000GT home with domination of the JTCC leaderboard in the many 2000 GT-R’s he drove. This was one of them and it paired with the more modern GT-R that was released as an anniversary edition celebrating 70 Years of the GT-R badge also by INNO64.
TRIBUTE TO ALDER VON TIROL
ALDER VON TIROL Project Car
This is NOT a race car. If you notice, it has no race numbers. So why is Sparky doing some random PORSCHE? It’s not random! This car is one of the models that sits in the Porsche Museum and has earned its place for being a test car for a new catalytic converter made by Porsche in 1986. The project car was called and branded ‘Alder Von Tirol’
Both the test and technology were a massive success and considering the grueling multi climate testing this car had to endure we can expect a multitude of cross continent stories from the drivers of this car. I hope it will make a great documentary as this piece would make a great addition to your growing historic PORSCHE collection.
The lovely part about this car is that it is part of Sparky’s double boxes which includes another PORSCHE that makes history. In terms of detail, SPARKY Models is still in the game and on par with other models in the same price range, but as 1/64 brands are raising the benchmark can SPARKY jump high?
ROTHMANS
944 TURBO CUP
Chassis No. WP0AA0950JN165082
Bought brand new and delivered to Cooke Motors of Ontario this special 944 Turbo is one of only 39 models shipped to North America including Canada. These were Weissach Tuned 944s. Vicious and balanced these were purpose built for racing.
Raced by Rick Bye this pumped-up Reebok branded beast was used to take part in the Rothmans 944 TURBO CUP Series both in 1988 and 1989. The series was a multistage race event that spanned several months, and Rick Bye was able to stay within the Top Ten for both years. The car was then shipped to the US under a different owner and was raced in the IMSA Firestone Fire Hawk series.
The car was returned to the ownership of Rick Bye who then had it restored with the original REEBOK livery as a lasting historic example of PORSCHE’s racing history. For those who have the money and would love to own the actual 1:1 car it is up for sale, the exact same car complete with the original REEBOK livery in perfect shape. If you can’t it the be satisfied with the 1/64 version from Sparky models.
https://www.youtube.com watch?v=nkvW8SJ3E4o
GULF WARS
No shortage of Mustang models this month with Auto World and its recent line up of releases. If you are a GULF Livery fan then you should definitely sign up to their social media pages to keep informed of the latest GULF shaded releases. Livery communities are getting bigger and most of them are driven by diecast and model collectors.
FORD MUSTANG GT 500
GULF LIVERY A & B
Auto World is sticking to their lane and, without getting overly excited about the rising brands and new players in the game, they have been quietly improving on what they do. Without drawing too much attention to gimmicks and high-priced models. Let’s not forget higher priced models do mean more detail, but that makes them more delicate. With most collectors storing them away, hoping one day they can afford a display system big enough to show off their collection. Social media is frequently filled with re-sale posts for models, many of which have never been used.
Side profiles never lie, especially with cars. The Mustang demonstrates that it is easily captured here by Auto World in a lovely dark blue version of the famous GULF Livery.
Social media is frequently filled with re-sale posts for models, many of which have never been used. Auto World models are collectible, limited editions most of the time, but you can still play with them and accidentally drop them while shooting. They hold a certain old-world charm with enough detail to capture imagination. They are fun. And that is exactly what you can come to expect with these new releases of GULF Mustangs.
Every car you see in this picture is an Auto World car in GULF Livery. Love GULF? Auto World has it made!
MIXOLOGY
Mixing it up like a ‘Dirty Martini’ INNO64 drops another LBWK RX-3 that looks sleek and dare I say on fleek!
The INNO64 LBWK RX-3
impresses from every angle, living up to expectations with its thoughtful design and attention to detail. The rims are wellcrafted, enhancing the car’s overall look.
The wide wheel arches, finished in black, contrast beautifully against the crisp white body—an aesthetic touch that accentuates the vehicle’s aggressive stance. Adding to its appeal, the RX-3 features a single legacy branding: ‘MARTINI RACING,’ which serves as a nod to classic motorsport heritage and elegantly complements the model’s modern lines.
If you are a new collector looking to expand your collection with some new LBWK specials I think INNO64 has got you covered. This Mazda RX-3 Classic Wankel Rotary engine is kitted up with a hot legacy livery and body kit to boot.
MAZDA SAVANNA RX-3 MARTINI RACING LIVERY
LOCKED AND LOADED
Trailers, transporters and trucks have become big ticket items in the diecast world. We can’t live without featuring at least one TOW & GO combo and this issue we look at a classic JAPANESE work horse! INCOMING FJ Cruiser!
Part of the first release of the 2025 set this ranger styled model is an example of why I like JL and their Toyota license. They have always picked some lovely models and versions to recreate and already have a lineup of Land Cruisers to help with your collection.
This ‘Ranger’ version comes equipped with a rough and ready roof rack, opening bonnet and of course an accompanying trailer as part of the set. The open trailer has a drop-down ramp and now when I think of it, I could have done a shoot of the forest ranger carrying a deceased stag deer on the trailer.
A little morbid but doable and rational way of showing off this model’s capabilities.
WAX ON WAX ON
I personally use Turtle Wax Waterless Wash and Wax both on my actual car and my model cars. Wax keeps them looking sharp and dust doesn’t collect as much on the surface. A detailing tip for model car collectors.
THEMED DUAL PACK: TURTLE WAX T1 TRANSPORTER AND VW BEETLE
This also seemed like a great opportunity to showcase these two rolling ads for Turtle Wax detailing products using American Diorama’s Detailing outfit set. Together it was all the perfect storm in terms of shoot.
The turtle wax turtle shell branding on the vw bus is pretty radical and would suit any collector who is into collecting brand vehicles or models with nice paint jobs that look creative and bright.
The other feature I really appreciate on both models are those simple silver hub capped white wall wheels which JL do very well, with the added Turtle Wax Yellow highlight creating a dynamic look.
ATTENTION!
TO THOSE WHO SERVED
This collection hits a wide spectrum of collectors and surprisingly even though I haven’t; done a military shoot in 1/64 before, repurposing this old war game battleground ended up being the perfect background story about a secret black site hidden in the Arabian Desert.
A great double set of 6 cars each that have the 2008 Dodge Viper SRT, the Dodge Demon Challenger SRT, 2004 Pontiac GTO, GMC CCKW 6x6 Troop Carrier and a Dodge WC57 Command car from World War 2. As you can see for yourself from the pictures the details on these vehicles are amazing and if you get the two different releases you also get different colors and different army graffiti.
Mission Project:
Listen to Taylor Swift Records Backwards looking for terror plots.
Location: Black Site 08978-098, Istunnedbull. (Near Nando’s)
Mission Log: Today the team is tasked with listening to The Tortured Poets department. We will be analyzing her song waves to see if there are hidden portal co-ordinates for demon hordes to invade earth.
METAL OF VALOR VICTORY & TRIBUTE SERIES
The diorama or game board, it was a game board now it is a grungy diorama for my army or back street shots. It was taken outdoors and used to get as much natural light as possible. The other wonderful change in shooting cars or models like this is that are matte finished in camo colors which improve the focus on the car and highlights the real colors naturally. Nothing wrong with race and drift liveries but sometimes it is nice to do something different.
The colors of the cars represent the elements American heroes had to conquer to win in battle. Dirt, mud, sand and snow, 4 demanding elements that warriors fight in. Like the Dodge Viper pictured above sitting in a corner waiting to strike.
Not entirely scale perfect but still fun enough to drive around our headquarters and check out the *ahem* sleeping arrangements. This is not a hotel it is a Black Site.
When a guy in a black t-shirt steps out of an SRT DEMON, you know he isn’t here with the Ben & Jerry’s, if you know what I mean. And that DODGE does look the business. Like I mentioned earlier an absolutely great double set to have fun with.
'Z'-TOPIA PANDEM FROMSOLIDO
1/43 Scale has never been this crazy and it seems SOLIDO has unleashed a hurricane of releases that have got every other brand wondering what the hell is going on? Right now the only brand that is dropping sought after models and leaving the competition behind.
If you are looking for anything in the RWB, LBWK or PANDEM range in 1/43 you have only three options. TARMAC WORKS, the most surprising HOTWHEELS and of course SOLIDO. Who have yet to do an RWB in 1/43, but they have tons of LBWK and more recently a lot of PANDEMS have been dropped. SOLIDO also has quite a few AMG’s, M Sport BMW’s as well as a whole list of car brands only few have licenses to.
What a great-looking car, and such a sleek reproduction of it in 1/64 scale. This is a really photogenic casting, and both collectors and photographers take note. There is a lot of great stuff going on with this car. I really enjoyed working with this as a model, especially outdoors, where the angles and edges of the vehicle get caught by
The 240Z S30 looks yummy coated in a Metallic Candy Apple Red. Great set of wheels with visible red brake calipers. Solid casting and paint finish. The PANDEM body kit seamlessly
integrating into the Z’s body design. If you look at the back lights close enough it looks like they have been replaced with an LED setup that mimics the original retro shape.
The new 400Z Z35 looks more like it draws its design mantra from a jet fighter while retaining the original Z DNA and bodylines, something 350 and 370 didn’t do, instead trying hard to have a European round rear end like the AUDI TT. With the 400 Nissan has returned to the low slung, sharp rear. Now you can have a PANDEM dressed up version in your collection.
240Z and 400 Z PANDEM BODYKIT 1/43
Seeing these two side by side is like looking at Jackie Chan and Ben Wang. One you love for the nostalgia and maybe because of Midnight Wagan the other is young and precocious and hopefully one day will be as legendary as great great great great grandad.
The big question left is, Are you going to make your collection legendary by adding these two?
No. But if you are a Nissan fan and love the Z’s, these will fit right in.
THEN AND NOW
“Study the past if you would define the future” – Confucius These are the words all automotive engineers and designers live by. The result has been decade after decade and era after era of transportation that has captured the soul of people. Not many inanimate objects capture as much passion as a car. Ottomobile and GT Spirit know this…and they cash in.
THEN
Dipped in a glossy dark shade of Purple, this R33 will give any Skyline Collector goosebumps and maybe a tingle up your spine—simple, plain and exactly how some of these cars should look. I’m not dissing the tuner tots. I myself love a good body kit, but sometimes you need to stop and smell the original fragrance of roses. Otto-mobile have brought a bouquet.
The car carries itself with a posture of pride and elegance, sitting on display. Neat badging and placement, accurate lens on the lights, Nissan’s famous double spoke 5-star wheels in magnesium grey, all coming together in a neat package. The interior, although inaccessible, is as detailed as the exterior, which denotes a level of care that Otto goes through instead of just covering up the interior with tinted windows. The perfect shelf piece for a Skyline fan, the centrepiece in your abode.
NOW
A prime example of how GT Spirit is eating into Ignition Model’s market over here in the UK and US. Even some of the Asian markets are waking up to the potential of GT Spirit and their ability to drop not just European and American models, but are also able to pay tribute to the mighty JDM’s. They may not be able to access the licenses for some of the older models, but newer stuff is fair game.
Bluer than purple, the 400Z is sublime, especially sporting that Rocket Bunny Body Kit. It seems we have been having quite the month with NISSAN Z’s. However, there is nothing much to say about GT Spirits’ abilities to enthral collectors except that, they ENTHRAL COLLECTORS. This model is a standing ovation for detail and competitive prices coming together to give collectors more chances of ownership. Everyone deserves to have the cars they love, specially in scale.
LAST ACTION HEROES
For most car enthusiasts, the way the industry is headed isn’t what anyone expected at all. The individuality is gone. Everything sounds like a low drone or an electric whine. Soon, most of us won’t have the enjoyment of playing the game. What’s that engine? E-Motorsports sounds like a hive under attack. And then there are places like MECUM Auctions, that keep these fire-breathing V Numbered monsters under wraps in perfect condition, selecting to sell only the finest and prime examples of machined muscle.
Now, not everyone can afford to MISS an OPPORTUINITY to own one of these brilliant cars. That’s right, Auto World brings it down to a more affordable and collectable size in 1/18 scale. If I were you, I would take advantage of this opportunity to host my own MCACN show at home. You kick it off with this LIMITED EDITION 1968 Dodge Charger R/T in silver with red interior. A killer combination of colours coupled with Auto World’s details makes this a lovely piece to own. And when I say details, I mean interior included. It’s the additions in the mould that give the impression of a plush, show-ready interior.
Auto World always delivers complete opening parts with details galore in every section. And, a few moving parts, such as flipping the headlights and steering. Wooden steering wheel, detailed dashboard, tiny fabric seatbelt, leatherlooking seats and the features keep piling up like police cars in a Blues Brothers Chase scene.
“Crate Engines’ have been the backbone of American Motorsports and Car Tuning ever since the demand began. Engines you can buy, ship over and swap out your motor for, a more insane driving experience. The 426 HEMI from Chrysler was once such engine, nicknamed ‘the elephant’. 7.0L V8 monster that left skid markers in your underwear. This was a benchmark engine and became quite legendary in the world of combustion.
The engine bay features a highly detailed 426 HEMI, and if this is your first time experiencing an Auto World, be prepared to be blown away with excitement. We’ve got realistic-looking wiring, hoses, legible warning stickers and manufacturer labels. Branded flat pan HEMI carburettor that looks so real you feel like you can loosen the butterfly nuts on the top to tune your carb. If I were to encourage you to buy Muscle Car models, I would certainly say Auto World is the one brand to go for. You really experience the muscle.
THE BITE SIZED POP CULTURE SNACK
KOOL KOOMBI’s have always been little forms of cute art expressions. I’m not sure who started the KOOL KOOMBI phase, but pretty sure it was Hot Wheels, and now SOLIDO has picked up the fashion and has released a whole line of KOOL KOOL KOOMBIs in varying designs. What makes these odd-shaped models so popular is that they are used as some sort of vehicular canvas and are usually covered in some sort of iconic VW combination of colours or themed designs, and in this most recent case, the A-Team
Due to its diminished size, a Kool Kombi is rarely seen without a trailer. So here we have the Kool Kombi painted in the same colours as the van used in the hit TV show and cult classic ‘The A-Team’, which, as it turns out, is a nice colour combination for Volkswagen as well. Of course, to match the van, the trailer is also covered in the same colour combination, but a bit nonfunctional apart from being a display piece.
The model also comes with a couple of water decals to further adorn your little tribute piece. One is a ‘HEROES FOR HIRE’ bumper sticker, which was also one of the A-Team’s many taglines. And the other sticker is the famous one-liner uttered time and time again by Hannibal, “I love it when a plan comes together”. A great example of how SOLIDO is willing to change stream occasionally and drop something quite interesting, as well as a little quirky.
AND THE OTHER STICKER IS THE FAMOUS ONE-LINER UTTERED TIME AND TIME AGAIN BY HANNIBAL, “I LOVE IT WHEN A PLAN COMES TOGETHER”.
2025 INDUCTEE LARGER SCALE NOMINEES
Continuing from our last issue, here are some of the models in larger scales that we have nominated for the Model Car Hall of Fame 2025 / 26!
NEXT LEVEL STUFF:
Collectors will always be kids at heart, so we do love a little razzle-dazzle in our collections as well. Well, the reason why this model hits our selection list is that it is all razzle-dazzle. The Vaughn Gitin Jr. RTR Mustang Drift Car itself is purpose-built for showmanship and performance of the entertainment kind.
2025 INDUCTEE
JADA dips into this entertainment segment with a set of cars that were released with all the razzle-dazzle one could want without going full ‘kid’. This 1/24 Limited Edition version loved by Vaughn himself features underbody glow lighting, functioning head and rear lights as well as complete opening parts right around.
Exterior details are brilliant, and to be honest, these sorts of models hit different. You can keep them on your desk and play with them, enjoy them like a normal toy for grown-ups, as opposed to something more elegant and precious. I like a limited edition you can enjoy instead of handling it with kid gloves all the time. A nice change worthy of recognition.
AUTOMODELLO: A LESSON IN CRAFT
One of the finest models I have laid my eyes on this year in terms of craftsmanship. Hand-built, which is reflected in the price tag and highly limited. But if you have a taste for the fine things in life, this model sits perfectly with all of them. Even the colour chosen would match your finest malts in the scotch cupboard, or the dark Spanish cedar of your humidor. These are the placement options you have for your ISO.
Resin made, captures the eloquent body shape of the ISO, highlighting the broad shoulders and aerodynamic lines of the car’s short and wide wheelbase, topped with a shooting brake design. If you want a luxury model to impress, this will do it for you, right down to the packaging.
I honestly gaze at this car often and try to imagine what a restomod version of this would look like. It is so beautiful that any improvements made would take it into the realms of perfection.
No doubt a plethora of details for the owner to take their time and enjoy.
For me, this was GT Spirit throwing down the gauntlet and saying, “right time to help ourselves to some of that Ignition Model action.” Max Orido’s GR Supra and ADVAN livery was a great way to come out with a JDM superstar and then spank home the competition with a titanium-tipped, fire-breathing exhaust! This is GT Spirit’s coming-out party, and since this drop, there has been a salivating increase of JDM tuners along with the usual Euro exotics.
This model is meticulously detailed and looks incredible. One of those casting you immediately love straight out of the box and ensures you of no buyer’s regret at all. The only regret you might feel is if you can’t get one now. Hopefully, GT Spirit will either re-issue it or release it with an updated livery for Max Orido.
BACK ON A WINNING STREAK
THE FERRARI 499P IS DOMINATING ENDURANCE RACES ONCE AGAIN. WILL IT BRING VICTORY FOR BBURAGO AT THIS YEAR’S MODEL CAR HALL OF FAME?
Bburago has made a quantum leap in terms of exciting releases. Their lineup of Formula I Ferrari collectables released this year includes some cool display accessories, driver and pit figures and creative storage ideas. Then there are quite a few new 1/24 releases, including the famous P330, joining the line-up. But for me, the big winner and deserve a shot at the title is, of course, the 499P.
Bburgao has released both the 2023 winner and this year the 2024 winner with some supreme detailing. Everyone knows that Bburago are a step above its sister company MAISTO, in terms of detail and finish, but there is also the fact that carrying the Ferrari brand license is a huge burden. It is a huge burden to make sure the model within the company’s manufacturing style is created and sells as a premium product without diminishing the brand.
So, of course, it all boils down to detail. And the 2024 LeMans Winning 499P from Bburago has heaps of it in this already severely overdesigned race machine by Ferrari. I have had the pleasure of picking up some old LeMans winning cars from both Bburago and Maisto in the past, and after having a look at the new 499P, I can only wonder, why don’t they do more?
COULD THIS BE A HAT TRICK FOR THE CELICA?
Last year’s winner for Best 1/18 Scale model was the AUTOART Toyota Celica GT in Turquoise blue. I was so proud that I had invested in a model that was worthy of such recognition. This year, I propose another Celica that I think is worthy of this year’s title, even though it may not have the same detailed experience you get with AUTO ART.
The big difference is that this Celica is a resin-based model. So, for all the beautiful, well-detailed interiors inside, you are limited to the old school peek through the windows, to appreciate the work done on the inside. But everything else is just super sexy. Being a restomod version doesn’t mean the whole look of the car has changed.
Instead of a restomod it looks more like a body kit upgrade to the usual Celica, which is fantastic because the original car looks stunning. Even the rear speakers mounted behind the headrest look like 70’s Clarion speakers. And yes, it has been a long time since rear speakers were switched to the rear doors.
I do hope this CELICA wins because then I can display the winning hat trick of two cars together, one in turquoise blue and the other being this Dark Purple Resto Mod from Otto Mobile.
COLLECTION MARTIN ARAMCO F1®
Expand your Formula 1 collection with the new lineup from Team Aston Martin. Aston Green and Lime Green Shades mixed to complement the fan in you or provide a nice combination of speed colors for the streets.
#CASTHEADSWEARPUMA
#CASTHEADSWEARPUMA
K-RS, ONE THE
This year SOLIDO kicked off its Exhibition hopping with a bang. At one of the biggest AUTO shows of the year, they displayed the build of one of the hottest Porsches around, and they dropped the 1/18 scale of it as well. Designed by Kyzyl Saleem. Known globally for his 3D renders of how he thinks cars should be modified, KS, as he is frequently known, has shown an alternate reality that fans of his are now demanding be made into reality.
There have been quite a few examples of his work already available in model car format. But this rendition of what he thinks and RSR should look like has gotten even the most hardcore RWB fan salivating like a fat kid at a Krispy Kreme all-you-can-eat. Swear down, if I had a Krispy Kreme right now, I would be drooling sugar glaze while compiling this. Why, I think the answer is obvious beyond words.
For SOLIDO this was a big project to build a car with its engine hanging out the back. But it also goes to show how diverse SOLIDO can be. A lot of it is down to the new, invigorated team that is actively scouring the earth for some of the most radical-looking cars to add to their portfolio.
BRICK BY BRICK
CADA has perceived itself to become a global brand that is giving our favourite brick company a run for its money. CADA has been launching model after model, and the license lineup that it has is quite juicy. And they really like creating their own patented technology and parts. So, even though they may seem like a direct copy of our wellknown brand, they have made great efforts to establish themselves and technology as something completely different.
Though small in size and uncomplicated in terms of build, the 787B Mazda in 1/36 scale by CADA is revolutionary. This is the star of the brand’s big ambitions to be a giant player in the brick building market and kidadult segment. Already, the 787B has become so popular, CADA has decided to release and even bigger version with way more details and working parts.
But even at this scale it is quite commendable how CADA have managed to make the finished product look a lot like the real thing which is something that the usual big brand struggled with in the beginning of doing more serious car builds. CADA has come a long way in such a short time and there is no end in site for the releases.
TITLE CONTENDERS:
LEGO ICONS WILLIAMS FW14B & NIGEL MANSELL
Liberty media and LEGO have obviously signed a massive deal to produce and promote Formula 1 in LEGO form, and that means cashing in on the history of F1. Enter Lego’s ICON adaptation. First, they released Senna’ famous winning McLaren, and this year they released Nigel Mansell’s winning Williams. Word on the grapevine: Schumacher next with a winning Ferrari.
MATTEL BRICK SHOP HOTWHEELS ACURA
Hotwheels right now is a brand on steroids. They have seen every segment of their business being invaded by new competition, and they are fighting back tooth and nail. Yay! More fun for us. The Mattel Brick Shop has been relaunched and out of all the releases this ACURA NSX is bang on perfectly. You get 2 for the price of one!
