CastHeads Magazine Volume 7 Issue 05

C O L L E C T I N G O F S O U L X A R T

VOL.07 ISSUE

05 REAL CHASE CARS IN JAPAN

WELCOME

TO THE RAT FINK

THE ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

+

FRESH NEW DIECAST FROM AUSTRALIA

+

inside this

ISSUE

PARTNERS

Creative Direction / Design Nigel J De Zilwa & Faron Nasrul All images are owned by Castheads (Pvt) Limited or by their authors Used with permission. © 2024 All rights reserved and nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without a written consent. A Publication of Castheads (Private) Limited • Please email info@castheadsmagazine.com CastHeads Magazine has made a constant care to make sure that content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s) opinions and do not necessarily are the views of the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in a good faith. CastHeads Magazine cannot guarantee and accepts no liability for any loss or damage of any kind caused by this magazine, its website , social media channels and errors and for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers.

004 DIECASTING COUCH

054 ONE64

LATEST RELEASES

OZ WHEELS

006 GARAGE TORQUE

058 FULLSIZE _AVENUE

NEW DROPS ON MINIGT TSM REDLINE

THE ADVENTURES OF LYSANDER AND NIC- BY @FULLSIZE_AVENUE

008 DIECAST COUCH

066 ONE64 JAPANESE POLICE FEATURE - THE REAL CHASE CARS INNO64 DATSUN 200ZX HOTWHEELS RX7 SAVANNAH TARMAC WORKS SUPRA PARA64 GTO TLVN RX7 TLVN MAZDA BONGO ERA CAR LEXUS INNO64 NISSAN 300ZX

HOT PICKS

014 ONE64 INSTOCK FEATURE TLVN MAZDA RX8 MAJORETTE AUDI ETRON

026 ONE64 RACERS LINE FEATURE JOHNNY LIGHTNING BRE DATSUN SPARKY GT3 PORSCH MINI GT F1

084 SHUTTERCASTER 044 ONE43

FEATURE

RACERS LINE FEATURE 098 ART OF EDDIE CASTRO ALPINE F1 TEAM FEATURE CASTROART ALFA ROMEO F1 TEAM

118 CASTHEADS COUTURE PUMA AND SCUDERIA FERRARI HP UNVEIL DESERT SUN COLLECTION

122 ONE24 JADA IMPALA

132 ONE24 GREENLIGHT CADILLAC

www.castheadsmagazine.com castheadsmag

castheads

castheadsmag

SIKU SURPRISES US WITH

SIKU is correct; it is probably one of the cheapest players in the 1/64 market, but this year, their castings have shown some massive improvements. Of course, there is a bit of inconsistency in things like the lights; some have plastic, but some have tampos. Could it be a market test?

Whatever it is, the new casting range is out, and we are excited to see what 2025 will bring. Out of about 100 potentials, these four examples show SIKU's potential and ability if they want to make an impact.

DIECASTING COUCH HOT PICKS FOR YOU HOT PICKS FOR YOU

H SOME NEW STUNNERS

GARAGE TORQUE NEW DROPS

TSM REDLINE CASTHEADS EXCLUSIVE

TSM REDLINE – FERRARI SP3 MODENA YELLOW This is probably one of the most awaited releases ever since MINI GT and BBR announced their 1/64 partnership. Judging by the past releases this is going to be perfect and FERRARI fans are going to be falling over themselves trying to get this model.

Thank god we have more options for 1/64 FERRARIs that look as good as this.

TSM parent company of many brands including MINI GT and KAIDO House have a stunning larger scale brand called TOP SPEED with resin 1/18 scale models that run in the same detail circles such as IGNITION MODELS and GT SPIRIT with a solid LBWK license to back them up. So, if you are waiting for the new LAMBO COUNTACH from last years LBWK drop, TSM TOPSPEED has got your back.

BABA A G A Y

JOHN WICK ‘69 Ford Mustang #AWSS145 (1:18 SCALE)

In the masterful “John Wick” series, Mr. Wick’s 1969 Ford Mustang isn’t merely a car; it’s a roaring emblem of past tranquility. Linked to memories of a life with his late wife, the Mustang catapults into the limelight when it becomes the target of a heartless act. Ripped away and violated, it evolves from a cherished relic to a symbol of vengeance. The electrifying loss of his beloved Mustang and the tragic death of his dog propel John Wick into an exhilarating pursuit of retribution, transforming the car into a dynamic and pivotal force in the film’s gripping narrative. The stage is set for an action-packed tale of redemption. “Baba Yaga” is back.

Auto World replicates John Wick’s “Hitman Grey” Mustang in exquisite detail worthy of the boogeyman himself...

CATCH THESE 1:18 AUTO WORLD CARS BEFORE THEY’RE “EXCOMMUNICADO”.

‘71 Ford Mustang Mach 1 #AMM1335

‘70 Plymouth Duster #AMM1340

• High Quality Die-cast Metal • Factory-matched Paint • Detailed Engine

• Detailed Chassis and Interior • Opening Doors and Hood • Steerable Front Wheels

®, ™ & © 2024 Lions Gate Entertainment Inc. and related companies. All Rights Reserved. Ford Motor Company Trademarks and Trade Dress used under license to Round 2, LLC. Firestone and the Wide Oval logo are registered trademarks of Bridgestone Brands, LLC and are used with permission. AMERICAN MUSCLE is a registered trademark of TOMY International, Inc. used under license to Round 2, LLC. ©2024 TOMY International, Inc. All rights reserved. AW AUTO WORLD and design is a registered trademark of Round 2, LLC. ©2024 Round 2, LLC, South Bend, IN 46628 USA. Product and packaging designed in the USA. Made in China. All rights reserved.

Cruise by your local hobby store, or see our entire selection of available replicas online at:

autoworldstore.com

DIECASTING COUCH HOT PICKS FOR YOU

P O P G N I N T GH I L Y N P N U H G O J N I W M E N CO S E I R E S E CULTUR MECUM AUCTIONS – MUSTANG GT 350 Mecum Auctions release featuring a SIGNAL RED 1967 SHELBY MUSTANG 350 is something every Mustang fan should look forward to. AN exact replica of the auction version and will feature an opening hood and detailed engine.

RAT FINK – DODGE WC54 AMBULANCE More Rat Fink madness and now we are on the hunt for Rat Fink pieces wherever we cam find them. It brings as great joy that the new JL POP Culture line will be introducing another Ra Fink product into their line. And, it is another Rat Fink Ambulance, looks like the collecting budget just blew up.

GEORGE BARRIS ICE CREAM TRUCK A n -

MYSTERY MATINEE – 69 DODGE CHARGER DAYTONA

Guess the movie? Expect to be looking at a highly detailed wreck on wheels. This jalopy was owned by a man who was searching for something and we think he found it in the end. Still haven’y got a clue?

The owners name is Joe.

69 JOHN WICK –NG FORD MUSTesAfrom Round2, scal Collect all the . se or el

other really cool casting to look forward too! Based on old Model Kit Model that was released in the 1960’s. A hot rodbased ice cream truck seems like a really quirky thing to have like the supercar POLICE but it really looks like a collectible or a 1/64 ornament. Again, these are the sort of cool casting to give you collection variety.

75 DODGE MONACO POLICE CAR If you are looking t recreate one of the most epic car chases filmed and put on Screen you would have to buy 100’s of these. It was only one of the most epic chase ever seen on screen. Satisfy that culture vulture in you and add to the movie POILCE CAR collection that you have on the side.

WANTED Anyone who cAn cAtch PInK SLIPS WAVe 12.

noW on ThE LooSE AT RETAILERS IN-STORE AND ONLINE

@JADATOYS|WWW.JADTOYS.COM © 2024 All Trademarks, Copyrights, Designs, and Models used under license.

DIECASTING COUCH HOT PICKS FOR YOU

FERRARI 312 Piloted by Jacky Ickx These handcrafted beauties are spectacular pieces of history that Brumm makes come alive in your hand with such loving detail. We are always amazed at how consistently Brumm creates such perfection at home. Of course, these are not cheap, and they take a long time to assemble. Obviously, the price reflects the passion.

Because these cars had open engines, you get a great view of the details that have gone into creating this model, from the bodywork to its heart.

Ferrari fans should not let the opportunity to do something pass by.

NISSAN HAKO SKYLINE POLICE CAR

The TOMY TEC team just made us weak at the knees. For all the Skylines out there with amazing details and qualities, this is going to break the internet next year. Capturing the shape of the car perfectly in the casting TOMY TEC is about unleash their most beautiful Skyline ever built.

The release is expected to come in two colors, with at least one color being the POLICE livery version. In which everyone will be guaranteed to be clamouring to get and own in their Skyline collection.

TOMYTEC EXTENDS THE MAZDA RX LINE

TOMYTEC kicks off 2025 with a gorgeous follow-up to the famous RX-7, which dominated sales and is one of its most successful castings. The spectacular, detailed casting continues with a new line of RXs, and the 8 continues TOMYTEC’s reputation for getting it spot on.

TOMYTEC 1/64

One of the brand's standout features is the precision of the shut lines on opening parts. You can see the difference between the two colours being released in our photos. I accidentally left the bonnet open on the blue-speckled paint version, but instead of a reshoot, I decided to highlight how the car looks with the bonnet wholly shut. The precision is so impeccable that you would think the car has no opening parts.

Another detail that TOMYTEC has captured exceptionally well in this casting is the rear lensed lights. On the RX-8, the rear lights were distinctive, making it instantly recognisable from the rear. TOMYTEC has gone to great lengths to achieve the usual detail standard, leaving no stone unturned to get it right. This level of attention to detail is genuinely appreciable.

TOMYTEC 1/64

Another case would be the detachable engine cover under the opening hood. The problem is that the cover is so tiny—about the size of a nano sim—that it is hard to hang on to unless you have excellent slender figures, unlike my fat party sausages that clumsily flail in the air trying to get a grip. It's a neat party trick

by TOMYTEC, however.

TOMYTEC 1/64

THE TREADED RUBBER TYRES, THE IMMACULATE PAINT JOB, AND THE S DETAILS, RIGHT DOWN TO THE BADG ALL LEAVE YOU IN AWE. THEY ARE S IMPRESSIVE THAT YOU ASK YOURSE WHERE DID I PUT MY ATM CARD?

SUPER GING, SO ELF:

TOMYTEC 1/64

MAJORETTE Extends Range!

MAJORETTE 1/64

I hope the joke is clever, but Majorette is not joking around. They have a lineup of new cars coming soon and look set to make a significant impact in 2025. This stunning shooting brake design represents the new AUDI E-TRON GT. Its shape and understanding of simple aerodynamics suggest it has a naturally low drag coefficient, which allows for improved range as it glides through the wind.

This casting is beautiful and offers plenty of customisation potential. Even in its original form, I love the 5-star spoked rims; the only thing missing is drilled brake discs with red AUDI callipers. The side skirts also have the potential to be enhanced with carbon fibre accents. Some websites offer 1/64 scaled carbon fibre stickers in different weaves, which can be cut and trimmed to wrap around your casting.

MAJORETTE 1/64 Majorette vehicles also feature opening parts; in this casting, the doors open. This is just a headsup in case you're planning a diorama shoot that requires open car doors!

Fortunately, Majorette's price point doesn’t require any long-term planning, financial advice, or home re-mortgaging, so you can pick one up guilt-free as soon as it hits the shelves in your area.

RACERS LINE 1/64

MADE FOR BRE FANS

RACERS LINE 1/64

BRE AND DATSUN ARE AS SYNONYMOUS TOGETHER AS PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY. TO CELEBRATE THIS NEVER-ENDING CULT CLASSIC PARTNERSHIP, JOHNNY LIGHTNING DROPPED TWO OF THESE DATSUN Z CASTINGS COVERED IN THE BRE LIVERY AS A TRIBUTE TO THAT LONGLASTING AND ICONIC PARTNERSHIP.

This is all good news for hardcore Datsun fans, for whom fandom of BRE comes as second nature since it is one of the racing teams that accidentally put Datsun on a pedestal in Motorsport. (In our past issues, we discussed how Datsun became the darling of BRE.) The livery on the original Datsun Z will be a fabulous addition to the BRE cupboard.

RACERS LINE 1/64

LOVE THE GOODYEAR-WRAPPED WHEELS WITH THE SHINY CHROME RIMS AND STAR-SPANGLED ALLOY CENTRE?

YOU HAVE GOT TO LOVE IT!

Apart from the lovely details and decent price, the cars also come with a matching storage tin to keep them warm, safe, and dust-free during the winter. And you won’t find yourself running around the house shouting,

“WHO MOVED MY BRE”!

RACERS LINE 1/64

REALLY NICE CASTING, BRILLIANT LIVERY AND LOVELY COLLECTOR STORAGE TIN THAT SLIPS AND CLIPS.

SPARK 1/64

IN THIS REVIEW, We have the good fortune of cracking open a double pack, which is something of an exclusive with TOYEAST and SPARKY, which is very cool because you get the opportunity of getting the entire team in one go as opposed to buying one car and then having to hunt the teammate down, already off to a great start.

We have two other boxes in the box, each holding a PORSCHE RSR 911 that participated in the Petit Le Mans 2018. You are probably jumping the gun by thinking Petit LeMans is a smaller version of the big race that may run for 12 hours instead of 24. This is incorrect. Petit LeMans is held in the US of A as part of the IMSA, not the FIA.

SPARK 1/64

DUN DUN DUHAAAAAAAN! This set is the team that represented the Porsche GT with cars numbered #911 and #912. If you feel this is all an information overload, don’t worry—it's digital and will last forever, so you can take a break and return to it.

As we said earlier, a dual pack means two cars with one purchase, so you get the team to fit into your collection and admire the quality of detail on two vehicles, not just one.

The first thing you'll notice about the two is the consistency in detail and quality control— a clear sign that they keep getting it right. The mother company, Spark, is known for its high-end models that cost somewhat of a penny; it says that Sparky is its pocket money line. I want to be friends with the kid rocking this sort of pocket money budget.

SPARK 1/64

BUT IT IS AN EXCELLENT COLLECTION OF MOTORSPORT LIVERIES AND SOME OF THESE LIVERIES REALLY MAKE THESE CARS STAND OUT AND AESTHETICALLY COLLECTABLE. FOR SOME COLLECTORS, IT'S FANDOM; FOR OTHERS, IT'S ART, BUT FOR EITHER PARTY, THE IMPORTANCE IS PLACED SQUARELY ON THE DETAIL AND PRODUCTION NEEDING TO BE 100%, WHICH IS WHAT SPARKY IS GOOD AT.

MINIGT 1/64

I remember a time when collecting anything in Formula 1 on a 1/64 scale was almost impossible. There were limited brands like SPARK and Kyosho, which didn’t have excellent distribution, and no one wanted to invest in the tooling because the sport wasn’t that popular. Fast forward to today, and things have changed dramatically.

Literally, with a media company owning F1, we get to see the soapy side of F1, which has new fans and viewers enthralled, along with exposure to the tech side and more team coverage. More entertainment has led to more fans, and the diecast production community has answered the clarion call.

MINIGT 1/64

ONE BRAND BUILDING UP ON ITS F1 COLLECTION (AND YOURS) HAS BEEN THE MINI GT; THERE HAS BEEN A STEADY RELEASE OF F1 CARS, INCLUDING SOME CLASSICS. THIS PLEASES MANY 1/64 COLLECTORS, AND IT IS FURTHER HELPED

BY THE FACT THAT THE REVIEWS ON THESE MODELS ARE TURNING UP ACES AND SPADES. The latest offering from MINI GT is the 2023 Alfa Romeo KICK C43 car driven by Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu. And the details are incredible. We love how the cherry metallic part of the car looks fantastic with flawless paintwork, and then the rest of the vehicle is covered in carbon fibre. Honestly, the last few years have spoilt us for choice in terms of detail and technology to get these exquisite details right. 8 years ago, we wouldn’t have dreamed of this sort of finish, but now it makes it or break it because the demand for this sort of quality has become the standard.

Also, with the end of the 2024 season, both drivers are no longer under contract, and this chapter in their Formula 1 career is over, possibly permanently. This means that all these representations will start to become collector items.

CLIMBING F1 MOUNTAINS

SOLIDO 1/43

ONE OF THE BIGGEST RIVALRIES ON TRACK HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR A WHILE BUT IS NOT AS HIGH-PROFILE AS MAX VS LEWIS OR MAX VS LEWIS AND, OF COURSE, THE FAMOUS MAX VS LEWIS. AND THAT HAS BEEN THE RIVALRY BETWEEN THE DRIVERS OVER AT THE FRENCH TEAM ALPINE: PIERRE GASLY VS. ESTABAN OCON. TWO DRIVERS WHO ARE UNAFRAID TO THROW DOWN THEIR HELMETS AND SLAP EACH OTHER WITH THEIR RACING GLOVES. But the very essence of the sport is rivalry, and who is better than who? And there you have it on a 1/43 scale with SOLIDO waving the chequered flag on well-priced 1/43 F1 cars with decent detail. As with 1/64, the 1/43 scale for Formula 1 cars has exploded like a V8 combustion chamber, with many brands jumping on and giving us affordable models with great detail. And since the sport is also about team spirit (except for the drivers), you can get the pair of cars in this case that raced in 2023.

SOLIDO 1/43

SOLIDO 1/43

What’s cool about these replicas is that Solido included the drivers' helmets in the cockpit with a modicum of detail and presented a very lovely display package for the rest of the car. In terms of detail, the casting is excellent, and so is the paint job.

Detailed graphics along with the brand sponsor logos on the vehicle will make some Formula 1 fans’ day if gifted to them.

SOLIDO 1/43

The UNDERDOGS

In the real world, it is evident that team Alfa Romeo in F1 is still trying hard to find its footing and return to their racing roots. Also, they haven’t had much luck with their drivers, who have been struggling to compete against other drivers with far superior machines. But they have some nice liveries and colours, and like the ALPINE we spoke about, which appeared in 1/64, so does team Alfa. Hardcore Formula 1 fans prepare to break out the end-of-year bonus.

Fortunately,

SOLIDO 1/43

with Solido and its wonderful prices, you won’t be breaking the bank, and you can still pick some presents for the rest of the family. However, attention to detail isn’t compromised, and as a collector interested in F1, you get nice details, such as the drivers' helmets, added to the casting.

hns

vid Jo a D y b written

OZ Wheels Series 2 is here and as good as advertised! If you are unfamiliar with this newer Australian diecast brand, now is the time to get caught up. Jesse Marios (Creator of OZ Wheels) set out to bring the cars of his childhood to true 1/64 scale and to tell the story of some of the most iconic automobiles ever produced “down under”. While Series 1 concentrated mainly on Holdens, Series 2 has a fantastic mix of Holden and Ford makes that are distinctly Aussie.

OZWHEELS 1/64

Collectors will note that these models have blacked-out windows (and no interiors), along with full lamp details and metal bases. Jesse says this allowed OZ Wheels to offer more castings early….and the lineup is incredibly strong right out of the gate. We suspect that future series will have interiors, but as an added bonus these current models include rubber tyres (with detailed treads) and realistic wheels. No matter what type of Australian car enthusiast you are, you’ll find one of your favourites in this mix. Series 2 includes Ford Falcons, classic utes, Rozzers (police cars), sedans and panel vans.

OZWHEELS 1/64

I was blown away by how accurate and detailed the wheels were on these beauties. Check out the white wheels on the John Goss Ford XB Falcon! This vehicle was a tribute to the Bathurst 1000 winning vehicle released in 1975. OZ Wheels absolutely nailed this car that is an enormous source of pride to Australians. When I spoke to Jesse, it became quite obvious he wanted to give fellow Aussie collectors vehicles that are not always available in this scale and something to be proud of. I’d say “mission accomplished”!

Now, personally I prefer street/stock versions of vehicles in my own collection. I certainly get those in this release. What I did not expect, however, was how appealing the “Slammed Edition” castings would also be. OZ Wheels knows how important the custom car culture is to Australian petrol-heads and made sure to includes some releases that are full-on gnarly. So no matter what type of Australian cars you like, OZ Wheels has you covered. Take it from this Yank, these are a must for your collection.

I got your call, Lysander.

What's up?

We got ourselves another job, Nic, Let's go!

FULLSIZE AVENUE

We're meetin' the Castheads Crew.

They're havin' a Tomica Event.

We just gotta fetch some cars.

What could possibly go wrong?

Hi Nigel.

How's it goin'?

I found this event planner team online.

I think there's a reason they were cheap

It's one of those days.

I found this event planner team online.

I think there's a reason they were cheap

We're all done now, apart from the dogs.

Dogs? What dogs?

And where are the refreshments we ordered?

I said we're having hot dogs and drinks where we park.

Refreshments? You said the dogs in the park are hot and need a drink.

GOOD JOB my mate was nearby with his Suburu Hot Dog Truck.

Nic fetched the cars too, so we're ready to go.

FULLSIZE AVENUE

NO.. no..

Well that worked out well.

Who'd have thought you could fit that many hot dogs in a Suburu Sambar eh?

FULLSIZE AVENUE

FULLSIZE AVENUE

You staying for a hot dog then Lysander?

Nah, i'm off home to have beans on toast. Mayber next time.

To be continued...

E U N E V A E FULLSIZ

Delivering an Unchanging Today.

An Everyday life scene bring to you by TLV May. 2025 release

LV-N343a MITSUBISHI FUSO CANTER Garbage Truck (White/Blue)

Dec. 2024 Upcoming Release LV-N333a NISSAN Silvia Q's Aero 1995 (Black)

LV-N267d Mazda RX-7 Type R Bathurst R 2001 (Yellow)

LV-156c Alfa Romeo GT1600 Junior (Red)

LV-N332a NISSAN Gloria Van River Patrol Car

LV-N300c MITSUBISHI FUSO Aero Bus Nihon Kotsu

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

– JAPANESE FIVE OH SAN WHILE THE HOBBY WORLD IS GOING WILD FOR CHASE CARS, WE THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE NICE TO LOOK AT SOME AUTHENTIC CHASE CARS IN TERMS OF COPS AND ROBBERS CHASE CARS. IT’S A WHOLE DIFFERENT SUBCULTURE OF COLLECTING IN SCALE MODEL CAR COLLECTING, AND AS WE HAVE SEEN OVER THE YEARS, PLENTY OF BRANDS HAVE NO PROBLEM CATERING TO IT.

DATSUN FAIRLADY 240Z

by INNO64

Too cool and old-school this sweet ride is spectacular up close and under the magnifying glass. This is a perfect 1/64 replication of what is known as the 240ZG, which is the fastest grade of the Nissan Z when it was launched as the 240.

It had a 2.4-litre engine that dropped 150Bhp, which in 1972 was pretty hardcore for a stock engine. The car is also aerodynamically stunning, making it perfect to cut through headwinds on the expressways in the Kanagawa Prefecture.

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

This is a perfect replication of the real thing, pure and simple. We looked at this car all around, comparing it to as many pictures we could find online, and there is no question about it—this is brilliant. For those into the subculture of collecting Japanese police cars, this has to be on your buy list. This thing is too legit to quit.

SA22C

MAZDA RX-7 Savanna

by HOTWHEELS

Not looking to be outdone by anyone, Hotwheels has been on a year-long campaign to bring collectors back into their honey trap. And to be honest, I think it’s working. After not buying Hotwheels for several years, this month alone has seen a massive uptick in my personal collection and the new 2024 models have been nothing short of blood marvellous.

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

So, in the vein of not being outdone, they have made their contribution to the Japanese Police Car subculture of collecting, and it comes in the shape of the Mazda RX-7 Savannah, which is more popularly known as the RX-7 SA22C. This car were used in the Akita Prefecture as the ‘fast team’ on the highway. Of course, comparing Hotwheels with the rest of the cars in this article is like comparing a granite chip against rubies and diamonds. But the granite chip has character, price and everlasting brand loyalists. They can’t lose; if you can’t beat them, surrender.

TARMAC WORKS

MKII 87 Supra Patrol Car

Would this not be a great petrol/cast head vacation idea? An all-expenses-paid trip to Japan, a sports car of your choice, a set of missions to accomplish, and all the while chased by some of the cars we can only dream of having? Well, one can only dream. But TARMC Works, with its detailed models that fit anyone's purse, brings us one step closer to reality.

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

If you were travelling around the Saitama Prefecture in the 1970s and 1980s, you would have seen many of these Supra’s running in black and white, ensuring no one was abusing the speed limit on the highway. It’s unfair how the bad guys in Japan get chased down.

PARA64

MITSUBISHI “INTERCEPTOR” 3000 GT

Sometimes chases are not about the long games and have to be shut very quickly. That’s when the interceptor comes in. The car used to break the flow of the getaway car. The qualities of an interceptor is quick burst of speed achieved by the GT’s twin turbo’s, stability with All Wheel Drive, and of course shoving strength achieved through heavy body work.

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

What’s interesting to note is that none of them were stock produced and then modified into police cars. They had a separate factory code which shows that only 27 of the cars were uniquely built for the purpose of law and order.

TOMICA LIMITED VINTAGE NEO THE

FAMOUS FD

This is a repeat review, but there is no way we could bust out the Japanese Police Patrol units and not recognise the RX-7 by TLVN. This has become a cult classic, and its title and name are mentioned in hallowed whispers at diecast expos and conventions. But to remind our readers and possibly anyone else reading this for the first time, we ran out of adjectives the last time we reviewed this model. It is that good.

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

For new readers and collectors, TLVN has been setting the standard in detail for a long time, and like all things Japanese, the quality is consistent. This is an absolute must-have and own if you can find one because these are pretty sought-after in the diecast world. In the real world, the RX7 was used as a highway patrol car in the Saitama Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture, and Tokyo.

MAZDA BONGO BRAWNY LAWDY by TOMICA LIMITED VINTAGE NEO

The hard worker and the messenger. The Japanese Police use these vans to carry signs in traffic. Sometimes, the highways are too broad, or people travel at high speed to see signs, so these vans usually act as signs and guides on these highways. The MAZDA Bongo was highly efficient and could spend longer on the roads before refuelling, making it popular across the Japanese Police force.

With TLVN, you can see very plainly that the details are phenomenal. In addition to excellent information, this casting also includes opening parts. The rear door at the back flips open, and the rear passenger door slides open. This will be a hit with collectors who like opening parts, giving them more realism for their shoots.

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

Opening the sliding door might be difficult if you don't use the little opening switch under the van. Keep an eye out for that. Overall, this is a lovely piece to add to the collection. A little trivia: the box on the top of the van displays messages and is curved in the front to make it more aerodynamic.

ERA CAR AND

LEXUS REPRESENTS WITH THE LC500

If you were a criminal being chased by this, you would feel critical. It is not every day a criminal gets chased by a Lexus. Does the FBI roll up to an arrest in Rolls Royce’s? No! So, to be chased down by a luxury sports car is pretty flashy. Thank God for the police. Someone in the Tochigi Prefecture has a soft spot for their highway police team and felt a Lexus as the company car would be a good step up.

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

ERA Car is another brand that quietly gets on with making excellent casting, and their LC500 casting is their signature dish. What’s cool about this casting is that it has a miniature police figure to fit into the car and a policeman in your scene. All other details look excellent; this casting is another must-have winner.

DOUBLE TROUBLE FOR SPEEDERS

INNO64 NISSAN 300ZX

Why would anyone go up against a POLICE 300ZX? The car is a literal beast. It has a twin-turbo V6, multilink suspension, four-wheel steering, and 300Bhp on tap stock. If I knew this was after, I would be afraid, terrified.

THE REAL CHASE CARS 1/64

What isn’t frightening is INNO64’s version, which looks spectacular. Even the most hardened criminal would have this model adorn his cell, especially if he lived in the Kanagawa prefecture, where this beast was known to roam.

- FEATU

SHUTTERCASTERS FEATURE

URES -

shot - @ucit_hikaru

SHUTTERCASTERS FEATURE

shot - @moosepictures.02

shot - @the_diecastgallery

SHUTTERCASTERS FEATURE

shot - @abi_rav

SHUTTERCASTERS FEATURE

shot - @abi_rav

SHUTTERCASTERS FEATURE

shot - @ mr.grooves_photoygraphy

SHUTTERCASTERS FEATURE

SHUTTERCASTERS FEATURE

shot - @ mr.grooves_photoygraphy

CASTRO Being a part of CastHeads Magazine has given me the incredible opportunity to meet some exceptionally talented individuals in the field of entertainment creation. For me, toys represent entertainment, and hobbies play an essential role in how we find joy and amusement in our lives. We all need happiness, fun, and light-heartedness.

Eddie Castro is one of those individuals who brings these joyful moments into our lives through his designs at Maisto and Bburago. As a designer of remarkable collectibles, he creates items that captivate and entertain us, continuously coming up with new designs that keep us engaged and eager to pay the bills for the collectibles we sneak past our partners, often hiding them in plastic storage boxes.

So, what does Eddie Castro do when he finds a moment for himself?

He creates CastroArt—a hobby that fuels the passion of someone who consistently keeps our enthusiasm for collectibles alive.

AND THE WORLD OF CASTROART

EDDIE

ART DIRECTOR

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

An essential part of creating collectables for hardcore hobbyists, regardless of what category of collecting they are into, is the creator’s ability to tap into pop culture. As in Popular Culture, a ceramic plate painter must know whose face will sell more than others on a collectable plate. So, follow the designer and see his art. You get a keen sense of where his inspiration draws.

For example, this famous piece of Eddie speaks volumes about his upbringing through the 80s and 90s and what sort of entertainment shaped his car dreams. From movie references to hip-hop and fashion, there is so much to pick up from. If you miss it, you’re Insane in the Membrane.

It’s all there in one picture. And if you don’t know who Dr GreenThumb is, we will have to visit your home.

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

As you can see, this is where that pop culture reference bleeds into. If you have recently looked at the Maisto Catalogue under the 1/64 scale Muscle Machines category, you will notice that we are the beneficiaries of such clever inspiration utilisation. The famous RTR Mustang, given the Castro effect, is on our shelves at home across the globe.

But for those who have bothered to read this article this far, have we, as collectors, taken for granted the fantastic skills and inspiration that artists like Eddie Castro put into their work, opting for more quick-release pre-order models created by people who grab pictures of the internet and make us promise our hard-earned money to them without even having the assurance that they have the proper licensing? I’m not complaining; indeed, I am as complicit, if not more.

But how can we change that? More dialogue and fewer unboxings? Do we talk to designers and creators and tell them what we want more unitedly? Do we display more variety in our collections instead of showing off gigantic empty prop boxes?

Whatever the answers are, we shouldn’t lose respect for those who have a process; we don’t need to compare apples and oranges because sometimes you get the same rotten orange in a different peel, and once in a while, the apples drop perfection. And we can connect more with people like Eddie Castro through his art. It speaks a wealth of street knowledge, the sort of shit you won’t find on TikTok.

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

AS A PARTING SHOT, I CHOSE THIS PICTURE BECAUSE, TO ME, IT REPRESENTS A SIGN OF RESPECT AND TRIBUTE TO THE ARTISTES AND CAR CULTURE CREATORS WHO PAVED THE WAY FOR LOVE FOR DESIGN, MACHINES, AND MADNESS. THE CHAOS OF CAR CULTURE AND THE PEOPLE IT TOUCHES IN EVERY LITTLE WAY, RIGHT DOWN TO 1/125 SCALE.

BIG

R

THE ART OF RA

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

GDADDY

ROTH

AT FINK AND THE JOHNNY LIGHTNING SERIES For years, as I explored various sellers from different countries in search of exotic pieces that would make fantastic eye candy for Instagram, I kept encountering a character that intrigued me, yet I didn’t know enough about him to incorporate him into my collection.

I have a personal passion for collecting art cars or vehicles adorned with colourful graphics, particularly racing liveries.

FEATURE CASTROART

ED ROTH was born in Bev was a prolific renaissanc world of Kustom Kulture RWB’s and LBWK’s there Rod Customizers that w some outrageous mac Roth was one of the pio this Kustom car movem so anti-establishment in that he created an alte to America’s mos ‘Mickey’ and the c Fink’ was born. An site to the wholeso Disney’s creation. Th art also became the co what was known as Ho Weirdo Graphics.

Recently, we received a new batch of samples from Round2 in the Johnny Lightning POP Culture series, which included a Chevy featuring a Rat Fink graphic that completely amazed me. While that may sound like an exaggeration, it genuinely sparked my curiosity enough to prompt me to learn more about this Rat Fink character and why he consistently appears in the Johnny Lightning line.

everly Hills and ce man in the e. Before the e were Hot were creating chines. Ed ioneers of ment. He was n his creativity, er ego version st loved mouse character ‘Rat n exact oppoomeness of he Rat Fink ornerstone for ot Rod ART and

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

RATFINK PIC CREDITS

BIG DADDY ED ROTH AND ME AT HIS HOUSE IN ANAHEIM LA

By Paul Conroy - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

RATFINK PIC CREDITS

1961 ROTH'S BEATNIK BANDIT

By Nick Ares from Auburn, CA, United States - 1961 Roth's Beatnik Bandit, CC BY-SA 2.0,

Of course, ED Roth’s more famous creations are the cars he made with some outrageous designs. In fact, one of the first casting from Mattel featured one of Ed Roth’s most famous creations.

Handcrafted, built, and painted by Ed Roth in his home garage, his work is a testament to his incredible creative drive for cars and car culture. He has also inspired countless builders and customizers who travel from afar to see his creations.

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

1959 CADILLAC AMBULANCE A great colour combination of bright yellow and turquoise blue doesn’t give you a sense of emergency but also makes for the most colourful Ambulance you would ever own in your collection. The wave lines on the bodywork look like heart monitor lines making waves. We have the 8-ball graphic, possibly denoting the magic doctors can do to keep us alive.

The ‘wanna race’ sticker is exactly what you should have on an ambulance for encouragement that both the driver and passenger would be happy with. After all, if you are in an ambulance, you wouldn’t want it to go slower.

1966 CADILLAC HEARSE This is the sort of way you want to go out RAT FINK style! I love the Rat Fink Graphics on the side and the way the RAT FINK face adorns the black-bodied car.

This is probably as anti-establishment as you can get, and Kudos to the guys at JL for coming up with this casting.

The white wall tyres and covered silver hubcaps certainly give the viewer an idea of period that the Rat Fink team was going with.

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

1965 VW TYPE 2 When it comes to art and vehicles the VW bus in all generations has been the perfect canvas. And over the decades it has not been spared the cultural revolution and the stories drawn on the famous VW bus. This makes it the perfect canvas for a little RAT FINK art.

FLIGHT OF THE RAT FINK You can almost hear the orchestra playing "Flight of the Valkyries" while also seeing Rat Fink preparing to swoop down from atop an eyeball. This is one of Ed Roth's classic Weirdo T-shirt designs, which is widely used on the Rat Fink merchandise from Johnny Lightning.

These castings also come with a collector storage tin, which snaps into place and matches the graphics of the bus. Additional adornments include RAT FINK surfboards and shiny nickel-plated hubcaps famous on the VW Transporters.

Even though the art contains some grotesque visual elements, it's more of a shock-and-laugh approach to monsters than a shockand-horror approach. The colours remain bright and cheerful and don’t give off a vibe of impending doom.

It’s quite clever of Ed Roth to juxtapose horror visuals with cute campy vibes.

Johnny Lightning Zingers are JL’s special edition version, with a limited production run and unique details like unusual paint, rubber wheels, and greater detail. This gorgeous, outrageous Cadillac El Dorado will scream on your collection shelf, and rightly so. Dressed in Candy Purple, Rubber tyres, white-walled, low rider pinstripe graphics, this pop culture spectacle is GRAND!

Limited to 2496 pieces, this model has a lot of detail and a lot of gold plating. The gold-plated engine is set in an open matt black engine bay area. The gold extends to the chassis like a reverse low rider raised at the back. And finally, beautiful gold wire wheels wrapped up in thick rubber profile wheels are surrounded by white. And not a crappy white. No, it looks like a ceramic coat. It even has a gold pinstripe outlining the white wall without any blemish. In case you are wondering, this is what a collector model looks like.

Finally, the Rat Fink graphics on the car are absolute madness, especially the print on the windscreen itself; it pays tribute to the man known as Big Daddy Roth and aptly named the Big Daddy Caddy. Closer inspection reveals that the superchargers' air intake is hollowed out instead of a solid tube. That takes some impressive machine work on a model with only 2496 releases.

1950 CHEVY SUBURBAN Brand new from the latest release of the JL POP Culture set. The brand-new tooling and casting that got me on this journey would probably set me off on a new subculture to collect. In retrospect, this is perhaps the most subdued version in Johnny Lightning's Rat Fink collection. Instead of loud colours and graphics, this is a more sombre tone of brass gold with the Rat Fink graphics line art drawn on the body like a tattoo in a motif style.

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

COCKTAILS AND EYEBALLS Johnny Lightning celebrates Rat Fink and Ed Roth with Cadillac because it was his favourite brand of car for stripping parts to create his outlandish designs.

There is a documentary called Tales of the Rat Fink, narrated by John Goodman, that describes Ed Roth’s life and genius.

The red-painted steelies make a nice addition, and the contrasting gloss black bonnet creates the visual lines of the old Suburban. Added to this lovely design is the bonnet opening to reveal the engine, the number plate at the back says ‘ROTTER,’ and the car has a red interior.

His creations made him a pioneer in fibreglass modelling, and some of them are iconic and ahead of their time, like the Beatnik Bandit.

Are you a fan of Ed Roth and his creations? Well you are in good company, so is Rob Zombie.

ART OF EDDIE CASTRO

FEATURE CASTROART

RAT FINK TRAILERS Need some hauling? Auto World and JL have quite a few truck options with tow hooks at the back so that you can add your Rat Fink Trailer to hauling and some Rat Fink madness to your display or photography.

The trailers feature 360-degree Rat Fink Graphics and have doors at the back so that you can use them as storage pieces. They also have screw-type stands that allow you to sit them in place without a tow vehicle. Again, these make great background pieces and accessories.

PUMA and Scuderia Ferrari HP unveil

DESERT SUN COLLECTION with Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz in Las Vegas

Yesterday, Scuderia Ferrari HP drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz made an exciting two-hour appearance at the newly opened PUMA Flagship store in Las Vegas. The drivers captivated fans, celebrated the launch of the Desert Sun Collection, and amplified the longstanding PUMA-Scuderia Ferrari HP partnership with an in-store experience packed with engaging moments and interactive fan opportunities.

PUMA x BMW M MOTORSPORT The drivers kicked off the event with an entrance into the store as they greeted fans and media outside. Exclusive media interactions followed, where Leclerc and Sainz shared insights on their journey with Scuderia Ferrari HP, as well as the inspiration behind the Desert Sun Collection. Fans and media were then invited to experience unique in-store elements, including the “48 Club” area and sim-racing activities inspired by Las Vegas.

PUMA x BMW M MOTORSPORT The drivers led a customization session for the Desert Sun Collection at the PUMA x YOU station, creating personalized items featuring their driver numbers, symbols like “Leo” for Leclerc, and a chili pepper for Sainz. The customizations will remain available for fans throughout the week. Twenty lucky fans enjoyed a personal meet-and-greet, collecting autographs and photos in a memorable fan session.

The first 100 fans who purchased items from the Desert Sun Collection received a limited-edition Las Vegas-themed tote bag, co-branded to mark the occasion. .

"

Favorite part of the collection:

Carlos: “I enjoy the Varsity Jacket the most. This is a great high quality item and great to be combined with the Desert Sun Collection.”

Charles: “As I love hoodies, this is for sure one of my favorite items together with the Varsity Jacket. Aside of this, the Desert Sun collection style in general with the washed out look is fantastic!”

Favorite part of the activation: Carlos: “To enter the PUMA store with the Ferrari Showcar at the entrance is a great way to start your experience. All the activities including SIM Racing, customizing our shoes plus to see the secret vault was really great.

Charles: “The store is massive. Big shout-out to PUMA to bring this store on the Las Vegas Strip to life. There is so much to explore with all the details to Las Vegas culture, exclusive collections I never saw before and great options with the SIM Racing and customization to enjoy your time.”

JADA IMPALA AND THE LOWRIDER CONTINGENT

JADA 1/24

You may not realise this, but vehicles have been at the centre of every significant revolution known to humanity. From the military to industry, music to the art movement, film and economy at every level of society, vehicles have quietly changed lives magnanimously.

Mexican Americans in the 40s would choose their cars as a tool for anti-establishment. In contrast to the American Hot Rods, which were loud, brash, and fast, they would customise cars that would ride slow and low to the road, painted in elaborate designs, colours, and paint finishes. The hydraulic suspensions came into effect later on when the law changed to restrict cars from being ‘too’ low, so mechanic Ron Aguirre installed height-adjusting hydraulics to circumvent the law

JADA 1/24

Since these cars were required to be slow and arty, the Chevy Impala proved an extremely popular choice for these young men to modify.

It was a large boat with wheels and plenty of art reala estate for extravagant paint and design.

The Impala was also a bit of a slow cruiser, which filled the other requirement for being classified as a low rider.

JADA 1/24

THIS HISTORY AND CULTURE ARE EMBODIED IN JADA’S LOW RIDERS. THE PURPLE ONE IS A 1959 CHEVY IMPALA DIRECT FROM JADA’S ‘STREET LOW’ SERIES, AND THE HOT PINK VERSION IS A 1960 IMPALA FROM THE PINK SLIPS 09 SERIES. THESE ARE NOT THE ONLY MODELS OR LOW RIDERS THAT JADA DOES. THEY HAVE SEVERAL VERSIONS OF THE IMPALA ALONE, SPANNING MANY GENERATIONS, COLOURS, AND DESIGN MOTIFS.

JADA 1/24

Both have some intricate designs layered on top of beautiful metallic paint, and these big, wide bodies sit on low-profile wire wheels like shiny floats. Of the two cars featured, the Pink Slips is far louder than the Purple Street Lows version, but JADA achieves a balance that provides fans with a wide array of choices.

IT’S EXCELLENT THAT JADA HAS CHOSEN TO CELEBRATE THIS IMPORTANT ASPECT OF CAR CULTURE, WHICH HAS MANAGED TO CROSS OVER INTO OTHER FORMS OF POP CULTURE, LIKE MUSIC AND VISUAL ENTERTAINMENT, AND SERVE AS A STRONG VISUAL IDENTITY FOR A GROUP OF PEOPLE FAR FROM HOME.

JADA 1/24

GREENLIGHT

1/24

I don’t know how many people who read this magazine are Elvis fans, and I’m sure an even smaller number of them would know exactly what colours Elvis had his 200 Cadillacs in. His most famous Fleetwood Caddy Series 60 was his pink version because it was the first Caddy he bought. He followed it up on July 5, 1955, by purchasing the same thing in blue with a black roof. He then had it painted in a custom pink called ‘Elvis Rose’ and given to his mother. But his mother didn’t have a license, so Elvis used the car to transport him and his bandmates to gigs.

GREENLIGHT

1/24

Greenlights first claim to fame was that they released the car's correct model casting, a four-door sedan. However, other brands use a two-door version for their castings, which is wrong. The other claim is that they have released the car in its original colour even though it was repainted and spent the rest of its life as a Pink Cadillac,

The details on this 1/24 scale model are brilliant, considering the price you pay for it. We have seen 1/24 scale models that reach the hundred-dollar price tag, but this Cadillac isn’t bad at all regarding details and paint finish in the fifteen-totwenty-dollar range. It also has ornamental value for Elvis fans, some of whom are very hardcore and must have everything ELVIS. Ultimately unlike most things in life when you get the bill for this, you won’t be all shook up.

GREENLIGHT

1/24

COME JOIN OUR GROWING COMMUNITY AND TAKE PART IN SPECIAL OFFERS, COMPETITIONS AND A CHANCE TO WIN SOME COOL MODELS. LOOK FOR SHUTTERCASTERS ON FACEBOOK OR SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW