MINIATURES NEWS, May 1970

THE latest Lesney “MATCHBOX” miniature we have received is their 54-to-1 scale Porsche 910, with chrome “Superfast” wheels for running on a “Superfast” track, this three-inch Porsche, Ref. No. 68, selling for 2s. 6d. It is finished in metallic red and carries the competition number 68.

Corgi have brought out several interesting car miniatures recently. There is, for instance, their Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Mulliner-Park Ward saloon, modelled on the real car which costs £11,550. The 41 in. model sells for 12S. 6d. and is beautifully finished, as befits a Rolls-Royce. Doors, boot and bonnet open, to reveal simulated facia, spare wheel, and the V8 engine and the “Silver Lady” rides above the classic radiator. The whole detail is excellent, but I was disappointed that the R-R badge has not been reproduced. However, the front seat squabs tip forward to give access to the back of the two-door body and all four headlamps are jewelled. This miniature is No. 273 in the Corgi series.

Then there is a stirring replica of Roger Clark’s rally Ford Capri 3000 GT, in correct finish and numbering, with nine transfers of the publicity decals to stick on it. The tip-up seat backs and special wheels add to the realism of this 4 in. long model, Ref. No. 303. The price is 9s. 11d. This Ford Capri has “Whizzwheels” for frictionless running and the Rolls-Royce has Corgi’s jacking system and detachable wheels—examination of this will bring appreciation of the ingenious simplicity of the system and the manner in which the wheels are secured, yet instantly removable if the jacks are operated.

There is a fascinating 3 3/4 in. long Lamborghini Miura, with the transverse multichoke rear engine nicely detailed and many other details incorporated. This one comes with a miniature Miura fighting bill, for 11s. 6d., under Ref. No. 342. Finally, there is a new Corgi Massey-Ferguson farm tractor with circular saw (No. 73, 3 1/2 in. long 14s. 6d.) for farming collectors. Lesney have a DAF car transporter. So there is plenty to shop for this month.—W. B.

Lord Montagu, no doubt wishing to enjoy the merits of the Jaguar XJ6 with the Daimler traditions associated with the second Baron Montagu, has taken delivery of a new Daimler Sovereign.