The BMW X5 is a really cool looking upscale SUV and in 1:24th
scale, really adds to my collection. The paint looks good and
some features are present like poseable front wheels, opening
hatch, hood and doors. Model is by Maisto.

This is a Maisto Shinoda Boss Mustang. For those who do not know,
Larry Shinoda was a great designer who is credited with the '63 Vette
and the '69 Boss Mustang. This model is not the greatest but the tampo
graphics are fabulous! Initially the model had incorrect Viper wheels,
which I swapped out with Pegasus wheels and MRC Brembo brake
rotors and calipers. I also personalized the model with license plates.

This is a Maisto Shinoda Boss Mustang. For those who do not
know, Larry Shinoda was a great designer who is credited with
the '63 Vette and the '69 Boss Mustang. This model is not the
greatest but the tampo graphics are fabulous! Initially the model
had incorrect Viper wheels, which I swapped out with Pegasus
wheels and MRC Brembo brake rotors and calipers. I also
personalized the model with license plates.

The Buick Rendezvous comes in black with charcoal cladding and
a sunroof. Only thing missing is a figure of Tiger Woods. Hummmm...
I wonder how it would look with a bag of golf clubs? Model by Maisto.

The Ford Escape has a blue gray exterior paint that called to me!
I had to have this. The tires make the model look too toy-like but
they can be swapped out. Sunroof and a few functional features
make this a decent addition since not many companies are making
SUVs in 1:24th scale. Model by Maisto.

The Chevy SSR concept pickup has a stunning electric blue paint job.
I have also seen this model in a trailer set towing a '66 Chevelle. Nice
attention to detail with the Firestone Firehawk tires. Model is by Maisto.

Probably the most expensive "cheap diecast" at the market. This
is a Classic Metal Works '66 GTO convertible. I picked it up for $20.
The proportions and detail look good. I plan on redoing the chrome
trim with Bare Metal foil and will also flock the interior. You know
what sold me on this model? It was the "Hurst" emblem on the trunk
lid — so sixties! CMW varies in consistency. Some models look good
where others have that "something's missing" look. Buy what you like.

Probably the model that needs the most work. This is a'66 Chevelle
SS396 by Maisto. Paint wasn't too bad. My biggest complaint was
the heavy parting line under the paint on both "C" pillars. I plan on
a complete disassembly, color change and full detail w/photoetch
on this model. Metallic paints tend to run thin on these models and
you get that "pooling" effect on door and hood edges. This is most
evident on light colored metallics.

I'm not a Ford fan, but I really like the Explorer Sport Trak. Someone
in our development has one of these and when I saw the model, it
had to come home. I want to do a construction diorama and want to
use a modern pick up. Looks like I found the truck! Model is by Maisto.

Also not into imports but this Honda S2000 is a charm. It lacks
details like lens engraving and interior detailing but I can work
around that missing portion easily. Model looks great on the shelf.
Maisto also makes this one.

The biggest complaint I have are the tires, which make
any of these models more of a toy than a collectible.

Here I took some extra tires I had sitting around
from a FM Sportsman truck. Big difference, eh?

By placing the truck in a scene, it comes alive. Tom Struckman and
Dave Milne have shown this with their creative photography. Here is
the Ford in what will be the beginning of a construction diorama.

Think out of the box. Modelers have a wealth of aftermarket items
that can change your cheap diecast into the pride of your shelf.
For a few bucks more and with some basic skills your model will
take on an entirely different look.

4 Comment(s) Posted:

Cheap Diecast need a home too!!     Chuck Rice   (11/17/04)

Cheap name plates     melvin perkins   (07/19/04)

Name Plates     melvin perkins   (07/19/04)

Nice cars George.....     Ronald W Jones   (05/18/03)