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I’ve always liked the ‘30’s models that come from the mints. DM’s ’31 Roadster was one of my first acquisitions. FM’s ’32 Confederate always makes me smile and DM’s new ’31 Coupe is just plain awesome. Ford reached a milestone by offering a V-8 to the masses at an affordable price in 1932. This is the first replication of that eight-cylinder car, in its stylish roadster trim, from either of the mint’s and it was long overdue.
This diecast was actually tooled at the same time as, and shares a few parts with, DM’s '32 Highboy - Lake Bed Racer. Due to a variety of factors, however, the Lakes Roadster image was released first. In its more classic configuration, the V-8 Roadster is absolutely elegant. Your first overview will allow you to appreciate DM’s very fine detail work. On the dark Washington Blue, the Tacoma Cream pinstripes appear as if laser etched, they are that precise. The wire wheels are fitting in the same accent color. Though wider than the photo-etched units on the ’31 Coupe, they are scaled to be more accurate to the 1:1 V-8 car.
The features of the model include primitive leaf springs that DM rendered operational. There are brake lines and hoses, engine wiring and fuel lines galore, tremendous interior design and great use of materials. The grille and windshield wiper are beautifully photo-etched. The floor carpet is plush, the rubber running board centers are soft and pliable and the canvas top is state of the art. By the way, that may be the model’s best feature. DM’s designer of the model tells me that it mounts to the body in nearly the identical way that it does on the real car, although, it doesn't fold. The wing windows pivot back and forth and the windshield opens out from the bottom. DM had a dual-pivoting windscreen on their 1:12th tooling, just like on the 1:1. Due to scaling limitations, however, this couldn’t be included in the 1:24th production unit. The fit of every part is truly exact. The doors, on perfect little body-colored hinges, snap shut with no gapping and everything lines up remarkably well. The model comes with the down-top boot and a removable spare tire that affixes to the rear carrier. The rumble seat opens to display genuine leather to match the front interior. I have no idea how we lived this long without this wonderful little image. Thanks DM!
The issue price is $112.
(12/16/2002)
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