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Mopar fans and fanatics please proceed to Pier # 383; your exalted ship has just arrived. Good Golly Miss Molly, what a car pick and what a perfect complimentary color choice for this rarely, if ever, seen 1:24th precision model. Ok, I have been honored to review the lion’s share of DM Mopars of the sixties era. In my humble opinion, this is hands down, the quintessential Mopar stand-out diecast model, to date, among them. Roughly based on their 1968 Plymouth Road Runner ground work, the departure is full and complete and with its own merit and upscale, “Holy Cow” visual and visceral factor, times three! Can you surmise that I am in love with this image? Please don’t breathe a word of this to the Corvette diecasts.
Danbury scores big time with this replica in authenticity, originality, accuracy and total attention to research. The color choice, in code 2031, Copper Metallic, with tan interior, sets the instant mood and ambiance of the replica. The paint is rich, thick and as juicy as a three inch Porterhouse steak done to perfection, guaranteeing that this miniature muscle car will stand out, no; leap out, in any diecast collection. Let’s take a look at its phenomenal details.
Most ’69 copper Super Bees that I have seen come with a black bumble bee stripe transversing the trunk and side flanks. Rare, is the white stripe that accentuates this color choice so much better. Danbury’s paint is the usual perfection. The graphics of the “Super Bee” on the stripe sides and also the fabulous, “Scat Pac” badgings front and rear in chrome metal foil are visually striking. Even more so is the, “383” chrome metal foil signatures on the twin hood scoops. These, by the way, are true to function. That is, they are modeled to put the, “Ram” in Ramcharger. The force fed air into the 383 cubic inch motor via scoops and air cleaner seals have been simulated wonderfully and DM has even modeled the graphic, “Ramcharger” script onto the inner hood scoop air-feed assembly. You will even note that they replicated the red actuation lever under the center of the dashboard that opens the Ramcharger air system dampers! Oh, and check out the VIN ID tag on the driver's dash. The heater hoses and plug wires and battery cables are replicated in usual DM perfection and once again we are treated to the best hood scissors springs components on the planet. Speaking of the hood, in addition to the outstanding job that DM has done on the rear compound curved backlight window, check out the accurate replication of the concave sculpting at the front top part of the hood. Emissions controls and brake lines are replicated to the epitome of modeling detail and the masterful build continues down to the chassis and suspension with grace and style. Torsion bar suspension and rear working leaf springs and shocks make for a wonderful trip beneath the model. Don’t miss the brake lines and beautiful tire tread patterning either.
Internally, the passenger’s cabin is replete with folding seat backs, working sun visors, fabric belts with photo-etch metal buckles and completely detailed roof liner. Would you expect no less than hidden internal door hinges? You won’t be disappointed then, they’re there. The dash gauges are flawless as are the steering wheel and foot pedals. This is an auto-shifter car and the proper column levers are in place. The trunk is not left unattended. The correct floor matting is apparent, the jack and tire iron is replicated and even the taillights are wired. The spare is removable and is formed with the jack stand in place. A jacking instruction sheet is affixed to the roof of the trunk lid.
One note of mention; after the initial announcement is made of a model and in which particular color it is being offered, we get a decent idea of what to expect. But often times when DM sends me a review piece I have no idea of what it is that they are sending or which variety or color choice it will be until I open the box. I must tell you all; this one instantly took my breath away as I was opening the package. After my considered review and assessment I have to rate this one as a 9.975 on the old Thrillometer!!
With an order number of 440-12, the issue price is $115.
(06/13/2005)
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