Danbury Mint 1:24 1940 Ford Deluxe Tudor Sedan- Nbr Ltd Ed of 5000

The older fellows among us will remember how we looked forward, each year, to the arrival of new cars. We tried to anticipate the changes that we knew would eventually spring forth from one model year to the next. The makers realized how costly it was to keep changing over assembly lines and toolings and the need for engineering new parts. So as history points out, certain models were carried over with little or no sheet metal changes while others received a measured dose of improvements and enhancements. That kept spiraling costs in check and warded off steeper pricing having to be passed on to prospective buyers. Over the years some cars reached a full maturity before a new model took its place. Danbury has done this to perfection with certain diecast model subjects. Case in point, the 1940 Ford image. Taken almost as far as could be expected, and keeping in mind the still pending 1940 Ford Woody Wagon, DM has offered us a plethora of 1940 Ford images over the years. Starting with their standard Deluxe Coupe issued in 1993, they released a flamed hot rod version in 1997, a nostalgic Coca-Cola salesmen’s iteration in ’99, a Cloud Mist Gray reissue in 2000 and a black convertible model issued in 2003. Finally, we have this Tudor version. Buyers of this replica are also entitled to buy the upcoming Blue Deluxe convertible model as well. It, too, will be a numbered limited edition.

Although this presentation is not of a regal and opulent multimillionaire’s classic that was used in the forties to usher him to and from his polo pony stables, it is lovely nonetheless. It is a representation of everyman’s car. One in which you would have seen many a working man or woman use in daily transportation. In this color, Folkestone Gray and with the turtle back Tudor appearance, DM tooled up a completely diverse image. The gray is almost like a putty color. Not at all drab, it has a rich and warm toning effect to it and a glossy shine to top it. The only contrasts to the paint are the black running boards, whitewalls and the chrome trim sectioning the body from front to rear. A wonderful choice of interior color, carried out in cloth fabric, adds a nice, warm, old timey feel to the diecast. The sun visors fold down and the dash exhibits great detail.

There is no operating suspension to the limited edition and we do not see all of the added details that DM now puts on the chassis assemblies of their newer releases. What we do see, of improved technology on this car, is unseen at first. But open the trunk and hood and they are apparent; hinges, wonderful hinges. In the trunk, the hinges are scaled proportionately well and the driver’s side sports a sliding prop support. Under the hood you will note twin dual-scissors hinges, one on either side, with delicate metal springs attached. Great use of material is pressed into service under the hood. Metal copper wiring simulates fuel lines, grey-clad spark plug wires lend realism and water hoses and battery cables are fashioned to delight the visual senses. The doors snap shut and the trunk lid fits precisely. But my example has a slight gap at the rear of the hood when closed. This can be remedied somewhat by pushing the hood down and back with a little finger pressure. Yes, DM has carried the ’40 Ford as far as it may go and they are getting great mileage from a popular image, but don’t pass it up because of that alone; you’d miss out on a beautiful little diecast.

Tony’s Diecast Scorecard

Rankings 1 (poor) to 10 (Excellent)

• Subject matter – 7. Not a world class image but not a standard ’40 Ford either.
• Overall look, shape & stance – 8. Very pleasing nostalgic auto.
• Paint, finish and color choice – 8. Courageous choice but DM pulled it off, color looks excellent for this particular car.
• Fit of all parts – 8. Very slight gapping at rear of hood, otherwise, outstanding.
• Innovation and detailing – 8. Fabulous hinges for hood, doors and trunk lid!
• Functionality and operational features – 7. No working suspension.
• Exterior – 7. Everything lines up well but wipers would look better in photo-etch and emblems would look better chrome foiled.
• Interior – 9. Great use of materials for seats and detailing is exceptional.
• Engine – 9. Wonderful hood springs and great engine detail.
• Chassis – 7. Lacks suspension functionality and assorted lines and cables.

Diecast Final score – 78/100

The issue price is $135.

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