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THIS MODEL WAS DISCONTINUED 6/30/02. People sometimes ask why I have so many "little cars". The 1934 Hispano-Suiza J12 is one reason. You can collect a precision die cast model of a '32 Duece Coupe, a car everyone's uncle could buy, for one bill and change. You can also collect a die cast of the J12, a car that would make Bill Gates peek at his checking account balance (it sold for $40,000 IN 1934!!), for about the same money. It brings a tear to me eye!
DM's take on the 1934 H-S is also a beautiful thing. Though it's an older vintage image, it's brilliantly finished in rich, dark blue-with off-white top and upholstery-and looks as elegant as the real car. The fully covered wheels (and spares) give the impression of luxury and streamlined grace. Under the lo-o-ong hood you'll find a V-12 with an average amount of detailing. No wires are visible but most hand-made vintage cars hid them. The undercarriage also has decent detailing. The interior is understated, done in real leather upholstery, but with a decal-style set of gauges. The dogleg-hinged doors nevertheless fit well. The partially retracted soft-top is done in molded plastic. There's nothing flashy about the J12-this car's expense came from meticulous engineering.
If you're adamant about state-of-the-art die cast models, this older image may not be for you. But if vintage style and grace get your motor running, the J12 will look good in any collection. The 12/96 reissue was unchanged from the previous release. The issue price is $109 + $5.80 S&H.
(07/29/1999)
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