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Hot off the production line and into my enthusiastic hands this little beauty arrived today. Carousel 1 has carved itself a nice niche in the fast overflowing world of 1:18th scale diecast with their Indy type car series. Due to financial constraints I have limited this series to only winning cars, and this is one of my favorites. It has a 'purpose built' shape-not pretty, not ugly but pure function.
I appreciate the extra work Carousel 1 does by including race and constructors history on the packaging, but question why they have not gone to styrofoam inner packaging, instead of the 'spectator box' with plastic supports and cover. The model replica itself is very impressive, with removable cowling and working suspension. Some nice photoetch is added to the engine cover, which I assume is a heat shield, and the lap belt system. The detail chrome ring around the edge of the wheel is a nice touch, but a little ragged-the tire valve is molded in to the wheel. A brass screen covers the turbo inlet and appears to be scale size.The bodywork fits well, after repositioning the wiring along side the drivers seat. Some of the suspension pieces suffer from mold lines and are painted to simulate aluminum, but could be done better. The most disturbing thing to me is the lack of halfshaft detail: although not visible from the top, it does appear from the rear. Paintwork and tampos are correct according to my reference material and the proper colors. A little Novus work brings a needed shine to the lettering and numerals. All in all a worthy piece for my collection, and despite some shortcomings a car I am proud to have.
(09/28/2001)
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