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Exoto has a very special #40 Martini w/ Stommelen Figure model offered as a Limited Edition of 1976. Soon to be added to the lineup will be this race-weary version, suitably ‘weathered’ with oil, dirt and, if you look hard enough into the race cabin, you may even see some sweat and tears. Aptly named, this will be the “Finish Line” model. Rolf Stommelen and Manfred Schurti were 1976 LeMans 24 Hours Group 5 winners in this thoroughbred. They encountered every sort of problem and trial they could ever have nightmares over but managed to bring the awesome power of the car to the front of their class finishing first in Group 5. They salvaged a fourth overall despite heavy obstacles.
The replica is awesome and incredibly realistic in its race-worn battle dress. There are dirt and oil and rubber smears splattered all over the race livery. Even the tires are spared no quarter slick-side and sidewall and the weathering includes the wheels as well. This model has already proven itself with immeasurable detailing but the simple addition of the figurine of Rolf Stommelen makes a terrific contribution to the overall appearance of the diecast. There is a flexible side safety curtain beautifully fashioned from mesh and fabric and it accents the Spartan racing interior perfectly. Every type of detail has been presented in the cockpit and only upstaged by the detail built into the engine bay and trunk area. The suspension is true to life and articulates well and the brake detailing is breathtaking.
To me, a race car should look like a race car and not like a trailer queen. This weathering detail-attention renders the car ‘believable’ as a race course warrior and the way Exoto treated it to a healthy dose of crud is most admirable and welcome to the hearty race fans among us. Grab this little gem as soon as you can, you won’t be sorry you did.
(03/30/2003)
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