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This replicates the car that Hap Sharp drove to victory at the LA Times Grand Prix at Riverside, California, 10/31/65. For more history on the 1:1, see Exoto's website. Let's concentrate for a minute on the 1:18th scale beauty here. Stately in racing design, all these years later, the model is sleek, low and fast looking, even on display. An exercise in aerodynamics, the car more resembles a rocket ship. Precious little bodywork flows much above the tire height. But what does is gorgeous. Exoto's typical attention to perfect paint is abundantly evident and the graphics and race livery only enhance the effect. The louvers are real on the tops of the front fenders, the deflector is photo-etched metal and the twin outside fuel doors operate. Wire mesh screening, fore and aft, add even more detail. The pattern on the FirestoneŽ tires is phenomenal, as are the wheels themselves.
The price of admission, however, is best realized when looking beneath the body panels. The front and rear applications come off to reveal the most amazing detail. The doors fold over granting access to the cockpit. Here's where the model comes into it's own. Braided lines, vinyl hoses, wires and fuel lines are used everywhere to flawlessly replicate the original racer. Brake lines, instrument wiring, air ducting and operating features make you believe you are looking at the real car. The suspension is active, inside fuel doors open and the steering is exceptionally precise, no slop whatsoever. The exhaust and velocity stacks are miniature metal marvels. Even the flipper wing works. It is mounted on a swiveling hinge.
Under the chassis, you may remove a small panel giving you a realistic look at the unbelievable engine detail and turning clutch and gearbox detail. Exoto overlooked nothing in duplicating this 1:18th masterpiece. This model would satisfy your hunger for detail if it were the only piece you owned. It is that good. The only thing that could have been added is gas and oil.
(10/19/2002)
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