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Sitting at the far end of this century, I really enjoy looking at cars from its beginning, cars like the 1911 Rolls-Royce Tourer. If it looks primitive, more coach than car, you have to realize it was crafted barely 15 years from the advent of cars themselves. Back then, driving in your "motorcar" wasn't just a ride-it was an adventure! Paved roads were practically unheard of and service stations were as scarce as hen's teeth. Nevertheless, when you ventured out in this car, you traveled in style. And because of its meticulous engineering, a fair amount of safety too.
FM's 1:24 scale model of this beautiful car is a study in small detail. Gold electroplate abounds everywhere, enhancing the gleaming white paint with its beautifully applied fine black pinstriping. Soft, simulated leather seats offer a nice "feel" and a genuine cloth top in tan looks eminently classy. There's real wood veneer on the running boards and simulated burgundy carpeting on the floor. There are three odd-shaped, but accurate, doors that open and the articulated hood folds open to reveal a nicely detailed engine and compartment. The dash has nine 3-D gauges, not decals. The more you look around, the more fine detail you find- bulb horn, lamps, levers, boxes, crank, widgets and gadgets. FM definitely has a knack for doing the older vintage cars right.
Engineering and elegance were Rolls Royce hallmarks. This image sure shows it. It's a natural alongside the '07 R-R Silver Ghost, the '10 R-R Balloon Roadster, the '10 Cadillac Model 30, and the '12 Packard Victoria. As the Millennium turns, these cars will only increase in charm and appeal. The issue price is $135. (08/27/1999)
(08/27/1999)
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