|
This LE of 4000 is the first in Sunstar's Routemaster series that shows this leviathan designated RM8 as it first appeared in 1958 at the Commercial Motor Exibition at Earl's Court. Even in 1/24 scale, this is a monster diecast vehicle at almost 14" in length, 7" in height and 4" in width, it'll certainly be a standout in anyone's collection... and it deserves to be. It's a fine replica of a historic transport vehicle that became as much a symbol of Great Britain as the Tower of London or Big Ben.
This model sports 248 different parts including 7 in Mazak diecast alloy, plastic and photoetched parts. The proper livery and signage was achieved through 80 tampo passes and 40 different hand applied decals and there's little it wants for in accuracy, fidelity and scale here. For it's size, the body is crisply cast down to the tiny rivets that secure the panels. The hardest part was trying to show all the interior detail without having the relection of the glazing obscure it. The plaid (tartan) upholstered seats with chromed rails and grips, the spiral staircase, the clear courtesy lights above each seat grouping... there's so much interior detail, you'll wish you could remove half the body just to take it all in.
The huge 9.6 liter AEC 6cylinder diesel is nicely modeled all plumbed and wired with brake and fuel systems. Careful examination of the front end shows the fine mesh grills and a yellow fan blade peeking from behind the radiator. The huge Dunlop tires wreath nicely executed steel wheels with the AEC logo on the center hub. The undercarriage has all the basic components. However, much of it is modeled in and the the masking process did result in some silver overspray. Frankly this is not an easy piece to handle, so I doubt I'll be spending much time ogling the undercarriage anyway.
When all is said and done, the boys from Macau have done themselves proud. This piece is not just eye-catching, it's eye-popping. You don't have to be auto-obsessed like we are to get a real kick out of this novel piece. It's a delight for the eyes at any level of interest.
(12/23/2004)
|
