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FM's latest classic car release - the 1911 Mercedes-Benz wood bodied roadster - is in fact, a wonderful addition for those of us who are interested in adding to their eclectic collections. The body, made of one piece of wood, is very well replicated. The thousands of brass rivets which hold the body in together are very well aligned and recreated with paint. Both front and rear doors are hinged and open with full travel. The front windshield is also hinged and tilts forward to allow it to rest in a horizontal position. The sheet metal (fenders and hood) are painted black, beautifully applied pin striping (maroon stripes bordered on both sides with a thin gold stripe) add to the paint detail. The underbody, as well as the underside of the fenders are painted in a maroon color. The front lanterns are brass plated as well as the radiator housing. The interior detail is consistent with the rest of the
replica.
Proportions look very good. Engine detail is also first rate; the bonnet is hinged with piano type hinges as opposed to the unrealistic eyelet hinges seen on some replicas.
This replica, priced at $175.00, is at the high end of FM's 1/24th price structure. So is there a "down side"? Well yes; the radiator housing insert should be a separate metal piece, not merely a silver painted area, and articulated suspension is missing (we've gotten spoiled), but in the aggregate this diecast looks beautiful next to its one-of-a-kind cousins (the wood bodied Hispano, Rolls Royce and copper bodied Rolls). This diecast is recommended without any reservations.
(10/07/1998)
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