I hope that 2006 finds everyone well, and ready to start a new year collecting. December turned out to he a good month of sorts as lotus collectibles were concerned. After a delay of nearly 10 months (the original launch date s Feb. of 2005), Ertl finally released the much anticipated 1:18 scale Lotus Esprit from The Spy Who Loved Me.
All that I can say, is that it was worth the wait! While not the exacting detail as an Auto Art release, it none the less remains faithful to the S1. There are several unique features to this car, one of which is an "Interactive Q Branch CD Rom Card"- rather nifty piece that allows you to download a screensaver, wallpaper, and view stats about the actual car used in the movie.
Another first (to my knowledge), is that this car can he converted into both road and submarine mode! It contains all the bits and pieces for each!! ERTL's website is www.RCERTL.com, and although I haven't visited it, might lead to you suppliers that carry this great little car!
Another beauty that was delayed in being released was the 1:18 scale Lotus 72C, driven by Emerson Fittipaldi, in the 1970 US Grand Prix, where he scored 1st place. It's #18210 in the series. Quartzo was a manufacturer that was defunct, but has risen from the ashes with Sunstar model group. Sunstar is the manufacturer that has worked to keep lotus models alive with the release of the Elise and the GT1. For the price point (around $50), you won't be disappointed, although I think the shade of the car is a bit off...it seems the car should be a truer red, rather than a maroon. Also, upon looking at the car, you notice that "Gold Leaf" is missing on the sides... opening up the box, I found that you have to apply the decals yourself- it's a way around the tobacco regulations regarding toys!
If F1 models are your interest. I would suggest picking up this little gem, as it is limited to just 2500 worldwide! In addition, Quartzo (aka Sunstar) has also released the other Lotus F1 models in this same lineup: #18200 Lotus 49, Jim Clark '68 Grand Prix of South Africa (1st place), #18210 Lotus 49B Graham Hill '69 Grand Prix of Monaco (1st place), and #18290 Lotus 72E, Ronnie Peterson '74 Grand Prix of Monaco (1st place).
Happy New Year. and Happy Hunting!
