Last month we looked at the latest release from Auto Art, the Europa S. I thought it would be appropriate to continue on that thread for this month's models.
As you may remember through the years, I have always been a fan of Auto Art models. They have always done a great job with the subject matter, and the detail, I would compare to Kyosho. The larger scale models (1:18) have opening doors, hood, and trunk (as a disclaimer, there are a few models out there that are sealed models... no opening parts- I believe it's to protect the internal workings of various race cars from their competitors - the Bentley Exp Speed 8 comes to mind). In addition, the interior detail is spot on, with such details as "carpeted" interior and photo-etched seat belt buckles!
A few years ago, the G bodied Lotus owners rejoiced, as Auto Art finally released this in 1/43 and 1/18 scale. In the 1/43 scale, there was an S1 model (labeled as the Type 79) in Red, British Racing Green, and Yellow. In addition, the Type 79 Esprit was also produced in 1/18 scale in British Racing Green, and Yellow.
Also in 1/43 scale, was the Turbo Esprit. Check out the detail on the BBS rims! This was released in Yellow, White, and Black, but sadly it was mislabeled on the package as an Esprit Turbo. If this wasn't enough, Auto Art also released the Turbo Esprit in 1/18 scale. You had a choice of Black, White, or the rare Essex version.
For those of you with the V8 look in mind, Auto Art also has you covered. In 1/43 scale, you had a choice of Yellow, Black, Red, or British Racing Green. Again, the detail is very well done for the size of this model.
All of us (that collect this stuff, that is) had been waiting for a 1/18 scale Lotus Esprit V8 model for quite some time. Auto Art has planned for a many years ago, but for some reason, it kept getting pushed back. Actually, I had just about given up seeing this model...until it finally saw the light of day about a year and a half ago. Certainly worth the wait! The 1/18 Esprit V8 is available in Black, Yellow, and Red.
If the Esprit isn't your thing, Auto Art also has released the Elan, and most recently, the Exige. The Exige is available in Chrome Orange, Silver, or Black, and is just a beautiful model! Any Lotus model that you choose, I am sure you won't be disappointed with the details with Auto Art! Jim at Diecasm can hook you up, and let you know what's available.
Happy Hunting!
