This month brings us some new releases in the 1:64 scale realm by both Hot Wheels and Johnny Lightning.
Hot Wheels has re-released the Lotus Sport Elise for 2005, this time with a metallic purple exterior, and chrome interior. The graphics on the car are orange and white, along with white rims on this particular model. In addition, Hot Wheels are releasing a select few cars with limited edition "ultrafast" wheels, which are bronze, and of the five spoke variety. The new Sport Elise is #163 in the series for 2005!
Johnny Lightning recently released a series of 1:64 scale diecasts with a Universal Studios Monsters theme, and a Lotus Esprit was a lucky recipient to he #11 in the list! This particular model is actually a Stevens body, not a 1984, as the packaging claims. One of my peeves with this manufacturer, as they keep rehashing incorrect body styles, instead of making a G bodied car!! The Lotus is dark blue, with chrome interior, and silver electrical graphics along the car... hmmm, did they know about Lucas electrics?? In addition, this particular packaging includes a mini car cover for your prized lotus.
Although the 40th anniversary of James Bond was in 2002, these models, again from Johnny Lightning. have recently begun to appear on the shelves, so keep your eyes peeled for this bronze Lotus Esprit... again an incorrect Stevens body style... from For Your Eyes Only. The car also includes a mini movie poster from the original release. The detail is very well done, with the car having gold pinstriping and lettering in the appropriate places.
Continuing on with the 40th Anniversary of Bond theme, Johnny Lightning also released a four pack of 1:64 scale cars called the "Heroic Horsepower" release. The four pack includes an Aston Martin V12 Vanquish, Sunbeam Tiger, Lotus Esprit Turbo (imagine that... an incorrect Stevens body style!), and Mustang Mach I. This time, we get the white turbo esprit that was briefly in the movie "For Your Eyes Only", until the burglar alarm went off. The detail is great once again, with correct red lettering (including the tiny turbo esprit graphics on the front of the car) and pin striping down the sides of the car.
In the future, I will show you just how many incorrect Stevens bodied Esprit's that Johnny Lightning has released ... yep, I continue to buy them! Until next time.... Happy Hunting!
