Are You Holding A Duffer?
Not everything smooth and plastic calls by the name of Dolly Pardon. You'll need something to investigate...
WORDS BY GAVIN LENAGHAN

Model collecting, not least of the four-wheeled motoring exotica variety, is a hobby greeted with much of a following by virtually all countries of the world. That said, it’s also very easy to fall into a booby trap when it comes to purchasing a model which, in the wrong nature, could put you off changing hands for anything shiny, metallic and smothered with a plastic interior ever again.

Of course, it’s hardly essential to pick up something pristine but for the money, there are some real treats on offer and all it’ll take is a little observation work on your part. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a beginner or respected pro, although if you happen to fall into the latter category it’s recommended you leave the building. So, on your way to the local Models & Hobbies Warehouse, a number of simple, no-catch tips, which will ensure the car in front, is in your bag.

 If you’re after something genuine to treasure, the easiest thing in the book is to ensure you’re looking at the right bloody car. Take a closer observation of the packaging and look for an “official licensed product” label or something of similar nature. And of course it helps if you know the name of the car in question too. Also look into the shape, anything which resembles a cheap imitation socked together and sold off in wet containers for $1 each is not worth your attention.

 Stickers. Look at them as your worst school enemies and you’ll go far: they’re especially common on 1:18 scale models (again, check the box for this) and sometimes the size of them – especially concerning badges on the bonnet – can be embarrassing. A good idea to see if any decent decals are lined up correctly, too (Bburago have been made famous for duff stickies). Any decals on the wing mirrors are common, they can come off from a sweat off your hand.

 The materials themselves are usually durable, die-cast metal can be dropped on a concrete floor and only come off with a few doggy scratches. It’s the plastic interior and some other parts likely to cause you trouble. Dashboards, if they come in two parts, can easily be left positioned out of line. Windscreens can be flimsy so make sure they’re well stuck. If you’re buying a model like the Escort RS Cosworth, check that wacko spoiler and make sure it’s not been lazily fitted.

 Size is a very good issue and one sometimes overlooked. My personal preference for both detail and versatility would be the 1:43 scale Vitesse Group models, also marketed under the name “Skid” and numerous others. They’re small so they’ll fit anywhere, hand painted (so no aforementioned stickers to trouble you) and the cockpits, as well as the interior, features lush detailing. On the other end of the spectrum, Auto Art builds the ultimate no-compromise stuff.

 Don’t be afraid of the shells on radio-controlled examples, they’re built to be cost-effective and can prove to be more durable than you think, especially when there’s a freak accident involved. They’re easily replaced although you may find yourself having to paint and construct a new shell yourself. Best to have an experienced bloke on your doorstep in case things get ugly.

 Think realistically regarding cost. What are your priorities concerning a model car? Is it really worth shelling out $50 for something with metallic paint? Do remember, models are based on the premise that you display them, so don’t accept a bad looking example. If you are ideally after a “toy” – something for the Under13s – don’t pay more than a tenner.

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Model Review: Misubishi Lancer by Vitesse Group
EXCLUSIVE: [Various]It costs $30 USD but would fit in a matchbox (if it was proportioned like a lunar car). Is this the great British rip-off? Urm, no. Because it's available online: Model-Car.com sells this car as I type this and in case you've wondering, here's proof of the car's attitude... Solid.

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