Riggen Figures and Tower

Riggen people and a cool tower, information sent by REH.

This is the second time morbid curiosity got a hold of me

Read all about it here......

Regards

Frank

New LeMans Miniatures Audi

Click on the photos to read them more closely.

New Fly Porsche 911

I wonder if Fly has made a new mold or if this is the fat-fendered mold they've been using in the past.
Thanks to REH for sending the news!

Holden HSV W427 Supercar

Holden is working on unleashing its might on Australian roads as it revealed the HSV W427 at the Melbourne Motor Show. The HSV – Holden Special Vehicles – will be the fastest standard road car to ever come out of Australia, and will probably be one of the quickest globally as well. Unconfirmed power figures put the W427 at over 370kW and 640Nm of torque. Such numbers are seen only in saloons like BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. Many thanks to Corvette’s 7.0-litre LS7 power plant.

To better utilize the power, a limited slip diff will be used in conjunction with a new high-strength 6-speed manual shifter.

The car receives GM product’s Magnetic Ride suspension which helps adapt the car to current road conditions for optimum handling. A number of exterior enhancements such as carbon fiber rear spoiler, 20-inch wheels and a new front fascia.

What a tribute Australia’s original “muscle car” which turned 20 years old today.

Press Release

The car to be known in its final development stages as the W427 is finished in the same Panorama Silver paint scheme as the original Group A SS VL Commodore, released at the Melbourne Motor Show of 1988, exactly 20 years ago.
HSV Managing Director, Scott Grant, said the W427 was a tribute to how far the company has come in just twenty years. To be able to produce a vehicle of these proportions is truly remarkable, Scott Grant said.
The W427 will be quite possibly the fastest road registrable Supercar ever produced in Australia and among the quickest anywhere around the world, he said. While power output figures are still to be confirmed, the W427 is likely to produce in excess of 370kW of power and 640NM of torque.

It will also be one of the safest cars HSV has ever put on the road, Scott Grant said. A new six piston front braking system will provide a 50% increase in pad area, while the W427 also receives a revised ESP calibration, six air bags, improved handling and new Magnetic Ride Control settings.

The W427 receives a bimodal active exhaust system to improve noise quality and back pressure management.

Styling and design highlights include an all new front fascia, a three piece carbon fibre rear spoiler, 20 inch machined faced alloy wheel, unique exhaust tips and red leather interior.
Scott Grant said HSV would be introducing a unique customer relations program to accompany the launch of the new vehicle. The W427 will only be produced in limited numbers and we want to reflect that exclusivity in how we connect with our Supercar customers, Scott Grant said. This program will see the LS7 engine being fitted at Clayton, along with the dry sump system and a range of other engineering features. We are looking at opportunities to allow owners to visit HSV and view the unique manufacturing process that goes into building this car.
The W427 will go into production in the middle of the year and will be available for sale in dealerships in the third quarter of 2008. Make no mistake, while the specifications of the car unveiled on the stand today at the Motorshow may change slightly between now and when production begins, this car is destined to make as big an impact as the original Walkinshaw twenty years ago.

W427 key highlights*
Exterior
• All new Front Fascia exclusive to W427
• All new three piece rear spoiler in carbon fibre
• All new 20 inch wheel
Interior
• HSV performance seats in full red hot trim with W427 logo, steering wheel, gear shifter and console lid in full red hot leather

Powertrain
? 7.0 Litre, LS7 Engine with HSV specific calibration
? 370kW @ 6500 rpm
? 640Nm @ 5000 rpm
? Over radiator style cold air induction system with high flow air filter
? Dry sump lubrication system with 2 stage pump
? Hand fabricated aluminium oil reservoir, with internal baffles for high G loading
? Front mount, 13 row engine oil cooler
? Ceramic coated, high flow four into one extractors
? High flow catalytic converters and exhaust system (3 into 2 3⁄4 )
? Active bi-modal rear mufflers for exhaust back pressure management to improve noise quality
? High strength limited slip differential
? New high strength six speed manual gear box (TR6060)
? GMPT LS7 Clutch with new actuator and pedal assembly for high clamp loads

Suspension
? New springs, 30% stiffer than GTS
? Revised ride height 20mm lower than GTS
? New stiffer rear suspension bushing
? All new MRC calibration

Brakes
? New 6 piston front braking system (50% increase in pad area)
? Strap drive, 2 piece floating front rotors (380 x 35mm compared to 365 x 32mm one piece on GTS)
? High friction pad material

Sultan XL Off Road Truck Chassis

Fernando from DSC has sent along photos of a new chassis.
This is the Off Road Truck Chassis – Sultan XL.


http://dsc-desgalslotcompetition.blogspot.com/

Seat Leon Cupra K1 Styling Kit

As if the menacing Cupra’s look wasn’t enough, SEAT is now offering its UK customers an even scarier car to drive in, with the K1 Limited Edition Styling Kit. Purely a plastic surgery kit – the 2.0-litre turbo still kicks out 240 bhp/ 179kW. SEAT has gone a step further by slightly dropping the price of a standard Cupra by some 200 quid, helping to make good headway for the inclusion of K1 for future purchases.

Where the major changes are made is just about the only area allowed for general public consumption, which is the exterior. There’s more than just a passing resemblance to the Sport BTCC car, SEAT’s race-winning maverick, as BTCC forms the basic inspiration for the look.

Colours offered are Inferi Black, Emocion Red, Luna Grey and Candy white. Work has been done on both bumpers, side skirts and rear spoiler. Exhaust system has borrowed from big brothers Porsche and Audi by going central and oval for shape respectively. Wheels will be 18-inch alloys which cost £205 RRP and come in either black or white.

Press Release

Fresh for the imminent ‘08’ plate change SEAT is giving its most potent road-going model – the muscular Leon Cupra – the option of an even more sporty look courtesy of a dramatic limited edition styling kit version.

The impressive additions to the Leon’s already lithe lines give the 240 PS, turbocharged 2.0-litre Cupra even more of the look of the race-winning SEAT Sport BTCC car, which is set to compete for top honours again this year.

Boasting a bespoke K¹ boot badge, the limited edition car’s comprehensive styling additions include extensively re-worked front and rear bumpers, smart side skirts, a more pronounced tailgate spoiler and unique chrome-tipped, centrally-mounted, oval exhaust.

The car’s enhancements come in a range of eye-catching colours: Inferi Black, Emocion Red, Luna Grey and Candy White, and it is available to order now through the SEAT UK dealer network.

Great value at just £1,000 RRP over the standard Cupra, the K¹ additions arrive at the same time as a change to the Leon range-topper’s equipment manifest. Powerful Bi-xenon headlights, complete with AFS dynamic bend lighting that follows the turn of the steering wheel to help ensure the beam is always pointing precisely where the car’s headed, are now a £870 option.

At the same time new, optional, 18” Orion alloy wheels in black or white are made available at £205 RRP.

The best news for Cupra fans, though, is that the standard car’s price has been trimmed, from £19,695 RRP to £19,495 RRP, to make the 153 mph flier even easier on the pocket. The body kitted K¹ therefore costs £20,495 RRP.

SEAT UK’s Head of Marketing, Steve Robertson, said of the Cupra changes: ‘The K¹ styling kit gives the car even more road presence, and clearly recalls the look of our super-quick BTCC competitor.

1971 Indianapolis 500 Pace 1:18th Car

Read all about this fine 1:18th diecast from Greenlight at this link

Frank

Regards

1:18th 1961 Chevrolet Corvette Mako Shark Diecast Car By AUTOart

The XP-755 Mako Shark show car was designed by Larry Shinoda under the direction of GM Design head Bill Mitchell in 1961, as a concept for future Chevrolet Corvettes. In keeping with the name, the streamlining, pointed snout, and other detailing was partly inspired by the look of that very fast fish. The "Mako Shark" was very similar to the 1963 Corvette, with some alterations. These included adding two more brake lights in the rear (six total), making the nose of the car longer and more pointed, creating a clear glass roof with a periscope-like rear-view mirror, and remodeling the interior.

Read all about this fine 1:18th diecast from AUTOart at this link
With Kind regards
Frank

Irmscher V8 Powered GT i40

When the Remshalden-based Opel connoisseurs at Irmscher launched their 315 bhp impression of the 1,335 kg (2,940 lbs) Opel GT last summer, we thought it was pretty darn good. Power from the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo had been hiked up another 60 hp from the standard GT roadster, delivering a sub-6 second sprint to 100km/h.

To celebrate its 40 year journey, Irmscher, founded by Gunther Irmscher in 1968 and currently headed by Gunter Irmscher Jr. has put out a vehicle "for the true connoisseur." To outshine the 300+ km/h Vectra that it produced for the company's 35th anniversary in 2003, Irmscher has decided to go over the top with the GT i40. Instead of relying on Opel's Ecotec fourpot, Irmscher has gone down an entirely different route with the power plant, by picking up a 6.0-litre V8 and shoehorning it into the GT. Not a measly V6, but a proper 480 hp V8, which should be enough to blow your trousers off! For more information, see the press release below.

If you're heading to the Geneva Motor Show, opening to the public on March 6, 2008, be sure not the miss the Irmscher Opel GT i40 at Irmscher's stand in Hall 2.

Press Release

Irmscher constructs the GT for GourmeTs

It’s the ingredients that make the difference! And here is the menu:

• A 6,0l V8-engine with 480PS in an Opel GT-body for excellent driving performance.

• Perfectly prepared and served à la maison.

For 40 now Irmscher has been providing proof of its competence in matters of vehicle construction and individualisation.

On the occasion of the company’s 35th anniversary the most powerful and strongest of the Opel Vectras had caused a stir by reaching a speed of more than 300km/h. However, that which is emerging from the factory floors in Remshalden for the company’s 40th anniversary is a vehicle for the true connoisseur: the Irmscher Opel GT i40. The figures in the model’s number stand for the data of the company: Günther Irmscher senior started up in1968 in Winnenden with the first vehicle modifications. In the person of Günther Irmscher junior, the second generation is at the fore of the company in 2008 and is proof that 40 years of company history should be celebrated properly at this anniversary.

The Remshalden company is starting its anniversary with a world premiere in Geneva. Here, the GT will be making its first appearance and is sure to cause a stir at the company’s stand in Hall 2.

V8-engine and a driving performance that puts it in the company of thoroughbred sports cars male the experts sit up and take notice and connoisseurs tingle with anticipation. As it is known that appearances also matter, the GT is optically enhanced by means of a discreet modification to the car body, and, on the interior with an exclusive leather fitting.

For desert, Irmscher serves the news that the vehicle is to be produced in a small series. The appropriate attention is being paid to this already. The menu therefore also exists in takeaway form.

The GT i40 currently stands in a long tradition of elect vehicles.V8-engines have always had an important role to play at Irmscher. In this line of history stand the Senator V8 and not least the successful races in the Omega V8 with the F1-driver Johnny Cecotto at the wheel, who was able to win the championship twice.

The models with the “i”“.

Special models with the “i” in their name have always had their place in the company history. The GT i40 here lines up with a whole row of other vehicles, from the i120, i130, i200…via the i500 to the i35 which appeared for the company’s 35th anniversary. At that time, a compressor helped enhance the performance of a V6-Motor. The result was the fastest Opel limousine in series production in the world. 5 years later it is a V8 that will cause a sensation in a Roadster.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage RS in Mako Blue

Aston Martin’s V12 Vantage RS Concept has a new colour. Mako Blue is it, and it was chosen out of numerous names suggested by interested public members. When the car was unveiled by Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez last December, he called on the public to send names they thought would suit the colour of the concept.

One such quick-thinking world citizen was Mat Wilson whose name was the one picked. Wilson said: “The name came to me instantly, when I first saw the car. There is a distinct parallel between the shark and the car – both being the fastest of their kind.” Mako is the Maori word for Blue Lightning, which Aston Martin reckon is perfectly suited to their 600 bhp/ 447kW 6.0-litre V12. Indeed the car is said to be the fastest Aston Martin to ever come out with that badge on its sleeve.

Press Release

The newly housed Aston Martin Design team has selected a name for the colour of the company’s V12 Vantage RS concept car, after inviting suggestions from the public at the opening of the company’s new Design Studio last year.

The V12 Vantage RS was unveiled in December by Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez, who, during his speech, invited suggestions to name the colour of the concept. The Aston Martin design team was inundated with suggestions, and after careful consideration has selected ‘Mako Blue’ as the name of the concept colour.
Design Director, Marek Reichman said: “The name is taken from the Mako shark, which is the fastest and most agile shark known to man. We thought the name not only reflected the colour, but also that the nature of the shark was synonymous with the character of the car.
“The Maori translation for ‘Mako’ is ‘Blue Lightning’ which obviously is descriptive of both colour and car - a very befitting name.”
Mat Watson, who penned the winning name added: “The name came to me instantly, when I first saw the car. There is a distinct parallel between the shark and the car – both being the fastest of their kind.”
The environmentally sustainable Design Studio is the marque’s first purpose-built and fully-owned design facility. The Vantage RS concept features a 600bhp 6.0 V12 engine and has been subjected to a weight-loss programme. The result is the fastest ever road-going Aston Martin.

Aston Martin is currently evaluating feedback from customers to the Vantage RS concept, with a view to a possible low-volume production run should sufficient demand exist.

Spirit 2008 releases

Several things to note with this posting.
Here are the 2008 releases for Spirit, and REH is the sole US Distributor for Spirit.







AVAILABLE 501103 Peugeot 406 Silhouette Elis
AVAILABLE 501105 Peugeot 406 Silhouette Esso
AVAILABLE 501106 Peugeot 406 Silhouette Motul
AVAILABLE 601201 Courage C65 Pirelli
AVAILABLE 601302 BMW 2002 RAC Rally
AVAILABLE 601303 BMW 2002 Pneuhoge
AVAILABLE 601304 BMW 2002 Olimpia 72
AVAILABLE 601401 Porsche 936 LeMans 76
AVAILABLE 601402 Porsche 936 Nürburgring
AVAILABLE 601403 Porsche 936 Dijon 76
1st Quarter 501108 Peugeot 406 Silhouette Liqui Moly
2nd Quarter 601202 Courage C65 Gulf
2nd Quarter 601203 Courage C65 Kumho
2nd Quarter 601204 Courage C65 Fimat
2nd Quarter 601305 BMW 2002 GS Tuning
2nd Quarter 601307 BMW 2002 Jagermeister
2nd Quarter 601404 Porsche 936 Monza
2nd Quarter 601405 Porsche 936 Salzburgring
2nd Quarter 701501 VW Golf Street White
2nd Quarter 701502 VW Golf Street Black
3rd Quarter 701503 VW Golf Rally BP
3rd Quarter 801601 New Car 1 V1
4th Quarter 501104 Peugeot 406 Coupe Halfords
4th Quarter 501110 Peugeot 406 Silhouette BLS
4th Quarter 601205 Courage C65 Mazda
4th Quarter 601306 BMW 2002 Pack Nurburgring
4th Quarter 701504 VW Golf Gr.2 Kamei
4th Quarter 801602 New Car 1 V2
4th Quarter 801701 New Car 2 V1


1:32 SPORT SERIES CARS
AVAILABLE 501111 Peugeot 406 Silhouette SPORT
AVAILABLE 501114 Peugeot 406 Coupe SPORT
4th Quarter 601207 Courage SPORT
4th Quarter 601406 Porsche 936 SPORT


1:32 BLISTER KIT CARS
AVAILABLE 400590 Peugeot 205 KIT 2in1
AVAILABLE 500690 Renault 5 KIT 2in1
AVAILABLE 501190 Peugeot 406 Coupe KIT 2in1

MINI JCW Cooper S Hatch and Clubman Revealed for Geneva Debut

Spiced-up versions of MINI's second-generation Cooper S Hatchback and new Clubman models are to debut at Geneva next month, signalling that Chili simply isn't a hot enough specification for the guys over at JCW. The re-Worksed versions carry adapted performance features from MINI's Challenge race car and offer the full range of John Cooper Works body styling upgrades.

JCW have engineered a MINI Challenge for the road, coupling the race car's 211 hp 1.6-litre unit with newly-uprated sports suspension specifically-tuned for Works MINIs, larger disc brakes with uprated red callipers and a strengthened six-speed manual transmission. Prices are expected to start from £20,500 and £21,700 for the hatch and Clubman respectively.

These uprated features, akin to those on its racing-bred sibling, deliver output of 132 hp per litre and an impressive 40 mpg, while straight-line sprints to 62 mph take just 6.5 seconds in hatchback and 6.8 seconds in Clubman form. A new speedo has been designed to cater for the JCW's new 148 mph top speed.

At the touch of a button behind the gear lever, the on-board computer modifies the engine map for sharper steering responses and more dynamic performance, while an 'Overboost' function increases torque from 260 to 280 Nm over short stints. A host of electronic stability programs coset owners, while deactivating Dynamic Stability Control enables grip-enhancing Electronic Differential Lock, improving handling and traction.

But to ensure that their new-generation Cooper S Hatchback and Clubmans look the part are a new range of JCW body styling products. They include CHALLENGE 17-inch Cross-Spoke alloys with run-flats, large polished stainless steel exhaust tips and cooling-enhancing bonnet intake. Piano Black trim, Anthracite roof lining and a 10-speaker audio system head up the interior enhancements, while John Cooper Works branding adorns boot, grille, wheels and doors.

Press Release

The new MINI John Cooper Works on the starting grid at Geneva
Factory-built JCW Cooper S Hatch and Clubman set for summer launch

• Engine modifications deliver 211hp and 0-62 in 6.5 seconds
• Engine, brakes, suspension settings and transmission adapted from MINI CHALLENGE race car
• Dynamic Traction Control makes MINI debut
• Full range of John Cooper Works body styling products available
• On-the-road prices expected to be £20,500 for the JCW Hatch and Clubman at £21,700
• New speedo design to accommodate the higher maximum speed

Production of John Cooper Works-tuned cars is all set to resume at MINI’s Plant Oxford after the launch of the second-generation MINI Cooper S Hatch and new MINI Cooper S Clubman. From July 2008, customers will be able to order factory-built MINIs that produce 211hp and complete a 0-62mph sprint in 6.5 seconds.

Motor sport has heavily influenced the engineering and development of these new MINIs that feature a larger twin-scroll turbocharger and direct petrol injection with common rail. The four-cylinder engine has had the same modifications as the MINI CHALLENGE race car, along with re-engineered brakes, suspension and strengthened gearing. Each upgrade combines to give the car a remarkable output of 132hp per litre combined with 40mpg.

Expected prices on-the-road are £20,500 for the MINI John Cooper Works and £21,700 for the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. The cars will be unveiled for the first time to the public at the International Geneva Motor Show in March.

Engine

The engine specially developed for the MINI CHALLENGE race car is fitted to the MINI John Cooper Works cars. The basic unit is the 1.6 litre power plant supplied in the standard MINI Cooper S, but modifications have been made to the air filter, air mass meter, exhaust system and catalyst. Air supply to the modified larger turbocharger is increased through fitment of a larger air intake pipe, which in turn creates a quicker induction phase.

The Works engines from Hams Hall also come with reinforced, specially polished pistons, as well as a strengthened cylinder head for optimised stability and a modified cylinder gasket. The intake valves and valve seat rings have also been upgraded with stronger and more resistant materials. This reduces the engine’s compression ratio.

The new Sports exhaust system is instantly recognisable through the large polished stainless steel twin tailpipes. Modification of the exhaust system has also helped to reduce counter-pressure at the point of exhaust gas recirculation. Ducts in the exhaust manifold and turbocharger are split between two cylinders each. Congestion is therefore minimised when air is inducted to the turbocharger and “turbo lag” is virtually eliminated.

The John Cooper Works MINIs are the first models in the range to fulfil all the requirements of the European EU5 emission standards that come into force in 2009.

The material used in machining the turbine has been upgraded specifically for the Works engine, with maximum charge pressure increased from 0.9 to 1.3 bar, in order to maintain the highest possible temperature for a longer period in the combustion chambers. This lengthening of the combustion process helps to achieve the higher torque curve of the Works car at 260Nm at just 1,850rpm. The Overboost function briefly extends this further to 280Nm. This suits the character of a John Cooper Works car perfectly as Overboost is experienced exclusively through increased torque, not on engine output.

Safety and Driving Dynamics

MINI has always had sophisticated driving stability systems as standard. These include ABS Brakes, EBD Electronic Brake Force Distribution, CBC Cornering Brake Control, EDL Electronic Differential Lock, as well as DSC Dynamic Stability Control and Hill Assist. For the first time, DTC Dynamic Traction Control is added to the list.

DTC allows controlled slip on the drive wheels. For example, on a slippery surface, the driver can pick up speed in a controlled manner with the front wheels spinning slightly. When reaching the upper limit, DSC will intervene as usual. But the driver can deactivate the DSC/DTC systems if he wishes by the touch of a button.

In the DSC-off mode, the standard Electronic Differential Lock can be activated and controls cornering at higher speeds. If one wheel loses grip, drive is transferred to the wheel with better grip promoting the car’s traction and pulling force.

Chassis

The Sports Suspension has been specifically tuned for the Works models. However, even greater chassis rigidity can be achieved by ordering through dealerships the John Cooper Works suspension that lowers the entire car by 10mm.

Extra-large disc brakes adorned with uprated red callipers are fitted to Works cars. In addition, inner-vented discs are positioned behind the front wheels. The front discs are 17” in diameter while the rear set measure 16”. The brake discs are approximately 22mm larger than on the standard Cooper S.

Interior

The options included as standard on the John Cooper Works include a leather sports steering wheel, air-conditioning, interior trim in glossy Piano Black and an Anthracite roof lining.

An upgraded sound system is also included in the JCW package and features 10 speakers and an eight-channel amplifier for increased aural pleasure. For the first time, the MINI speedo has been increased to 160mph on the dial to accommodate the higher maximum speed of the JCW.

The six-speed manual gearbox has been strengthened to handle the powerful new engine.

The standard Sports button, located in front of the gear stick, activates a bespoke engine control map which produces even more dynamic performance and sharper steering response.

Exterior

The Works MINIs come with exclusive 17” light-alloy wheels in JCW Cross-Spoke CHALLENGE design, shod with Run-flat tyres, and weigh less than 10 kilos each.

The Works models can be identified by the newly-designed John Cooper Works logo on the boot and grille and wheels, as well as on the door trim.

Tire Cleaning Station

Recently, I joined a slot car club called IMAR (Iowa Model Area Racers). There are ten classes with very few minutes between heats for maintenance. Racing at home, I always use a paper towel and butane or Tiger's Milk to clean my tires before each race. In the club this takes too much time and is a hassle. One of the club members showed me a very neat tire cleaning station made with a slot car base, copper tape, velcro, a 9 volt wire end and two 9 volt battery holders.

The slot needs to be extended using a dremel or exacto knife and a narrow slot needs to be cut perpendicualr to the guide slot for the copper tape to go in and fold under the base. The velcro used on the tire cleaning station is the soft side of the velcro. Velcro spacing is determined by the widest track width of your slot cars. The 9 volt terminal end, battery holders and velcro strips can be bought at most electronic stores. Clear cellophane tape was put over the soldered wire ends for protection. Battery hold downs were glued in place using Goop. The extra battery holder is used to hold a spare battery. The battery holders hang down below the bottom edge of the base so wood dowel legs (not shown) were added.

Here's a pic of the tire cleaning station being put to use on a Slot.it Nissan. This is the way to clean your tires for club racing and home use too. Its fast, easy and there is no mess to deal with.

DSC - Sultan XL Chassis

We are a new Brand from Portugal, DSC – Desgal Slot Competition.
The Sultan is our first chassis, it is to apply en Revell bodies (Nissan Navarra, Mitsubishi Pajero, Vw Touareg)



Upcoming is the Sultan XL, the Chassis to use in Off Road Trucks.

We are also planning to have some spares…

At this moment the complete car (ready to run) will cost 160 euros.


To buy, or to any explanation please contact us to:

dsc@tvtel.pt

http://dsc-desgalslotcompetition.blogspot.com/

Hope you enjoy it,
Many Thanks,
DCS – Desgal Slot Competition

Bachman Train Set # 00644, Deluxe Thomas with Annie and Clarabel.

For many years young people have revered and played with Thomas The Tank wooden trains on play tables with a plethora of wooden accessories.
Bachman Trains are producing a series of Thomas the Train in electric HO scale, They have obviously taken great effort to make faithful duplicates of the original wooden trains.
Deluxe Thomas with Annie and Clarabel is one of those sets and at first glance one could readily mistake them for the originals.
The set includes;
Thomas the Tank with moving eyes.
Annie the coach with international-style hook and loop couplers.
Clarabel the coach with international-style hook and loop couplers.
Bertie the bus.
Harold the Helicopter.
Sir Topham figure.
56" x 38" oval of snap-fit EZ Track
12 pieces of curved track, 3 pieces of straight
track and 1 straight plug-in terminal rerailer.
Power pack and speed controller.
Illustrated instruction Manual.
With This set one could relive the stories seen in books, on television, videos and feature films or just plain use ones imagination to create your own adventures.
The engine has a standard Bachman geared motor with all wheel pick up to insure smooth operation either on the supplied track or any standard HO track.
I feel that even though this set is designed for the younger folks there is no reason it can not be a part of any other layout. Just imagine how a grand child would react to seeing Thomas on dad or grand dad's layout.
After all model railroading is a journey into ones imagination.
I would have to give this set an above average rating for its uniqueness and its over all good quality.

Happy Railroading Bud

Bachman Train Set #00762 - THE SILVER STREAK

Again I will have to say that I have never been in favor of packaged train sets but producers like Bachman are surely turning my head by producing sets like the Silver Streak.
The set comes in a well produced package that displays its contents in a vivid manner showing the contents to any prospective buyer. Further it is printed in English, French and Spanish.
The set includes;
One powered GP40 diesel engine.
One unpowered GP40 diesel engine.
One single dome tank car.
One steel gondola.
One 40' stock car.
One off center caboose.
Twelve 18" radius curved steel E-Z tracks.
Three 9" steel E-Z tracks.
One 9" straight terminal / rerailer steel E-Z track.
One wall pack with speed controller.
Fourteen piece graduated pier set.
One signal bridge.
Twelve unpainted people.
Twelve telephone poles.
Twenty four railroad and street signs.
Twelve piece set of crossing gates.

The engines are painted in the well known War Bonnet theme and are very detailed in every way. The powered unit has an all wheel geared drive and electrical pick up that insures smooth operation under most circumstances.The engine is equipped with a bright head light. I found that the set ran smooth and well on grades and level tracks and tracked well on curves. It also ran well at slow speeds used for coupling operation.
All the units are equipped with E - Z Mate couplers and should be compatible with most other couplers. Close inspection of the rolling stock revealed fantastic details that are normally found on much more expensive units. The set includes information on how to trouble shoot problems that might arise and a support phone number.I feel this set would in on most layouts and would perform well. I especially feel that this would be a great set for anyone young or old to use as a starter set as it comes with so many extras. I would have to rate the Silver Streak with or above average and certainly a product to be enjoyed.

Happy railroading; Bud

TechArt GTStreet Cabriolet

The standard Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet was never really lacking in the performance department with its 480 horsepower engine, top speed of 193mph, and a 0-60mph time of just 3.8 seconds. This hasn’t stopped tuning firm TechArt from giving an already amazing car a few tweaks. The company will be using the Geneva Auto Show to debut their new GTstreet convertible which is based on the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet.

TechArt’s GTstreet convertible features a powerful 630 horsepower engine which allows the car to reach a top speed of 345 km/h (214 mph). Being shown along side the new convertible is TechArt’s GTstreet coupe which debuted at last year’s auto show. The company considers their GTstreet vehicles to be among the fastest and highest performing road-worthy sport cars in the world.

Press Release

In hall 2 of the 78th International Geneva Auto-Salon, the world premiere of TECHART Automobildesign will be unveiled. Here, the new TECHART GTstreet convertible will be presented to the press and international public; the car is based on the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet.

Uncompromisingly sporty, unreservedly suitable for everyday use. TECHART is continuing this traditional philosophy with its GTstreet convertible. Since 2001, when the Porsche 911 Turbo model from the 996 series was used, vehicles bearing the TECHART GTstreet logo have been among the fastest and highest performing road-worthy sports vehicles in the world.

The new TECHART GTstreet is continuing this impressive trend, based on the current Porsche 911 Turbo generation. At the world premiere on 4th March 2008, this convertible model will stand alongside the GTstreet Coupé, which was officially launched in Geneva in spring 2007 and caused a real sensation.

Unmistakable characteristic appearance and breath-taking performance. The TECHART GTstreet convertible now develops 463 kW (630 hp) and can reach a maximum speed of 345 km/h.

Watts on the Motor List

How to rate a motor, or create a class of motors which can compete against each other on an even footing? Do you use RPM, torque, or some kind of combination of the two?

After lengthy pondering, much staring into space, and a mercifully short session of calculations, the Slot Car News Motor List has been upgraded with the power output in Watts, for every motor for which we have both RPM and torque data. Power is the product of RPM and torque. The exact formula for maximum power is given in the Intro to the list. Watts were chosen due to ease of calculation, and because they are universal units of power. All you have to do to convert Watts to Horsepower is divide Watts by 746; the most powerful motor on the List puts out a whopping 35.7 Watts, or .048 HP! That is forty-eight thousandths of a HP, a number with which you can impress your friends. It is also about half of what a normal light bulb produces. So, click on the link at the head of the page ("click here to see updates") and amuse yourself by reading numbers.

In the photo above, motors are (counter-clockwise from upper right) Slot.It Boxer 2 (FK-180), Scalextric Moto Bike (FF-050), Plafit Fox (FK-130), Slot.It V12/3 21.5k (FC-130), Fly standard "black stripe" (FC-130), Cox TTX-250 (FT-36D), and Pittman DC-195A.

Lifelike news

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Spirit GTI Golf prototype photos

Thanks to Jose from Spirit for these photos of a very nice looking little Golf.

Kicherer Mercedes ML420 CDI

Tuning firm Kicherer has released a new kit for the Mercedes ML 420 CDI which offers an additional 56hp and 200Nm more of torque. Called the Kicherer ML 42 ICE, the overall specifications are now 360hp and 900Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 6.1 seconds, half a second quicker than a non-tuned model. Top speed for the ML 42 ICE is 280 km/h (174mph).

Exterior changes include the body kit from a Mercedes ML 63 AMG, 20-inch AMG wheels with a special black varnish, high performance brakes, an electronic lowered suspension and a four-pipe sports exhaust. Leather is added to the interior’s roof, dashboard, doors, and in several other locations. Real carbon fiber trim is applied throughout the interior and on the new ergonomic sport steering wheel.

Press Release

Kicherer ML 42: Cold as Ice

Kicherer now has a tuning kit available for the ML 420 CDI bestowing an extra 56 hp and 200 Nm more torque to an already powerful SUV, thus increasing the effective horsepower from 306 hp in the standard model to a superb 360 hp. At the same time, the maximum torque of 700 Nm is increased to a terrific 900 Nm.
Just as spectacular is the performance of the so-called Kicherer ML 42 ICE. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds, it is a whole half a second quicker than its series counterpart. The maximum speed has been increased to approximately 280 km/h.
The exceptional performance of the CDI power units tuned by Kicherer are impressive, as are the high degree of elasticity and favourable fuel consumption, which is at a standard level despite the increased power. As with the basic vehicle, Kicherer engines also comply with the Euro 4 exhaust standard and, of course, are just as suitable for any vehicle equipped with diesel particle filters.
But Kicherer has gone even one step further and perfected the details of the ML.
Its exterior looks have been adapted to match the increased performance by adding an AMG ML 63 body kit, AMG 20-inch wheels with special varnish, an electronic lowered suspension and a four-pipe sports exhaust. High-performance brakes ensure that fast off-road enthusiasts still have the appropriate deceleration.
The precision of the Kicherer team can also be seen in the interior. The roof interior, dashboard, door trim and other surfaces have been covered with the finest Kicherer leather. Real carbon trim parts add the necessary sporty accentuation to the otherwise luxurious surroundings.
The driver has the pleasure of an ergonomic sporty steering wheel with gear paddles - also finished in carbon.
A really cool complete package – Ice in name and Ice in nature

Citroen Reveals C2 R2 MAX Rally Car

Citroen has unveiled its C2-R2 MAX homologation package, a move that's not just good news for anyone who's all about race-bred hot-hatches. The car also confirms Citroen's intent to compete in the FIA Junior World Rally Championship in 2008. The C2-R2 MAX is scheduled to be homologated by the FIA on March 1, and will be available as a kit through Citroen Sport.

The C2-R2 MAX fits in between the C2 Super 1600 and C2-R2, offering a performance boost at a more affordable price for rallyists. Changes over the C2-R2 include a 190 horsepower 1599cc engine and brakes, a revised suspension with a wider track and an adjustable rear, and hydraulic steering. Citroen says the upgrades will enable the car to dominate its class as well as challenging cars from higher classes.

To drive the C2-R2 MAX's abilities home, Citroen let 2007 European Rally champion Simon Jean-Joseph and FIA Junior WRC rookie Sébastien Ogier put the cars through their paces at Satory’s Val d’Or circuit. Both drivers will be campaigning Citroen C2s in the FIA Junior World Rally Championship for 2008.

Press Release

CITROE?N REVEALS C2-R2 MAX

Citroe?n has today revealed the new Citroe?n C2-R2 MAX. The car is aimed at motorsport
customers, and will be sold in kit form by Citroe?n Sport’s customer division. Before taking
to the world’s special stages, Simon Jean-Joseph and Se?bastien Ogier launched the all-new
C2-R2 MAX at Satory’s Val d’Or circuit.

The new car, which will be homologated by the FIA on the 1st March 2008, was designed to the new
FIA ‘Group R’ regulations. Jean-Franc?ois Lie?ne?re?, Citroe?n Sport’s customer competition manager,
explained: « We felt that it was necessary to expand the range of our competition cars, as we saw a
gap between our two best-selling C2 rally variants: the C2 Super 1600 and the C2-R2. This new
‘intermediate’ car can be run to a budget, but it also has more spirited performance than the C2-R2.
The C2-R2 MAX appeals both to the heart and to the head, and it offers the best compromise between
performance, price and driving pleasure available on the market today. »

The modifications over the standard C2-R2 are chiefly to the engine, which gets an increase in power,
more sophisticated suspension, stronger brakes, adjustable rear suspension, and a hydraulic steering
rack. « From the outside, the car looks largely the same, » commented Alexis Avril, Citroe?n Sport’s
customer competition technical manager. « The front and rear track are just a little bit wider. The main
changes are under the bonnet, with a 1599cc engine that puts out 190 horsepower. » Last year, the
C2-R2 proved its performance on the FIA Junior Championship as well as many different European
national championships. Thanks to this latest evolution, drivers of the C2-R2 MAX will be able to fight
for R2 victory and above all they will be able to rival cars from the class above.

Citroe?n united two extremely talented drivers to stage this demonstration: Simon Jean-Joseph, 2007
European Rally Champion with a Citroe?n C2 Super 1600, and Se?bastien Ogier – a member of the
prestigious Equipe de France FFSA (backed by the French national motorsport federation) and
Echappement magazine’s young driver of the year. Citroe?n Sport director Olivier Quesnel said: « Simon
has a great deal of experience in rallying and thanks to his exceptional talent he will be a fantastic
ambassador for the company and for the C2-R2 MAX all over Europe this year. As for Se?bastien Ogier,
he will get the chance to make his debut on the FIA Junior World Rally Championship in an Equipe de
France FFSA-backed Citroe?n C2 Super 1600 – which has been made possible through a joint effort from
Citroe?n Sport and the French Federation. His six-rally programme will start in Mexico at the end of the
month. »

Citroe?n will therefore be present on the FIA Junior World Rally Championship once more, and it will
also reprise the ‘C2 Junior Experience’. « After the promising results we obtained last year, we’re
delighted to continue the scheme in 2008, » added Olivier Quesnel. « We already have six competitors
signed up: four in a C2 Super 1600 and two in a C2-R2. It’s worth remembering that if the winner of
the 2008 Junior World Rally Championship drives a Citroe?n C2, he will earn two rallies with a WRC car
in 2009. For reasons of fairness, Se?bastien Ogier – who is competing on the FIA Junior World
Championship – will not take part in the C2 Junior Experience. Citroe?n will also be present on several
European national championships this year through some of its subsidiaries, distributors and
customers. »

Programme for Simon Jean-Joseph and Jack Boye?re
(Citroe?n C2-R2 MAX)

Rally Eger (Hungarian Championship): 04 – 06 April 2008
Pirelli Rally (British Championship): 18 – 20 April 2008
Vodafone Rally de Portugal (IRC/Portuguese Championship): 08 – 10 May 2008
South Swedish Rally (Swedish Championship): 23 – 25 May 2008
Rally Russia (IRC/Russian Championship): 11 – 13 July 2008
Barum Rally Zlin (ERC/Czech Championship): 22 – 24 August 2008
Rally Principe de Asturias (IRC/Spanish Championship): 12 – 14 September 2008
Rallye Sanremo (IRC/Italian Championship): 26 – 28 September 2008


Programme for Se?bastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia
(Citroe?n C2 Super 1600)

Corona Rally Mexico (JWRC/Mexico) : 28 February – 03 March 2008
Jordan Rally (JWRC/Jordan): 24 – 27 April 2008
Rally d’Italia Sardegna (JWRC/Sardinia): 15 – 18 May 2008
OMV ADAC Rallye Deutschland (JWRC/Germany): 14 – 17 August 2008
Rally RACC Catalunya – Costa Daurada (JWRC/Spain): 02 – 05 October 2008
Rallye de France – Tour de Corse (JWRC/Corsica): 09 – 12 October 2008

Volkswagen Tiguan by Delta 4x4

Volkswagen’s Tiguan is already getting some interesting makeovers, latest courtesy of Bavarian 4x4 specialist Delta. Two models are created, a road version and an offroad sibling. A few changes have taken place in this manner: suspension has been lowered by some 30mm (for a small fee of €490) for the road car, with flared wings, wider wheels and a sport exhaust system to sound the part.

Go has been taken care of as well, to the tune of some 169 bhp/ 126kW and 384Nm of torque, both up on the standard vehicle. Power, which may or may not corrupt, comes at a price. In this case it’s €1,300. Offroad tyres range from 16 to 22 inches, depending. Costs are the same for both types of car.

If you choose to take to the bush you can opt for the higher Tiguan, raised all of 50mm. Cosmetically the radiator grille gets same paint as wheels. Whether this is a good thing or not is really up to the buyer, although €330 later one may consider it money ill-spent. Each to his own then. Take the offroad car and part with some €39,772.

NY Toyfair - a few more pix

Motorhead Miniatures was showing some really great looking 1/32 figures.



Some photos of Scalextric cars, these were shown in Germany but I thought they were sure worth a second look.