Welcome to our monthly column dedicated to the world of scale models with an AROnline twist, brought to you by the expert eye and passion of Keith D’Souza.
In a world where automotive enthusiasts find joy in collecting and admiring miniature versions of their favourite cars, Keith will be your trusted guide through this captivating hobby.
A Mini adventure to Jason King’s favourite
From classic British cars to the best moderns, Keith’s reviews offer a detailed and insightful look into the world of scale models. As Christmas hoves into view, we reckon it’s time to start thinking of gifts for your nearest and dearest, and who wouldn’t love a diecast model?
This month, we bring you a delightful 1:43 scale model of the lesser-cast Mini Clubman thanks to Matrix’s relentless attention to detail, a lovely Matchbox-sized Escort RS Cosworth and a full-on Jensen Interceptor that would be a perfect centrepiece for any collection.
Car of the Month: Matrix Mini Clubman Estate 1:43
Where particular cars seem to be consistently overlooked by the Vanguards range of scale models, other brands have taken up the slack. TYC859W (currently untaxed since June 2022 at the DVLA) is a 1980 Mini Clubman estate wonderfully made by Matrix Models as part of its ever-growing British Leyland range.
The finesse of resin production within this model is ever present as you would expect from Matrix – the correct front grille, well-appointed decals and coachwork striping as well as authentic bodywork paint matching the actual Denim Blue car.
The Clubman wheels could have had more detail however – they miss the BL Logo in the centre of the wheels and look a bit clunky, but here’s hoping future production will iron this out. A very decent premium scale model overall, this will very much appeal to British Leyland-era and classic Mini fans alike, filling in a much needed gap.
Price: £118.98
Order from: matrixscalemodels.nl
Inno Ford Escort RS Cosworth 1:64
Inno64 continue its Blue Oval journey with a new Escort RS Cosworth tooling. This version goes one step further than the already released Greenlight Hobby Exclusive in the same 1:64 scale with more refinement in the detail – rubber trim, washer jets, bonnet air scoops are more accented, and the front and rear end light treatment has a little more TLC, thus justifying a slight increase in price premium.
The UK reg plate is a frustrating flaw – a 1992-1996 plate would be far more authentic, but nevertheless, the model gives ample opportunity for customisation with scale decals readily available – steady hand needed of course. Available in Diamond White or Metallic Blue, there is a choice of RHD or LHD along with the option of an OZ Racing rim variants as well (which look very smart), this is a Cossie would be a fine addition to fast Ford collection.
Price: £21.99
Order from: Inno Models
Cult Models Jensen Interceptor S1 1:18
Jensen chassis 116/3305 was registered in 1969 under YWU70G and is one of just 22 manual S1s produced – it remains today as one of the rarest Interceptors around. Resin specialists Cult Models reproduce the same car in its original California Sage colour scheme and as it is made to 1:18 scale, you will need dedicated space to really show this model off.
Although there are no opening parts, it’s a very clean production – that gorgeous Carrozzeria Touring bodywork is exquisitely captured with photo etched parts providing a little bit of class. The S1 Rostyles are beautifully formed which brings the whole model together nicely. Produced in low volumes with the emphasis on quality rather than quantity, this premium Jensen Interceptor model is at the very top end of the 1:18 realms, exhibiting tremendous levels of precision and detail and is reflected in the retail price.
Price: £206.99
Order from: Cult Models
- Model Reviews : November 2023 – Mini, Jensen and Ford - 29 October 2023
- Model Reviews : October 2023 – Rover, Triumph, Morris and Ford - 3 October 2023
I’d like to see more in 1/25th scale.