Remember how fantastic childhood birthdays were? I remember I used to have huge parties when I was a child, perhaps just so I could get more presents! These days though it's slim pickings for birthday presents, which is probably why I normally buy myself a little treat each year. This self-present is normally always a die cast model or a motorsports history book.
So a few weeks ago I went down to Wilkenson's in Vancouver to see what they had on offer for my birthday treat. I ended up buying a Martini Porsche 935-77 1/43 model for myself, but was absolutely staggered to see a new 1/18 model they had just unpacked: this Autoart Super Silhouette Skyline.
I dropped by Wilkenson's shop again this morning to snap some photos of the model. It just has to be seen to be beleived.
This is without doubt the most detailed die cast model I've ever seen. It's made up of 413 separate metal and plastic parts!
I've been trying to wean myself off 1/18 models, but this die cast is just so incredible I might have to start saving for it.
It features a removable front clip and boot, opening doors, working suspension and even a functioning fuel filler cover.
Check out the engine bay. You can see the minute details of the 570ps 4-Valve DOHC lnline-4 LZ20B race engine.
I'm well impressed with the photo etching on the intakes… even the underside of this front clip is fully detailed.
Check out those deep dish SSR rims!
The amount of detail on the model just staggering. All of the oil and fuel plumbing systems have been fully replicated.
Let's quickly look inside the cockpit.
It looks like you could just crawl in there and go!
This type of precision modelling does come with a cost though as the price of the die cast is in excess of 200 dollars.
But for fans of Skylines I don't think this is an unreasonable price, especially when you look at what you get for your money. There is only 1 Super Silhouette Skyline race cars in existence, but now it's possible for all of us to put a piece of motorsports history onto our bookshelves.
I'd better start saving now before these get sold out!
:R
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Awesome! I've been to Wilkensons before, and its jam packed with everything automotive. Their Road and Track collection is impressive too!
I'm not quite big fan of this skyline, but the model is awesome detailed... and /I guess/ also one of the most expensive from AA...
and nice photo Rod!
I think i'll get this as my own christmas present or i'll see if my nan will get it for me.Thanks for the tip rod,i love the super silhouette series and all the articles you did on it.
Hmm Rod, I might have to beat you to this one!!
I was at Wilkenson's this past summer and I told them you sent me HAHA.
I picked up a Spark 935 K3 and 935 Moby Dick
This is so sick! I remember growing up, I had a 1:64 of this from Tomy. I used to carry it with me everywhere.
I've got this one.... well recommended, it is absolutely stunning. Comes also with a replica Hasemi helmet!!!
Christ man, that thing is so damned detailed, especially for an AutoART model! I have a 997 GT3 RS in green, as well as their 01 Nismo Z-Tune R34 GT-R. Kyosho, though, has the ultimate level ot detail i find though in all their diecasts.
This ones way over my budget because it cost twice my Autoart Celica TA22. I might change my mind if the diecast shop I go to has this in stock.
Absolutely love my AutoArt models. Can't wait to finish college and have the spare money to treat myself again.
awesome, i rebuild and customize 1:18 models, 100% japanese cars too. i might email you some pictures when the more interesting ones are finished. mainly just time attack style cars at the moment
Hmmmmmmm..................$200 model of a skyline or $200 into savings towards a real R31 Skyline??
http://www.neimanmarcus.com/search.jhtml?N=0&Ntt=amalgam
Even more expensive car models.
Ferrari FXX
Veryon
Reventon
Mclaren F1
all detailed engine bays and interiors! the craftsmanship is amazing!
I love this super silhouette - but this one is also missing in my japanese diecast car collection.
Maybe next year...
Funny that you post up something like this on my birthday.
fuck me I want this thing. I tried to make a model of this when I was 14 and of course failed.
So, the question. How much they go for?
Ergh... it seems that each time I go to Wilkenson's I find an increasing amount of items to dump
More models please! Awesome post. After looking at their site, it seems to be a sort of odd one out in the AutoArt collection though.
Im sure this cost alot on money in Malaysia.
It has been a bit hectic at the office but here is my final part of the Essen Motor Show coverage. I'll