mike

1:43 Subaru Imprezas

2012-01-02T11:29:00.003+08:00

Nicely done by Trofeu are these lovely Subaru Imprezas in 1:43 scale!
with excellent details all around!

A more prosperous 2012 to everyone!!

Ford Focus Rally

2011-12-23T11:10:00.003+08:00

2008 Rallye Automobile De Monte Carlo
Ford Focus WRC Stobart VK M-Sport Ford Rally Team
Drier - Henning Solberg / co-driver- Cato Menkerud
1:18 scale model by Sunstar

See you all Next Year!
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year ahead!

Audi Sport Quattro

2011-12-12T10:45:00.001+08:00

Presenting the...

1:18 Audi Quattro Rally 1985
S.Blomqvist / Cederberg #1
Rally Monte Carlo

The Prodigal Son

2011-12-06T15:23:00.003+08:00

It's almost a year of hiatus!
I apologize for the absence
Somehow I'm back!

I've been loving running and biking nowadays
specially biking!

But diecast collecting is still my love!

my first post for so long.....

1:18 Fiat 131 Abarth
Winner 1980 Rallye Automobile de Monte Carlo
Driver: Walter Rohrl
Co-Driver Christian Geistdorfer
Model by Autoart

Watch out for new updates soon!!

2011-04-21T13:52:00.000+08:00

its been awhile and am still busy and haven't held a camera for some time now!

i have a 4 day rest period and might take a few pics to update my collection.

a BIG Welcome to my new blogger friends out there!!!

updating soon!!! thanks!!

My 1/43 Scale Mitsubishi Lancer Rally Collection Update

2011-02-24T10:28:00.000+08:00

I apologize for the long delay of updates, I have been busy with work and family, and training seriously for my first Half Marathon by the end of this year, I don't have time to take pictures of my new hauls, but will try from time to time to post them as soon as I can snap away some more.

This is my updated 1/43 scale Mitsubishi Lancer Rally Collection, I still have a lot of catching up to do, specially with the older release, because they are getting very hard to acquire. I would love also to get a hand on that new IXO/Altaya Mitsubishi Galant VR4 rally and Evo II soon!!!

Ford Escort 1800RS 1982 Rally de Portugal

2010-12-17T09:44:00.000+08:00

The 16th Rallye de Portugal Vinho do Porto is the round 3 of the FIA World Rally Championship 1982. The Portuguese tandem of Carlos Torres with co-driver Felipe Lopes managed to grab 4th place overall with a total time of 8:30.58. They where 51 mins. behind the powerful Audi Quattro of Michele Mouton and Fabrizia Pons who took 1st place overall.

This was a gift from my friend Vic, and it was only now that I had a chance to take some pictures of this superb model by IXO in 1:43 scale.

Happy Holidays to everyone!!!

1980 Acropolis Rally Winner

2010-12-03T16:30:00.000+08:00

It's been awhile since my last update, I'm having trouble with connections both in my residence and the office.

Also, the holiday season and the love for road racing (running) is getting a little more attention than my hobby these days.

Nevertheless, I still manage to grab a couple of pictures from my latest acquisition.

placed the decals myself and let it totally dry for a day before I grabbed some pictures.

This is the Ford Escort MK2 RS1800, winner of the 1980 Acropolis rally from round 5 of the FIA World Rally Championship. Driven by Ari Vatanen and co driver David Richards with a total time of 12:55.44 in a 2743km including 964km over 55 special stages mostly gravel roads. In this event, the Ford Escort was confronted by the likes of the Fiat Abarth, the Datsun 160J and the Opel Ascona among others.

Diecast model by Sunstar in 1:18 scale

Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX Rally

2010-11-10T15:40:00.001+08:00

This is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX championship winning car by Dani Sola and co-driver Oscar Sanchez for the Rallye de Tierra de Cabanas 2007. Its hard to find any info on this rally car on the net, I hope our Spanish Friends have more info or link to this car, thank you! I found a few videos in youtube about the Rallye Cabanas with Dani Sola was driving this Evo.

Add caption

click here for videos

Rallye de Tierra de Cabanas

Diecast in 1:43 scale by IXO/Altaya

Toyota Celica Twin Cam Turbo

2010-11-04T07:38:00.002+08:00

The Celica twin-cam turbo was Toyota's choice to enter the World Rally Championship when they decided to take a run at the title. The Celica's major handicap was its lack of four-wheel-drive, however, the car was well-built and fairly straightforward to maintain. The engine produced about 290 horsepower (which later grew to 370 as the evolution versions were released), and it had a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout.

The Celica was out of its depth on the twisty European roads, but it found its niche on the African continent. The Celica won no less than six rallies in Africa, including three consecutive Safari rallies in Kenya from 1984 to 1986. Toyota added three wins in Western Africa's Ivory Coast rally, making it the undisputed king of the desert during the Group B era. The Celica's ruggedness and simplicity (compared to other Group B cars) made it reliable and perfectly suited to the harsh desert conditions. The Celica changed drastically following Group B's cancellation for the 1987 season.
(excerpts from www.groupbrally.com)

I couldn't find any race results from this 1985 Haspengouw Rally which Juha Kankkunen drove with teamate Bjorn Waldegard.

But I found a very nice video in youtube about this car in a race... click link in new window and enjoy!
Haspengouw Rally

Molded in Resin by Bizarre in 1:43 scale

1/18 M1A1 Abrams Tank

2010-10-29T07:03:00.003+08:00

Nope, your not seeing things hehe! This is my son's latest fascination! He's growing up fast, and the change from emergency vehicles into military stuff was a shock to me. Now, he watches war movies, memorizes all the names of different rifles and hand guns. I even bought him a couple of gun magaines.

I remember when I was on my 2nd grade, I wanted to be a U.S. Marine, but my dad discourage me into joining. Maybe that's why Kenshin loves the military too! Oh no!! hehe!

I got a hold of this M1A1 Abrams and it is huge!! Good thing it was made of hard plastic or else, Ken might not have the strenght to carry it.

The M1A1 Abrams Tank in 1/18 scale by Elite Force

together with his 1/18 soldiers...

comparison with my old 1/18 scale BMW cabrio...

1978 Lombard RAC Rally Winner

2010-10-19T07:53:00.000+08:00

The 27th Lombard RAC Rally proved to be a winning ground for the Ford Escort MK2 RS1800. With Hannu Mikkola(Finland) and co-driver Arne Hertz(Sweden) took 1st place overall with a winning time of 8:47.23 on a 3160km with 76 special stages mostly on gravel roads with some asphalt. On their tail was 2nd placer and teamate Bjorn Waldegard and co-driver Hans Thorszelius in the other Ford Escort RS1800. Finally in 3rd position was Russel Brookes and co-driver Derek Tucker in another Ford Escort RS1800(Andrews Heat For Hire Team).

Ford Escort MK2 RS1800 Hannu Mikkola/ Arne Hertz (Eaton Yale/Castrol Team)

Diecast in 1:18 scale by Sunstar Models.

60eme Rallye Automobile de Monte Carlo

2010-10-07T10:25:00.000+08:00

This is the prestigeuos 1992 Rallye de Monte Carlo where Didier Auriol and co driver Bernard Occeli

grabbed the championship for Martini Racing Team. Overall time for the 3339.82km race with 606.08km

of special stages was 6:54.20, two minutes ahead of the 2nd placer Carlos Sainz and Luis Moya in their

Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD of Toyota Team Europe.

Kyosho was faithfull in making this model and the details are truly superb, even for an old release.

Done in 1:18 scale.

I did some experimental shots using only available light that was far away from the subject at hand

and this was the outcome. Hope you like 'em.

What's In A Badge?

2010-10-01T09:11:00.000+08:00

Ever wonder what that badge on the upper right side on my site?

I don't think there is already an international organization about bloggers who love diecast?

But, this badge is just for display hehe!

Definitely looks good right?

Well anyone can get this and place it on their blog, you have my permission.

Maybe one day we can have a real diecast bloggers organization!

thanks! :-)

Burger Anyone?

2010-09-23T08:07:00.000+08:00

Another addition to my slow growing Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution collection.

This time its from the 2007 Rally Monte Carlo which was held on the 18th of January up to the 21st. This era of the Mitsubishi Rally Team was in fact one of those I would say the end of an era for Mitsubishi when we talk about the WRC. Nevertheless, the Mitsubishi Lancers deep roots into rallying is what makes me stick into collecting these gems, and of course my occasional Group B favorites hehe!

This Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution WRC was driven by Xavier Pons with co driver Xavier Amigo which only landed them in 20th place in group A with a total time of 3:45.39 in 1185.02km of mostly asphalt roads including 328.54km of over 15 special stages.

Diecast in 1:43 scale by IXO Models

Opel Manta 400 1986 Rallye Automobile De Monte Carlo

2010-09-12T15:22:00.000+08:00

One of my all time favorite car is the 2nd gen Opel Manta, I used to drool over this car way back in my school days together with the Ford Escort MK2. Great thing we have You Tube nowadays because you can listen to the engine roars of these monsters!

This version is from the 1986 Rally Automobile De Monte Carlo, driven by a German team, Manfred Hero and co driver Ludwig Grun, they only manage to finish 8th place in the group B category with a total time of 11:39.26 on a 3984km including 867km over 36 special stages.

Diecast in 1:43 scale by IXO Models

Lancia Stratos 1977 Acropolis Rally

2010-09-01T10:03:00.000+08:00

Driven by Tasos 'Siroco' Livieratos with co driver Manólis Makrinos in the 1977 Acropolis Rally
which they finished 6th overall with a total time of 11:04.17. A 2763 km including 727 km
over 54 special stages.

This 1:18scale version is by Sunstar Models

1998 TAP Rally of Portugal Mitsubishi Lancer Carisma GT

2010-08-23T14:59:00.001+08:00

Loving this livery!

A 1:43 scale model of the Mitsubishi Lancer Carisma GT by driver Leszek Kuzaj and co driver Krzysztof Geborys which entered the 1998 TAP Rally of Portugal which ended in a DNF due to an accident.

scale model by Skid/Vitesse

2004 Subaru Impreza Wales Rally of Britain

2010-08-16T15:34:00.000+08:00

This is the winner of the 2004 Wales Rally of Britain diven by Peter Solberg and co driver Phil Mills garnering a total time of 3:42.39 in a 2004 Subaru Impreza 555 World Rally Team. Distance covered is 1298.11km including 394.03km over 19 special stages mostly gravel roads.

This 1:18 version is made by Sunstar and has better details than the older Sunstar releases.

Group B Peugeot 205 Turbo 16 Rally De Monte Carlo

2010-08-03T10:14:00.000+08:00

Undoubtedly, the emergence of Peugeot 205 T16 represented a new generation of Group B cars which could eat the old generation (headed by Audi Quattro Sport) for breakfast. While Quattro Sport was still front-engined, with a heavy monocoque chassis, Peugeot redefined the rules as mid-engined, space frame chassis and at least 100 lb lighter.

The 1.8-litre 16 valves turbocharged four generated up to 440 hp in race form but only 195 hp in road trim - in fact, unlike Audi and Ford, Peugeot (as well as Lancia S4) had no intention to fulfill the customers' expectation. All it wanted was to win the WRC and spend as little to the road car development as possible.

(excerpts from autozine.com)

This Peugeot 205 driven by Timo Salonen with co driver Seppo Harjanne took 2nd place overall in the 1986 Rally De Monte Carlo with a total time of 10:15.28 and was only 00:4.04 behind the winner Henri Tiovonen and Sergio Cresto in the Lancia Delta S4 Team Martini. The race distance was 3984 km including 867 km over 36 special stages which was on asphalt occasionally covered with snow and ice.

Diecast in 1:18 scale by Solido

1977 Safari Rally Kenya

2010-07-25T09:16:00.000+08:00

From the gruelling 1977 Safari Ralli in Kenya comes this 3rd place victory by the Team Lancia Alitalia, this time its a Lancia Stratos HF driven by Sandro Munari with co driver Piero Sodano with a final classification time of 13:14 on 5949km with 81 time controls, they where 2:09 behind the 1st place Bjorn Waldegard and Hans Thorzselius in a Ford Escort RS1800.

I hope to get the 1:18 Kyosho version someday.

This is the 1:43 scale version by IXO

DCPH Ingress from the SM North Annex Display

2010-07-19T14:06:00.001+08:00

As promised , here are more pics from the recently concluded display at the SM North Annex center. Group mates of mine from DCPH completed the display event. The display theme varies from VW Beetles, Ferraris, Taxis and Firetrucks to an F1 pitlane and vintage diecast models etc.

My Son's First Diecast Display

2010-07-12T18:12:00.001+08:00

This is one of the reason why I am busy these days, I'm proud of my son Kenshin's first diecast display. SM Annex mall invited our group DCPH to hold a diecast exhibit last week, and it should've been father and son display but they where short of glass display cases so I decided its Ken's turn to display for a change. Although he didn't have a chance to help me arrange his collection because he still had school the following day and ingress was held late at night, my wife helped me arrange them. Then last weekend we all went there to check it out.

Next post would be with our other members display collection.

Fifa World Cup 2010

2010-07-08T11:37:00.002+08:00

Ah yes!! one of the reasons why I was preoccupied these days aside from work hehe! I'm a soccer fan ever since my grade school days when we would play morning noon til early evening. Pele, Beckenbauer, Platini enlightened me with their kinds of plays, This three where my hero, and after their retirement, I grew cold to soccer.
But getting older has got me back to loving the sport, with players like Zidane, Ronaldo, Kaka, Ronaldhino, Rovaldo.

Brazil was always my top choice, but I always like Italy, Spain, Germany and France and Argentina.

FIFA World Cup 2010 matches like these recent games, a perfect example would be between Germany and Spain kept me in the early mornings. (2:30am)

My favorite shirts nowadays...

and since Spain won over Germany...

who would you think will raise the trophy this coming Sunday?

goodluck to both the Netherland and Spain!

I also hope Germany gets 3rd place on Saturday!

Congratulations to Spain for winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup!!

1979 Ford Escort 1800 MK2 Team Rothmans Acropolis Rally Winner

2010-06-28T16:39:00.000+08:00

This is the 5th round of the FIA World Rally Championships in Athens, Greece were Bjorn Waldegard and co driver Hans Thorzelius claimed victory in this 2974km including 1008km over 54 special stages of gravel roads.

This is the Ford Escort Team Rothmans Acropolis Rally Winner. Diecast model in 1:18 by Sunstar.

31st Marlboro Safari Rally

2010-06-20T09:18:00.000+08:00

This is the 4th round of the 1983 FIA World Rally Championships in Nairobi, Kenya.
Michele Mouton with co-driver Fabrizia Pons took 3rd over all in this gruelling 5035km of gravel terrain.
Model came with separate Marlboro decals which I placed.

Diecast made by Trofeu in 1:43 scale.

1998 TAP Rally of Portugal

2010-06-15T10:59:00.000+08:00

This is the Team Mitsubishi Ralliart Carisma GT Evolution IV of Uwe Nittel (Germany) and co-driver Tina Thorner (Sweden) that ended with a DNF due to engine failure. There teamates, the late Richard Burns and co-driver Robert Reid finished 4th overall in the 1998 TAP Rally of Portugal.

Diecast by Vitesse in 1:43 scale

A Toast to Attilio Bettega, a great rally driver!

2010-06-10T12:32:00.001+08:00

This is my simple tribute to one of rally's great drivers, Attilio Bettega (1953-1985)

This Lancia 037 Rally di Monza with Maurizio Perissinot drove a nice overall race with 49 points standing 5th in the drivers final classification. Sadly, in a race in Corsica at the 4th stage, Attilio lost control of his Lancia and hit a tree, killing him instantly. His co driver survived uninjured.

This is the 1:18 scale Kyosho Lancia 037 Rally di Monza version.

Subaru Impreza 2002 Rally Monte Carlo

2010-06-04T10:08:00.000+08:00

This is Tommi Makinen's first Impreza with Team Subaru World Rally in 2002. He won the Rally Monte Carlo with this car with his co-driver Kaj Lindstrom and finished with a time of 3:59.30 of 1463.19km including 396.78km over 15 special stages mostly asphalt roads.

Diecast in 1:43 scale by Autoart

44ème Rallye Automobile de Monte-Carlo

2010-06-01T09:58:00.000+08:00

This is the 1976 winner of the 44th Rally Monte Carlo

The Lancia Stratos Alitalia driven by
Sandro Munari with co driver Silvio Maiga
who finished with an overall time of 6:25.10
4500 km including 530 km over 23 special stages
Special stage surface: Asphalt occasionally covered with snow and ice

Diecast Made by Kyosho in 1:18scale

Ford Escort MK2 RS2000

2010-05-25T14:01:00.000+08:00

This is the 1976 Ford Escort MK2 RS2000 winner of the Tour of Britain Rally which was driven by the great Ari Vatanen and co driver Peter Bryant. Alied Polymer as its major sponsor together with Ford Motorsport.

Diecast by Trofeu in 1:43scale.

2010 WRC New Zealand Rally Experience

2010-05-21T07:55:00.000+08:00

I want to share to everyone a WRC experience from my friend and groupmate Arthur who is also a member of our diecast club. Just looking at the pictures makes me green with envy hehe! Enjoy the rest of the pics guys! And a big thanks to you Arthur! Don't forget my wrc shirt and autograph next year hehe!

Ken's New Firetrucks

2010-05-17T15:54:00.000+08:00

These are my son's new firetrucks after a long time, being sidelined with The Transformers and video games, but firetrucks are still his first love!

diecast by Siku and finally completed the "working rigs series" by Matchbox.

1979 Rally De Portugal Winner

2010-05-11T08:19:00.000+08:00

The winner of the 1979 Rally De Portugal is this Ford Escort MK2 RS1800
which was driven by Hannu Mikkola and co driver Arne Hertz which finished with a total time of 9:13.52 from an asphalt and gravel roads totalling 2666km including 735km over 45 special stages.

Diecast in 1:18scale by Sunstar.

2007 BP Ford World Rally Team

2010-05-03T07:35:00.001+08:00

From the 56th Uddeholm Swedish Rally comes this winning
2007 Ford Focus BP World Rally Team driven by

Marcus Gronholm and co drver Timo Rautiainen edging out frenchman
Sebastian Loeb with a time of 03:08.40 from a 1730.36km with 20 special stages
terrain was snow covered gravel.

Diecast in 1:18 scale by Sunstar (Night Version)

Trofeu Audi Quattro 1984 Safari Rally

2010-04-26T14:52:00.003+08:00

In celebration of my 3rd year in diecast blogging, I present...

The Trofeu Audi Quattro 1984 Safari Rally Kenya
which was driven by Hannu Mikkola and co driver Arne Hertz
which they took 3rd place overall in a gruelling 5254km with 105 time controls.

1:43 Trofeu Model

Ford Focus WRC 2000 Rally Monte Carlo Night Version

2010-04-20T15:53:00.002+08:00

The Ford Focus WRC Rally Monte Carlo 2000
Night Version
Colin McRae with co driver Nicky Grist
DNF due to engine failure

Diecast in 1:18 by Autoart

Mercedes Benz 500SLC Rallye Cote d`Ivoire

2010-04-15T07:52:00.000+08:00

The winner of the 1980 Rallye Cote d`Ivoire rally
the Mercedes Benz 500SLC rally car
driven by Björn Waldegård and co driver Hans Thorszelius
thru 5336 km with 62 time controls

diecast in 1:18scale by RICKO

Audi Quattro 1984 Acropolis Rally Winner

2010-04-09T08:01:00.000+08:00

bought this pre owned mint condition Audi Quattro
and let it have some fresh air! Borrowed my brothers 50mm lens as well

The Audi Quattro A2 1984 Acropolis Rally of Greece Winner Group B
driven by the great Stig Blomqvist and co driver Björn Cederberg
finishing the grueling 2265 km including 830 km over 47 special stages of gravel
with a total time of 10:41.51

diecast in 1:18 scale by Autoart

Lancia Delta Integrale Team Martini

2010-04-03T08:42:00.000+08:00

The Lancia Delta Integrale Team Martini
Winner of the 1991 Safari Rally, Nairobi, Kenya
Juha Kankkunen with co driver Juha Piironen placed 1st
with a total time of 2:07.10 on 4520.76km with 79 time controls over mostly gravel terrain.

Diecast in 1:18 by SunStar

Rally Catalunya 1992 Toyota Celica Turbo 4WD

2010-03-26T08:17:00.000+08:00

TOYOTA CELICA Turbo 4WD Toyota Team Europe driven by CARLOS SAINZ and LUIS MOYA won the Rally Catalunya with a total time of 6:21.13 over 1505.08 km including 519.65 km over 28 special stages of asphalt and gravel.

I love this version of the Toyota Celica and I hope I can also bag the 1st generation Toyota Celica which I saw in evilbay last week!

1:43 diecast by IXO Models

Opel Manta 400 Rallye Villa De Llanes

2010-03-19T07:10:00.000+08:00

from the spanish rally...

OPEL MANTA 400 driven by JOSEP ARQUE- JAVIER MUNTAÑOLA

from RALLY VILLA DE LLANES (1986)
1:43 diecast by IXO Models

any additional info and race results would be highly appreciated, thank you!

Trofeu Audi Quattro Rally Cote d Ivoire

2010-03-15T11:28:00.000+08:00

Rally Cote d Ivoire
Audi Quattro Rally Marlboro
driven by Michelle Mouton and co driver Fabrizia Pons
ended with a DNF due to an accident.

done in 1:43 scale by Trofeu

1998 Mitsubishi Carisma GT

2010-03-09T08:07:00.002+08:00

One of my precious...

Mitsubishi Carisma GT
TAP Rally de Portugal 1998
Drivers Miguel Campos and co driver Carlos Magalhães
3rd place overall Group N
with total time of 4:53.04,3
1701.81km including 380.18km of special stages on gravel roads.

Model by Vitesse in 1:43 scale

New Dakar Pajeros

2010-03-04T08:16:00.005+08:00

Another addition to my Pajero Dakar collection.

I made a 2 minute diorama by splashing sand and stones in a colored board

hope you like them!

This one is by Del Prado

and this by IXO

Subaru Impreza 22B Night Version

2010-03-01T05:39:00.003+08:00

Subaru Impreza 22B Night Version
Rally Monte Carlo 1998
Colin Mcrae with co driver Nicky Grist
3rd place overall with total time of 4:29.01
over 1454.53km including 359.19km over 18 special stages.

Model made by IXO in 1:43scale

Advan Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX Night Version

2010-02-23T06:27:00.005+08:00

Finally I have this!!
This model has been hoarded (almost $100 on ebay including shipping cost) and same goes to the Evo X (night version) counterpart which has not surfaced yet.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX
Winner Rally Monte Carlo
PWRC Group N
F. Nutahara/ D. Barritt

Model by Vitesse in 1:43scale

together with my other Advan evos

BMW 2002 Rally Monte Carlo 1973

2010-02-18T21:35:00.005+08:00

This is my wife's Valentine's gift for me. Truly is a special gift!

The BMW 2002 Rally Monte Carlo 1973 "Jagermesiter"
driven by W.Stiller and A. Wagner which ended in a retirement.
Diecast made by Autoart in 1:18 scale.

Peugeot 206 Rally Argentina

2010-02-12T07:08:00.007+08:00

Peugeot 206 Rally Argentina Winner of 2002
Drivers Marcus Gronholm and Timo Rautiainen finished first overall
with a time of 1376.84km over gravel with 392.6km of special stages.

Model by Autoart in 1:18 scale

Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V Mille Miglia 1999

2010-02-06T07:36:00.005+08:00

The 23rd Rally 1000 Miglia and the 7th Italian Rally Championships.
Mario Stagni and co driver Roberto Paganoni finished 1st overall in the Group N class
in a Mitsubishi Lancer Carisma Evo V "Ultron" with a total time of 2:42.00 over 793.1km including 255km of special stages.

Diecast by Vitesse in 1:43 scale

Sorry for the dark pictures, I was experimenting on something hehe!

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX Wales Rally GB 2007

2010-02-02T08:03:00.005+08:00

This is another one in the series of the recently released Vitesse Mitsubishi Lancer rally line.

Presenting the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX Wales Rally GB of 2007
Winner of the PWRC/Group N class with Guy Wilks and co driver Phil Phug (wrong info on diecast base)

Model by Vitesse in 1:43 scale

Ford Escort RS1800 Lombard Rally 1977

2010-01-28T08:10:00.005+08:00

Ford Escort RS1800 RAC Lombard Rally 1977
Drivers Ari Vatanen and co driver Peter Bryant
DNF due to driver's illness

Model by Sunstar in 1:18scale

Trofeu Subaru Impreza Safari Winner Grp N

2010-01-23T08:05:00.004+08:00

This is one of those "I was too late to get it, but still got it at the end, no matter what!" hehe!

Subaru Impreza Team 555
1995 Safari Rally Winner Group N
drivers Hideaki Miyoshi and co driver Mo Verjee
total time is 21:37.02 of 2995 km of gravel roads
Diecast by Trofeu in 1:43 scale

Opel Manta B400 "Team Rothmans"

2010-01-20T08:21:00.005+08:00

1983 RAC Lombard Rally
Opel Manta B400
Rothmans Opel Rally Team
Jimmy Mcrae and co driver Ian Grindrod
first attempt at the group B rally ended them with a 3rd place finish
with a total time of 9:12.19 over 2231km including 790km of special stages

Model made by Shuco in 1:43 scale

Subaru Impreza Rally Japan 08

2010-01-14T11:29:00.004+08:00

Subaru Impreza Japan Rally 08 Night Version
driven by Chris Atkinson and Stephane Prevot
Model by IXO

I'm off for a couple of days, see you guys soon!!

Ferrari 308

2010-01-10T09:19:00.004+08:00

My very first Ferrari in 1:43!

Ferrari 308 1984 Rally Piancavallo
Lucky / Berro
Model by Vitesse Portugal

Ford Escort MKI 1974 RAC Winner

2010-01-01T14:49:00.003+08:00

A Happy New Year to my fellow diecast enthusiast and friends!!

Let's start the year right and with vitality!!

Presenting to you the 1:18 version of Timo Makinen and Henry Liddon's winning Ford Escort MKI in the 1974 RAC Rally, which was a 2218km gravel and asphalt race. Diecast made by Paul's Model Art (minichamps).

together with my 1:43 version by Minichamps

2009 PWRC Rally De Portugal Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX

2009-12-23T05:28:00.007+08:00

From PWRC comes this Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX driven by Armando Araujo and co driver Miguel Ramalho, which they took first place overall in the production class of the Rally De Portugal with a time of 4:15:31.6

photo courtesy of www.acropolisrally.gr

Presenting the 1:43 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX Rally De Portugal 2009
Diecast made by IXO.

1984 Mitsubishi Lancer EX Turbo GSR

2009-12-14T18:07:00.005+08:00

Going back to the 80's, this Lancer is one of the most famous car here in the Philippines. I am happy that at last, Aoshima reproduced a very detailed JDM version. This particular model was done in resin and is immaculate in design and details. I am fortunate to have one already because its price is now quickly rising in ebay.

Here are a few pictures for you to enjoy.

The Mitsubishi Lancer EX Turbo GSR in magnificent White.

1:43 resin made by Aoshima

Opel Ascona A 1973 Rally Monte Carlo

2009-12-10T10:20:00.007+08:00

This is a very special gift from a very special friend! And The details of this model are really superb! Thank you very much my friend! I'll try to drop by your place before Christmas.

Opel Ascona A
1973 Rally Monte Carlo
M. Miersch co driver K.H. Frohlich
Model by Shuco

Opel Manta 400 Rally Cataluna

2009-12-07T17:33:00.008+08:00

This is the Opel Manta 400 Rally Cataluna 1984

as driven by the great Carlos Sainz and co driver Jose Luis Lopez Orozco

Modle by IXO (the Carlos Sainz Collection)

1973 RAC Rally Daily Mirror Ford Escort MK1

2009-12-02T13:29:00.013+08:00

The 1973 Daily Mirror RAC Rally was the 22nd running of the British rally, and the twelfth round of the inaugural World Rally Championship season. Run in mid-November in the County of Yorkshire in England, the rally which was 3020km, was run primarily on gravel, with some sections of tarmac as well. The rally carried the name of its title sponsor, a popular British newspaper, The Daily Mirror.

(source from wikipedia.com)

This IXO model is the winning Ford Escort in the 1973 RAC rally driven by Timo Makinen and co driver Henry Liddon for Milk Marketing Board - Ford Motor Company.

Ford Sierra Rally Monte Carlo

2009-11-23T10:26:00.004+08:00

The Sierra was a good rally car on paper, particularly on asphalt but it was not reliable enough and a lack of 4wd for gravel rallies left it hampered and also up against the all-conquering Lancia Deltas. It gained only 1 international win on the Tour de Corse rally in 1988 but came close on several other occassions. It had many sponsors during its rally career.

This Ford Sierra came 3rd place overall in the 1991 Rally Monte Carlo driven by Francois Delacour and co driver Anne - Chantal Pauwels.

Diecast by IXO, I got this lose without base and has its visor sticker torn.

#177 Mini Cooper 1967 Rally Monte Carlo

2009-11-10T19:14:00.007+08:00

A little history about these mini giants... they where introduced in October 1961 with a 997cc engine that generates 55hp, front disc brakes, twin carburetors, modified camshafts and exhaust headers.

The Mini Cooper Rally versions with a much powerful engine at 1071cc with an output of 70hp and later was even more improved at 1275cc with an output of 78hp that dominated the 1964, 1965, 1966 and with the #177 cooper of Rauno Aaltonen bagged the Rally Monte Carlo Championships.

This #177 Mini Cooper S 1967 Rally Monte Carlo diecast was made by M-Smart in 1:43 scale.

1997 10th API Rally Australia

2009-11-05T10:53:00.005+08:00

The 10th API Rally Australia started on 30 October at Perth with a total distance of 1526.89km with 421.42km over 24 special stages. Tommi Makinen and co driver Seppo Harjanne took second place overall with a total time of 4:05.37.

This is a 1:43 diecast by Skid

Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX 2007 Rally Japan

2009-10-28T10:47:00.006+08:00

This is the PWRC winner of the 2007 Obihiro Rally Japan with a total distance of1575.79km including 350.19km over 27 special stages driven by Katsuhiko Taguchi and co driver Mark Stacey.

photo courtesy of www.mitsubishi-motors.com

This is my 2nd new Vitesse diecast model from their Lancer Evolution rally series.

I like this model except for some not so straight decal placement by the manufacturer.

Enjoy!

Ford RS200 1986 Swedish Rally

2009-10-22T15:44:00.008+08:00

From the 1986 Swedish Rally comes Kalle Grundel with co driver Benny Melander taking the 1670km including 558km of special stages in 3rd place overall in the group B category.

photo courtesy of www.shorey.net

The Ford RS200 started out with a 1.8liter BDT engine at 250bhp. But then upgrades made the RS200 a 300 to 350bhp racer. Future upgrades included a 2.1liter engine which already made changes in its engine block.

The RS200 1986 Swedish Rally was made by IXO. I love the extra details on the engine bay on this one, enjoy!

Love these details IXO made at the engine compartment. Great I dont have to do anything! Hehe!

Hot off the Post Office...Advan Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X JRC

2009-10-15T11:13:00.009+08:00

Finally it came!!! Thanks to my buddy Teddy!

I am so happy and impressed with the quality of the new Vitesse rally car lineup. As we all know, Vitesse is now owned by Sunstar who makes very nice 1:18 rally and road diecast cars too.

I now present the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X 2008 Shinshiro Rally JRC winner. With F. Nutahara and co driver N. Odagiri placing an overall time of 1:09:16.8.

pictures courtesy of www.shinshiro.jugem.jp

Diecast model by Vitesse in 1:43scale

And now comparing the Evo X by Vitesse with my older Evo VI Advan by Autoart

One more to go... hope I could get the Evo IX Advan Night version also soon!

25th Lombard RAC Rally

2009-10-12T11:17:00.008+08:00

The 25th Lombard RAC Rally championships held on the 27th of May 1976 with a distance of 3248km with 504km over 76 special stages mostly on Gravel roads with some asphalt stages.

The winner of the 25th Lombard RAC rally then was the great Roger Clark with co driver Stuart Pegg with their Ford Escort RS1800 Mk2. It was the first win for Roger Clark and also his third podium finish.

picture courtesy of www.juwra.com

1:43 Ford Escort RS1800 Mk2 diecast made by IXO

1999 Tour De Corse Mitsubishi Lancer Evo V Grp N

2009-10-08T18:34:00.005+08:00

This was round 6 of the FIA World Rally Championship that started 07 May 1999 which include a 1077.44km including 373.99km over 17 special stages mostly asphalt roads.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution V Ralliart Italia "Ancap" driven by Gustavo Trelles with co driver Martin Christie placed 1st place overall in the Group N division with a time of 4:04.52.

This model was made by Vitesse in 1:43 scale.

2003 Ford Focus Acropolis Rally

2009-10-05T21:13:00.007+08:00

The 2003 Ford Focus Acropolis Rally started in 6 June 2003 in Athens with a grueling 1443.8 km including 399.49 km over 22 special stages. Overall winner was Marrko Martin with co driver Michael Park in a Ford Focus.

But this Vitesse 1:43 model scale I got is that of Francois Duvall with co driver Stephane Prevot who had an unlucky accident during the race.

This is the Vitesse model in 1:43 scale with driver figures included.

45th Safari Rally Kenya Team Mitsubishi

2009-09-28T10:30:00.006+08:00

The Safari Rally Kenya, one of the most gruelling races in the rally calendar. And this 45th Rally Safari is no exception specially with Team Mitsubishi. Although Richard Burns Mitsubishi Carisma Evo 4 finished in 1st place overall, Tommi Makinen and co driver Risto Mannisenmaki were not so lucky, they had a DNF due to mechanical problems.

This is the 1:43 version of the 1998 Safari Rally Kenya Team Mitsubishi Ralliart Lancer Evolution 4 driven by Tommi Makinen and co driver Risto Mannisenmaki done by Vitesse.

One thing I noticed with Vitesse in this model is that the front suspension is too lowered, it wouldn't last the real Safari race with this set-up.

Lancia Delta S4 Lombard Rally

2009-09-22T10:10:00.009+08:00

photo courtesy of www.rallybuzz.com

The Lancia Delta S4 made its WRC debut on the 1985 Lombard RAC. Henri Toivonen finished 1st & Markku Alen 2nd, on its second outing Henri Toivonen won the 1986 Monte Carlo. May 1986 on the Tour of Corsica Henri Toivonen and Sergio Cresto were killed causing the banning of Group B rally series.

The Delta S4 won a further 3 times during 1986 once with Massimo Biasion and twice with Markku Alen, one of these being the now infamous Sanremo Rally. After the season ended all Group B cars where put into early retirement.

This 1985 Lobard rally had 3507km with 880km over 63 special stages. Henri Toivonen and co-driver Neil Wilson won with a total time of 9:32:05

This 1:43 scale diecast was unbranded and I am not sure if there are missing mudflaps, anyway I might custom some mudflaps specially for the rear of the car.