Hey All,

Thanks to Mini MadMan, I've added to my collection of relica Minis (1:6 Radio Control) For those just getting into this hobby, I wanted to share what I have learned:

1) Replica Mini at the dealers look great and they should, they are very detailed and highly priced $75.00
2) Maisto makes an inexpensive die-cast in several colors. All have working doors, bonnet, steering, etc., for around $9.87 (Sam's)
3) Hot Wheels makes several, the 1:64 available in yellow almost everywhere now. The classic version is harder to find (Can't find it except on E-Bay)
4) Hot Wheels makes a 1:12 that looks like the Maisto, but is heavier with an authentic grill (Indi Blue w/ White Top)-Around $16.00 at Walmart
5)Burago makes similar 1:12 models, but I can't see much difference as opposed to the Maisto, and they are a bit more expensive.
6) Although not a die-cast, Tyco makes an inexpensive R/C (Target) for around $15.00 (BRG). This thing really scoots for the $
7) Sharper Image is selling the cool looking R/C that looks like the same one that is sold elsewhere for "Big Bucks "for $78.00 right now. It's Chili Red, I think. The controller is definetly "Mini".
Walmart has some interesting replicas now...a combination Chevy Truck (That new thing) pulling a Chili Red on a trailer. ($12.96)
9. They also have a small, looks like 1:48 scale Chili Red that "winds up" and scoots for $1.96.
10. Found a 2-pack that included a Chili Red & a (Ugh!!) Green Beetle packaged together for less than a buck (Walmart)

There are more of course, many have finer details, yadda, yadda... I can't afford most of the others.
Just thought some of you would like an idea about what's "out there."

Everyone have a Great New Year!
Jim

_________________
Turning head syndrome began on 09-21-02. (Indi Blue)

 

Also, don't forget the 1/18 MINI Cooper replica made by Autoart of Germany. This is got to be the FINEST MINI die cast model available in the market, anywhere. Autoart will soon be releasing a 1/18 MINI Cooper 'S' replica. These models are amazing because all parts are photo etched (no stickers) and the engines are fully plumbed. Carpeted interiors, working seat belts with metal buckles, leather covered seats a total delight for the die hard cast and MINI aficionado. These retails for about $60 to $70 a piece and can be bought at hobby stores and also from:

http://www.exoticar.com.

The 1/18 MINI Cooper replicas sold at MINI dealers are made by Kyosho of Japan. These are also of very high quality and retail for about $50 to $65 a piece. Autoart and Kyosho are among the top die cast manufacturers in the world.

If you don't collect 1/18 scale, I highly recommend 1/43 MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S replicas from Minichamps and Ixo of Germany. very well detailed models, hand applied and buffed paintwork, simply awesome. These retail for about $30 to $45 a piece.

Revell of Germany makes a 1/12 MINI Cooper (Chili Red/White roof) replica that sells for $99. I have not seen it in person and have read mixed reviews about the quality of the model.

The 1/18 Maisto MINI Cooper replicas are very good too, and can be purchased for well under $25 a piece. They are excellent for the beginner collector or for those on a budget that don't wish to spend $70 on an Autoart model.

I have a 1/18 Bburago MINI Cooper and it is so so. Proportions of the model are OK but it is missing details. It feels more like a toy than an actual serious collector model. They cost about the same as the Maistos. Get the Maisto instead.

Solido of France also makes a 1/18 MINI Cooper replica. I can't comment on the model as I haven't seen it, but based on my previous experience with Solido models, it should be a cut above the Italian bburago models.


I am also a Die Cast gearhead and currently hold a fairly large collection of models.

 

Tamiya of Japan current;y makes a 1/12 or 1/6 MINI Cooper R/C models. It retails for about $115 but I have had little success locating one at my local hobby store.

MINI sells at its dealerships and at Motoringgear.com a 1/12 R/C MINI Cooper. This model is made in Germany by an unknown toy maker. Model looks good, but I don't know if this is a quality R/C model. For a little more, I think the Tamiya replica is the best one so far.

Last month I bought the smallest Infrared remote control MINI Cooper model there is. Is made by Nikko of Japan (The car is really tiny) and it retails for $30 only available at Toys "R" Us. This thing is unbeliable fast and FUN FUN! A must for any MINI aficionado.

 

I didn't realize it was a hobby until I had to buy a very large and expensive display case for my toys. It started out by receiving 1/18 die cast models as gifts. Then after returning from an Austria/Germany vacation, I started buying all the German cars available in the U.S. and Europe which eventually led to Japanese exotics(oxymoron?) When the MINI came along, I became a total MINIac. I think I bought out all the 1/18 MINI replicas at Costco and WalMart(Maisto). After we ordered our MC, I bought out all the other scale models in Hawaii. Wished I bought the Maisto Classic MINI when I had a chance. Being a MINIac, a 1/32 model was painted velvet red to match the future MINIhune. I was really interested in the 1/6 RC Mini Madman has but sometimes living in paradise has its drawbacks I might have to go buy another display case :???: Shaka!

 

I don´t recommend the burago, I have 1/18th (exactly the color I ordered) and it is very cheap built. Doors don´t lock very well and the headlamps look like they are going to fall off pretty soon. As a comparison, I also have a Z8 from Maisto and it´s much better built. Too bad I can´t find the Maisto anywhere in Mexico yet.

 

Just received my 1/43 IB/W by IXO. Pretty nice S. 28$ with shipping.

 

>>1) Replica Mini at the dealers look great and they should, they are very detailed and highly priced $75.00

Be careful...not all MINI dealerships sell the nice one. MINI Northscottsdale sold me the Maitso for that price

 

I found a 1/36 PS/B with a surf board attached to the roof at Dolly World of all places back in June, now if I could only get it back from my 5 year old grandson! LOL

 

Check this out! Jonny lightning They are looking for a Cooper S to make a model out of. I have a couple of these and in the pack is a picture of a real car. I don't have an S but I'll bet someone here could win it.

I am not affiliated with JL, just a silly toy buff.