Introduction: The black 1971 Cutlass SX is one of two SX models Lane has introduced, the other being Lime Green, also reviewed on this site. I own both, and can recommend both without question. Here's why:
Highs: Paint is gorgeous, a deep glossy black, without blemishes of any kind. The highlight of this model is the superb chrome detailing, from the front grill, to the bumpers, to the chrome side strakes, and door handles and window trim. Excellent. Wheels and tires also fantastic, with fully labeled tires, and rims that look unbelievably real. Engine is fully wired and plumbed, with all labels and markings. Hood does stay up on its own, which makes for some comfy gawking at all of the great detail. Interior also very nice, with soft-feel seats, seatbelts, and one of the most realistic steering wheels I've ever seen in a diecast. Fit and finish is great, including all of the detail around the front grill. The headlights, and bumper, and grill are all perfectly aligned. If you think this is trivial, go take a look at the average Highway 61 model, where taillights and such are seeminly always off a couple of degrees. This Cutlass also features a full, working suspension. Yes, you can actually push gently on the front and rear of the car, and it will spring back. Some people dislike such suspensions, for fear that the car will not sit properly if the suspension is not perfectly balanced. However, I own 3 different Lane Olds models, and all sit perfectly upright. There's a full spare tire in the trunk, with jack and all instruction labels on the trunk lid. Underside also well detailed, including steel fuel lines and accurately colored engine underpan.
Lows: Car does not have carpeting, something not added to the Lane's until the Firebird series. The passenger door on mine does shut perfectly tight, and flush with the body, but it is a little loose. If you turn the car over, to see the belly, the passenger door will swing open. I know, I know, I'm really reaching here! Price shouldn't be an issue....there were only 1000 issued, so they're not easy to find. But they can be had on ebay for under $75.
Summary: As you'll read from the 3 Lane Olds reviews on this site, these cars are overall fantastic. I usually insist on interior carpeting, but on these models it was easy to overlook. So many other great details. And the best part is the fit and finish. Everything is lined up perfectly, and sits straight, and looks right. I've got about 50 diecast....I like all of them in their own way, but some I pick up and hold and play with more than others. This Lane Cutlass SX is one of the few that I'm constantly picking up and staring at. One of my favorites. If you can find one, grab it. At the very least, because of the limited production run, it will hold its value and you'll have no trouble selling in the future if you needed to.
