Introduction: I picked this one up used from another collector...actually, it was kind of a "throw-in" for me. I was buying several others, and figured I'd add this to the purchase. I'd heard that the earlier Lane's weren't that nice, at least not compared to current models like the Cutlass and Firebirds, so I wasn't excited about this before I got it. Now that I've got it, however, it's a keeper!
Highs: Paint quality is impressive...not quite as nice as Lane's new Maize Firebird (not even close), but very smooth, even, with perfectly laid gold stripes. Shutlines are all tight, and everything fits well. For starters, the hood and trunk stay open on their own, and the doors open and close smoothly and fit tightly. Interior, while not carpeted, features nice detail including realistic-looking steering wheel, dash-mounted tachometer, and raised Mustang emblem on the glovebox next to Carroll Shelby's signature. Seats do have seatbelts, and tilt forward. Engine also well done...again, for its age and price point, but nothing like what you'll find in Lane's new Cutlass. Full size spare in the trunk, mounted on a plaid-patterned trunk mat. Another high point is the chrome work around windows and glass...smooth and well done. Tires are labeled, though wheels are average at best. Tires are rubber, and feel very real. I don't have any personal experience with old Shelby Mustangs, so I shouldn't comment on proportions or stance. One last thing...I like the "cobra" label on the side of the oil engine cooler underneath the car.
Lows: Interior, as I mentioned, is not carpeted. Also no headliner, though that isn't surprising or disappointing. Wheels all mounted solidly, with no wobble, but there is some slight friction when rolling them so they're not completely smooth. No suspension on this one, but I'm not sure that will bug too many people anyway.
Summary: Having paid $40 for it, I'm happy. It's much nicer than anything out of Maisto, Ertl, Welly, Bburrago, and those makes. It's also nicer than some of GMP's earlier models. It presents well, it offers some good detail that makes it worth checking out up close, and these can be had in different colors quite easily nowadays. It's also fairly heavy, for those of you (like me) that appreciate some heft and solidity in their diecast. I can recommend it, as long as you know going in that it is one of Lane's earlier pieces, and the quality level while excellent is not up to that of Lane's newest items.
