Introduction: This is the only Maisto in my collection. This may sound snobbish, or arrogant, but I just don't think the Maistos are nice enough. Which is a shame, because they've got some great subject matter. I've looked at their Chevelles, old Hurst Pontiacs, Mustangs...all cars I'd like to collect, but I'd rather have one incredible Kyosho or GMP than 2-3 mediocre Maistos. Just my preference, that's all. Anyway, I do own the Audi TT, and like it enough to display it and review it here.
Highs: Paint quality very nice. It's even, smooth, and glossy. Interior detail well done, especially the dash gauges. They actually put little plastic discs in to replicate the round facing. They could have just used stickers, but they went the extra step which is very much appreciated! Interior colors are also accurate, with the proper rust-red seats, steering wheel and door panels. Hood and trunk both open, as do the doors. Speaking of the doors, they use a VERY nice hinge system, which actually puts all my Lanes to shame! Hinges are hidden, and spring activated. Nice! Hood and trunk lids also stay up on their own, which many Autoarts can't even accomplish. Engine is just a plastic molded piece, but looks nice. Car also does use springs for each wheel, so the car can be flexed as if it had working suspension. Fuel filler door cover is metallic, though it's probably shinier than the aluminum-look cover used on the real car. Lastly, rear brake light is a plastic fixture, not a sticker, another positive.
Lows: The basics, as you'd expect from Maisto: no carpet, hard interior surfaces with cheap textures, minimal underside detail, and those darned display base mounting posts sticking out from under the car.
Summary: Do I recommend this model? Yes, and no. If you love the TT Roadster, it's worth the $20. If you don't, skip it. It's better than some other Maistos, but nowhere near Kyosho, Autoart, or even many UT models (though I have seen some crappy UT models that aren't as nice as this Audi). It costs $20 and that's what it's worth. But because of many of the nice details, I'll keep it around.
