Highs: This is a standout model, though very difficult to find. What makes it excellent are some particular details that aren't usually done as well on other models, even at this price point: The front and rear bumpers look amazingly lifelike, the car has a flexible radio antenna that sticks out of a little rubber bud resembling an antenna mounting base on a real car, the wheel rims look real, as does the metal trim around the frame and windshield. The model also has the bestlooking windshield wiper arms of any model I own. I think the same can be said for the door handles. Want more? How about an outstanding door hinge mechanism, with spring loading-action, a rubber mat in the trunk, fully wired engine, and brake lines under the car. Next to the Lane Firebird in my collection, this car has the finest paint I've ever seen. It's different in that it's not only glass-smooth and glossy, but also appears to be thickly applied, as if they put several coats of paint on the model. The side signal lights on the front quarter-panels are little amber plastic "light-fixtures", not stickers or paint-ons. Awesome. Finally, the interior is great also. The seats and convertible boot are hard plastic, but they don't look cheap...they look "right".
Lows: There isn't much about this model that I would change. I guess, if I had to modify anything, I might ask for a way to easily open the engine lid...the panel gaps are so tight that it can be difficult to open. And maybe softer-feeling seats? But that's being ultra-picky, given the long list of positives.
Summary: One other characteristic I should point out about this diecast is the build quality. There is absolutely no "creak-and-groan" when handling it, or opening the doors, hood, and trunk. There is no sag in the doors when opened, and there's no plastic flexing of parts. Some of you might know what I'm talking about here...many Autoart models are fantastic, but because of plastic content and the way they're put together, the body will flex and "creak" just a bit when it's handled and played with. UT models, Maisto, and many others exhibit this body flex as well. It's not a horrible thing, often just a function of plastic-vs.-metal content in the model and location of screws and fastening points. Minichamps' Alfa, however, feels completely solid and tight. Very desirable. Which brings us to availability...good luck finding one, because they're rarely on ebay and many online resellers are sold out. If you can find one, grab it; it will only enhance your collection.
For more photos of this car, visit the Collections Photos part of my site.
