Updated 12/31/99: As 1999 winds down here in Chicago, I wanted to wish all of our friends and customers a Happy New Year wherever you may be in this world. I also wish to thank you for your loyalty and business this year and hope we can continue and expand our relationship in 2000 and beyond.
I think you will be pleased with some new 'stuff' we are working on and the new product lines we will be adding in 2000. We're also working on a few 'special events' here at the Gallery and at racing events this summer. Watch the website for details.
We'll also be freshening up the website over the winter months. It's our goal to have the best variety online and be the most 'fan friendly' site on the web. Your comments are always appreciated.
We'll be open until 6 this evening. Have a safe one!
Paul Zimmermann, Prop.
Updated 12/29/99: Autocourse 1999/00 is in! Pre-orders will ship on Thursday. Local customers can pick up their copies ($54.95) during normal Gallery Hours (9am-6pm).
Updated 12/27/99: Hope everyone had a great Christmas. If you didn't get the gift you REALLY wanted, you've come to the right place. Our Holiday Gift Guide is still on line, along with 300+ pages of 'good stuff' for the serious racing enthusiast.
We're back to our regular hours this week, but if you're coming out after 4pm on Friday, please call first. If the air traffic control system goes down with the Y2K bug and you happen to be stuck out at O'Hare, we will be open this Sunday, January 2 from noon to 4pm. Bribe a cabbie and take a ride down to Downers Grove. We'll accept gold coins if the credit card machines have shut down and we'll have candle light, an open fire and bottled water for your comfort and convenience.
Updated 12/24/99: And to all, a good night! Merry Christmas!
Updated 12/23/99: For those of you in the Chicago area, we are open until 8pm tonight and from 9am to 1pm on Christmas Eve.
Updated 12/20/99: Pre-Orders shipped last week on Exoto's latest Corvette Grand Sport, the #80 Dick Thompson Nassau car. We now have additional stock available for immediate delivery. Check our 'Last Minute Arrivals' page and the Exoto page of our Holiday Gift Guide for photos and additional information on the new Corvette.
For those of you who will be in the Chicago area for the Holidays, we will be open for a few hours on Sunday December 26 and Sunday January 2. We're fully equiped with Macs, so Y2K shouldn't be a problem here!
Updated 12/17/99: New arrivals are being added several times a day to the 'Last Minute Arrivals' page of our Holiday Gift Guide. Check it out.
On the right is a spectacular new Juan Carlos Ferrigno painting of Eddie Irvine's Ferrari that was transmitted to us a few minutes ago by Grand Prix Sportique. A limited edition print is planned for release in early 2000. Another Ferrigno painting featuring Heinz Harald Frentzen and Jordan will be published in a limited editon at around the same time. You can see both images on Page 2 of the Holiday Gift Guide and the complete list of Ferrigno prints HERE.
Updated 12/15/99: The 1999 Formula One Season Review Video is now in stock. $34.95 plus shipping.
The 1/43 scale David Coulthard McLaren Mercedes MP4/14 from Minichamps is now in stock. Check out our complete 99 Formula One Collection status report HERE.
Updated 12/14/99: It's been a busy week so far. Here are a few updates:
- Tom Schultz has signed a fresh supply of his 'Road America: Five Decades of Racing at Elkhart Lake' for us. They're available for $29.95 plus shipping. Pre-orders shipped yesterday and today.
- Our first shipment from GMP has arrived. Great stuff! We've got the first release in the 1/18 scale Dirt Champ Car Series, the Rodger Ward Kaiser Aluminum Special and the latest 1/18 Vintage Sprint Car, the A.J. Foyt Dart Kart. Both cars feature removable cowlings and highly detailed engines. You can view photos of both HERE. We will be carrying the entire GMP line in the year 2000.
- For the first time in more than a decade, it looks like Autocourse is going to miss Christmas. This year's book went to press a week late and has not yet been distributed in Europe. The first copies are scheduled to arrive in the US just a few days too late.
- We have the first copies of Michael Turner's new book 'Drawing and Painting Racing Cars' in stock for $35.95. Our shipment of signed copies is due to arrive right at Christmas. We'll do everything we can to fill your orders in time. We're very pleased that Michael chose to feature 'Autumn Thunder', a painting and print commissioned by TMC in the new book. Signed prints are still available from $100.00. Details HERE. The original painting is also available. Inquire.
- The 1999 Formula One Review video is due to arrive in time for Christmas. We should have our first shipment in stock by the weekend.
Check our Holiday Gift Guide for the latest arrivals here at TMC!
- We've classified the 1/18 scale Jimmy Vasser Superman car as 'sold out' in our Action section, but we now have one car available at the issue price of $79.95 (SOLD). We've shipped out a few 1/18 Greg Moore cars to the first names on our pre-order list. We hope to see more in the next week or so.
A friend at Forsythe Racing informs us that Moore's former engineer Steve Challis suffered a stroke today. Our prayers are with him and his family.
Updated 12/9/99: The first shipment of Auto Art's fabulous new 1/18 scale Dodge Viper GTS-R's has arrived at TMC. They're priced at $54.95 until year end, or while current supplies last. They feature a removable front cowling, opening doors and incredible detail. More photos HERE.
More Auto Art arrivals will be uploaded to the Holiday Gift Guide 'Last Minute Arrivals' page later in the day.
Updated 12/9/99: Today's new arrivals include the 1/43 scale Minichamps 1999 Formula One cars of Alex Zanardi and Alex Wurz along with the 1/18 scale Adrian Fernandez 1999 Reynard from Action Performance. Our New Arrivals page has been updated.
There are packaging differences on the Minichamps cars bound for the US. For details, click HERE.
I've uploaded photo sets of the new Spirit of America 1/43 diecast along with the new Bryan Herta and Adrian Fernandez 1999 1/18 CART/FedEx Champ Cars from Action.
Updated 12/8/99: A fabulous new 1/43 scale model of Craig Breedlove's latest Spirit of America Land Speed Record car arrived today. It features tampo print graphics, and a display base with plaque. A removable body section reveals SOA's jet engine. A great piece for just $49.95. Photos HERE.
A collection of Out of Print Autocourse Annuals arrived today. Check out our updated list HERE.
Updated 12/7/99: Lots of new arrivals as the Christmas rush is now in full swing. A large shipment of new Minichamps models has arrived, including the first 1/43 scale 1999 Formula One cars.
In stock now are Hakkinen, Ralf Schumacher, Fisichella, Panis and Trulli. We also have the 1/18 scale Michael Schumacher Tony Kart, several new Porsche, Tyrrell and Toleman limited editions and a few new 99 Presentation Cars. We have the Arrows 1999 Barcelona Test Car Limited Edition (just 1,500 produced) as well. See the entire list HERE.
The Action 1/18 scale Bryan Herta Team Rahal Reynard Ford is now in stock. Pre orders ship by the weekend. We expect some 1/18 Greg Moore cars next. Orders will be filled first come, first served.
Not a lot of free time this week, but we'll try to put up photos of the new stuff later in the week.
The latest photo book from Rainier Schlegelmilch is now in stock. It's dedicated to 'McLaren Formula One' and is a great bargain at just $29.95.
Check out our Holiday Gift Guide for lots of great gift ideas.
Updated 12/2/99: Our 1999 Holiday Gift Guide is now available online. It contains some of the latest arrivals here at TMC, including many items not yet seen here on our website! We'll be uploading more 'good stuff' on Friday and will continue to update the section as new goodies arrive.
We've uploaded a set of photos showing the 1/18 scale Patrick Carpentier Reynard. You can view them HERE, or visit our Action CART/FedEx Championship page.
Our Mail Server has been down most of the day on Thursday. If you placed an order or sent us an email message between Wednesay night and Thursday night, please confirm that we received it.
Hopefully, our Tech guys (and girls) have it figured out. We're starting to recieve some email that's been floating around cyberspace for the past 12 hours or so.
Updated 11/30/99: Two new die cast arrivals today:
The latest release in the 1/18 scale Action 1999 CART / FedEx Championship Collection has just arrived. It is the Player's Forsythe Racing Reynard Mercedes of Patrick Carpentier. As the other cars in the series, it features a removable cowling and kick plate. It is the first Mercedes engined car produced, representing the third individual engine mold in the Action CART series. The car sports Forsythe logos on the sidepods and is decked out in road course wings. They're ready for immediate delivery at $79.95 plus shipping.
We also recieved the first of the 1/18 scale Mattel Stewart Fords, the SF02 of Rubens Barrichello. Quality seems to be a bit better than the first two 1/18 Mattel F1 cars, we'll post photos of everything when our digital camera gets back from the shop. The Stewart livery will no longer be seen in Formula One after this season. The present team will be rebadged as Jaguar in 2000, making these models a bit more desireable. We have a few pieces remaining at $59.95 plus shipping.
Good news for Holiday shoppers: The 1999 Michael Turner Christmas Cards are here. This year's cards feature Johnny Herbert, Eddie Irvine, David Coulthard, Ralf Schumacher and Heinz-Harald Frentzen. A five card assortment is priced at $10 plus postage.
We also have the new 2000 Motor Sport Calendars from LAT Photographic. This year's theme is 'Champions of the Fifties and Sixties'. In my opinion, it's their best calendar yet, better even than the Fangio tribute a few years ago. Priced at $35 plus shipping, you will be left with 12 framable black and white masterpieces at the beginning of 2001. A great value!
Model Collectors: As the last of the Minichamps Michael Schumacher Collection pieces are released, we have the 1/18 scale Paris Bercy Kart in stock ($59.95). The Schumacher Tony Kart ($79.95) will be here by the weekend. They're sure to disappear fast.
Updated 11/24/99: Not much time for updates the past few days as we 'recover' from Bobby Rahal's appearance at TMC last Saturday. It was quite a day!
We'll have some news on new models and books early next week.
TMC will be open our normal hours Friday and Saturday. Happy Thanksgiving!
Updated 11/17/99: The first three models in a series of 1/18 scale Dodge Viper GTS-R die casts from AutoArt are expected to arrived at TMC in December. A total of 6 variations have been announced. We are now accepting advance orders for the entire series, but order early if you need Christmas delivery. These are going to be hot!
By the way, we've heard that AutoArt is about to introduce a line of 1/18 scale Panoz race cars (both roadsters and coupes) for the year 2000. We'll post information when available.
We have perhaps the last of the 1/43 scale Minichamps Ferrari 333SP's in stock or on the way. They've sort of been lost in the shuffle (some say scramble) of the Ferrari - Mattel licensing deal. Every Minichamps 333SP released to date has been a quick sell out. Don't wait too long on these!
Remember the 1/43 scale Minichamps 1995 Indy 500 winning Reynard of Jacques Villeneuve? Their release was barred by licensing problems with Players and Forsythe Racing, but a few made their way into the marketplace last year. We have a couple of these pieces available. E-Mail Paul for details.
Updated 11/16/99: Last week we were able to re-stock some long out of stock Minichamps models. You can view the list HERE. Order three or more different cars from this list and we'll take 10% off the regular price. FB members will receive free shipping in the Continental US.
We've also updated our Minichamps/UT Inventory page today.
Art Collectors: Two new prints from Juan Carlos Ferrigno are now in stock. They feature Niki Lauda and Stirling Moss competing in the Monaco Grand Prix. The Moss print has been autographed.
We think Ferrigno is one of the most exciting racing artists on the scene today. We hope you'll take a look.
Updated 11/15/99: Earlier this fall, TMC acquired a very interesting piece of racing memorabilia: A driver suit worn by road racing icon Mark Donohue during the 1972 season. We're still researching it's total history, but what we've found so far is fascinating. Take a look at the story so far HERE.
Updated 11/11/99: We made several changes to our Out of Print Autocourse page this afternoon to reflect the acquisition of a couple of interesting questions. Among the additions is a rare Autocourse 1978/79 from Mario Andretti's World Championship season and some editions without dustjackets at bargain prices.Check them out!
We've also added a page listing our stock of Out of Print Automobile Year. Some great stuff there too!. We'll be adding additonal lists of current and out of print racing books soon.
We've received a small shipment of Mattel Hot Wheels Formula One cars in 1/18, 1/24 and 1/64 scale. Check them out HERE.
Updated 11/10/99: The Rodger Ward Watson Roadster is now in stock! Preorders ship by the weekend, locals can pick them up at the Gallery. Don't wait too long on this one. It'll be sold out by Y2K!
We updated our Carousel 1 page this afternoon, listing the new models announced at the National Hobby Show and updating their release schedule through the year 2000.
C-1 will continue their popular series of Watson and Kurtis Roadsters next year, and will release the first of their racing Corvettes, originally scheduled for this year. They will also launch an exciting new series of AAR Gurney Eagles in late 2000. We can't wait!
Updated 11/9/99: We now have the latest release in Action's 1999 CART Collection in stock. It's the Jimmy Vasser Target Team Ganassi Honda in 1/18 scale. This will be the only release in the Action series equiped with Speedway wings. As they have with the previous releases in the series, Action has produced a smaller than announced run of just 3,500 cars. They're priced at $79.95 plus shipping. Check out photos HERE.
We expect the latest 1/18 Watson Roadster from Carousel 1 to arrive in the next day or so. It is the 1962 Indianapolis 500 winning Leader Card Special driven by Rodger Ward ($99.95). We have a few cars available from our first order, but don't delay. The Ward car is the last Carousel 1 Roadster with a price tag under $100.
Starting with the Vukovich Kurtis car, due to arrive in early 2000, these great models will be priced at $109.95, still a bargain in any book.
You can view additional photos of both the Ward and Vukovich Roadsters in our special National Hobby Show section.
TMC offers a mirrored, acrylic top especially produced for your Carousel 1 Indy Roadster for just $18.00. Order today and we can ship it with your new Leader Card Special with no additional shipping charge!
The previously released Carousel 1 Watson Roadster of Parnelli Jones is getting to be in very short supply. The piece is about 95% sold out and with the Christmas rush coming, I wouldn't recommend waiting more than another week or two to order. Still priced $99.95, but that can change at any time.
Updated 11/4/99: One of the most interesting new die cast lines at the National Hobby Show was a series of 1/43 scale Formula One and CART Transporters from Eligor. A new section for this line has been added to our Die Cast area. Stop by and take a look!
On the right is 'Moore Blue', the limited edition print by Anne Peyton that we discussed on Monday. These prints are now in stock at TMC, priced at their original price of $80.
A portion of the sales proceeds from 'Moore Blue'will be donated to the Greg Moore Fund. For a larger view of 'Moore Blue' and additional information, click HERE.
Updated 11/3/99: WHEW! We now have our entire report from the National Hobby Show Report on line. It runs 8 full pages with 95 color 'spy' photos. Take a look, there's some great new stuff on the way!
Updated 11/2/99: We've added several photo sets to our National Hobby Show Report. We'll finish it up tomorrow.
Obviously, a lot of interest in Greg Moore mementos this week.
TMC's policy, as it has been since 1985, is to withdraw all autographed items from the market for 30 days out of respect for the fallen driver. That was done Sunday afternoon after the announcement was made.
For fans of Greg Moore who wish to remember him, we have the following suggestions:
-Two years ago, artist Anne Peyton released a print entitled 'Moore Blue'.Although it was never featured on the website, those of you who have visited the Gallery or seen our road shows may be familiar with it.
I spoke with Anne on Monday and she has decided that the price of 'Moore Blue' will remain at $80 and that a portion of the profits will benefit a charity of the Moore Family's choosing. We will continue accepting orders and will post an image of 'Moore Blue' on the website later today.
-We've noticed that some dealers are jacking up the price of the forthcoming 1/18 and 1/43 scale Greg Moore diecast models from Action (especially on eBay).
Our prices remain the same.
Action has confirmed that the models will be released as planned. Our only concern is that Players (always unpredictable when it comes to licensing) may not allow that to happen (remember the 95 Villeneuve car in 1/43?). It is our understanding that the 1/18 Moore cars have been produced and are 'on the water' at this time. We will continue accepting advance orders for the entire line of Action CART diecast.
We'll post more information as we receive it.
Updated 11/1/99: This is turning into a real crappy week.
We're running a bit behind due to the high number of phone calls today but I was able to put together a couple of photo sets for our National Hobby Show Report. We'll upload more on Tuesday.
Updated 10/31/99: After the tragic events of this afternoon, we've decided to postpone our report on the National Hobby Show until Monday evening. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Greg Moore.
Updated 10/30/99: I thought I would have our complete report from the National Hobby Show online by this afternoon, but we had a rather busy day in the Gallery and I just finished editing the more than 200 photos I took on Thursday. I'll try to sneak over here tomorrow and post a few things after the CART race.
Quick impressions?
I was most impressed by GMP's first 1/12 scale Dirt Champ Car, scheduled for release in January. We will begin carrying GMP's entire line of oval track and road racing machines very shortly and will take advance orders for the 1/12 Johnny Lightning Special of Al Unser at $300 per car.
I was least impressed by Mattel. They had a full selection of F1 cars on display, but nothing in the way of price sheets or other information for dealers. They claim we will start seeing these cars in the US in January, but privately admit it may be March before they get things going over here.
Minichamps/Action was not represented at the show, so the show was rather disappointing for Formula One collectors.
Other highlights: A new 1/6 scale model of the 255 Offenhauser engine in brass, Kyosho's 1/18 scale BMW LeMans cars, a series of 1/43 Grand Sports from Eagles Race, Exoto's entire display of current and 'soon to come' 1/18 scale racing cars, Carousel 1's new Rodger Ward and Bill Vukovich roadsters and Auto Art's line of racing Vipers and Jaguar C-Types in road trim.
We'll have them all, right here at TMC!
Updated 10/25/99: We finally received our first shipment of Exoto's Prototype Corvette Grand Sport today. We managed to shoot a set of photos before packing them up all up and sending them to those of you who placed pre-orders. You can view the first photos HERE. Another shipment of the Prototype Grand Sport should be here by mid-November. Pre-order now.
We also hope to see the #80 Grand Sport before Christmas.
By the way, MBI Publishing is reprinting Lowell C. Paddock and Dave Friedman's fine 'Corvette Grand Sports' book later this fall. Advance orders are now being accepted. If you missed it the first time around, it's the perfect companion for this fine series of models.
Updated 10/21/99: As promised, here is the other new print from Argentine motorsport artist Juan Carlos Ferrigno. 'Victory for Moss at Monaco' features the 1956 Monaco GP and Moss's winning Maserati 250F. Both new Ferrigno prints will be available in early November. Advance orders are now being accepted.
A week from today, we'll be be at the annual RCHTA Hobby Show down the road in Rosemont, Illinois where most major die cast manufacturers will be showing their latest projects. Thanks to the miracle of digital photography, we'll have a full report uploaded by Halloween.
Updated 10/20/99: The first of two new print releases from Juan Carlos Ferrigno can now be viewed in our Limited Edition Prints section. 'Start to Finish' features Niki Lauda winning the 1975 Monaco Grand Prix in a Ferrari 312T. Advance orders for November delivery are now being accepted. Stirling Moss will be featured in the next Ferrigno release. We hope to have an image for you shortly.
Updated 10/19/99: For those of you who have been requesting the video 'In Car 956' the past couple of weeks, I'd like to report that it is back in stock at TMC. Produced in the mid-1980's, 'In Car 956' is still one of the best racing videos available, showing such circuits as LeMans and the Nurburgring before they were shortened and slowed by chicanes. In fact, Derek Bell's lap of the original Nurburgring-shown on the video-is the 5th fastest in 'Ring history. Still $39.95, but worth every penny.
We've posted a few more details on Bobby Rahal's visit to The Motorsport Collector on Saturday, November 20. Advance orders for signed copies of Bobby Rahal: The Graceful Champion ($34.95) are now being accepted. We will NOT be charging a premium for signed copies on orders received before the event or for books purchased at TMC that day.
We're very impressed with the book itself. The format and layout are tremendous, utilizing family photos and news clippings that give the book a more personal look and feel. We think it's the best racing biography since Graham Gauld's Jim Clark book two years ago. Congrats!
Updated 10/15/99: We're pleased to announce that TMC will be offering an exciting new series of 1/18 scale diecast models starting in 2000. The Road Racing Classics Series, produced by Peachstate/GMP will begin with a Dan Gurney Lola T70 Can Am car early next year. Details HERE.
We've added a few volumes to our Out of Print Autocourse page. Missing one? Take a look.
Updated 10/12/99: Now that the smelling salts have kicked in and I'm fully conscious (more or less), we're very please to present perhaps the best die cast model we've ever seen: Exoto's new 1/18 scale Renault RE-20 Turbo F1 from the 1980 season. The first of two versions, Jean Pierre Jabouille, arrived today. A Rene Arnoux car is scheduled for release in 2000. Take a look at the photos.
You've got to have this one!
On the Action front, we've received word that several more 1/43 scale CART Champ cars have been cancelled. The updated list is HERE.
Updated 10/5/99: The 1/18 scale Max Papis Miller Lite Reynard Ford from Action is now in stock. As they did with the Juan Montoya Target Reynard Honda, Action has reduced the production numbers of this piece. It is now a Limited Edition of just 3,500. Price is $79.95. Jimmy Vasser's Target car should arrive next.
Updated 10/5/99: Our first October Die Cast shipment has arrived. It includes some great new cars from UT and Auto Art. Check out the list here, and photos here. We now have all four of the Auto Art Porsche 917's in stock, along with two new Corvette Daytona Pace Cars, the James Bond Aston Martin, a couple of Porsche racing cars, the fabulous Toyota Race Truck and a restock of the very hot 78 Corvette Indy Pace Car. Check them out!
Updated 10/4/99: Our Hard to Find Die Cast page now features a rare 1/18 scale Brawner Hawk, driven to victory in the 1969 Indianapolis 500 by Mario Andretti.- SOLDUpdated 10/2/99: Lots of new models are scheduled to arrive at The Motorsport Collector in October. Keep track of the new stuff HERE. Advance orders are now being accepted on everything listed.
Updated 10/1/99: Take a look at some of exciting 'new' replica posters of early races at Indianapolis, Savannah and the inaugural Chicago 500 now available at TMC. Photos HERE.
Updated 9/30/99: Today's final update features the first Formula One cars from Mattel / Hot Wheels. We like the 1/24 scale McLaren diorama, but the 1/18's need a bit of work. Check them out yourself HERE.
Lots more tomorrow!
Updated 9/30/99: Brumm continues to impress us with some very fine new 1/43 die cast models. They've followed up their fine series of Ferrari 156 and 158 GP cars with a pair of Ferrari 512 Grand Prix cars as campaigned by John Surtees and Lorenzo Bandini in 1965. They've also created some very limited production 'specials' like a 2,500 piece Limited Edition of Gilles Villeneuve Ferrari 126C2 from the 1982 Belgian GP, Gilles' last race, and a special 'anteprima' limited edition diorama of Jack Brabham's 1960 British GP winning Cooper T53 - just 600 sets produced! All are in stock at TMC!
Updated 9/30/99: Our first shipment of 1/18 scale Juan Montoya Target Reynard Hondas arrived today. Photos HERE. Pre-Orders will ship on Friday. One note, the production run on this model was reduced from 7,000 to 5,000 pieces at the last minute. Our guess is that this will be the case across the board. Looks like Action wants the 1999 CART/FedEx Collection to sell out FAST!!!
Updated 9/30/99: News regarding the release of the first of the 1999 Minichamps Formula One Collection: Hakkinen, Trulli, Fisichella and Ralf Schumacher are due to arrive at TMC by mid-October. Order today. Information HERE.
Updated 9/30/99: Today's first update concerns the 1/8 scale Lang Models Lotus 97T from the Ayrton Senna Collection seen on the right. Photos HERE.
Updated 9/29/99: We'll be uploading new stuff all day Thursday. We'll tell you about the 1/8 scale Senna Lotus seen to our right, the first Mattel Hot Wheels F1 cars to arrive here at TMC, some great new releases from Brumm new videos from Duke and a chance to reserve some of October's hottest new models before anyone else has them.
Stop by often.
Updated 9/28/99: The balance of our 1/18 scale Max Papis / Miller Harley Davidson cars are now in stock for immediate delivery. Order soon to avoid disappointment. We're down to our last case of Jimmy Vasser Superman cars already!! Also in stock, the 1/9 scale Matt Hines Superman Pro Stock bike from Action. Photos HERE.
Updated 9/24/99: We've updated the following Minichamps pages to reflect the arrival of several new models (and some sell-outs) over the past week: 1998 Formula One Collection, 1998 Tower Wing Collection, 1999 Formula One Presentation Cars.
Other Minichamps New Arrivals have been added HERE.
Two new items have been added to the Hard to Find Die Cast page.
As promised, we'd like to introduce you to the artwork of François Bruere, a young French artist specializing in LeMans and sports car racing. Bruere is the official artist of the American LeMans Series and created the original poster art for this year's Petit LeMans at Road Atlanta.
We think you'll enjoy his work.
Updated 9/23/99: Here are the first photos of Exoto's new 'high tech' driver figure seen on the just released Patrick Depailler Tyrrell Project 34. We've also uploaded photos of the other two new Exoto releases that arrived this week, the 'double wing' Graham Hill Gold Leaf Team Lotus 49B and the spectacular 'aluminum' bodied Cobra Daytona Coupe.
We also added a few items to our Hard to Find Die Cast page, including a 1/18 Minichamps Williams Renault from Jacques Villeneuve's Championship Season and a few of the 1/18 Minichamps Al Unser, Jr. 1994 Indy Winning Penske Mercedes.
Updated 9/22/99: We're still unpacking from Road Atlanta but here's a quick synopsis of some of the news around here:
-Action CART/Champ Cars: Our first shipment of Max Papis / Miller Harley Davidson cars arrived yesterday and is completely sold out. All pre-orders will ship and all Chicago area customers will receive their notification by the weekend. We expect the balance of our allotment soon. Pre-orders accepted. We're down to our last couple cases of Jimmy Vasser Superman cars. If you haven't ordered your's yet, do it soon.
-Minichamps: We've (finally) received our 1/18 scale Schumacher Fiorano Test Cars. All pre-orders have shipped and we have a few left over. We were able to lower our price to $80 on the final Schumacher Ferrari model from Minichamps. We also got our hands on a few additional Alex Zanardi 1999 Williams Presentation Cars in both 1/18 and 1/43 scale. See the Hard to Find page for details. By the way, the 1/43 Zanardis that we have feature the rare 'black tipped' sidepods normally seen on the Ralf Schumacher cars.
We will post a complete list of new Minichamps arrivals by the weekend.
-Exoto: Three new releases from Exoto arrived today. They are the 'double wing' Graham Hill Gold Leaf Team Lotus 49B (97008) as raced at the 1969 South African GP ($119.95), the Patrick Depailler Tyrrell Ford P34 with driver figure ($169.95) and the Cobra Daytona Coupe 'Test Mule - Hand Polished Body' with the non-painted aluminum finish ($169.95). We'll post a full set of photos on these new releases by the weekend.
Still no firm release date on the first of the Corvette Grand Sports but we hope to see them in the next 30 days.
Lots of other new models, videos and books have arrived in the past week or so. We'll be uploading information for you as fast as we can.
We've also added an exciting new French racing artist to our 'stable'. We will introduce him to you on Friday.
Updated 9/21/99: Back from Petit LeMans at Road Atlanta.
Lots to tell you about after we unpack from our last 'Road Show' of the year (decade, century, millennium, etc).
Talk to you on Wednesday.
Updated 9/13/99: Our shipment of 1/18 scale Jimmy Vasser 'Superman' cars has just arrived. We will be processing and shipping your orders all week. Chicago area customers will get a phone call tomorrow, but you can pick up your car any time.
A few Vasser Superman cars remain unsold. Don't miss out on the first 1/18 scale Action CART/FedEx Champ Car release! Photos HERE.
We've just gotten our hands on a few of the 1/43 Minichamps 'Tower Wing' Trulli Prost AP01's. They only made 2,222 of these and our initial shipment was gone before it got here. We think it's the best looking of the 'Tower Wing' cars with it's beautiful Prost French Racing Blue paint job. Check the Hard to Find Die Cast page.
Updated 9/12/99: We've managed to get our hands on a few more Alex Zanardi 1999 Williams Presentation Cars from Minichamps. They're priced at $100 for 1/18 and $50 for 1/43 while they last. Limit one each per customer.
Updated 9/10/99: It is estimated that 25% of the 1/32 scale slot cars sold today are acquired by model collectors and never raced. The best reason we've seen for this phenomenon so far is the extremely handsome Porsche 911 GT1 1998 Test Car built in Spain by Fly that arrived at TMC this afternoon. Check out the photo above, or click HERE for more information. You can scroll through our entire Slot Car section HERE.
Updated 9/10/99: A copy of the Randy Owens original serigraph 'May Day' is now being offered on RaceArt Marketplace for just $425.00! - SOLD TMC's regular price on this print is $650.00.
We also have a rare Artist Proof copy (only 15 produced, this one is number 5) of Randy's most famous work 'LeMans: The Big Ride' offered at just $2,500.00. Numbered copies of 'Big Ride' have sold for $3,000 plus in recent years. Check them out!!!
Updated 9/9/99: Today marks the official release of 'Bobby Rahal: The Graceful Champion', a new biography of the CART and Indianapolis Champion by Gordon Kirby. We are pleased to announce that Bobby has agreed to autograph copies of this new book for The Motorsport Collector. We also hope to co-ordinate a signing with author Gordon Kirby in the very near future.
While these plans are being finalized, we are accepting pre-order reservations for a limited number of signed copies for delivery by November 1999.
For more information on this great new title, click HERE.
Updated 9/8/99: We've received confirmation this morning that the 1/18 scale Jimmy Vasser Superman Car, the first CART/FedEx Champ Car from Action Performance, will arrive at TMC next week. This Limited Edition piece is nearly sold out, but we are accepting a few additional reservations at $79.95 per car. We will begin processing orders in the next few days and those of you in the Chicago area who have reserved a model will be getting a phone call very soon.
The Max Papis Miller Harley Davidson Reynard Ford will follow the Vasser by about a week. The same terms apply ($79.95, pre-orders accepted).
Production on the rest of the 1999 CART/FedEx Champ Car models from Action will begin in a matter of days. We expect the 1/18 scale Target Team Ganassi Reynard Honda of Points Leader Juan Pablo Montoya to arrive next, probably in early October. We will also receive the 'normal' liveried versions of the Miller Lite Max Papis car of Team Rahal and Jimmy Vasser's Target Team Ganassi Reynard Honda (each car priced at $79.95, pre-orders accepted) at that time. The rest of the 1/18 Champ Cars will begin to arrive in November, along with the first of the 1/43s.
You can use our Secure Order Form to reserve any of the Action 1999 CART/FedEx Champ Car Collection.
Two other updates of interest to Die Cast collectors. Our Hard to Find Die Cast page has been completely updated, with a few new additions listed this morning.
To compliment our updated UT/Minichamps Inventory page and our Hard to Find Die Cast page, we've added a new 'Last Call' page to highlight the UT and Minichamps listings that are down to their final model. Check them out!
Much more Die Cast news to come this week. Stop back soon!
AFTERNOON UPDATE:
The latest Carousel 1 release, the 1955 Indianapolis winning John Zink Special of Bob Sweikert, arrived at TMC today. It is the first of Carousel 1's Kurtis Kraft roadsters and is an absolute stunner. I've uploaded a series of photos HERE. The car features improved detail from the preceeding Watson roadsters without increasing it's very reasonable $99.95 list price. The first 2 Carousel 1 Watsons are now sold out and just a few of the Parnelli Jones 62 Pole Position cars remain.
The Sweikert car is a sure sell out as well. Don't miss out!
Updated 9/7/99: We've uploaded updates to our UT/Minichamps Inventory and 1998 Formula One Collection pages this morning.
According to Exoto, they will begin shipping several of their latest models very soon. We hope to receive stock in the following sometime this month:
18007 - 64 Cobra Daytona Coupe - Hand Polished Aluminum - Riverside Test Car.....$169.95
97008 - 69 Lotus 49B - Graham Hill - 'Double High Wing'.....$119.95
97042 - 76 Tyrrell Ford P34 - Patrick Depailler - w/Hand Painted Driver Figure.....$169.95
We also hope to see the first of the Corvette Grand Sports this month (18020 - Nassau Prototype_..$149.95) but can't give an exact date.
We'll post photos when they arrive. Pre-orders accepted. As always, everything is subject to revision.
Updated 9/4/99: Since Wednesday's additions to our Hard to Find Die Cast page sold so quickly, we added a few more items this evening that arrived via a trade today. They are mint-in-box examples of two of the hottest models from Revell's out-of-production 1/20 scale Creative Masters series: The Ford GT40 that won LeMans in 1968 is one of the hottest models on the secondary market today. We've sold two GT40's this year at prices higher than what we can offer on this piece. We also have one Racing Cobra 427 available at a great price. Check them out!
As we close for the Labor Day weekend, we are developing information on several exciting new die cast models AND have information on two new shipments due to arrive at TMC in the next 10 days. Watch for updates when we return (well rested) on Tuesday.
Enjoy the weekend.
PZUpdated 9/1/99: There are a couple of additions to our Hard to Find Die Cast page today, including a pair of the highly desirable Team Edition West McLaren Mercedes MP4/13's in 1/43 scale and a sold out Alex Zanardi 1st Edition Promotional Showcar. Move fast! (Too late, they're both gone)
Updated 8/31/99: We've just acquired a small collection of out-of-print Autocourse Annuals. Looking to fill some gaps? Take a look at our current list.
Updated 8/27/99: What's a day without a scary die-cast rumor? Yesterday, rumors were flying around the web regarding the possible cancellation of the highly desirable 1/43 scale BAR 1999 Presentation Cars from Minichamps. It was thought that BAR either wanted more money, wanted to control the pricing or just flat out changed their mind about allowing their release.
Since the BARs are the hottest pair of Presentation Cars to appear since the 1996 Schumacher Ferrari, the rumor got our attention real quick! We've made some phone calls across the pond and from what we've found out, it's our understanding that BAR's objection comes from Minichamps' plan to apply the twin BAR liveries (a white and red car along with a blue and gold car) to models of the 1998 Tyrrell F1 car. As hard-core F1 model collectors are aware, Presentation Cars are traditionally the new year's livery on the previous year's car and, as you know, BAR grew out of the old Tyrrell organization.
It now looks like the BAR Presentation Cars will be on hold until the molds are produced for the 'true' 1999 BAR 1/43 scale models later this year. Not much satisfaction for those of you who placed your orders back in March, but better than the alternative. Our shipment (whenever it arrives) is already sold out. We are taking a few more names for our 'waiting list.'
Updated 8/25/99: Author-signed copies of two new racing books are now available at The Motorsport Collector. In one of the best illustrated books we've seen this year, Rick Shaffer tells the story of 'CART: The First 20 Years, 1979 - 1998' in this new release from the publishers of Autocourse. Rick signed for us at the Target Grand Prix of Chicago over the weekend and each book is inscribed to honor this Inaugural event. Tom Schultz's labor of love, 'Road America: Five Decades of Racing at Elkhart Lake' has finally arrived and is a must have for anyone who loves the 4 mile giant road course in central Wisconsin. Tom signed for us last evening in Milwaukee. Pre-ordered copies are being shipped as we speak.
Author-signed books are available at no additional charge at TMC whenever possible as a service to our friends and customers.
Updated 8/24/99: We've just posted a set of photos of the new 1/18 scale Max Papis Miller Harley Davidson Reynard Ford from Action. If anything, it's even more stunning than the Vasser Superman car! The photo to the right shows the engine detail on the Papis car. It's quite exceptional for a model in that price range.
When you look at both Action cars side by side you can't help but be impressed by the work they have put into their new CART series, providing us with detailed Ford, Honda and (yet-to-come) Mercedes engines. There's a LOT more detail on these cars than on the previous releases from other manufacturers. They're well worth the $20 price difference.
As they did with the Vasser car, Action flew a few examples of the Harley car in early for the team trailers (which have sold out). We don't have firm delivery dates yet (as usual) for our shipments, but expect our Vasser Superman cars to arrive in a few weeks. The Papis Harley should follow a couple weeks later.
The Vasser Superman car ($79.95) is nearly sold out - we currently have less than 10 cars available for pre-order. We're still accepting pre-orders for the Papis Harley car (also $79.95) along with the entire range of 'normal' liveried 1999 CART/FedEx Champ Car models from Action. We'll keep you up to date on the latest release information on our Action CART page.
Updated 8/19/99: For those of you who may have missed getting one the first time around, we've just found a couple more Exoto 1/18 scale Jody Scheckter 'driverless' Tyrrell P34's.SOLD OUT This model sold out almost immediately after it's release earlier this year. It's our understanding that only 2,500 to 3,500 of these cars were produced. Despite collector preferences to the contrary (at least among our customers), Exoto is producing more cars with driver figures than without. That is, when they manage to get a car out at all. We've been waiting all summer for the first of their Grand Sport Corvettes, but nothing has arrived just yet.
Anyway, we're pricing these P34's at $169.95. First come, first served.
Updated 8/18/99: We've made some additional updates to the Action pages in our Die Cast Model section reflecting the arrival of several new Superman and Miller - Harley Davidson cars. We've got a few pieces that seem to be sold out elsewhere. Take a look.
Updated 8/17/99: Sorry about the lack of updates lately, but between our Road Shows and a (too) short vacation, we've been out of town quite a bit the past month or so.
We've gotten our hands on one of the 1/18 scale Jimmy Vasser Superman Cars and have just posted a set of photos of this inaugural Champ Car model from Action Performance. We've also seen their new Max Papis Miller Lite - Harley Davidson car and were pretty impressed by the overall quality of both new pieces. Now, if they can just crank up production and get models to us some time this century.
Check out the Jimmy Vasser Superman Car at our display in the Laramie Street Festival at Chicago Motor Speedway this weekend.
Other Action Superman and Miller Harley - Davidson die cast are now in stock at TMC. Check their respective web pages for the latest information.
Action has already modified the Champ Car list we posted a few weeks ago - the Mark Blundell cars have been cancelled. They say we'll start getting one car a week by October, but that seems a bit optimistic to us. As it is with all die cast these days, the only way to stay sane is to ignore the release schedules and be happy when the UPS man rings the doorbell.
We now have the 1999 24 Hour of LeMans Review Video in stock for $29.95. We also received a new video called 'Jacques Villeneuve: Racing's Renegade.' It's priced at $19.95. We'll post a review sometime next week.
We will have two authors signing their new books at our display at Chicago Motor Speedway this weekend. You can pick up signed copies of 'Road America: Five Decades of Racing at Elkhart Lake' by Tom Schulz ($29.95) and'Autocourse: CART-The First 20 Years, 1979-1998' by Rick Shaffer ($34.95) at the track this Sunday, or you can order signed copies for delivery next week.
We are now offering a 1/18 scale Minichamps model of Jacques Villeneuve's 1995 Indianapolis 500 winning Reynard Ford on our Hard to Find Die Cast page. New in box, $300. Check it out.
Updated 8/11/99: Just back from vacation. The neatest new model we've seen lately is the 1/18 scale AutoArt Gulf Porsche 917k as driven by Michael Delaney (Steve McQueen) in the classic racing film 'LeMans'. Check it out here!
We'll be at Mid Ohio this weekend. Stop by our tent on the 'Manufacturers Midway' and say hello.Updated 7/28/99: We now have the 1/18 scale Shelby GT350-H from Lane Automotive in stock. A great model of the world's most famous rent-a-racer. The first batch was produced with a decal error that may make them quite collectible in the future. Check out the information HERE.
Looking for Mark Donohue's book 'The Unfair Advantage"? We have a near mint copy available for $300 plus shipping. Call 800.72.8630 and ask for Paul. - SOLD
We've received our replacement shipment of Exoto's Ford France Cobra Daytona Coupe, the white car. The paint problem on the exhaust pipes has been solved and the models we have now are just beautiful. Pre-orders will ship this week. We have a few extra pieces in stock for $129.95.
Updated 7/27/99: They're slowly working the bugs out of our new host server. Our Secure Order Form is now back on line. If you find any other problems around the site, please let us know.
Updated 7/26/99: Here's the complete list of 1999 CART FedEx Die Cast from Action.
Updated 7/21/99: We hear that Action will introduce their new 1/18 scale Jimmy Vasser Superman car at the US 500 this weekend. Vasser's race car will be painted in the Superman colors exclusively for the Michigan race.
We expect our shipment of Vasser Superman cars to follow in a week or two. Although many outlets are already sold out of this first CART/ FedEx Champ car offering from Action, we still have a few models available. Reserve yours today for $79.95 plus shipping.
The Max Papis Harley Davidson-Miller Lite car has been produced and is currently 'on the water'. We should have them a couple of weeks after the Vasser car arrives.
Other Action news: Forget the release dates you see in the full page Action adverts in the racing monthlies. The 'standard' range of 1/18 and 1/43 99 CART/ FedEx Champ cars won't be produced for a couple of months yet and will be released one at a time over a period of months. As we've said previously, the first release will be Juan Pablo Montoya's Target Reynard Honda in 1/18 scale. When the 'standard' cars begin production, Action intends on producing team cars with alternate wing configurations. In other words, if the Michael Andretti Swift comes in 'road course' configuration, the Christian Fittipaldi car will be fitted with 'speedway' (or Hanford) wings - or vise versa.
When we have specific details, we'll pass them along to you.
Updated 7/20/99: Another Carousel 1 update: C1 has adjusted their release schedule for the balance of 1999. The next car we'll see is the 1955 Indianapolis 500 winning Kurtis Roadster of Bob Sweikert, sometime in late August or early September. The Bill Vukovich 1955 Indy 500 Kurtis Roadster has been delayed until March 2000.
The 1962 Indianapolis 500 Rodger Ward Watson Roadster has been pushed back to October 1999 and the two Greenwood Corvettes are now scheduled to be released in the year 2000.
We currently have all three of the previous Carousel 1 releases in stock: the sold out A.J. Foyt 1961 Indianapolis 500 winner ($175) , the Jim Rathman 1960 Indy winner and the recently released Parnelli Jones '62 Indy Pole car (both $99.95 each).
Updated 7/15/99:We've been on the road much of July so far and will return to Road America next weekend for the Brian Redman International Challenge.
As part of our activities next weekend, TMC will present an Exhibition of original artwork at the Osthoff Hotel in Elkhart Lake beginning Thursday evening. Details HERE.
Here's an update on some new 'stuff' in stock at TMC:
A large shipment of new Minichamps models has arrived, including a limited quantity of 1/18 scale Hakkinen McLarens and Schumacher Ferraris which we can now offer at our 'normal' price of $59.95.
For 1/43 F1 collectors, we now have the ENTIRE Minichamps 1998 F1 grid in stock, with the exception of the Rosset Tyrrell. Many 1/43 F1 cars have been reduced to $29.95 as they begin to arrive through 'normal' sources.
Pre-orders will ship starting Friday, and 'pick up' phone calls will be made to those of you in the Chicago area who have pending orders.
We've posted a list of all the new Minichamps arrivals and restocks HERE. Other highlights include about a dozen new 1/43 scale 1998 Peugeot, Audi and Opel Touring Cars, a LeMans Viper, the #25 Porsche 911 GT1 and some great road cars. Check out the gold Lamborghini Miura!!! I put a few photos up under the list and will try to post more next week if I have the time before packing for Elkhart.
As you may have seen above, we are expecting a 'gray market' shipment of 1/18 scale Michael Schumacher 'Fiorano' Test cars by the end of the month. Although most of the shipment has been pre-sold, we still have a few cars available. This will be the last 1/18 Schumacher Ferrari to be produced by Minichamps. Will they sell out in Europe before they are 'officially' available in the US? If you're a serious Schumacher or Ferrari collector, you may not want to take that chance.
We now have 1-2 additional 1/18 scale Minichamps Zanardi Williams Presentation Cars available priced at $100.00.
We also have a few more of the 'sold out' 1/43 Zanardi Williams Presentation cars on the way. Late July delivery. Pre-order now at $34.95.
The latest RCCA magazine from Action Performance announces the future release of a 1/18 scale Michael Andretti 1999 Swift Ford for $99.99 and a 1/18 scale Juan Montoya Reynard Honda for $79.99. Both are announced as 'Limited Editions' with no addition size listed, and no release date mentioned. We understand 1/43 scale versions will also be produced, but we have no further information.
For those of you who collect 'tobacco cars', expect things to get a lot weirder in the near future. Last weekend at the Elkhart Lake CART race, we were confronted by angry Marlboro officials who ordered us to take down a race worn driver suit (Arie's '91 Indy 500 suit) that bore Marlboro patches on the chest and sleeve. They now claim that it is illegal for anyone (note I said ANYONE) to sell anything (note I said ANYTHING) bearing a Marlboro insignia. It could get interesting if they start pressuring internet auction sites to refuse merchandise bearing Marlboro logos. They also ordered vendors to put away Schumacher Ferraris and other fully licensed merchandise that carried actual or modified Marlboro logos.
Your government in action.
Updated 7/2/99:The 1/18 Zanardi Williams Presentation Cars are all spoken for. A couple may become available next week, so we are starting a 'Standby' List for those of you who may still want one. See me at Elkhart this weekend, or call Rob at the Gallery on Friday.
Updated 7/2/99: We received our shipment of Minichamps 1/18 scale Alex Zanardi Williams Presentation Cars this afternoon. Pre-Orders ship after the Holiday. A few models remain. We'll be open until 6pm today and from 10-2 on Saturday, if you wish to reserve one.
I've posted some news regarding new Action and Mattel models on our Die Cast News & Rumor page. Have a safe Fourth!
We posted a new Action Performance Index in our Die Cast Models Section this afternoon.
Updated 6/24/99: Zanardi fans should take a look at the item above. We have a small quantity of these cars inbound at this time. Considering the speed in which the 1/43 version sold out in Europe, we don't think too many 1/18's will make it to the US. Only Schumacher and the BAR cars are hotter right now.
More Minichamps news: We've added a page for the 1/43 scale 1998 Tower Wing Formula One models that Minichamps has just started to release. We have the Michael Schumacher car in stock and received one (and just one!) of the stunning Trulli Prost models earlier this week. Check out the photos. We'll have Damon Hill's Jordan and others in a few weeks. We think they'll be pretty hot, with only 3,333 being produced of each piece (except for Michael, of course). We're taking pre-orders, limit one each per customer.
As we approach July 1 and the implementation of new Federal law, the Tobacco Police seem to be increasing their activity. Inquiries have been made to some importers as to which dealers have purchased certain tobacco liveried cars lately and how many cars these dealers may still have in inventory. Tobacco company representatives have handed 'Cease and Desist' letters to race track vendors this month, banning track sales of certain items effective July1, and we've heard stories of inventories of cigarette cars being purchased in full by the tobacco companies from some dealers.
The tobacco companies are not the bad guys here. The Feds are preparing to crack down hard on them when the new laws go into effect next week.
For collectors, this could signal your last opportunity to purchase some very collectible pieces like the 1/43 UT Reynard Honda of Dario Franchitti ($29.95) and the 1/18 UT Reynard Honda of Paul Tracy ($58.95) at reasonable (like our) prices.
Less than a week of 'normalcy' remains in the collector die cast world with the 'Big Bang' of tobacco legislation and Mattel licenses coming at us in a big way on July 1.
Updated 6/23/99: This afternoon, we put up a page of photos featuring some of the highlights of the recent blizzard of new Minichamps arrivals.
We also added some new acquisitions to our Hard to Find die cast page. Ferrari, Schumacher and Villeneuve collectors should take a look.
We also updated our Minichamps Presentation 1999 page. As of now, we are accepting 'standby' orders only on the 1/43 scale BAR Presentation cars. We suspect the edition is oversold. The next Presentation Car to arrive will be the 1/18 scale Zanardi Williams in mid-July (confirmed). Pre-orders are now being accepted at $100 each.
The most impressive new arrival this week is the 1/24 scale Senna Ducati from Onyx. Check out the photos HERE. The bike is sold out already at many dealers and current eBay bids are much higher than our selling price. Order now, Senna fans. They will disappear fast.
Updated 6/22/99: Another shipment of new Minchamps models arrived today. Amazingly, we have nearly the entire 1/43 scale 1998 Formula One grid in stock and the 99 season isn't even over yet!
Check here for the latest arrival status.
We're shipping your pre-orders all week. If you're a 'local' we'll be calling you soon to pick up your 'stuff', if we haven't already.
We'll get some photos up for you tomorrow.
Updated 6/21/99: Several minor updates around the site today. More new Minchamps models came in today and more are expected tomorrow. Check here for the latest arrival status. The 1/43 scale Schumacher Fiorano and 'Tower Wing' cars are now in stock.
Updated 6/17/99: Good news for Minichamps collectors. Three shipments of new models are due to arrive at TMC within the next couple of weeks. Check out our News & Rumor page for further information along with updates on Action, Exoto and other model lines.
Updated 6/16/99: In case you haven't seen the wire services this afternoon, Damon Hill has announced that he will retire from Formula One at the end of the 99 season.
We've acquired a couple of the sold out Exoto 'driverless' Jacky Ickx Ferrari 312B's. Check the Hard to Find Die Cast page for details.
Our 'lost' shipment of 1/18 scale Maisto models of the #2 Mercedes CLK LM of Riccardo Zonta and Klaus Ludwig has finally arrived. (No 'Air Mail' jokes please - this is the '98 car). See the Maisto Mercedes page for information.
Lots of new Minichamps models on the way. Look for a major update on Thursday.
Updated 6/15/99: Everything on www.motorsportcollector.com seems to be working fine again after a change of servers over the weekend. If you have any problems with the site, please call Paul at 630.515.1440.
Updated 6/15/99: I've posted some additions to our Out of Print Autocourse page.
Updated 6/14/99: A few weeks ago, we posted information on four exciting new print releases from Juan Carlos Ferrigno. These prints were formally unveiled during the Monaco Grand Prix and are now in stock at TMC. They include what we believe are the first and only prints ever signed by World Champions Jody Scheckter and Keke Rosberg. Take a look HERE.
Updated 6/9/99: We've posted some additional information and some digital photos of the Max Papis Miller Lite - Harley Davidson Reynard Ford we told you about on 6/5. Start HERE.
Updated 6/5/99: The next 'special' 1/18 scale CART Champ Car model from Action will be a 3000 piece Limited Edition die cast of the Team Rahal Reynard Ford of Max Papis in the new Harley Davidson - Miller Lite livery that is being unveiled in Milwaukee this weekend.
We saw Larry Dixon's Miller Lite Top Fuel Dragster in the new scheme at the NHRA event at Route 66 Raceway last night and the blue and silver paint scheme is quite good looking.
We don't have the press release from Action yet (we're assuming the information is public at this point) but we expect special models of all the Miller Lite race cars in this special promotional livery.
Those of you who have Jimmy Vasser 'Superman' cars on pre-order will have first crack at the Papis car. There's still time to order the Vasser at $79.95, if you haven't already.
We'll post photos and other information as soon as we have it.
Updated 6/3/99: Catching up after our return from Indianapolis. Lots of updates today:
-We have the 1/18 scale Maisto 'Arie's Final 500' G-Force driven by Arie Luyendyk in this year's Indianapolis 500 in stock. The model has been produced in a limited edition of 5000 and is selling briskly. Check out www.arieluyendyk.com for the complete range of 'Arie's Final 500' merchandise.
-We have several additions to our Hard to Find Die Cast page, including a couple of 1/43 scale Ayrton Senna McLaren MP4/8's from Minichamps and a 'sold out' Carousel 1 AJ Foyt Watson Roadster.
-We expect a major Minichamps shipment within two weeks, including the first 1999 F1 Presentation cars, additional 1998 Formula One Collection models (including the Schumacher Fiorano Test Car), the 1998 LeMans winning Porsche 911/GT1 and several other surprises. I've updated the appropriate lists and will post a complete list as soon as everything arrives.
-The most unusual models we've added to our inventory are two snap together airliners in the livery of Niki's own 'Lauda Air'. We've got both their 767 and brand new 777 models in stock.
-On the Exoto front, we've found a few more of the Jody Scheckter Tyrrell P-34 '6-wheelers' and Jackie Ickx Ferrari 312B's without driver figures but they're both listed as 'retired' and are disappearing very quickly. Don't delay!
-Nothing official yet, but Carousel 1 officials tell us that next year they will follow their incredibly popular series of Watson Roadsters with a selection of 1972-75 Gurney Eagles. They've also come to an agreement with A.J. Foyt to produce Super Tex's other three Indy winners. We'll update you as things develop.
-On the Memorabilia side, we've acquired a few Michael Andretti and Mark Blundell Autographed Visors in addition to the Arie Luyendyk visors we're offering on www.arieluyendyk.com.
Updated 5/26/99: Two new prints featuring the Indianapolis 500 are now available at TMC. The first, from Dutch artist Eric Jan Kremer commemorates Arie Luyendyk's 1997 Indianapolis 500 victory. The second, by Ron Burton, commemorates the 1998 Indy 500 and is signed by winner Eddie Cheever and Rookie of the Year Steve Knapp.
See you at Indy!
Updated 5/24/99: A selection of 'Arie's Final 500' merchandise is now available on our sister website, www.arieluyendyk.com. Arie looks like a strong favorite to win his third Indy 500 next Sunday.
We'll be cheering him on!
Updated 5/20/99: While we're on the subject of hot LeMans models, Maisto has released several 1/18 scale Porsche 911 GT1's and Mercedes CLK LM's from the 1998 24 Hours of LeMans. Start at the Maisto Index Page and check them out. They're even better than the 97 CLK's!
Updated 5/18/99: This afternoon, we freshened up the Autographed Photos and World Champion Autographed Photos pages in our Memorabilia Section to reflect some recent additions to our collection. Take a look!
Onyx is back! We've just received first releases in their new LeMans Collection series of 1/43 scale GT cars as raced in the 1998 24 Hours of LeMans. The first arrivals include three different Toyota GT-One's and two Nissan F390 GT1's. A series of Porsche 911 GT1's will follow along with road versions of the Toyota and Nissan.
The detail on this new series is just spectacular, as you can see in the photo above. Check out the entire range HERE.
Updated 5/13/99: We're very excited about a new book about our 'home track' that is scheduled for release in July. 'Road America: Five Decades of Racing at Elkhart Lake' by Tom Schultz ($29.95) chronicles the complete history of road racing at Elkhart, from the early street races through the town and surrounding highways to the events at today's state of the art 4 mile road racing facility at Road America.
We are now accepting pre-orders for Author - Signed copies of 'Road America: Five Decades of Racing at Elkhart Lake' for summer 1999 delivery. We will also announce a 'formal' book signing with Tom Schultz as soon as the book's release has been finalized.
We have acquired limited quantities of two 'sold out' exoto Grand Prix Classics; the driverless examples of Jackie Ickx'x 1970 Mexican Grand Prix winning Ferrari 312B and Jody Scheckter's Tyrrell Ford P34. This will probably be your last chance to acquire one of these exquisite models at a reasonable price.
Updated 5/11/99: The availability status of two of our popular Road Racing Legends Series prints has changed:
The numbered edition of 'Record Performance' by Michael Turner is now sold out. A few Artist Proof copies remain, check HERE for details.
Another Michael Turner print, 'Jim Clark: Indianapolis Champion' is very close to selling out. Less than 20 copies remain. No A/P's are available.
Updated 5/10/99: A collection of out of print Autocourse Annuals came in over the weekend. Check HERE for our current selection.
Updated 5/7/99:Carousel 1's latest release arrived today. It's the Parnelli Jones Watson Roadster that won the Pole Position for the 1962 Indianapolis 500 with the first 150 mph qualifying laps in Speedway history. It's the best looking Carousel 1 Watson Roadster to date, and a bargain at just $99.95.
For information and photos, start HERE.
Updated 5/4/99:Exoto's new Ronnie Peterson Lotus 72 1973 Italian GP winner is now in stock. Photos HERE. Spectacular, as usual.
Is this the last Exoto model to be priced under $150.00? We think so.
A great new F1 picture book arrived today. It's 'F1 Through the Eyes of Damon Hill' with text in Damon's own words and fabulous photos from acclaimed Formula One photographer Keith Sutton. Written after the 1998 season, 'Through the Eyes' includes Damon's exciting Belgian Grand Prix win for Jordan, their first F1 triumph. The best Damon book we've seen. 220 pages, just $29.95.
Updated 4/30/99: We have a very small quantity of the extremely rare 1/43 scale Minichamps Michael Schumacher Ferrari 1998 Launch Version (MS Collection #36) models available for $95.00 each. These models were not imported to the US when originally released. Limited Edition of 3,333 pieces.
Details on the Hard to Find Die Cast page.
Updated 4/28/99: Another new Exoto model is scheduled to arrive at TMC next week. It is the Ronnie Peterson version of their fabulous Lotus 72 Ford Cosworth. This is the John Player Special Lotus 72D as it appeared in the 1973 Italian Grand Prix at Monza, which Peterson won.
It's one of the last new Exoto models to be released at $119.95 and should sell out quickly. Everything else on the schedule is $149.95 and up. Pre-order now!
Updated 4/27/99: CART fans: We're offering a set of 5 Autocourse CART Yearbooks, each autographed by that year's Champion driver. Autographs include Mansell, Unser, Villeneuve, Vasser and Zanardi. Each book in mint condition. We're also offering individual books signed by Vasser and Zanardi.
Check them out HERE.
Updated 4/23/99: As promised, we added a new page in our Slot Car section this afternoon. Today we're featuring a series of Classic Sports Cars from Ninco. The series includes Ferrari 166MM and Testa Rossa sports cars along with a selection of Porsche 356's and Jaguar XK 120's.
Each car comes with at least one extremely jaunty driver figure behind the wheel. Check them out!
Updated 4/22/99: New arrivals from Exoto: The 'driverless' versions of their new 1/18 scale Niki Lauda Ferrari 312T and Jody Scheckter 'six wheel' Tyrrell Ford P34 's. Both are absolutely stunning! You can view photos of each car on their respective pages. The detail on these Exoto models gets better and better!
Updated 4/22/99: Today we added British artist Barry Rowe to the Limited Edition Print section of www.motorsportcollector.com. The print shown here features Nuvolari and Varzi battling during the 1933 Monaco Grand Prix. It is available in a Limited Edition of 500 for $130.00.
For details on the entire range of prints by Barry Rowe, click HERE.