Well I finally took the plunge. After all the fun some of my friends have been having with recent Rally releases, I figured it was high time that I find out for myself what all the fuss is about.

 But what kind of car should I start with? After shopping around, I noticed this model in the Fantasy World recent releases section and that is all it took. Like some of you, I picked a model based completely on its looks. This Ninco caught my eye, not only because of its striking livery, but the detail that Ninco has included. And there is detail to be sure, from the co-driver to the tampo markings, Ninco has really produced a looker.

Eagerly removing this model from its case, I was just taken in by its detail. For some, these colors will not make the grade, but I can't help it, I found the livery to be simply magnetic. Tampo markings were crisp and opaque, with no runs or fading. The same can be said for the generous clear-coat Ninco has applied as I found no discrepancies. The finish on my model is one that scale enthusiasts would definitely appreciate.

Ninco is not really famous for being heavily into the detail department, but in this case, they certainly made a grand effort. Usually that is because this model, like others before it, utilize the half-tray interior design. The large NC-2 motor in its inline configuration takes up plenty of space on this model, and being a smaller car already, there is not much room to work with, hence Ninco's use of the half-tray design. However, in this case it's all here, from the roll bars, spare tire, to the drivers. The co-driver checking his chart is a nice touch, and just adds to the scale realism of this model. This does prove that detail can be achieved even in a half-tray interior, and I have to commend Ninco on this effort.

Wheels and tires are of acceptable quality, although I am no real fan of ribbed tires. But in this case, they are an almost perfect match for its intended racing use. Some sanding was required however to get the tires as even as possible, and my right front tire had a small, but significant chunk missing from it. It was not large enough to really effect driving however, so in this case I was lucky. Hopefully, other models are free from this blemish.

3 screws attach the body to its chassis, and disassembly was a snap. Up front you find Ninco's spring loaded guide system, which acts as sort of a shock absorber, allowing the guide braid to maintain contact with the rails in the event of uneven surfaces. However our track is about as flat and bump-free as I could build it, so I really cannot comment on its overall effect. At least in our tests, the amount of tension in these guides really do not add up to enough to have made any significant difference in handling or lap times. Certainly there are modelers that disagree, so in the end, you must draw your own conclusions.

Next is the familiar Ninco button magnet located just forward of the motor. This magnet is quite powerful, yet given its placement on this car, it does not cause the "dragging" effect of a heavy magnet car. In any event, the ample NC-2 motor is present to provide you with plenty of power. Sitting in its inline drive configuration, this motor provides plenty of punch for those that may need it. Brass bushings surround a sturdy axle assembly, and the gearing was smooth and trouble free.

It was finally time for the track test, and I have to say, this test really brought a smile to our faces. For lack of better words at the moment, I shall quote my 15 year old son: "This car is a BLAST!" So there you have it folks, straight from the mouth of an expert in having fun. And it is fun to drive. I must emphasize the word DRIVE, because for those of you who actually ENJOY driving and not simply escorting your favorite magnet around the track, driving is what you will have to do.

Even with the strong Ninco button magnet, this car will simply tail-out at will with a good recovery time. Given the short wheelbase and almost top-heavy look to it, I was surprised at the cornering we achieved. In and out of each corner we were sliding in style, braking lightly and letting the car tail out a little, then feather the throttle and watch her fish tail into the straights. Lap times on our 59 1/2 foot Carrera track were not blistering fast, but then again, pure speed does not always dictate satisfying racing. Times were an average of 5.8, with a few laps in the 5.4, 5.5 window. However, the times here are almost meaningless for us, as the challenge of piloting this car was all the reward we could ask for.

It has been quite awhile since I raced a car like this, but if my model is any indication of the rest of the field, then I may have to start making room on the slot shelves. I am living proof that you don't have to be a fan of the 1:1 series to enjoy this slot car, and I have to advise anyone looking for a satisfying driving challenge to get one.

Harry

As always feel free to email me at wiseone@yhti.net about this review or just the hobby in general. Or better yet, stop in our message forum and give us a holler:)

Thanks goes again to Fantasy World Toy & Hobby for providing me with this sample!