American Sport
When it comes to new
releases, this may be the single most anticipated model Scalextric has offered,
at least in my humble opinion. Finally arriving is the Scalextric Sport Trans-Am
Mustangs in all their American Glory. Were they worth the wait and hype attached
to them? You bet!
The Trans-Am series is very popular here, especially the vintage classes still running events today within certain clubs and organizations. The Historic Trans-Am Group is racing them once again, even with some of the original drivers! Taking the time to visit their site is well worth the trip. I won’t get into the historic detail of the series, but rather devote this space to the model, as it should be. Reference material will be found at the end of this review for those interested in learning more about this great series.
The Scalextric Sport edition of this car is the first release, and for the price, the Sport version is hard to beat. I do not consider the Sport versions to be collectable, on the contrary really, I view them as the line built for the racing enthusiast, the ones who run these cars to their limits in heated competition, and desire a durable car built to last.
For my purchase, I chose the #15 of Parnelli Jones. The display box is very well done, with a brief history of the cars Trans Am series highlights on the inside lid. I have liked this added feature since the Sport F1’s, and it has followed suit here. In addition, as with the F1 model, it includes an extra pair of guides with braid and an optional button magnet.
The markings on my model are what I am starting to refer to as “Scalextric Standard”. They were extremely well done with all markings being very crisp and opaque. I found no color fades or runs, and the clear-coat was even and dust-free. This is what we expect on a 1/32nd scale model, and Scalextric has taken the lead in this area. Glass and interior fit and finish are top of the line. The cars dimensions compared to prototype photos match very well, and I feel Scalextric did an excellent job in re-creating this historic livery.
Tires and wheels were as round and true as you could ask for. The wheels are a little on the shiny side compared to prototype photos, yet look outstanding on the car. This minor detail does not stop you from enjoying the scale appearance of this model at all; at least it doesn’t for me. The tires are of a soft compound with a very light tread design molded into them. However, don’t think for a second these tires do not provide decent grip. They certainly surprised me hugging the track they way they did. In addition, I am not sure if I want to add silicones on these models, as they performed so well, and I personally like the raised white letter markings. Of course, you may want to sand your tires to get them as true as possible, but the ones on this model needed very little, getting only one 10 second session, then we were “off to the races”J
The chassis is a 4 position adjustable bar magnet type, with a round front pocket to utilize the button magnet. This is just about the most flexible design you could ask for. If you don’t care for magnets, simply remove them. Or, if you are a racer that enjoys a milder magnet car like myself, simply move the bar magnet to its center or forward position. Either way, this chassis gives the flexibility to satisfy all enthusiasts.
Power is the standard Scalextric motor wrapped in the familiar Sport wrapper, mounted in the sidewinder configuration. As on many of the latest Scalextric releases, this car is quiet and smooth. For me, nothing flaunts quality like a quiet, smooth-running chassis. This is one of them, and from the first time you pull the trigger, it shows. Of course being the Sport version, a precision ground rear axle and metal bushings are present. Oiling these is mandatory if you desire them to last, just a drop on the inside of each bushing and you are set. Oiling these is no real issue, as I do the same for all my models, plastic or brass bushings.
Acceleration is brisk with smooth braking action found everywhere on my course. Diving into corners deeper is no problem, and feathering the throttle slightly has you through one turn onto the next. This car has balance, a great combination of power and speed, just as the 1:1 version did. It is as fun to watch, as it is to drive! I used 60ohm Parma controllers to test these cars for the closest match to set controllers. I again tried them with 45ohms, and found control to be a little more responsive. Again, some prefer an even lower ohm control, but even those of you with the standard set controllers will find a good balance of acceleration and speed.
Speaking of speed, a new King has been crowned in my humble basement. This car simply is the fastest box stock car I have purchased. The first few laps provided times of 4.6, 4.7, 4.5 and 4.5. This car isn’t even broken in yet, and these times were without the optional button magnet in the front. With the added button magnet, times were brought down to 4.3, 4.4, 4.3, and 4.2! On my 59-½ foot Carrera track, this is excellent time. Some of you might feel the need to add this button magnet in the front, but sometimes speed is not always the most fun, personal preference will decide this, and I applaud Scalextric for including it.
Fun being the name of the game, this car has plenty of it to offer. I have been looking forward to these models for quite some time, and Scalextric has delivered a winner. These cars will provide you with hours of hard, competitive racing, along with excellent scale detail. A great number of us have been asking for more American Muscle, and Scalextric certainly delivered. In a few weeks the Camaro’s will follow, and more liveries are planned for this series. In addition, blank (undecorated) versions are coming as well, for the artist in some of you to create your own.
I can’t recommend this model enough, adding one or two to your current collection is highly encouraged. It was definitely worth the wait!
Harry
As always, feel free to email me at wiseone@yhti.net about this article or just the hobby in general.
Or better still, drop into the Home Racing World Message Forum and let us know your thoughts.
A thanks goes to Slot Car World for providing me with this excellent model.
Some links of interest:
For great reading material, try Trans-Am: The Pony Car Wars 1966-1971 by Dave
Friedman and Parnelli Jones