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Saturday, June 11, 2011

Of metal and plastic

Cars of yesteryears were predominantly made with metal.
Progress and evolution have made this practice not the general rule anymore.
More and more plastics of different compositions have gradually replaced metal.
Good examples are bumpers, car exteriors and interiors...and by that, it's a lot!
The engine bay hosts a lot of these plastics as well.

There also exist, parallels in small scale car miniatures.
Those Lesney Matchbox for example, has metal bases then, now they are mostly in plastic.
I guess plastic will continue to exist side by side with metal, as both have their distinct advantages when used in cars. Whatever the scale is!
I have recently been receptive of the appeal of plastics as well.
They are mainly vintage plastic cars, and I’m delighted to have broaden my horizon.
Diecast metal is a staple in my collection, but I’m open to other materials nowadays.

This pair of VW 411, illustrates the individual charm of each material.
Diecast in 1/66 by Schuco, Made in Germany
Typical of vintage diecast cars are opening features like doors,
and diecast base chassis.
Plastic in 1/64 by Stelco, Made in Germany
Typical of this vintage are the lack of interiors,
and no base chassis!
Both wonderful examples of the curious VW 411