From Zeitschrift, October 2002

Hello again, a big thanks to Kimm Garland for helping out with last months edition of the Toy Department, we know he’s been stretching things lately. I am sure most of you were drooling at the sight of some of those drag buses.

We are now well and truly on the home stretch to Christmas, so now is the time to start dropping those hints, and paying up on those lay-by dockets, yes including the ones hiding in the secret concealed compartment of your wallet.

This month I have an image of the Sheriff’s mini cars Kombi, which are in limited numbers. They are selling for $29.95 from Sherriff’s at Parramatta. This model is destined to increase in value similar to the Tomica Beetles Sherriff’s released some 15 years ago.

Hot Wheels have released a new model Beetle cup VW in yellow.

Secondly this orange Matchbox W12 project promo car.

Auto model Beetles, these are out in about six colours and are priced under $10.00. They also come in a Perspex display box. Thanks to Brian Walker for this months image.

Lastly this Hot wheels “Barret Jackson” limited edition orange split window (next page) is a gem if you have one. Barret Jackson are know as leading Auctioneers for the past 30 years in the US. Good luck finding one.

Sometimes I think model VW’s are destined for us collectors. Recently my good neighbour John, (a loyal Holden supporter) recently returned from a business trip to Bali. He came across a hand carved model Beetle, which he thought I would appreciate. (At this point remember it’s the thought that counts)

Well unfortunately the bad news was that it was ceased by customs due to an alleged borer infestation (commonly known as a bug in ya bug or was it just a VW Bora)

Coincidently the following day I visited my sister who said she had been meaning to give something from her trip to Bali, well you guess it, a hand carved VW Beetle.

Tony Bezzina

Part 49

Ask any toy car collector today what car/toy is at the top of their list and many will tell you it is the Hot Wheels VW Bus. Designed by Phil Reihlman, a Hot Wheels designer, back in the middle 90’s. Its original design was an 11 windowed splitter with a sunroof, but as we all know by the time it made the shelves of our supermarkets it was a blown V8 panelvan.

Since it’s inception in the 1996 First Edition Series it has been one of the most popular to be released since the red line series from the 60’s and 70’s. Love it or hate it, this VW Bus demands attention. Its desirability has made it a premium choose for promotional and premium releases and has sold out in all cases. It must be noted, that this vehicle was originally designed to be used for promotional purposes only and was released in 1996 as a first edition in limited numbers. Though it is believed to have reached 100k mark in production by now, as there have been 2 editions of the first version. First being 1996 and the second being 1998.

The VW Dragbuses popularity made it a top choice for promotional and premium releases, and it has sold out in all cases. It should be noted that this design was originally intended for promotions only, however a somewhat limited amount was released in the 1996 FE line. Let's take a closer look at this timeless design by Phil has made it a top choice for promotional and premium releases, and it has sold out in all cases.

All Tune and Lube Bus. The first promotional release of the VW Dragbus was in 1997, for a business in the states, it was black with flames, though the company was never mentioned on the bus nor the packaging. The production run of this bus has been rumoured to have reached 50k.

Mattel Employees Xmas Bus. Issued to employees in 1997. A white pearl bus with Seasons Greetings to the Team tampo’d on the sides. One of the very rarest of them all and considered one of the most valuable dragbuses ever produced. Only 1500 were produced. Valued at several thousand US.

J.C. Whitney Bus. Also released in 1997 was the very sort after in red and silver with a dirty black front and production of that bus was 10k only.

Custom Car Designer Bus. 1997 issued with a CD Rom with no tampos. The idea was you printed your own. This bus is not considered collectable. Production run unknown, approximately 50k.

Blue Angels Bus. Released in 1998 was, Bright Blue with an F18 in the side of the bus. This was the first of four military themed buses to be released. The production run of this bus was 20k.

Jiffy Lube Bus. Released in 1998 was the, bright yellow with a big no. 13 on the side, though there was no mention of Jiffy Lube of this bus only on the blister pack. The production run of this bus was 50k. there was a tampo error with this production run, the HVW’s logo reads Hot Whee on some instead of Hot Wheels.

Hot Wheels Internet I. 1998 was the first bus to be offered exclusively by Mattel over the Internet and is valued round the same money as the JC Whitney bus. (about $500.00 Australian) Great detail, in black and gold, and not sold on a blister card only in a baggie. Production run of this bus was 10k.

Hot Wheels Internet II. 1998 same as the first Internet bus only blue and black, very detailed. Again sold exclusively by Mattel and not sold on a blister card only in a baggie and a production run of 7k. Valued higher than the first.

Hot Wheels Internet III. 1999 much different tampo this time, still very detailed and was issued with a gold Sojourner Mars Rover. Sold exclusively by Mattel and only in a baggie, not on a blister card. This bus took till 2002 to sell out and had a production run of 25k.

Van de Kamps Bus. Released in 1998 was bright green with Fish O Saurs tampo’d down the side of it. The production run of this bus was 50k and could only be bought from VDK’s themselves.

Thunderbirds Bus. The second military released in 1998 with 4 F16 Falcons on the side, in Blue. Production run of this bus was 30k.

Navy Seals Bus 1999. The third military bus to be released teal colour with Navy Seals on the sides. This had a production run also of 30k.

Golden Knights Bus. The fourth and final bus in the military theme. Very detailed paint job. Production run of this bus was 30k.

Malleco Tower Cranes Bus 1999. Also referred to as the High Rise Express. A deep red finish with High Rise Express in gold on the rear of the bus. Very limited run of 7k.

Collectors Guide Bus 1999. This bus was far more popular than the first CD Rom bus. Painted in Spectraflame Magenta, excellent paint job, and a very interesting CD Rom. Also featured red line wheels. This bus is not considered collectable. Production run unknown, at least 50k.

15^th Annual Convention Bus 4k run. This bus was set up as a 6k-piece run and a mistake was discovered after 2k were already made. This is the second bus to run reproduction type red line tyres. The variation is in the flamed logo on the side, making it a very rare bus. This was only sold to ticket holders at the convention.

Mattel Vendors Operations Asia Bus 1999. Considered the rarest of the production run buses, and the most valuable bus ever produced. Valued at up to $4000.00 US. Gold plated with water slide decals not Tampos. Production run of this bus was 100 pieces only and issued only at a convention by invitation.

15^th Annual Convention Bus 2k run. One of the rarest buses of all, same as the above mentioned convention bus with the logo variation.

Penske VW Bus Black. First issued in 2001 and the first bus to be produced with five spoke wheels. Sold only over the Internet and sold out before production had been completed.

Penske VW Bus Silver. Second in a run of three colours from Penske, same five spoke wheels. Again sold out before production had finished.

M.A.C.E. Club VW Bus. The Midwestern Air Cooled Enthusiast Club got together with Mattel and produced this bus in 2002. Production run of 25k sold out before production had been completed.

Flying Customs Bus. Issued by Hotwheels collectors.com in May 2002, sold out in one day to the red line club. Full chrome body, chassis and roll cage. Production run of 10k.

Hot Wheels Collectors .com Bus. Issued by the administrators of the web site www.hotwheelscollectors.com in 2002. This is one of the sharpest looking buses for a while, with it chrome appearance it is very reminiscent of the chrome cars of the 70’s. Production run of 5k pieces.

Phil Riehlman 10^th Anniversary. Only available at the 2^nd Hot Wheels Nationals in Virginia. 2002. This beautiful bus is finished in Spectraflame Orange. Production run of 5k.

Phil Riehlman 10^th Anniversary. Same as the Orange bus only in Spectraflame Blue. Production run of 10k.

Liberty Promotions Code 3 Blue wing. Issued as a memorial of the September 11 tragedies. All proceeds going to 4 different charities. Issuing price was $75.00 US. Limited run of 1500 pieces.

Liberty Promotions Code 3 Red wing. Issued as a memorial of September 11 tragedies. All proceeds going to 4 different charities. Issuing price was $75.00 US. Limited run of 500 pieces.

This a complete list of the run of Hot Wheels VW Dragbuses to date.

Cheers, Chief.

Part 48

From Zeitschrift, August 2002

		Hello again, I recent found myself a set of Johnny Lightning (JL) series I VW models. These I have illustrated here. The Kombi’s are my favourite especially the green pick up. Notice the Porsche chrome wheels. You may think that this in keeping with the 70’s & 80’s cal look, but it is actually the old generic JL wheels with broad tyres. These have been criticized by some who prefer the stamped steel rims with VW hubcaps, and slicker rubber tyres. These preferences have been acknowledged by the following JL series II models, which include a green samba bus and orange pickup. You will notice they come with fact collector cards, if you dare open the blister pack. Thanks to John Taimen for the images.

In previous articles we have seen a variety of Barbie doll cars. This time I have this US version of a Golf convertible. In the past we have seen the new beetle concept and Kombi camper. These cars attract big money if kept in good condition in years to come. I recently saw a Barbie red Ferrari that was mint in box still unassembled, selling for $200.

I recently had the opportunity to speak with Chris from Sherriff’s mini cars at Parramatta. Mr Sherriff would like us to know that he has in stock limited edition Matchbox Kombis with the shops logo & web address on them. They are boxed and are priced at $29.95. These are strictly a limited edition of 150 pieces, 50 for the US and 100 for Australia. Jeff would also like to reminded club members of the availability of 10% discount on purchases, on production of club membership details. Sherriff’s will also keep us advised of any new arrivals.

	Thanks to Kimm Garland this month we have some images of the previously mentioned Hotwheels drag bus and pickup. I have been waiting patiently for the Pickup. It’s not what I imaged. I was expecting some straight looking split pick up, I wasn’t expecting the 747 engine in the back!

Any way that’s all for now, next month I will be having break, and so for spring and to celebrate the 50^th edition of the T/D we will be having a surprise guest writer.

Tony Bezzina

Part 47

From Zeitschrift, July 2002

Hello again, Tomica of Japan has been instrumental in the making of fine VW models. This month we feature this ‘70s model green Golf. It was one of a wide range of colours and other VW models such as Kombi, Beetle in the 1/56^{th &} 1/64^th scale. If you are lucky to have all the colours and in the three models you would have a fine collection.

	The next Golf is a ‘78 Monte Carlo rally version (above) and custom Herbie Golf complete with matching surf boards from Hotwheels.

This red caddy camper version or what ever, I have no idea about, I suppose it would sleep 1.5 persons OK.

For this months rare and unusual this Suki Karmann Ghia and Kombi ..or is it a Kombi? Notice it’s a big window kombi but also a roof window bus. But look at the window style. Looks to me like a bit of a cross between split, bay & Comer van. If any one has any idea of the background we would be interested to know more about it.

Steve from Mobile Model Cars & Toys has also contacted me. He has available the newly arrived Hotwheels Kombi pickup in two tone red and new drag bus both in 1/18 scale. You can contact Steve on 95435364. Mobile Model Cars & Toys are also VW National sponsors.

Matchbox have released a VW Concept Microbus beating the VW factory by about 3 years.

What’s New? I recently came across some new 1/28^th scale 1966 Karmann Ghia’s from Sunny Side. They come in a range of 6 colours. This is not a bad model for about $5. Detail is very good and they are made under licence from Volkswagen AG.

You should have no problem finding these at your local markets.

Alternatively listen carefully; I will only say this once. In Sydney CBD four shops from McDonalds on the corner of Park & Pitt St, there is a $2 dollar shop (but they have stuff over $2) Anyway go into the back right corner of the store, if you find yourself amongst some lingerie, get out your in the wrong $2 dollar shop! It’s the one next door. Here you will find your Karmann Ghia, tell the owner that I sent you and I can guarantee you it will make no difference what’s so ever!

Tony Bezzina

Part 46

From Zeitschrift, June 2002

Hello again. This month I would like to thank all our readers who have recently contributed to the Toy Department. The club has received numerous e-mails in support of the T/D.

People from our Gold Cost to California. Enthusiasts who wait in anticipation for the next edition of the T/D. The funny thing is even though I write this column, I too wait in eagerness!

For those of you that enjoy reading from our website, we are now on to our 46^th edition, the site is currently being updated to accommodate this.

Thank you to Paul Gordon who kindly forwarded numerous images of Golf models some of which we feature this month. Let me assure you that the Toy Department has something interesting for everyone for months to come!

We shall begin with some great ’70 model Golfs. This plastic version from Finland is a great example, maybe except for the fluoro green colour. I remember as youngster this being my favourite colour car, some of you may recall the fluorescent green Holden Torana’s. (I’m glad I didn’t buy one!)

This olive green one is more like it. I’m not sure of the scale but it looks big. Notice the detail, including the rear mudflaps.

Solido makers of fine Model cars also released these two red and yellow examples some years ago.

For our Audi enthusiast we have even thought of you this month with this super fast remote control A4 model.

Each month we will try and feature something very rare and unusual like this tin plate Karmann Ghia, very rare indeed.

What’s new? Welly have released some more split window kombis. These 1/37 scale diecast models have improved so much from the earlier versions with their unsightly graphics.

A lot of this has to do with permission from Volkswagen AG to produce these for the open market. It’s Volkswagen way of ensuring that if some one wants to produce a VW model and badge it then, it has to meet certain standards and criteria.

Lets take a close look at these models and compare them with earlier versions. Firstly a better scale, almost a 1/43. The unsightly graphics removed and replaced with a great two-tone colour scheme. They are Green, orange, blue, grey, yellow & red.

The top half is made of metal and the below is plastic but is painted rather than plain plastic. This certainly gives the effect that the whole model is diecast, because you handle it from the top and you look down on top of it. Believe it or not that’s smart engineering.

Next look at the hubcaps, they have VW insignias. Also it’s a window bus. Appropriate barn doors rather than a sliding door on a split window. Notice the tail-lights and nose badge, finished off with a muffler and tail pipe.

One criticism is the size of the door hinges, but otherwise some great improvements on this model.

Last but not least one of my favourites the Kombi split window Y2K Johnny lightning. These models come in so many versions, but sadly are very rare in Australia. We will have to resort to our friends abroad particularly in the USA.

Tony Bezzina

Part 45

From Zeitschrift, May 2002

It seems that as each year passes the more of us with the passion for scale models emerge at the VW Nationals. This year was no exception. It was good to meet up with everyone and share a yarn over something new.

Thankyou to the Toy Department reader who will kindly forwarded us images of some early Golf models. We will be feature some more in the approaching months.

While at the Nationals I was able to speak briefly with Steve from Mobile Auto Models & Toys he advised that Hotwheels would soon release 1/18 scale red pickup. Mobile Auto Models & Toys are also sponsors of the VW Nationals, and Steve will keep us up to date with any new arrivals.

I recently came across something different. For those of you who are also model train enthusiasts. Marklin have produced a diesel locomotive with Volkswagen AG inscription on the side. It pulls a two level car transporter which is filled with Brekina 1/87 scale VW’s . These include beetles, notchbacks, and fastbacks, including type 3 station wagons. A great model, but doesn’t come cheap at just under $500

Hongwell model cars are the new talk of scale model cars in Europe at the moment. They are rumoured to emerge into the Matchbox and Hot wheels market. These models are about the same scale as the Husky models from years ago. But the detail is exceptional. I picked up these two of these 23 window split kombis at the Nationals. Look out for them and see other versions on the Internet.

Also you may recall those Barbie doll concept cars, well Mattel have released three new colours, lime green, purple & silver for those that want the whole colour range. Similarly Fisher Price have out a similar model only half the size but for that you get a doll thrown in!

Finally these two young lads were reminiscing on the past 14 years at the Nationals. Agreeing to disagree whether thou shall or shall not put eyelids on thou beloved kombi.

Part 44

From Zeitschrift, VW Nationals issue April 2002

This month we feature some rare bay window kombi models. The first is a green camper with sliding door. Its originality is unknown but my guess is it was made in either Hong Kong or China. There are no makings underneath. It looks like about 1/17 scale.

This red plastic kombi also in 1/17 scale also has no identification of where it was made. However “Hoover” is inscribed underneath. It is battery operated with bump & go action. I have heard two other versions in an ambulance and police were also made. If any one has any knowledge of the country of origin please drop me a line.

The green beetle I recently picked up for $5. It is diecast made in Hong Kong.

I would like to feature some Golf models in the future particularly the late 70’s model. So if you can help with some images it would be great. (Ron I know your reading this)

Anyway that’s all for now. Have a safe Easter break, and I hope to see you at the Nationals.

Tony Bezzina

Part 43

	Welcome to another toy department. This month I have some real cool images of the buses and bugs collection from Hotwheels. To my surprise I did not know that there was an earlier prototype collection, which are as rare as hens teeth. This is the version you are likely to find. You will see that the buses open up and they are made lower to the ground. Hopefully we will see other variations from Hotwheels in the future. This Easter Woolworths supermarkets (Safeway Victoria) will be selling more bugs in tiny tins. This time called Easter buggies. These will be available from the 11th of February, and will come in colours blue/grey, gold, & maroon. They will be priced from $3.99 and available to Easter or until sold. (Thank you Carl) Kintoy of China has made a 1/25 scale Audi TT roadster with a surfboard on the roof. These you will find in various colours at your local markets from $ 4.

	Finally thanks to Brian Walker we have these fine images of the latest Hotwheels beetle in matt brown and the Matchbox new beetle in black, which is #60 in the series.

Tony Bezzina

Part 42

From Zeitschrift, February 2002

This month I thought we would feature the road Legend microbus again. I like the green because it’s my favourite colour.

I also picked up one of these cool surfboards, which are great 1/18-scale replicas of the real thing. They look good on your 1/18 scale Kombi or Beetle. You can pick one up from K Mart for $11 complete with leg rope.

Road legend has now a further model of the ’62 microbus, but now with a rag top sunroof. At first I thought OK, looks better than the plastic version. But to my surprise it an operational one as well. This version comes in Dark green and red, I choose the green.

Siku have released some Audi TT models. This one in polished silver is a roadster. Has any one seen, heard or have a model of the new Microbus concept?  Please let the Toy Department know.

You may remember some time ago that I said that my dream was to one day own a Barbie size bay window Kombi. Well here it is. There’s only one thing I don’t own it. Its owner is reluctant to part with it having only recently acquiring it from the US.  I also suspect he keeps its under his bed at night…I don’t blame him either.

Part 41

From Zeitschrift, January 2002

Welcome to another year of the Toy department. As promised I have featured the Maisto model kombi with VW in tow. Of course I have removed the red super bug (sorry) and replaced it with this nice oval that’s been sitting around in a paddock. I am sure you seen this in real life many times before.

Most of us would be aware of last year’s Hot wheels Bugs N Buses release. Nice set. I haven’t got mine yet, and when I do I afraid it will have to remain unopened. I have seen these priced from $79 to $105.

For those of us who collect Matchbox and other blister packs models, and prefer not to open the packs. I have a great idea for displaying your collection. These plastic strip hangers are just ideal. You can hang about 12 models on them. These you have seen before in supermarket isles with the odd tea strainer or sink plug hanging from them.  So get to know your super market manager well, and I am sure he could spare you some.

Recently I came across a set of fire emergency vehicles at Big W. They are made by Kentoys in China and are made of plastic.  It fascinates me that this set, which includes the latest model Land cruiser, Volvo fire truck, and modern helicopter, also included a 50’s model 1/80 scale split window red kombi!!  I am pretty sure these manufacturers are having a little lend of us….any way I bought the set which cost $12.

Last month we spoke about the generation 2 kombi club of Germany, and it looks like the club is about to release some Wiking, Brekina, & Cursor models available about April 2002. You can visit their site at www.bulli.org

Tony Bezzina

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