Customer Reviews

Speed Racer Shooting Star diecast model car 1:18 die cast by Ertl

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I purchased this because I grew up on speed racer and it reminded me of my youth. I was not disappointed. This car is a perfect three dimensional representation of the car in the animated series.

I have been a Speed Racer fan since kid-dom in the early 70's thanks to St. Louis UHF Channel 30 (KDNL).

I was thrilled recently to order and receive the beautiful die-cast replica of Racer X's car, the Shooting Star by ERTL.

There is so much to like about this item with only a couple criticisms.

First, the good:

1) The entire exterior shell, doors, trunk, etc. is solid die-cast metal. A VERY hefty piece.

2) The classic, beautifully aggressive-looking body design.

3) Nicely detailed engine, and cockpit.

4) Front tires are movable via steering wheel; all wheels spin.

5) Spring-loaded, retractable periscope in driver's side fender. I never saw the Shooting Star used under water. May just be an added 'bonus' feature to be comparable to the Mach 5 model.

6) Hood raises to expose engine.

7) Driver & passenger doors open.

8) Telescoping "claw arm" extends at front of car via sliding lever underneath. Again, never saw this feature used in any of the classic cartoon episodes.

9) Both seat backs movable.

10) Beautifully painted in yellow & black enamel; number 9 on doors & hood are cartoon accurate.

Only three criticisms: These are not deal-breakers in any case. Just minor annoyances with an otherwise beautiful collectible:

1) The claw arm is very delicate. Should be used with care and for demonstration/display only. Not for play!

2) Ditto the movable steering wheel. Move with care.

3) The packaging is VERY sturdy, but at the same time VERY tedious to open & unpack. The box flaps have tabs that are very tightly inserted into the box sides and have to be pried out very carefully if you want to avoid creasing or tearing the box; The car is fastened to a heavy gauge plastic base by 3 phillip's head screws. On the upside, though, the base can be used as a display stand and to prevent the car from rolling off a shelf.

Don't let these criticisms put you off buying this. It is a beautiful collectible that any Speed Racer aficionado would be proud to display and a perfect companion to the gorgeous Mach 5 model also by ERTL.

See my review of the Mach 5 as well!