I've tripled the amount of Binate models in my collection.

[berkut76]

Well, it's not that drastic of an increase, I've had just one a month before, and now I have three. My "legion" includes, 1999 VT Gardner's Commodore, Brock's GTR XU-1 Torana, and Dick Johnson's 1981 XD. I've also bought Brock's Targa Monaro, but sent it back. Truth be told, at the similar price point ($80US) the Monaro's level of detail disappoints in comparison to the truly awesome XD. On the other hand, Gardner's VT, which cost me around $60US shipped is a better value compared to Monaro.
For the time being, I'll focus on "vintage" race models from 1970s and 1980s because they show more detail and look unique. So, I've got a couple of wishes for Biante, please release another XE since I'm not going to be able to afford the DJ's one, and I also want to see another VL. Do people know why the current VL (1990 Bathurst winner) hasn't been a big seller? Also, do the current Falcons (XR8) are better in detail than VT/VX?

Sincerely,
Sergey

[Nick Short]

Yes, I'm puzzled by the Bathurst-winning VL still being available. It's a great car, a historic winner, driven by one of Oz's legendary drivers, and it hasn't sold out! Maybe it's because it's really a Pommy car (from Kidlington, my home town!)? British-designed mods, British team, one British driver - I reckon the Aussies are boycotting the model......(ooh, a bit of controversy there).
I would also like to see the VL in other liveries - especially the first time it appeared at Bathurst with Tom Walkinshaw's team. And not collecting V8 Supercars, I just hang out for the classic "big bangers" of the 70s, and they come along just often enough to keep me happy, and not too often so my wife grumbles.

[the_goldie]

I think the VL Bathurst Car is great!!! The detail on this is fantastic and great to see a Holden with such detail. This is actually one of my favourite cars in my collection. I love the chrome on all the gear in the boot.
Not sure why it hasn't sold out?

berkut76 - you think the Gardner car is better than the Brock monaro?! Not sure if you are looking at the same Gardner car that I have but the monaro is alot better detailed than the Gardner (it has a nice livery though). The engine and interior of the Brock monaro is great. I agree with you and ask Biante to bring out more of the cars from the 70's 80's.

Cheers,

[berkut76]

You've misunderstood me Goldie, I think that Gradner's Commodore is better model in terms of value: price-to-quality ratio. At least there is some wiring is present in VT Commodore. On the other hand, while Monaro boasts a great interior, engine compartment is way too "plastic". When budget is limited (thanks god, I haven't bought anything in three months prior to this aquistion) tough choices had to me made. In a battle of XDs, I've picked Johnson over Moffat, and 1972 Brock's Torana LJ took over Monaro. I bet you would have picked Torana over Monaro as well.

Regards,
Sergey

[goxu1]

Sergey - you may be interested in this ebay item 1754219959.
Its a green XU-1 in Phoenix AZ. Its a no reserve auction currently no bids at $15US , although 5 days to go.

regards

Paul

[berkut76]

Thanks for the heads up Paul. I'll keep an eye out for this item.
However, I already have this Torana in Brock's racing livery. So, I'll see where price will be in a few days.

Thank you again Paul,

Sergey

[the_goldie]

Hi berkut76,

Have a look at the wiring inside the Gardner car? Its painted on :(
While the Brock monaro looks good I would always take the 28c torana over the monaro ;) I love the old cars, I think they look great.
Can't wait for some more Brock cars!!! Would love to see some old monaros and some more toranas in race livery.

cheers.

[berkut76]

Just an observation,
It's interesting to see the progression of road racing cars in Australia: The early 1970s Torana is nothing more than a street car with "primitive" cage and racing seatbelt. The realy 1980s XD is a more serious "upgrade" of a street ride with full roll cage, racing seats, and serious suspension. Yet, the street roots are still present in the form of the back seat. By the way, why didn't the mechanics take it out to reduce weight? Finally, 1999 Gradner's Commodore is no-compromises racing beast. Still, I agree with Cameron, the old racers look more charming that the current generation.

Sergey

[Nick Short]

As I understand it the Group C touring cars had to retain their interior trim and seats etc, except the driver's seat. So the classic Bathurst cars all had door trims, centre consoles, carpets, parcel shelves etc - a lot of extra weith to lug around. Still, I expect they found ways to lose it elsewhere without the scrutineers finding out!

[oldxr]

:p Have to agree with you goldie bring on more of the old stuff, this new stuff hasn't got the character of the old moffat and brock cars or the big bangers from the group C days.