14 February 2013
|
Hot Wheels Elite Ghostbusters ECTO 1A - Video Review
Our thoughts on the upcoming 1/18 scale model from Hot Wheels Elite ...
Ghostbusters is easily one of the most iconic films of the 80s, mention about "crossing the streams' or ask a fim buff if they are the "gatekeeper" before shouting "he slimed me" is likely to produce a knowing smile from any fan. Along with ghosts and a superb turn from Bill Murray, another star of the film was the Ghostbusters' unique vehicle ECTO 1 - a 1959 cadillac modified with all manner of ghost catching gadgets. In 2011 Hot Wheels Elite produced a superb 1/18 scale replica of ECTO 1 and now it has turned its attentions to the movie sequel for its latest Ghostbusters model: ECTO 1A.
Now, we're not going to get into a debate about the merits of the sequel (mainly because there aren't many...) but we do fondly remember the return of ECTO 1 and that instantly recognisable siren sound so were delighted when we heard Hot Wheels Elite was making a replica. Although you may think that the car in sequel was identical to the original, when you see the models side-by-side, you realise there are actually quite a few changes.
Firstly, there are all manner of new gadgets on the roof, including signs proudly proclaiming "Ghostbusters... we're back", a more detailed green/blue/yellow light system and other hi-tech bits and bobs. On the model all of these are replicated perfectly in plastic and, although they come separately from the main diecast model, they're easily attached. Another nice touch is the inclusion of a Proton Pack rack that can be slotted into the boot (trunk for our American readers).
Other highlights include a superb chrome grille, crisp decals (including the slightly modified Ghostbusters II logo), opening doors/bonnet, nice Goodyear tyres and a fine white finish... as you know, white finishes are often hard to pull off but Hot Wheels Elite has clearly perfected the dark art! Of course, you've got to splash out quite a bit to pick one of these up (it retails at £174!) but for any fan of Ghostbusters or cracking film replicas, we really can't recommend this highly enough - and it certainly makes up for the much rumoured third film, which seems less likely to materialise than Slimer in our office.
There's also a 1/43 scale version, which you can read all about in the April issue of Diecast Collector. Anyway, enjoy the video below, which shows some of the wonderful detail on this great model. Remember, to get the latest collecting news delivered direct to your inbox every two weeks, sign up for our e-newsletter.
Now, we're not going to get into a debate about the merits of the sequel (mainly because there aren't many...) but we do fondly remember the return of ECTO 1 and that instantly recognisable siren sound so were delighted when we heard Hot Wheels Elite was making a replica. Although you may think that the car in sequel was identical to the original, when you see the models side-by-side, you realise there are actually quite a few changes.
Firstly, there are all manner of new gadgets on the roof, including signs proudly proclaiming "Ghostbusters... we're back", a more detailed green/blue/yellow light system and other hi-tech bits and bobs. On the model all of these are replicated perfectly in plastic and, although they come separately from the main diecast model, they're easily attached. Another nice touch is the inclusion of a Proton Pack rack that can be slotted into the boot (trunk for our American readers).
Other highlights include a superb chrome grille, crisp decals (including the slightly modified Ghostbusters II logo), opening doors/bonnet, nice Goodyear tyres and a fine white finish... as you know, white finishes are often hard to pull off but Hot Wheels Elite has clearly perfected the dark art! Of course, you've got to splash out quite a bit to pick one of these up (it retails at £174!) but for any fan of Ghostbusters or cracking film replicas, we really can't recommend this highly enough - and it certainly makes up for the much rumoured third film, which seems less likely to materialise than Slimer in our office.
There's also a 1/43 scale version, which you can read all about in the April issue of Diecast Collector. Anyway, enjoy the video below, which shows some of the wonderful detail on this great model. Remember, to get the latest collecting news delivered direct to your inbox every two weeks, sign up for our e-newsletter.
Content continues after advertisements