DNA models a Peel and the company's appeal just keeps getting stronger

DNA Collectibles Peel P50

PRICE: CHF 139.00 (approximately £110.00)
REF NO: DNA00010
SCALE: 1/18

PEEL’s P50 famously hit our TV screens several years ago on BBC's Top Gear when one of the co-presenters, Jeremy Clarkson, got up to some proper mischief once he'd managed to fit his 6'5" frame inside.

The P50 is a three-wheeled microcar originally manufactured from 1962 to 1965 by the Peel Engineering Company on the Isle of Man and was even listed in the 2010 publication of Guinness World Records as the smallest production car ever made. Powered by a 49cc DKW engine, through a three-speed manual transmission, it has no reverse gear but a grab handle at the rear allows the very lightweight car to be manoeuvred physically when required, as very ably demonstrated by Mr Clarkson. Fuel economy is claimed to be around the 100mpg mark, although this obviously depends greatly on the 'load'.

Designed as a city car, it was advertised when launched as capable of carrying "one adult and a shopping bag". The vehicle's only door is on its left side and equipment included a single windscreen wiper and one headlight.

Moving onto this truly epic model by DNA, it is difficult to believe that so much detail has been incorporated on such a tiny model. Being a resincast, the single door doesn't open, of course, but as there is such a large 'glass' area it's easy to see inside. Modelled in the same colour as the car used on Top Gear, it would be easy enough to make up some replica plates to recreate that particular vehicle if desired.

The crispness of the detail is nothing short of astonishing and it certainly makes for an interesting display and guaranteed conversation starter. We particularly like the super realistic knobbly tyres, exactly as they should be.

Amazingly, a new incarnation of Peel Engineering is making a very limited re-run of these incredible vehicles right now. For more information, visit www.peelengineering.com. While you're there, you just might get a little distracted though, as the whole Top Gear 'sketch' is available to view. Be prepared to invest eight minutes of your day - it's hilarious!

So if you fancy one of these, be sure to check out DNA's website to find out more. Those lovely people at DNA have even given us one to give away as a prize too, so turn to page 35 of this issue for your chance to win one of these absolutely amazing models!