Why isn't there....

Hi,

I know I am discussing an overkilled issue. But each time I look at the available 1/24 and 1/25 die cast and plastic models, I ask the same frustrating question over and over again. Over the past 10 years we have been watching how the plastic car kits have been declining (with rare exceptions). But about the flourishing Die Cast? Why the hell do repeat the same plastic models? Why the hell did not any Die Cast or plastic manufacturer make new variants? There are tons of 55' Bel Air available from AMT and Revell, but not a single 210 or 150. I know a 150 is easy to convert from an AMT Bel Air, but the concept is what annoys me. They go on with a new series, the Impala for example, and leave you with a gap in 1966 and 1968-69 models. Any kid would be able to expect that Impala fans would like to have the complete set. If you try to fill in the gaps with Die Cast you will find the same 1967 available from AMT made by Jada.

Isn't that ridiculous?

I hear ya. The only thing I can figure is what it always is. The bottom-line is profit. It must cost a lot to make all these molds then to cast. I guess the Model Co's are only putting out what "they" think will sell good.

But I am with ya. I would love to see a lot of new stuff come out. I would love some older, not so hip 70's -80's cars put out. Some mid-70's Ford LTD's, T-Birds, etc. Just something that isn't the Same thing again with new rims and decals.

Why the hell do repeat the same plastic models? Why the hell did not any Die Cast or plastic manufacturer make new variants? There are tons of 55' Bel Air available from AMT and Revell, but not a single 210 or 150.

Because there typically wouldn't be enough buyers. I'd love to have some off-trim level models, but you and I are probably among the minority. Making a Bel Air hits the widest possible market, whereas a 210 or 150 version would barely cover the costs of changing the model.

And then there are the minor changes that would be necessary not to irritate those of us who know the difference. I've got a few 1965 Mustang models and they all wear "Cobra" valve covers. I've got a Bugatti Royale that is nothing like any of the Royales ever built.

but you and I are probably among the minority. Making a Bel Air hits the widest possible market, whereas a 210 or 150 version would barely cover the costs of changing the model.

Then why did Revell make a 56' Del Ray instead of a Bel Air?

You see, it is inconsisty that no one can explain. Perhaps they themselves do not really know.

Profit is certainly their motivation, or why do they start the job in first place. But wouldn't it make more profit to produce a whole series? Let say a 55-57 Bel Air Sport Cope (which the most popular among the whole chevy line). But no no. There has not been a 55' Bel Air sport Cope untilrecently, nor has ever been an 1956 in 1/25. Only the 57 is there for decades.

Besies, there is a lot of common parts between the three model years. As far as I know the chaiss and the whole power train and the clear parts (except tail and turning lights).

I know we can discuss endlessly here and probably nothing will change.