Stock #B5992
 

CB's Die Cast Review:  August 25, 2003

100% Hot Wheels
Batmobile™

One of the most noted names in fantasy car history has made its way into the Hot Wheels family.

The Batmobile from the 1989 Warner Brothers full-length feature “Batman” is perhaps the second most famous vehicle to bear that name.  As the primary for of transportation for the Dark Knight in Tim Burton’s gothic-gone-mad version of Gotham, this powerful vehicle was designed for both speed and protection.  Equipped with features such as an onboard computer system, turbo jet thrusters and bulletproof body armor, the Batmobile served the Caped Crusader well in his quest to bring his arch nemesis to justice.

This year signals the beginning of a Bat-explosion of 1:64 scale diecast vehicles.  Playing Mantis has released 1940s and 1960s versions of the comic book Batmobile, as well as the Lincoln Futura concept car upon which the 1960s television version of the Batmobile was based. Mattel is releasing at least three versions of the Batmobile in its basic line First Editions series next year.  This year, Mattel is offering Limited Edition detailed versions of the Batmobile in its 100% Hot Wheels line, the first of which is a replica of the vehicle from the 1989 movie.

The model is of all-metal construction, with a diecast body and chassis.  The body is painted black with a satin finish, while the chassis is unpainted and zinc-plated.  Cast in details on the body are highlighted with silver, while the front marker lights are painted gloss orange and the taillights painted gloss red.  The turbine nose intake and rear jet exhaust nozzle are chromed plastic.  The interior of the cockpit is black plastic and well detailed.  The cockpit canopy is made of clear plastic, with the “non-glass” segments masked and painted black with a satin finish.  The model rides on chrome rims and rubber tires unique to the model, which was crafted in China.

The relief on this Batmobile is very good, and appears to be faithful to the movie version.  The canopy is removable, allowing the cockpit interior to be seen without obstruction.  The only complaint I have is that the canopy is completely removable and not hinged in some way to the body.  The canopy also just rests on the body over the cockpit, and does not snap in securely in any way.  Other than these minor peeves, this version of the 1989 Batmobile is exquisitely made, and a must-have for Batman fans.  Although released in the 100% Hot Wheels line, the model is available only through hobby and mail order outlets, and is limited to 15,000 pieces worldwide.