[REVIEW] Lesney Matchbox 39b Pontiac Convertible

It’s that time again. I’ve been on the road a bit this week, but got back with just enough time to post a Sunday review. This time, it is Matchbox 39b - the model which replaced the 39a Ford Zodiac seen in the previous Matchbox review. This model was introduced in early 1962, and remained in the lineup until 1967. It was made in a number of variations, in this unusual metallic violet color, or more often seen in yellow. Mine is an early production variant, an early D box model likely made in 1962. It shows off the violet color well, along with the silver wheels and red steering wheel:

This is a model of a 1960 Pontiac. I don’t think anyone is certain if it is meant to be a Bonneville or Catalina, as they were very similar save for trim. It seems to have Catalina detail. Like most Lesney era models, true scale is unknown, but I estimate this to be around 1:70. The real car was not small, and the model is fairly petite. It features excellent proportion and casting detail for something of this era and size, not to mention the price point:

Nothing opens, as is typical for this era. You might notice a tiny crack in the windshield - common for this model, often seen even in mint in box examples - a design issue.

Front and rear feature more sharp detail:

Undercarriage typical of the era:

Lucky enough to live in a nice original box:

Like the 39a which was seen 2 weeks ago, this is another little gem in my collection. Not an extreme rarity, but one pretty enough to be proud of.