This Hakosuka is a remarkable casting from Matchbox. Surely, it will also be a sought-after piece, it being a classic Japanese car. But, there are other reasons why this car is desirable.
First, this may possibly Matchbox’s first foray into the JDM world. First, because (to the best of my knowledge) the C10 generation was only sold in Japan.
Second, the model is well-executed. Fans will love the crisp surf line on the rear fender, as well as the fender mirrors. Tampo work is top-notch as well. No misaligned printing, unlike those of HW. If you look closely, there are chrome trim tampos on the grille and headlight surround...
... as well as the space between the pairs of taillights. Also, look at the chrome trim Tampo on the center of the trunk lid. It says “Skyline” too!
Even the base is detailed.
If those are not enough, the interior got the same attention as well. In fact, as the Lamley blog said, there are two interior variations. This particular piece has the harness/turbo engine interior.
Third, the model chosen, in true Matchbox fashion, was not the sportiest trim level but a more pedestrian GT-X coupe. Unlike Hotwheels-who almost always goes for the fastest and sportiest, or modified version of the car they are miniaturizing, Matchbox goes for a more restrained and stock approach. They focus on what would ordinarily be seen plying down the road. For instance, Matchbox made an E46 328i coupe, instead for the M3.
This focus on stock, pedestrian cars brings us very well into a Hotwheels Hako comparison. While both are 2000 GT-X coupes, HW made a modified racing version, which mimicks the GT-R. Thus, it sports fender flares, spoilers and a roll cage.
Also, the MBX Hako is smaller than the HW.
In all, this is a must-have for any collection. Not just because JDM, but also because it is a great execution of a remarkable car.
It is not perfect, though. First, the taillight tampos are incorrect. The red outline should have been chrome trim, and the red lenses should have been inside the trim. Second, the model will look better with a a silver base.
Bonus: with another classic coupe.
