In this series I will showcase DLM cars ranging within the 1/64 and smaller. I will be featuring some of my different VW type 2 collections and my 21st model will be the Tomica Volkswagen Type 2 Pickup.
This is also known as the VW double cab. So how did this all started? Based on Bustopia website, after developing the Microbus and Panel Van, Volkswagen realized that there was a strong demand for a pickup as well. Based on the same platform as the other transporter models, the Single Cab pickup was issued first which provided a single bench seat for the driver and 2 passengers up front with a large pickup bed at the rear. Because of the height of the engine’s upright fan shroud, the floor of the bed sat higher than other pickups of the era and to make good use of the space beneath the elevated bed floor, Volkswagen offered optional “tool box” (aka “treasure chest”) compartments with locking doors, that were perfect for storing tools and materials safely and out of the weather.
One of the most unique features of the Volkswagen pickup was that all three sides of the bed were actually hinged “gates” that could be unlatched and folded down to provide a conveniently flat surface that could be loaded without having to lift the cargo up over the sides of the bed.
In November 1958, due to high demand for customized double cab VW pickup made by after-market coach builder Binz, Volkswagen began marketing there own version of a “Double Cab” pickup, and they were instantly successful. Like the Binz “Double Cab”, VW’s Crew Cab pickup was very similar to the Single Cab, but with an extended cab that housed a second bench seat. Since the Double Cab was built on the same platform as the Single Cab, the pickup bed was shortened to compensate for the longer cab size.
Tomica Premier series seems to have started when the Tomica Limited ended around 2013. Some people may think that Tomica Limited is the same with Tomica Limited Vintage or Tomica Limited Neo. Infact this series is usually but probably not always based on regular Tomica but with more detail and rubber tires and realistic looking wheels.
When I bought my first Premier series I noticed the difference is the packaging on the premier is almost similar to the TLV while the TL series has a simple open cardboard black box with clear plastic on all sides. Also TL usually has opening parts but this one does not and instead of rubber tires it is now replaced with plastic. It’s also hard to say whether there is an interior in it or not. Then again I have not seen this model issued on their regular series.
