Welcome to The Big Twenty as we explore on die cast larger than 1/43. Ok so I have another T2 to show but while the previous T2 I posted is a pickup with a ladder, this one is a nice bus.
The second generation of the Volkswagen Type 2 (T2) was introduced in late 1967. It was built in Germany until 1979. In Mexico, the Volkswagen Kombi and Panel were produced from 1970 to 1994. Models before 1971 are often called the T2a (or “Early Bay”), while models after 1972 are called the T2b (or “Late Bay”).
I previously bought a couple of 1/24 VW T1 (first generation) manufactured by M2 Machines which were nicely detailed VW bus that had metal chassis which I hopefully will feature them soon. I figured it would be nice if M2 did the T2 as well.
Well I found out that Welly did a 1/24 T2 but you won’t find this brand in any Target or Walmart. You can only get it online and with shipping it was becoming an expensive item.
Thanks to stores like Rite Aid, I found the Welly 1/24 1972Volkswagen Type 2 bus sans the box. But with their price being less than $10.00, it was a no brainer for me to pick this up even when I am particular about having a box included with my die cast.
For an inexpensive model, Welly did a fairly good job with the detail as it does have separate headlights, turn signals, side mirrors and wipers plus a lowered antenna besides the driver side.
One of the working features is the sliding door. To open it, there is a lever beneath the chassis that you pull out to move the door outward so you can slide it back. The front door does not open and the doors handles are molded with the body. The chrome hubcaps does have some imperfections but it’s something I could live with.
One other working feature is the opening tailgate and it also comes with separate taillights. The detail on the interior is basic as everything is molded in black including the rear spare tire but it does include stickers on the gauges up front. The engine cover does not open. I am not fond of black interior as it is hard to photograph the detail if it can be seen.
There is only a fair amount of detail on the plastic chassis.
Majority of the roof is made of plastic. Most likely to cut cost.
Overall unless you want to spend a fortune looking for a high end equivalent (which I have not found so far), this will be your best bet of owning one for now.