Diecast Racing Champions Jada Imports Racers Lexus GS430
CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE
Tuner cars are all the rage. From California to Maine, the automotive youth market has been reborn (see full story in DieCastX magazine) with an import twist. Jada Toys, a company based in the tuner heartland of Southern California, quickly jumped into the die cast mainstream with progressive items under the Dub City and Import Racer banners. These low-cost, 1/24th scale customs helped to establish Jada as a force in the die cast industry.
CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE
The company’s Lexus GS430 diecast model, although stylish, is the poster child for entry-level die cast enthusiasts – aimed more at real-life tuners than to feed the habit of serious die cast collectors. As with all Jada pieces, the exterior finish is way above what is usually seen at an under $20 price point. The candy orange paint is bright and visually addictive. What pulls away from the remarkable color are the massive and intrusive graphic treatments – way too much and over the top. Massive five-spoke star wheels could scale up to be 20 –22 inchers. Opening the front doors of the sedan (rears are cast in) shows off the racing bucket seats, dash-mounted tach, and a center console with television screen. Under the trunk lid is a pair of 12-inch bass boomers and a single chrome platted amp. Under the hood is a one-piece molded engine that is void of detail due to the chrome plating. The advantage here is that the hood doesn’t open very wide – limiting the painful access. Overall, the diecast Jada Import Racer Lexus is not a great item. Although for the price, it looks good on the shelf. This item is best displayed high as the exterior visuals make for quick eye candy. Better things are coming from Jada as it matures into the die cast market and brings entry-level collectors along for the ride.
