Matchbox Monday concludes 2024 Batch L

Christmas is over. I hope everybody received some lovely gifts, and spent quality time with their loved ones. But, as soon as 1 event is done with, another comes right along. New Year! There are only 7 days from one until the other, so barely time to get back into the swing of doing anything. I did manage to get in a new report. And, as it is a New Year this week, of course I had to continue with new additions. And, as I began the L batch of the basic range before Christmas, I am finishing it off just before the end of the year. Mind you, I still have quite a few more 2024 items to talk about. I won't be looking at 2025 models' blogs until February time. Especially as some of them are so large that I had to split them. As I mentioned with the first part of this batch, 12 was too much for me to go through in 1 go, so I did 6 before, and the other 6 come along now. I was completely random in my choices for each of the reports. No lumping things together. Which is why I tackled one of the Teslas in the last "new" report, and the other one....

....now! This is the MB1280 Tesla Model Y. Taking the number 3 slot in the basic range for 2024, this model comes in a simple metallic blue.

The Model X I reported on in the first half was black, and had the SpaceX theme. This was because it is a real vehicle. They use Model X cars to ferry people around, and the model was a replica of one. However, as far as I can tell, it is only the Model X that gets used. So, I don't expect to see anything like that with the Model Y. I am wondering if we will see a police livery on it. Has anybody seen the Swiss Polizei look for it? White with orange striping and Polizei? Looks cool. US police models tend to have the bull bars on the front, but European ones? Nope. Sure, there will be a missing light bar if they make a police unit, but we have seen that done before, and I would live with it. Because, let's face it, there are only so many colours that Tesla have in their portfolio. And, unless Matchbox is able to make some non-traditional Tesla colours, this may run out of options soon. But, for now, blue has not been done on the Model Y.

Sporting simple front and rear tampo printing is what we would expect of these little recreations of their real cars, and they can't go wrong there. So, for now, I am still giving this one a 10 out of 10. How could I not?

It has only been with us for 3 years, but has already had a handful of outings. The debut 2022 was also in a 12-pack, which arrived before the single one did. It came in dark red.

The 2023 outing was off-white, which sometimes came out quite creamy.

It was also in the MBX Electric Drivers 5-pack that year, and came in dark grey with a "Zero Emissions" licence plate. Important that bit.

Because it was also in the Tesla 20th Anniversary 5-pack this year in dark grey. But, this had a Tesla logo licence plate.

Which is one of the things I was alluding to when I mentioned so few official colour options. We already have 1 of them doubled up. Aside from the different licence plate, there were a few other small differences. The window tint is slightly different, the front Tesla logo was the opposite, and the wheels changed their colour.

Here's another thing. The MB1286 Tesla Model X debuted in this blue look in the 2022 range.

And, it is funny how the smaller Model Y has been shrunk to a larger size than the mid Model X.

And every look on the Model Y has been done on the Model X.

So, this does mean we should expect a black Model Y at some point. However, I very much doubt they will do the SpaceX liveried one on a Model Y.

The MB1367 '22 Porsche Macan S gets a regular outing in the basic range for the first time. It comes in a lovely orange look in the MB11 slot.

As we know, Porsche has their "Paint to Sample" colour option, which means that you can order their cars in literally any colour you want, in any shade. The more you are willing to spend, the finer the options. However, I would say this is pretty much the Gulf Orange look. Which is one of their more basic options. And it looks fantastic. I love the vibrant style on display here.

Coming with the usual front and rear tampo, and getting those rear lights to wrap around like that, I could not ask for more. The gunmetal wheel hubs work well here as well. I think it is better than simple chroming. Clear windows and black interior? Yeah, there is nothing I could have asked for to be added to a basic release. This is a perfect 10 from me.

As you might remember, it debuted as a Super Chase in 2023. The only casting to date to debut in that guise. I wonder if they will ever do another Super Chase debut casting?

I'm very much looking forward to seeing what they have in store for this one in the future.

The MB1177 '16 Ram Flatbed returns to the basic range for the first time in 3 years. It sports the recurring Matchbox Construction theme in the MB23 slot.

I am guessing this was inevitable. This theme has exploded across the Matchbox range over the last 2 years. It is hard to think it only began in 2023, and already we have so many. This is something that the team are actively pushing, as the construction theme itself is something that will be highlighted further in 2025. As was pointed out at the 2024 Gathering, the 2025 basic range is being expanded from 100 to 125 models, and the 4 segments are increasing to 6. City, Adventure, Road Trip and Showroom were the 4. Construction and Rescue are being added. So, this does mean more construction themed models, and with 3 brand-new construction style castings (a dump truck, mini dumper and the GMC Topkick, which I am guessing will fit in perfectly, as well as a new Backhoe in the Working Rigs), this is further solidifying their shift to push this theme more.

So, in regard to this particular construction vehicle, I cannot fault it. I love a recurring theme. They have got me with that one. And, this is exactly how I would expect them to do this. I am not the biggest fan of the casting itself, but this end result matches the rest perfectly, and will therefore get a 10 from me.

You do almost feel like this model has many variations. But, when you actually look at them. No, it hasn't. The thing is, some of them have a habit of repeating, over and over. The 2019 basic range debut in silver was repeated.

It was part of a 2022 carry forward 5-pack. But the "Cole" side design was a notably different font.

The 2020 green issue has not been repeated (as far as I remember).

Neither was this 2021 basic in blue, with the CarGo livery on it.

But, the 2021 5-pack City Adventure II issue in yellow? Well, this one just keeps popping up, over and over again. Particularly in 9-packs. It kept getting added as a spare in 2021, again in 2022, yet again in 2023. You think by 2024 it would be done? No, why would it. 8-packs have seen them. I am getting pretty bored with that particular one. I found shades of yellow. I'm done with it. If it appears again in 2025, I might scream!

The last 2 years have just seen multipack issues. The 2022 MBX Off Road pack saw this grey one.

And in 2023, it was a 9-pack exclusive with the recurring Forest Ranger theme.

So, since 2019, there have only been 7 versions released. But, because that yellow one keeps appearing, it feels like it is always with us.

Okay, I have a couple of new castings now. The first is the MB1444 '64 Jeep Wagoneer. This was a little surprising, partly because we have a classic, but also becuase the same batch brought us the new Wagoneer. It feels like they are covering all bases with this one. It takes the MB38 slot in the range, and debuts in white.

Okay, there it is. The significant part. When Jeep first launched the Wagoneer in 1962 as a 1963 model, it sported a narrow, tall radiator grille on the front. This did not last long, and by 1966, the wider grille that had debuted on the Grand Wagoneer became the norm. So, this does make it stand out as an early Wagoneer. After all, the 1st generation did run from 1963 through 1991. It had a long 29-year life for a single generation.

So, what do I make of the Matchbox interpretation? Well, I think they have done a fantastic job replicating this. It is not too high off the ground. The casting details are impeccable. I mean, just look at the fuel filler cap. This model was cast by Abe Lugo, and he has really shown what he can do with this one. A solid metal body and roof. Windows and interior. Yes, this is making use of the full spectrum of what they can have in basics.

And it comes with a tow hook. I do like a tow hook on a model. It does look quite chunky, but it has to be. Legalities dictate it can't be too fragile. So, that does not bother me. When there is legally nothing they can do about something, I do not let it worry me. Sure, there is a pillar down the back. I understand this is due to production methods for basics. They have to do the drop method. Sure, it would look a little better without it, but it does not detract from the overall look. I only notice it when I am looking for it. So, am okay with it. I would love to see this matched with a few trailer units in the future.

I think this has been cast beautifully. There are no complaints about anything. This shows what they can do when they are left to work on things with no meddling. As to the design?

Simple front and rear tampo printing. It cannot be faulted. Now, blue windows? I know these are often put on classics. I think it is not out of place. Had it not been there, I think it would have made the model perhaps a little too bland. So, I agree, blue was the way to go here.

So, scores for this one? Well, inclusion. That was the toughest one for me. With a classic Wagoneer already in the range, and the modern one debuting in this same batch, were we in need of another classic? Yes, and no. The other classic is a later run Wagoneer, and this is an earlier run. I see a place for both. I am giving it a 9. Casting. I cannot fault that. Brilliant work on this casting, 10. Design. Again, I cannot argue. The light blue windows may not be to everyone's taste, but on this one, in this white look, I think it works. I am also scoring a 10. So, a very respectable 29 out of 30 for this new casting.

And, because it is a new casting, I do always like to show the base.

But, before I move on to the other new casting, I had mentioned the other Wagoneer a few times. So, I decided to bring the MB1082 in. This is the 2023 MBX Wagons II 5-pack release, as it is also white. The model has been with us since 2018 and is still chugging along. We saw a 2024 in Hitch & Haul recently. Officially, this was an undated year model, but recently, it has been hinted it was circa 1988. So, definitely towards the end of the original Mk1 Wagoneer's life.

As you can see, the front end is totally different on these. The narrow, tall grille design was not around for long at all.

But, as you also see, the roof, the rear end, these would change over the years. So, this is definitely a very different Wagoneer. I see why they did the new one. I am still scoring a 9 for inclusion, but I see why. However, aside from both sporting a tow hook.

These models have been made to the same scale, so they match each other in size perfectly. The later Wagoneer sits only fractionally higher. Length and width match.

So, it really feels as if these have been cut from the same cloth. Which, so they should. The real one was. That is a definite plus for the new casting. It is a fantastic model.

The other new casting in the batch is the MB1443 '85 Nissan Pathfinder. It debuts in the MB54 slot in red.

I have to admit, when this was announced at the 2023 Gathering, I was not overly bothered. It was one of the least interesting of the new castings in my eyes. So, I was in no rush to see the finished look. But, when I did, my interest was piqued. This actually looked really good. For those who do not know, Nissan launched the Pathfinder in 1985, and, if you live in North America, it is now in its 5th generation. However, this first generation and the second, was known as a Nissan Terrano in many markets outside of North America. The 3rd gen unified the name, and during the 4th generation, they phased out selling it in Europe.

This is another of Abe Lugo's masterpieces. He knows his stuff. It is extremely well crafted. Even those wing mirrors have more detail that you often get at this size. I am so impressed with this one. Again, we are getting clear, sharp details cast into the model. The parts are all slotting in very well together. The gap between the body and base at the front appears bigger than it actually is in real life.

Some in Europe may be thinking, wasn't the Terrano smaller? They may be mistaking it with Terrano II. This was a smaller compact SUV sold between 1993 and 2005 alongside the larger Terrano (just a Pathfinder with a different name). It is always fun when vehicles get different names for different markets. So, what do I think of the Matchbox one?

And the sunroof is smooth along the roofline. That has been cast to perfection.

Now, the rear end has been cast with a spare wheel that looks just like the ones on the vehicle. This does mean it should really keep to sporting these wheels to keep things matching. Could they have cast that with a cover over it, so it would not need to match? Possible? But, if they do keep these wheels (which I think suit it well), then the spare matching works. So, swings and roundabouts, as we say in the UK. That is an old term stemming from the travelling funfairs, where swings would not generate much income as they were simple, but many could get on at once. The roundabouts, were other rides that were more difficult to get a large group in one go, but cost more, so were better profits. Swing? Small profit, many at a time. Roundabout? Large profit, but few at a time? Which is best? Neither. The phrase has made it into general use, as least in the UK. I have no idea if other countries use it.

Tampo printing is the simple front and rear. However, did you notice the top rear edge getting a hit of black? Ah, reminds me of the Holden VF Commodore SSV earlier this year. A lovely little touch.

The front received a standard hit. Although, there is a little exposed red from where the tampo pad was unable to get into every crevice. That is a tampo pad limitation and not something I drop points for.

I have to say, after some initial scepticism, I am actually going to score this a 10 for inclusion. It surprised me more than I thought it would. Casting and design are both perfect 10s here. I really like this one. So much better than I thought it would be. I remember the last time a model impressed me in this way, it was the '79 Chevy Nova. Where has that gone? 1 basic, 1 Target Retro and err... Hello? I guess that is following its namesake (a Nova flashes brightly, then quickly fades). Let's hope the Pathfinder doesn't stray off its path. Oh, I get worse with the puns.

And 1 more base shot before I head to my final model of the batch.

This is the MB1285 '65 Ford C900. It takes the MB70 slot in the range with a lovely recurring theme.

I know, you know, I am a sucker for recurring themes. And this Kingson Pop! It sounds like something I could suck on. That is, if it was frozen. It does sound like some sort of drink item.

I have noticed with this casting that they always seem to have 3 sides of tampo. The sides are printed, but the front end always gets a hit. Is Ford requesting that? Or is this simply clever manipulation of the tampo printing to make it appear like 3? Or is it because it is quite a cheap model to produce, as it is a cab, with a large blank rear area, and so they can simply add a third pass to it? I have no idea. Whatever the reason, I love it. I am scoring this a 10 again. You had me at the Kingson Pop!

Because, as a refresher, the 2020 basic range release of the MB1174 '35 Ford Pickup saw this look for the first time.

Then, last year, the MB814 Aqua King returned after a 6-year absence with the same design.

With this one now, this is officially a recurring theme. Hopefully the 1955 Ford F-100 Panel Delivery, 1965 Austin Minivan and 2018 Renault Kangoo are all being lined up for future releases. Plus, many others.

But, before I finish up, let's do one more dive. As I said, the C900 always gets the front detailed as well as sides. Like on the 2022 debut. Sporting a classic Shell livery and coming in shades of yellow, this had the front detailed up as well.

As did the 2023 basic range release, which paid homage to a very early Lesney Ford Thames Wrecker Truck from 1961-64.

We also saw an INC liveried Convoy release as well that year. Again, front tampo.

4 releases, and each one with 3 tampo passes. Terrific work from the Matchbox team on this one.

Well, I wanted to get the new one to tow something. So, I pulled out the rocket transporter rear for a little photoshoot. The Aqua King is getting ready....

To be fired into space. Yes, Kingson Pop! The galaxy's favourite beverage. Ha ha! Yes, new year, same old loony.

And, on that crazy note, I am done with batch L. This half showcased 2 new castings. Both classic SUVs.

As well as 2 modern SUVs and 2 workhorses in recurring themes.

As we will be "moving" into a new year when I post my next report, I guess I will be "moving" along to another batch of items. If you know what I mean? Who? Me? Subtle? Ha ha! Until then, have a happy New Year, see you in 2025, and stay safe and happy.