Model Cars: The Ferris Collection

I love classic cars. The shape and styling, the history, and the uniqueness of certain models really appeals to me. Of course the dream is to one day have a garage full of classics, each car in mint condition and perfectly maintained. The reality, however, is that I don't have the money to create such a collection. Come to think of it, even a large garage would break my budget! Not to mention the full-time mechanic required to restore and look after the vehicles. So, it looks like my dream is destined to be unrealised for some time. That's where model cars come to the rescue. Over the past year or two I have started my own model car collection. It's early days, but I am slowly purchasing new cars... particularly when I pass through Braidwood, where the excellent Car Models of Braidwood shop is located. I've included some photos of my model cars below. Apologies in advance for the average quality of the images- photographing small objects is hard! : )

Chrysler Charger E49

Austin Healy Sprite

Austin Mini Checkmate

Volkswagen Golf Mk1 GTI

Golf engine bay

New Fiat 500 - here in March

According to the motoring media, the new Fiat 500 will arrive in Australia in March 2008.  Don't get too excited though- apparently the first few months' shipments are all sold out.  I think the Fiat 500 is going to be a smash hit when launched in Australia.  Firstly, it's (reasonably) inexpensive when compared to its obvious rival the MINI Cooper, with pricing in the AU$20k range.  Secondly, it looks brilliant, and is endlessly customisable - just like the MINI. I created the two exterior pictures using Fiat's Video Configurator, selecting the colour schemes and options I would pick if purchasing a Fiat 500 of my own.  Good fun that :)  The third picture on the left is of the interior and dash, which look great - very different to anything else I've seen.  Unique and classy, while still appearing simple and user-friendly.  Perhaps the only thing lacking at launch is an engine with some power.  A 1.4 litre engine will have to suffice - at least until the Fiat 500 Abarth comes along.  Now that's more like it!...

 

(images from autos.yahoo.com and fiat500.com)