PoloDriver

Minichamps, maker of superbly detailed diecast model cars have recently announced a new version the Series 1 Polo to add to their Volkswagen collection. In popular 1:43 scale and finished in Cadiz Orange (not an original colour we think, but close enough to Marino Gelb), it looks the part and based on the company’s previous Polo releases, it should make an excellent addition to any Polo model collector’s garage.

Minichamps has released models of Series 1 Polos before. A few years ago, it released a Phoenix Red version of this same model limited to 2,736 pieces (this new one is to be made in only 744 examples), and versions in three other colours. Three of the Polo’s sister car, the Audi 50 were produced, too, one in bright vivid green.

Exquisitely detailed from the steel wheels and rear hatchback badges to the interior wooden-panelled dashboard, at around €20 each, they sound expensive, but you won’t find another Series 1 diecast so well-detailed. The new orange version can be found on eBay now for upwards of €25, or if you’re in the UK, you can order it from Grand Prix Legends.

If you look hard enough, though, there’s an even rarer Series 1 diecast circulating the well-known auction site. Based on a Minichamps diecast, the Jägermeister Racing Polo is old school cool to the core, and at the same scale as the regular model, would look very smart on the same shelf. We’re unsure as to whether the racing model is custom-made, but the decals are all there, along with a lack of bumpers and large, deep-dished, gold-centred wire racing alloys. Perfect.

Exclusivity comes at a price, though. Whereas the original model is €25, this touring car replica one starts just over 79. Think about it – almost £72 for a 1:43 model. While we’d love to have it parked in our 1:43 garage, at this price it would only get an outing on high days and holidays; sadly not enough to justify the expense.