Vehicle reports

Dear club members,
Today we are pleased to present you the first pictures of this year’s Carrera DIGITAL 124 Club model.

Silvan Renggli from Switzerland is responsible for the design and joins the ranks of previous winners of the Club Model Design Competition.

Unfortunately, we were unable to grant final production approval with the licensor until somewhat later than planned. Therefore, the sales launch date has been postponed.

We will be able to offer the 2015 Club model in the Carrera Club online shop starting mid-December 2015.

We strive to keep waiting times as short as possible.

Best regards,
your Carrera Club Team

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche 917K Martini International "No.35", Watkins Glen 6h 1970

Item No. 20030737
In the range: 2015
Available from October 29, 2015

So the yellow-red Martini Porsche 917 “Kyalami 1970” in 1:32 scale is here.

Everything has already been said about the real model - even several times - so I am only writing about the existing model vehicle.

The first impression... Wow, that's small. It's always astonishing what a difference between a 1:24 and a 1:32 scale model makes when two vehicles are parked side by side. The new 1:32 model appears rather delicate and flatter overall than its counterpart in the 1:24 range. However, the proportions are well realized and appear very natural.

At 94 g, the vehicle isn't exactly lightweight, but the weight distribution of 68 g chassis to 26 g body is acceptable. The wide, treaded tires offer sufficient grip and don't sit too loosely on the rims. In my opinion, the tires should be slightly sanded when driving without magnets. This isn't necessary when using the magnets.

The printing and paintwork are flawless. A small bump is visible at the end of the rear fenders, which is caused by the screws underneath that attach the body to the chassis.

The vehicle, presumably due to its relatively flat design, uses the engine variant from the well-known Formula cars. The front axle features independent suspension, with the axle stub rotating freely and smoothly.

As with the 1:24 scale model, the rear and brake lights were omitted. The LED front lighting appears authentic; the slight glow through the wheel arches is noticeable but not distracting.

The performance with the magnet is good, but the vehicle practically sticks to the track. If I were to run the vehicle continuously, the rear magnet would come out. With complete demagnetization, the chassis offers very little space for trim weights.

I'm looking forward to the other small-scale Porsche models; they're definitely fun.

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Ferrari 330P4 "No.03", Monza 1967
Item No.: 20023814

<< NOW available in the Carrera online shop >>

As the P in the vehicle name suggests, the original was a prototype. Only 3, or 4 (if you count the P3/P4 conversion), of this vehicle were built. Externally, the differences between the P3 and P4 are slight, but an engine concept derived from Formula 1 increased power to around 450 hp. In 1967, Scudderia Ferrari entered this car in the Sports Car World Championship. The 330P4's greatest success was Ferrari's historic triple victory at the 24 Hours of Daytona, finishing 1st and 2nd, as well as 1st and 2nd at the 1000km Monza race. Ferrari won the championship that year, ahead of the Porsche team.

After a long absence from the P4 models (the first Carrera models were released in analog form back in 2005), one of the two successful Monza cars from 1967 is now being released. It is the winning car, driven by Lorenzo Bandini and Chris Amon. A Ferrari 412P also competed in the same race; this was essentially the same car, but as a customer version, it had "only" 410 hp.

If a car racing enthusiast can call all eight Ferrari 330P4 models their own, they not only have a valuable collection—they command high prices when new or in very good condition—but also a very impressive field of entries. However, the color red clearly predominates, which is not surprising given Ferrari.

According to this video, only one original vehicle has survived to this day https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awArTC8iQ3Q

The model itself is flawlessly manufactured. The paint and details are flawless. The sprung front axle is usually "de-sprung," which has a positive effect on handling. The rear tires don't offer much material to sand down, but the new version of the tires also offers significantly more grip than the first vehicles.

The P4 is a truly competitive model in the 1:24 Carrera historic racing car range. Long, wide, flat... It runs.

Until then
joergW

Carrera DIGTIAL 124 Ferrari 458 Italia GT3 Black Bull Racing, No.64, GT Open 2014
Item No: 20023811

<< NOW available in the Carrera ONLINE shop >>

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Formula E “Venturi Racing – Nick Heidfeld”
Item No.: 20030706
<< Carrera Online Shop >>

Technical data:
Weight (complete vehicle with magnets): 71 grams
Weight (body): 16 grams
Length including spoiler: 155 mm
Wheelbase: 97 mm
Track width (front axle): 54 mm
Track width (rear axle): 52 mm
Other: narrow center magnet, new digital decoder Art. No. 26744

Body/Appearance:
A racing series featuring all-electric Formula cars – it was only logical to bring these to the racetrack in a scaled-down version. For the third model, Nick Heidfeld's – now former – company car was chosen. This gained media attention because Nick, Heidfeld, and Nicolas Prost were involved in a spectacular crash at the opening race in Beijing in 2014. Heidfeld's car was thrown several meters into the air and into a safety fence, which he fortunately survived without any significant injuries.
Black bodies are always problematic because they're difficult to see on the equally black track. However, the red stripes and the flag pattern on the rear cover provide a focal point.
The other two Formula E models have silver rims; here they are black with a thin red rim. This gives the model a certain uniqueness compared to the other two.
Also worth mentioning are the recess for the gearbox in the rear and a side recess to the left below the driver, under which the LED of the digital decoder is located.
The front spoiler is attached as usual; otherwise, there are no mirrors or other small parts that could break off or get lost while driving. The rear spoiler extends almost the entire width of the vehicle at the bottom and is mounted relatively solidly.

Chassis/Technology:
With a total weight of just 71 grams, the model is extremely lightweight. It uses the narrow, longer engine familiar from many other Formula cars.
Due to the narrow body shape with the sidepods set far back, a new digital decoder (item no. 26744) is used here, which will also be available separately for retrofitting the analog Evolution models. The LED is mounted so that it lies outside the circuit board area.

Furthermore, the center magnet is significantly narrower than the normally sized rear magnet.

Driving behavior:
Due to its low weight and formula construction, the car is a true ground-breaking rocket, with the engine also contributing significantly. On smaller home tracks, the top speed is practically impossible to achieve. I therefore decided not to conduct a road test without magnets or with partial equipment, as handling would be a very special challenge in this case. With the top speed reduced by the BB/CU, the handling then moves into more controllable territory, but even here, it's a good idea to leave both magnets in the chassis.

Conclusion:
Formula cars aren't necessarily my favorites. Given the theme and the wide variety of designs offered by the Formula E racing series, it would have been negligent not to take advantage of this opportunity. The models offer a good compromise between visual finesse and robust construction. And if more designs follow in the future, they will also be more suitable for racing than the similarly constructed F1 cars, in the spirit of equal opportunity.

Best regards,
CoMod Chris
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Carrera DIGITAL 132 Formula E Audi Sport 'Lucas di Grassi, No.11'
Item No.: 20030705
<< Carrera Online Shop >>

The FIA ​​Formula E Championship has been running since September 13, 2014, and is contested exclusively on street circuits worldwide. Therefore, it was a big surprise for us in late autumn 2014 that the first Formula E cars would appear in the 2015 schedule. Carrera was actually just acting logically: Who else would launch electric cars than the largest provider of electric racetracks? ;-)

Electric cars have existed since the invention of the automobile. In the early years, it wasn't entirely clear which concept would prevail: gasoline was expensive, while electricity was more readily available. As we all know, the gasoline engine won, but even then, the main problem was the size and weight of the batteries. And while Mercedes introduced the neon-yellow SLS AMG GTS with four wheel hub motors two years ago, the idea isn't exactly new: The Lohner-Porsche at the 1900 World's Fair already had electric motors built into its spoked rims.

Now, the Lohner Porsche isn't quite comparable to today's Formula E racing cars. The electric Porsche from the turn of the century had a top speed of around 50 km/h and a range of 50 km with its 410 kg lead battery. The Formula E cars are a bit faster and can also go a bit further: top speed of 220 km/h and range of 200 km.

The teams in the 2014/15 Formula E season all compete with the same car, the Spark-Renault SRT 01E. The chassis and aerodynamics of the vehicles are specified, but work on the engine and batteries during the season is permitted. All teams use Michelin as their tire supplier, and the number of employees per team, cars per team, tire sets per race, etc., is limited. The goal: to ensure relative equality of opportunity for everyone to ensure exciting racing.

The Audi Sport Abt team is one of the first-generation teams. Its drivers are Daniel Abt and Lucas di Grassi. At the season's first race in Beijing, Grassi immediately landed on the top step of the podium, and the Allgäu-based team finished the season in third place.

Visually, the electric Audi is one of the most beautiful vehicles in the field, and the model is also wonderfully true to the original.
Best regards,
CoMod Lotus

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Carrera DIGITAL 132 Formula E Andretti Autosport 'M.Andretti, No.28'
Item No.: 2003070
<< Carrera Online Shop >>

200 kW and top speeds of 225 km/h are the figures Formula E is set to boast starting in its third season. Manufacturer and customer teams will compete in exciting races on various street circuits around the world.

During the pit stop, no charging is required; the driver jumps into a charged vehicle and off they go. A city race is planned for May 21, 2016, in Berlin… almost like a giant Carrera track ;-)

The three vehicles from different manufacturers that have been released so far—I assume that Carrera has planned for the long term and that more will follow—already represent an illustrious field. The models are lightweight and, in their handling, largely resemble the well-known Formula cars.

The vehicles are faithfully reproduced, except for the mirrors—which sometimes don't survive the first lap in Formula 1 races. There's a noticeable bulge in the rear that doesn't match the original, but the axle pinion has to go somewhere. The same goes for the small bump on the lower left center spoiler... This is where the diode for digital operation is located.

The slightly narrower rear, the shorter wheelbase and the narrower tire width as well as the center of gravity directly below the driver are the most significant differences to the Formula 1 cars.

Well, almost. Not only are the tires narrower than those of the F1, they also have a tread and seem to have less grip. Certainly not significant for magnet operation, but someone driving without magnets could be at a slight disadvantage. The rear wheels of the Formula E cars are significantly better protected, which makes rear-end contact with other drivers less dramatic.

Best regards,
CoMod joergW

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Ferrari F14 T "F.Alonso, No.14"
Item No. 20030734
<< SHOP NOW >>

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Ferrari F14 T "K.Räikkönen, No.7"
Item No. 20030735
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Carrera DIGITAL 132 Mercedes-Benz F1 W05 Hybrid "N.Rosberg, No.6"
Item No. 20030732
Carrera DIGITAL 132 Mercedes-Benz F1 W05 Hybrid "L.Hamilton, No.44"
Item No. 20030733

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Despite all the criticism…

The Daimler Group had to listen to a lot in 2012… declining sales figures in the automotive industry and, of course, within its own company… as well as the increasingly loud criticism of the group’s commitment to F1 motorsport while simultaneously pursuing austerity measures in vehicle development and reducing production!
How can one invest millions in motorsport at a time like this? The question became increasingly louder among the workforce and also the works council…

Above all, the lack of success in the F1 season did not exactly help the company's fortunes... and even multiple F1 world champion Michael Schumacher was unable to achieve any real success alongside Nico Rosberg...
Schumacher's contract was not renewed and a former world champion, Lewis Hamilton, was signed!
Mercedes got off to a much more promising start in 2013… but only managed three wins behind a dominant Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull Racing! Second place in the overall standings was pretty much forgotten… even though the trend was upward!

But the 2014 model presented here turned the new season on its head... while the duo Hamilton and Rosberg shared the victories... Sebastian was lagging behind... and so Mercedes ended a safe 2014 season with the world championship title!

The Formula 1 World Champions are a recurring feature in Carrera's vehicle range... even though the limited space makes it very difficult to fit the technology into these delicate vehicles! So, some compromises have to be made, but these have been very well addressed. Even small wind deflectors and spoilers are present, demonstrating a high level of attention to detail. I personally like the wonderful silver candy paint job of the Silver Arrows... a very sophisticated look that, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful paint jobs in the starting field. It only has to take a backseat to the popularity of the red paint job of a Maranello racing car... but they're "only" red... and they run a bit further back ;-)

Best regards,
CoMod Mike

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4
Item No. 20030730

Available from 3rd quarter

<< Product detail page >>

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Chevrolet Dekon Monza "No.14"

Item No. 20030724
<< to the product detail page >>

A surprising comeback

It's one of the biggest surprises this year: the return of the Chevy Dekon Monza. First released in 2008 in two versions as an Evolution model, the model soon disappeared from the range. The chassis is the first generation capable of digitizing, so the current edition as a digital model was easily possible.

Compared to the original, I find two minor differences: the shape of the underside of the rear spoiler, and the color of the headlight covers. However, I'm pleased that another version of this model was released at all, so I can live with these two things. The positive impression outweighs the negative; the model looks rich and beefy.

This also applies to weight and handling; the old generation of suspension with its externally removable magnets simply has shortcomings in this area. However, once you get used to it and develop a correspondingly proactive driving style, the Chevrolet can be maneuvered smoothly around the track.

Conclusion: Unfortunately only for the US range, but a great new product that will hopefully also be available in the club shop.

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Chevrolet Bel Air "No.16"
Item No. 20030723

<< to the product detail page >>

Heavy Metal

Is there a real-life model for this model? I don't know; my search hasn't yielded any results. But that doesn't matter, because the combination of pastel yellow, bright blue, and matte black commands attention, as do the whitewall tires. This thing looks like it came straight out of an old Disney movie. Taste is subjective, but this model suits my taste perfectly.

It's better to keep quiet about the handling... the model is narrow, tall, long, and heavy, demanding utmost concentration. It's still fun, though; you're in a world all its own, far removed from modern GTs and sports cars.

Conclusion: You have to like it, but that's exactly how I imagine the sensible reuse of an old form.

Carrera DIGITAL 132 AMG-Mercedes C-Coupe DTM "R.Wickens, No.10", 2013
Item number: 20030710

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It continues to be varied

Robert Wickens' company car from the 2013 DTM season is now the twelfth DTM model of the current coupe generation that Carrera has put out on the track. And while DTM models used to be a rather dull and monochrome affair, today's cars boast a wide variety of colors: an orange and white color combination has never been seen in the DTM range before, and the design for sponsor Stihl is quite impressive. With this model car, Robert Wickens achieved his best overall DTM finish to date, finishing the 2013 season in fifth place overall. Unfortunately, there was an error in the pit lettering on the model; as we all know, the name Robert doesn't begin with a W...hopefully, this will be corrected for the next production batch.

As always with design variants, there's nothing new to say about the technology. The model is still no lightweight, but it is wide and beefy. Among its peers, the Mercedes always has a good chance, and in general, all current DTM models are docile, stable, yet not slow vehicles. A must-buy for fans of the series.

Test report by CoMod Jörg on the Carrera DIGITAL 124 Porsche Carrera 6 "No.42", 12h Sebring 1967
Item No. 20023813
In the range: 2015
Available in the Carrera online shop from: End of August!
Manufacturer's note: the Carrera car differs slightly from the original, as unfortunately we did not have all the detailed photos of the original available when we approved the printing instructions.

The Tiger Duck is here…
That's what you might think when you see the new Porsche 906, or rather the 906E, in 1:24 scale. When it was first announced, I was more than shocked. I thought it was impossible... but it works, and it actually looks pretty good in person.

The tiger-duck design somehow complements the sleek lines of the body, making it a completely different car in the racing field. The original was used in the 1967 12 Hours of Sebring, but was unable to finish the race due to engine failure.

By the way... the Chapparal 2D, Howmet TX, and Alfa Romeo T33, which are also competing in the same races... they have something visually appealing. I could definitely like them alongside the Dion as a counterpart to the 906 ;-)... we already have other cars from this race, like the GT40, the Stingray Corvette, and the e-Type.

In addition to the original design, the new Porsche 906 has tires that sit significantly closer in the wheel arches. It looks significantly more authentic than the older models. The front axle rotates freely, is straight, and damped by a copper spring. The Porsche essentially has the new chassis with the extended guide keel area, but it can't be mounted as easily on the older bodies; the bolting has been changed.

There are two fairly long screws in the rear. To remove them, the guide rail must be disengaged, as this is where the two front screws are located. Disassembling the chassis must be done very carefully, as the front section with the headlights is pushed onto the chassis from the front.

The chassis offers plenty of room for trim lead, so there's nothing stopping you from driving without magnets... if you want to.

The paintwork, clear coat, decals, etc. are perfect. The car has no defects so far. Unlike the other models in the 906 series, the rear window is clear, but the glass of the gullwing doors has a blue tinted area like the original. In the original photo, there is a white star on the left at the rear (where the white 42 is on the model), and below the A-pillar on the body there is a sticker with the drivers' names (John Cannon (CDN) / Ed Hugus (USA).) One photo (I don't have certain knowledge of the race) shows the paintwork/design of the model on the left side. Changes made over the course of use, slightly different on the right and left ???

In this film At https://youtu.be/ahFYzapUd4o, the Tigerente can be seen twice in the pit. Here, you can see another starting number at the back, top right, as well as the rear, which differs slightly from the model. I found another photo online. In a rather blurry photo, I think I can see another Tigerente in the same race with starting number 55; it has the correct lettering on the rear.

The tires have good grip, but they're sitting far too loosely on the rims. A long, tough race... I think gluing them will be mandatory, otherwise they'll eventually come off the rims.
All in all, nice to get a 906 again.

Best regards,
CoMod joergW

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Ferrari 458 GT2 AF Corse
Item No.: 20030715 | http://bit.ly/1eazdvz

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Porsche GT3 RSR 'Haribo Racing'
Item No.: 20023809 | http://bit.ly/1HE0MIo

The saying comes from Slottus, when, after submitting the review for the new 911 GT3 HARIBO, I suggested that we also release the black Mercedes SLS and the golden Corvette.

The 911 GT3 RSR has been part of the Digital124 program since 2009, but the car is still far from being outdated in terms of driving technology.
Of course, the newer cars have better suspension technology. However, since the 911 GT3 RSR was and still is, in my opinion, one of the best cars Carrera has ever produced, the car still cuts a fine figure on the track today. And over the past six years, a few visual treats have also been released, with the most beautiful versions (apart from the red SCUDERIA ITALIA from 2010) appearing this year: the GULF and the HARIBO.

For many years, the drivers led by team boss Hans Guido Riegel have been competing in various racing series as brand ambassadors for the Bonn-based confectionery manufacturer.

In the early days, they competed in Porsche 911s, and in 2012, they even fielded two gold-colored Corvette Z06s in the VLN. In 2013 and 2014, the drivers, led by veteran Udo Alzen, were unfortunately not as successful after their successful years from 2010 to 2012, partly due to bad luck. In both 2013 and 2014, the team withdrew their car from one VLN race at the Nürburgring due to a defective fuel system in the pits. "We would have naturally hoped for a better end to the season," summarizes driver Mike Stursberg. "But it doesn't make sense to complete extensive training and test runs to gain fractions of a second, only to then have to accept time losses in the order of minutes because the fuel system technology at the Nürburgring is unreliable."
Since 2015, the team has been using a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3.

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Porsche 917K Martini International "No.35", Watkins Glen 6h 1970
(Art. No. 20023807) http://bit.ly/1TLwQQ1

'We know that a racing car should just be white.'
Who, according to legend, said that? Ferdinand Piech, the then head of the Porsche 917 project, after seeing the finished 917-43. Because it was colorful. Very colorful. And very psychedelic. How did the hippie come about?

Well, the '70s were a... special time. There's a lot I could write about it, but I'll spare you that. Above all, the '70s were colorful. In every respect: culture, art, music, etc. And cars. Never again were everyday cars as colorful as they were between '68 and '78.
But how did the hippie 917 come about?

Well, strictly speaking, there are two Hippies: the 917 Longtail (917-43) and the later 917 Shorttail (917-21).

Hans-Dieter Dechent brought the aperitif manufacturer Martini into motorsport in 1969. Dechent, heir to a considerable fortune (the family was the largest OPEL dealer in Saarland), was himself a successful racing driver in various GT models, including those from Alfa, Abarth, and Porsche, but after the MARTINI-ROSSO deal, he concentrated on his duties as team boss. In 1970, Ferdinand Piech offered him a Porsche 917 Longtail for the 1970 24 Hours of Le Mans. Dechent jumped at the chance and gave the Porsche to the newly minted Porsche designer Anatole Lapine, who painted it in a psychedelic purple and green color scheme. Reportedly, 3,000 cans of paint were used in the process; other sources say 1,500. In any case, the car was a real eye-catcher, and it also finished the 24-hour race in second place.
A few weeks later, the organizers of the Six Hours of Watkins Glen in New York wanted a similar hippie Porsche for their race. And they got it in the form of a 917K from the MARTINI Racing team. The car, with the FG number 021, finished 9th with drivers Gerard Larrousse and Gjis Van Lennep.

Which brings us to the new Carrera release: This 917-21 is the current item number 30807. The 917 has enjoyed tremendous popularity in the 124 scene since its release. I'll spare you any driving reports, etc., as the car drives just as well as any other 917, and the workmanship is of the renowned high standard.

Incidentally, "The Hippie Car" was repainted yellow and red shortly after the race in the USA at the request of sponsor SHELL. This car was already released last year as item number 23807.

Best regards,
CoMod Lotus

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche 911 GT3 RSR Hybrid 'VLN 2011'
(Item no. 20030714) http://bit.ly/1GuNYju

By now, everyone knows: The vehicle never existed in this form. The hybrid wasn't an RSR, and the RSR never existed as a hybrid version. Nevertheless, the hybrid design was frequently mentioned as a design request by club members in the forum. If necessary, even on the non-original RSR body. And it took a long time, but now it's here: the RSR Hybrid.

The unmistakable design with the orange, white, and silver stripes is a real feast for the eyes and suits the "classic car" perfectly. Classic car because the GT3 RSR is by far the only Digital 132 car that has been in the range since the beginning - autumn 2007 - and is still being produced with no technical changes. This means that the first-generation chassis is still used, characterized by the engine-gearbox unit that can be removed from below and the magnets screwed on from the outside. When operated in its fully magnetized standard condition, this hardly plays a role, as the GT3 RSR is still competitive. With partial magnetization, however, it has disadvantages compared to the current chassis design: the higher weight and the less than optimal guide keel design take their toll.

Nevertheless, the model represents a beautiful and meaningful addition to the range and will certainly find as many fans as all previously released design variants of the GT3 RSR.

Best regards,
CoMod Carrera124

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Shelby Cobra 289 “No. 11”
Item No. 20030717

While researching online, I came across a 2011 auction in England where an original Shelby American Racing Team car, a 1963 Cobra 289, was auctioned for $2 million. The owner had purchased the car 43 years earlier for $4,200…not a bad increase in value, I'd say.

The Shelby Cobra, the 289 version with a 4.7-liter V-8 engine, and the 427 version with a 7.1-liter engine, even won the World Sports Car Championship in 1965, but the simultaneous introduction of a speed limit on American highways caused sales to collapse, and production was discontinued in 1968.

I couldn't find a photo of the model's paintwork, but the paintwork and colors basically correspond to those of 1960s sports cars.
The paintwork is clean and crisply defined at the edges. The clear coat is even and flawless.

The front axle is not a continuous design. The independent suspension has no discernible disadvantages for me on this model; both axle sections run well.

The rear axle is straight and rotates smoothly in the pinions. The rims also show no imbalance. The tires sit neatly on the rims, but can be removed easily. Anyone planning to drive the Cobra in tough racing conditions should consider gluing the tires.

Without magnets, you should at least refinish the edges. Caution is advised here, as the tires don't really have much material to sand.
The Cobra is well-known for its fast and agile handling. However, the narrow track shouldn't be forgotten; the Cobra excels in races with similar vehicles.

Until then,
joergW

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Porsche GT3 RSR "Gulf Racing No.86", Silverstone 4h 2014

Item No. 20023810
In the range: 2015

Now available in the Carrera online shop!

TEST REPORT FOLLOWS ASAP!

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche 918 Spyder (Item No. 20030711)

... which in this case does not mean the starting number, but the variant: After the silver model from the anniversary pack, the two standard versions and the Idee & Spiel special model, the current design combination was pretty inevitable.

I'm still not happy with the body proportions; compared to the real vehicle, the model still looks too narrow and too tall. On the other hand, the paintwork and printing leave little to be desired. The shine is neither too strong nor too weak, and the rear engine cowling and other details are very well done. There were no surprises during the road test either.

Equipped with both chassis magnets, the Spyder confidently maneuvers its laps. However, cornering requires utmost concentration, as there is no limit. Without the rear magnet, the odd driving error is forgiven, but in this test vehicle, grip is still unusually high, even with just one magnet.

Best regards,
CoMod Chris

Article number: 20030728
EAN: 4007486307285

Name: VW Beetle "Group 5" Race 3
Edition: 1500 copies
Availability: End of September/beginning of October 2015

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS "No.47", Nassau 1964
Item No. 20030718
In the range: 2015

Carrera Shopping Link: http://bit.ly/1Fs1Mym

Favorite car…

Do you know that feeling? There are sports cars or racing cars that are among your personal dream cars. I'm not talking about "everyday" sports cars, which theoretically anyone can afford at some point, if they just wait long enough until the cars are used, or reach classic or vintage age. Or if you simply earn enough. No GTis, GSIs, MSs, RSs, AMGs, etc. No, I'm talking about those... special... cars that you associate with something.

I know from Mike that for him it's the BMW M1, among other cars (and mine too, by the way). One of my all-time favorites is the Porsche 904 Carrera GTS.
Why? VIKING!!! VIKING??? VIKING!!!

I had a MÄRKLIN train set when I was young. Back then, model railway layouts primarily featured WIKING cars. HERPA was already around, but I preferred the "rougher" WIKING models. And when I was younger, WIKING had the blue 904 CARRERA GTS in its range under item no. 163. At some point, I also had the red, the cream-white, and the silver, along with many, many other HO cars. I've always been a collector...

The chances of getting one of only 100 cars built are close to zero, not to mention that the last 904 sold fetched a million. Last year, the engine of the prototype was sold by CARRERA, and that alone fetched €270,000.

Back then, if you showed the model car to someone without any car knowledge and asked about the model, 90% of the response would have been, "That's a Ferrari." In the 80s, no one could imagine a Porsche with those lines anymore.

You can imagine how happy I was when I got my hands on the new releases list in 2014 and saw the Porsche listed. Sure, I had one from UNIVERSAL at some point, but the boxes were always warped. But now? Finally for the DIGITAL132 and the EVOLUTION? The silver 30663, which was only available in the basic package, was great, the red 27444 from the EVO was better, and the sky blue 30682 with the starting number 51 was simply a dream. And then CrazyChris is the first to be added to the list of club reports.
I was … not amused….

But finally, here it is: In 2015, the little racer will be available in orange. Version: NASSAU 1964. So, for those interested in motorsports, here are a few facts:

Chassis No. 51. Purchased and driven by Dr. David Lane at the 11th International Bahamas Speed ​​Weeks in Nassau, it competed in several races this week, with varying degrees of success. The car itself on the track? Small and nasty. The little one weighs just 83 grams, has a very flat body, thus a low center of gravity, and a fairly wide track for its size. The thing handles like a dream. But if I'm honest: I hardly ever drive it. It sits here and there, it sits well.

With this in mind… best regards CoMod Lotus

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Shelby Cobra 289 hardtop Coupé '63, "No.03"

Item No.: 20030716
Assortment: 2015
Online shop: http://bit.ly/1doy6ZR

The 289 Shelby Cobra joined the 132 range in 2012. The first model was the hardtop coupe in the famous white with blue stripes. It was modeled on the #4 Cobra that raced at Le Mans in 1963. Since then, only the convertible versions have been included in the CARRERA range. The reason? There are only two original hardtop models.

This model is the second closed Cobra. With its green paint scheme, the car looks somewhat toy-like at first glance. However, the vehicle in this livery has a real-life model:
Just like the white and blue Shelby, the green No. 3 competed at Le Mans. In 1963, two racing teams competed there for the first time, each with one car. However, Carol Shelby realized that in international endurance races and on high-speed tracks, the outstanding power-to-weight ratio and the associated acceleration were far less important than full-throttle stability and high top speed. Even at the beginning of the 1960s, aerodynamically sophisticated coupes with low drag were considered the most powerful weapons in racing.

The two Mk II Cobras, despite their hardtops, were at a massive disadvantage compared to the fast Ferraris on the long Mulsanne Straight. The Cobra, driven by Bolton/Sanderson and entered by AC Cars, only finished 7th (behind 6 Ferraris), but finished third in the GT class and won the 4-5 liter class. The number 4 car, driven by Ed Hugus/Peter Jopp, retired.

The CARRERA model is based on this AC Motors Cobra with chassis number CSX2131. The exterior of the model differs only in minor details from the original. The biggest difference from the original is in the interior (or as we slot racers say: in the driver's compartment): The model is a left-hand drive, while the original No. 3 is one of the rare right-hand drive cars built in 1963 for the English market. In terms of handling, the car is well-known: very good acceleration and high speed on the straights, strong tire grip, and thus excellent directional stability. Its handling is no match for a modern DTM car, but among its peers, it is a beautiful and fast car to drive.

Best regards,
CoMod Lotus

PS: If you ever want to know what a LeMans Cobra sounds like in a race, here you go!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dst60YfGpSg

Test report by CoMod Lotus for the Carrera DIGITAL 132 Audi A5 DTM “M.Rockenfeller, No.1,” 2014 (Art. No. 20030707)

In 2005, CARRERA introduced the first two DTM cars into its product range: the Mercedes C-Class and the Audi A4. Since then, these cars have been among the most beautiful and popular vehicles in the range. This is due not only to their excellent handling but also to their diverse appearance. In terms of color, pretty much every color is represented these days; the last few years have brought us a great many colorful racers.

This year, four new DTM cars are in the lineup: two BMW M4s, a Mercedes C-Coupe, and the Audi A5 Coupe. This current report focuses on the Audi driven by Michael "Mike" Rockenfeller from the PHOENIX RACING team. The car from the 2014 season, bearing the number 1, is a visual feast for the eyes. This is due not only to the attractive shape of the base model, but also to the seamless blend of the yellow and green paint scheme. The main sponsor of the car is the SCHÄFFLER Group. Car fans have known who the mechanical engineering group and automotive supplier is since the takeover of CONTINENTAL AG in 2008. I'd just like to say a few words about the PHOENIX team: The racing team was founded in 1999 by Ernst Moser, Opel's former technical director. PHOENIX has been represented in the DTM since 2000, also with Opel for the first six years, and since 2006 with Audi. The team's greatest success in the DTM came in 2011, when Martin Tomcyk won the championship. This success was repeated in 2013 by the then 31-year-old Mike Rockenfeller, hence the starting number 1 of the 2014 car, with which he finished third in the 2014 season. The team also competes in the FIA ​​GT1, the ADAC Masters, the International GT Open, and the VLN.

For more information (and many beautiful pictures) please visit the homepage of the guys from Meuspath in the Nürburgring industrial park: www.phoenix-racing.de

The current A5 exhibits the handling typical of the DTM: thanks to its wide track, it sits very firmly on the track. The weight is slightly on the upper edge, yet the car still handles very well. High traction, even with the full magnet load, makes it almost impossible to skid, and the tires' good grip also contributes to the car's smooth cornering.

Conclusion: A successful addition to the already impressive range of touring cars. It's no wonder that there are now several dedicated DTM collectors.

Carrera DIGITAL 132 LaFerrari (white metallic)
(Art. No. 30712)

The white LaFerrari is the first new car to be delivered in 2015. Certainly not the one you've been eagerly awaiting, but that's doing the model a bit of an injustice. Road sports cars have been an integral part of the Carrera 1:32 scale range since the first university tracks in the 1960s, and this model continues that tradition.

The paintwork has a slight metallic or mother-of-pearl effect, making it particularly elegant. As with the other two older color variants, the black roof creates a particularly attractive contrast. The dummy engine and dashboard are also very well done, only the driver's head looks a bit fake. On the other hand, the rims and especially the brake discs are absolutely convincing.

Technically, there are no surprises; the car has a rigid front axle and the lighting is implemented using SMD LEDs. It's also well known that the little LaFerrari is no lightweight. I would describe the handling as "smooth" and "forgiving," the weight really does make an impact here. Nevertheless, the car isn't exactly traveling at a snail's pace; it's not a big problem finding a harmonious and therefore brisk pace.

Best regards,
CoMod Carrera124

Carrera DIGITAL 132 VW Beetle "Group 5" Race 1 and VW Beetle "Group 5" Race 2
(Art. No. 30702 and 30703)

Beetle goes racing...no, not Herbie or DuDu...more like a Beetle with the mumps - big cheeks at the front - and a rear end that looks a lot like a 935.
Even if there may not be a real-life model for the two Group 5 Beetles we're looking at, a Beetle with a V8 engine and a very similar look did race at the Donington Park race in 1977. Just type "Beetle" + "racing" into Google... there were some pretty bizarre ones.

Optics:
Both models look really good, and could have been driven like this in real life. The otherwise very sleek Beetle was visually widened at the front and rear and brought into line with the track.

The color combinations of the Röschlein and the Scarabäus already reflect the look of the 70s and can certainly be supplemented with further variants in green, yellow, white, orange, etc. ... this could create a very attractive field of riders over the next 1-2 years.

The driver's seat, roll bar, engine, and exhaust systems are all detailed. The small, original Beetle-style mirror certainly won't last very long in racing.

Technology:
The vehicles have independent front suspension, which allows the wheels to roll freely. The rear axles rotate well and are straight with centered rims. There's very little space in the chassis, so without magnets, it's certainly not going to be easy to trim them with weights.

Processing:
Everything is perfect. The paintwork is flawless. Decals are neatly applied and legible. All parts fit well, and there were no problems disassembling and reassembling.

Driving behavior:
The tires have good grip; the front ones could be considered gluing and sealing. Even though the cars are relatively tall, their width makes up for it; they handle well on the track. Slight rear-end sags are quickly brought under control. Nothing that spoils the fun.

Conclusion:
After CarForce and HotRods, finally something where Carrera can really let off steam... I hope they do.

Best regards,
CoMod Jörg

Test report by CoMod Chris on the two Carrera DIGITAL 132 BMW Z4 GT3 "Schubert Motorsport, No.12", 24h Dubai 2013 and BMW Z4 GT3 "Walkenhorst Motorsport, No.125", VLN 2013 (Art. No. 20030699 & 20030700)


Technical data:
Weight (complete vehicle with magnets): 101 grams
Weight (body): 30 grams
Length including spoiler: 139 mm
Wheelbase: 79 mm
Track width (front axle): 60 mm
Track width (rear axle): 61 mm

The BMW Z4 GT3
The GT cars have enjoyed consistently high popularity among many Carrera drivers in recent years, not least due to the TV presence of the ADAC GT Masters. The GT3 version of the BMW Z4 was frequently mentioned as a desired model; it succeeds the BMW Z4 M Coupe, which was part of the lineup from 2007 to 2011.

Optics / Body:
For the first two versions, two striking and colorful prototype vehicles were chosen: the one used by Schubert Motorsport in the 2013 24 Hours of Dubai, and the other, the 2013 VLN race car from Walkenhorst Motorsport.
The body and proportions appear well captured, and the beefy appearance of the original vehicle is also evident in the model. The finely crafted rims and especially the brake discs are a visual treat. The driver's involvement is neither positive nor negative; it conforms to the usual standard.
The body of the green Schubert model isn't just painted, but rather "chrome-plated." The effect is impressive, but the Walkenhorst version is no visual wallflower either.

Technology / Chassis:
The chassis was not taken from the BMW Z4 M Coupe, but redesigned. Thus, it reflects the current design. And despite limited space in the front end, a continuous front axle was achieved. Also worth mentioning is that the lighting all around consists exclusively of SMD LEDs.

Driving behavior:
The first test drive was conducted without the rear magnet. The center magnet alone still provides a relatively high holding force, so a rear end would have to be provoked into skidding. The limit is surprisingly large. Lap times are similar to the other GT models, but subjectively, the Z4 GT3 is the most docile. Compared to the very critical predecessor model, the Z4 M Coupe, the handling is a significant improvement.

Conclusion:
Visually, there's nothing to complain about, and the handling is also perfectly acceptable. The new model is significantly superior to its predecessor in both criteria. For fans of the GT series(es), it's a great addition to the existing fleet.

Best regards,
CoMod Chris

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Merdedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 "Erebus Motorsports, No36A" Winner Bathurst 2013


Item No.: 20023795
In the range: 2014

Available from: end of September/beginning of October 2014

Review by CoMod Chris & Jörg of the Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche 918 Spyder + "Martini Racing, No. 23"

Art. No. 30697 and 30698
In the range: 2014
Available from: end of August/beginning of September 2014

Technical data:
Weight (complete vehicle with magnets): 100 grams
Weight (body): 27 grams
Length including spoiler: 139 mm
Wheelbase: 85 mm
Track width (front axle): 56 mm
Track width (rear axle): 58 mm
Other: Vehicle has continuous front axle

Overview of the color and country variants:
Last year, the open-top version was released in the "Time Race" and "Celebracers" anniversary basic sets. The individual vehicles, however, come with a closed roof, one in the black and red "Salzburg Racing Design" and one in the familiar Martini livery on a white background. The recently announced Idee & Spiel special model will also be a 918 Spyder in the Martini design, but with a black base color.

Technology:
No surprises, the familiar and proven G2 chassis with the E200 engine is used. And despite limited space in the front end, a continuous front axle was implemented. With a total weight of exactly 100 grams, the model is no lightweight, but it's still within an acceptable range. The lighting is implemented with SMD LEDs, excellent at the rear, but unfortunately, the front is bothered by clearly visible stray light peeking out from the wheel arches.

Optics:
This one has mixed feelings. The classic Martini Racing design suits the model perfectly, and the black add-on parts stand out well against the white base color. There are also a few colorful accents in the interior. The black and red model looks much more inconspicuous overall, but there are few alternatives in terms of design.
I'm dissatisfied with the overall appearance. I encounter original vehicles fairly regularly, and they appear significantly flatter and bulkier than the model is able to portray.

Driving test:
This brings us to the car's best feature. With the full array of magnets, the car adheres extremely strongly to the road. Even with the rear magnet removed, the center magnet still holds the car firmly in its lane, but allows for a certain degree of cornering flexibility. The tendency to roll is very slight, resulting in fast lap times on tight circuits and, overall, a sufficiently docile cornering characteristic. The test car's smooth and relatively quiet driving noise is striking. The open-top 918 Spyder from last year's base package is annoying here with a significantly louder and droning noise. I don't know if this can be explained by the additional roof; perhaps it's just normal dispersion.

*****************************

6.57 minutes… record on the Norschleife for production vehicles. The new Porsche 918 Spyder with hybrid drive has a 4.6-liter V8 engine and 795 or 887 hp (production model/racing version each with combustion + electric motor), which results in an acceleration of just under 3 seconds from 0-100 km/h and a top speed of
from 325-340 km/h. It's available in the basic configuration for 768,000 euros... not a bargain, but plenty of power for the money... limited to 918 units, though.

Optics:
The white Porsche in the Martini livery is, of course, very easily recognizable on the track. The noble
Fortunately, the matte-black 918 has red stripes and a white starting number… so it’s not a dark car either.

Carrera has shown itself to be in love with the implementation of the originals … License plates are correct,
The brake calipers are colored, the brake discs have a hint of perforation, etc. The driver's physique is a bit too cliché for me personally, but that might just be a matter of taste. In the original photos I found online, the Martini has a white spoiler to match the Martini design and black rims with a red center nut. The model has a black spoiler and silver rims... okay, some things are clear: it's the Weissach (tuning) package with a carbon look.

Overall, the vehicles don't look as aggressive and sloppy to me as the pictures of the real vehicles - but that could also be because of the closed roof, most 1:1 photos show it open and the perspectives of the photos may also be misleading... I haven't seen one in real life yet.

Technology:
Actually, all familiar components, even if the vehicle on it is new.
The headlights are white, bright enough, shine downwards, and illuminate the road. The taillights are bright, and the brake lights are clearly visible. The tires have grip, but the tread pattern is limited. True to the original, the tires are quite thin, so dragging them should only be done with extreme caution. The rear end features thin, raised flaps. These are part of the chassis, so proceed with caution.

Processing:
In the area of ​​the paintwork, small - and I mean small - imperfections
, for example, in the curved lines of the Martini decals. The lines vary in thickness, from thinner to thicker. All other components, such as decals and technical parts, are flawless and cleanly mounted. The wheels and axles rotate smoothly and run smoothly, no issues.

Driving behavior:
The vehicle is still okay at just under 100 grams. I feel that
The handling is quite balanced and pleasant with and without the magnet, but lively with or without the magnet. However, the tires quickly reach their grip limits... perhaps a little weight in the chassis is the solution.

Conclusion:
The vehicle fits into the range of super sports cars and will find its buyers.
PS The starting number is the number of the respective prototype.

Test report on the Carrera DIGITAL 124 Ferrari 458 Italia GT3 "AF Corse No.51"

Item No. 20023804
In the range: 2014
Available from: end of August/beginning of September 2014

Finally a large-scale Ferrari that also looks like a classic Ferrari.

The Ferrari, which is homologated in the GT3 class, competes in various European racing series and, there as well as on the Carrera track, meets sparring partners such as the Porsche 911 GT3, Mercedes SLS GT3, Aston Martin, Audi R8 and a few others, such as the BMW Z4 GT3, which unfortunately has not yet been released as a 1:24 model.

A V8 engine with approximately 4.5 liters of displacement and approximately 525 hp makes the Ferrari quite competitive.

Visuals: Red is, of course, the classic Ferrari color, but with the light blue decorative elements and the yellow windshield screen, the car's design really adds a touch of variety. The Ferrari performs very well in the field of modern 1:24 GT cars. The front view, with its narrow, elongated headlights and the distinctive recess in the hood, has an aggressive look, especially from the front, as befits a racing car.

The upward “extension” of the headlights, I suspect a kind of
Design element with night recognition character, is a visual highlight. The not so large spoiler in plain black and the distance between the tires and
The wheel arches complete the positive picture. The paintwork and decals are flawless, even the recess in the hood... top-notch. The driver's helmet and the imitation rear engine are detailed and realistic.

Technology: Actually, all familiar components, even if the vehicle on them is new.
The front light is white, bright enough and does not shine inwards. The large, red-looking
The taillights are slightly reflected in the paint, or even slightly visible. Visually, though, they're okay. The tires have very good grip. The Ferrari has a rather thin lip at the front, which is attached to the chassis. A tip from Ralph124: stick some slashed black cable insulation on it. The occasional breakage when bumping into something.
This should be avoided. At the rear, the chassis has two flaps on the right and left, positioned at a 90-degree angle to the vehicle. Even though they're thinner than the chassis and, if they break, they probably won't crack the chassis, pure racers should at least consider using a Dremel.

Build quality: I haven't found any defects. Handling: Visually, as well as in terms of wheelbase and track width, the car matches the SLS and R8. Remove the magnets, remove the grease from the axle, apply a drop of oil... and off you go.

Conclusion: The Ferrari can definitely keep up even without polished tires; run-in Audi R8s and Mercedes SLSs aren't really any faster... even though the red racer has become quite heavy. So, we have an effective and competitive car in the GT pool... Chapeau.

Great vehicle, I hope for more "colorful" versions. Check out Google-
Image search ;-)

Carrera DIGITAL 132 BMW M3 DTM "A.Farfus, No.7", 2013

Item No. 20030673
Available from: Week 32/33

Augusto Farfus became known to a wider public at the latest since his entry into the ETCC and WTCC in 2004 and 2005. Initially competing for the Alfa Romeo team, he occasionally attracted attention with his impetuous driving style. In 2007, he switched to BMW and has remained loyal to the brand ever since. His WTCC appearances, during which his racing car was covered with an oversized "Gustl" logo – the nickname affectionately bestowed upon him by his Bavarian pit crew – are unforgettable.

Consequently, he participated in BMW's return to the DTM in 2012, clinching victory in the series, which was still new to him, at the end of his first season. He maintained his good form in the 2013 season, finishing as runner-up.
Carrera chose this exact vehicle as the model for this model. It was a good choice, because alongside the already familiar white and black versions, the green-blue version adds a splash of color. There's no danger of confusion with the DTM models from Audi and Mercedes either.

There are no surprises in terms of handling; the DTM cars are among the best in the Carrera range. The BMW sits firmly on the track, remains docile in the corners, and still produces fast lap times.

Conclusion: another good addition to the DTM program, which now includes 9 vehicles.

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Porsche 917K "Martini&Rossi Racing Team, No.3" (Item No. 23797)

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Audi A5 DTM "M.Molina, No.20", 2013

Item No.: 30674
available now

Since joining the DTM, Miguel Molina has become a major player. He has competed exclusively in Audi cars, initially in the A4 DTM and then in the A5 DTM in 2012.

In 2013, Audi realized that with the RS5, they actually had a sports model in their portfolio, similar to how BMW's M3 is the sportiest version of the 3 Series. Consequently, the Audi A5 DTM was renamed the Audi RS5 DTM. The model also bears this exact logo, in large white lettering on red paint. Combined with the white add-on parts, this results in a minimalist yet attractive design. And as with previous DTM cars of the current generation, Carrera has ensured a diverse starting field, which hasn't always been the case in the past.

Honestly, I can't tell you anything new about the handling. Anyone who's already driven one of the other design variants of the Audi knows that Carrera has done quite a bit right here. While the model isn't exactly lightweight, it handles smoothly and smoothly. There's complete freedom of choice when it comes to the magnet configuration – it can be used with or without the full grip enhancers. In the latter case, it makes sense to use tires from third-party manufacturers.

Conclusion: a successful model that offers us further design variants
hopefully will remain for a long time to come.

Review of the Carrera DIGITAL 132 and Evolution LaFerrari by CoMod Chris
Item no.: 30681 / 27458 (yellow) and 30665 / 27446 (red)

Technical data:
Weight (complete vehicle with magnets): 107 grams
Weight (body): 33 grams
Length including spoiler: 149 mm
Wheelbase: 83 mm
Track width (front axle): 61 mm
Track width (rear axle): 61 mm
Other: continuous front axle

About the vehicle:
With a slight delay, the final new car of 2013 is rolling onto the test track: the LaFerrari in its classic red livery. Anyone who already owns the Porsche 918 Spyder from one of the anniversary packs will now receive a thematically appropriate rival car. Because, like the Porsche, the Ferrari is also available with a hybrid drive in the prototype.

Technology or chassis:
This one showcases the now classic Carrera design, with an E200 engine mounted as an inline skate. There's enough space at the front for a full-length front axle. SMD components are used for the front lighting, while classic LEDs with their familiar black shields are used for the rear lighting. The truly well-crafted rims and, in particular, the detailed brake discs and calipers are worth mentioning. The weight, at 73 grams, is a bit too high for my taste.

Optics or body:
Naturally, a red road-going Ferrari has very little printing, but the black roof section extending over the engine creates an attractive contrast. The rearview mirrors, which extend far outwards, are prone to breakage; as is typical with Carrera, an additional pair is included as spare parts. The driver's role is both positive and negative: the cockpit and dummy engine are multicolored and very attractively designed, but the somewhat artificial-looking driver figure spoils the otherwise good overall impression.

Driving test:
As is often the case, there's little to say about the handling with the full array of magnets: the magnets pull the model firmly toward the track, so it's bound to be a fierce action right from the start. There's no limit in the corners; it's "head or tail" here. However, once you've found your rhythm, you can achieve quite fast lap times without any crashes.
Without the rear magnet, lap times drop, but the car is significantly more controllable in corners. However, tire grip does reach its limits in this configuration.

Without any magnets, the Ferrari will just slide around helplessly. Anyone who prefers this mode will at least have to invest in different tires.

Best regards,
Chris

Review by CoMod Chris of the Carrera DIGITAL 132 AMG Mercedes C-Coupe DTM Euronics “Gary Paffett” (Art. No. 30675)

The 2013 DTM season was the second since the season restarted in 2012, and Gary Paffett finished sixth in the overall standings. His company car, sporting the Euronics livery, will now also compete on the Digital 132 track. The blue and yellow color scheme suits the car perfectly, complementing the six previous DTM cars from the 2012 season without creating any danger of confusion. Unfortunately, this car will not be available in the Evolution range, so analog drivers will also have to resort to the digital version.

The Mercedes is still no lightweight, but it sits firmly on the track and is fairly foolproof to drive, regardless of the chosen magnet configuration. Its performance is comparable to the other two DTM car types, so nothing stands in the way of a balanced race.

Best regards,
Chris

Test report from CoMod Carrera124 on the Carrera DIGITAL 132 Citroën DS3 WRC "Citroën Total Abu Dhabi, No.1" (Art. No. 30684)

Life isn't easy being a rally fan: back in the day, vehicles that rolled onto the starting ramp gave the viewer goosebumps: monstrous prototypes, racy sports cars, or at least respectable sedans and coupes that were heavily modified compared to their standard counterparts. Admittedly, even in the 1960s, a few cheeky Mini Coopers stole the show from the established competition, but that didn't detract from the variety.

Those days are over; for years, the WRC has been exclusively small cars. While you wouldn't necessarily want to encounter these nasty little cars on a normal road, their fascination is still limited.
This seems to be extending to slot racing as well: in Spain, the rally theme is established and popular on the racetrack, but here it's only a marginal phenomenon. Yet Carrera has really put a lot of effort into the Citroen DS3 WRC. The proportions appear harmonious from all angles, the printing is elaborate and looks excellent. The rims are also very convincing and realistic.

What does the road test reveal? Short, narrow, and high—normally, that could only be a "side-tilt." Surprisingly, however, it isn't—without the rear magnet, it achieves a very pleasant grip-to-drift ratio. Overall, the handling is a bit "jumpy," but on tight tracks with a high proportion of K1, the little Citroen can be faithfully blasted through the corners. It's definitely fun, even when chasing the fastest times without any opponents.

Conclusion: ideal as a fun and hot car for youngsters or guest drivers, which protects the “real” racing cars from the other classes.

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Dodge Charger 500 Andy Hampton, No.58, Daytona 1969

Item No.: 30686
Assortment: US only
Availability in the Club Shop: End of July 2014

Review by CoMod Alex: “ARCA Racing Series”

When the Dodge Charger 500 and the Plymouth Superbirds came onto the market in 2003, they were all cars with race car liveries. Starting numbers, sponsor stickers, racing stripes. Race cars, in other words.

This is exactly what I'm looking for on my Carrera track: racing cars! Not sports cars in standard liveries; I look for that kind of thing in the parking lot when I'm in the mood.
In the following years, several versions of the aforementioned cars without racing gimmicks were released, all for the American market. These vehicles were simply too boring for me, even though I'm a big fan of the big American cars:
The cars handle excellently! Long wheelbase, wide track, excellent drifting capabilities, and a quick takeoff. Sure, they're clearly inferior to a modern DTM (they were already doing so against the DTMs 10 years ago), but the cars simply have charm and are a real joy to drive on the track.

The muscle cars have been in the Carrera lineup for 10 years now, and at least one car is added to the American market every year. For the past few years, they've finally been sporting proper war paint again. ;-)

This brings us to the current Charger 500 for the market across the pond:
You've probably already wondered what the headline is all about. Well, this time it's not about a racing team, as the name might suggest. Every racing fan can immediately hear the term NASCAR. The largest stock car series in the world. Almost unknown here in Europe is the "ARCA RACING SERIES", also a stock car racing series, which is about two levels below the NASCAR SPRINT CAR SERIES, NASCAR's top racing series. And one level below the NASCAR NATIONWIDE SERIES, the "promotional racing class" in the SPRINT CAR SERIES. The ARCA racing series has existed since 1954, and ARCA races have often used NASCAR cars from the previous season. For many private drivers, it was and still is the entry point into stock car racing.

The current Carrera item number 30686 is no fantasy design; the original 500 in black and yellow with the number 58 raced the Daytona 300 in 1969. The driver was Andy Hampton, the only ARCA driver to win the Daytona 300 twice (1968 and 1972). Incidentally, with the number 58, he finished third in 1969.

Best regards,
CoMod Alex

PS: In addition to the US model, which will be available at the end of July 2014, the other new items from the US range will also be available in the Club Shop. Further information to follow.

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche 918 Spyder "Martini Racing, No.23"

Item No. 30698
Preliminary availability: end of August/beginning of September 2014

Carrera DIGITAL 124, DIGITAL 132 and Evolution Chevrolet Corvette C6R "No.8", GT Open 2013

Item numbers: 23796, 30679, 27456
Assortment: DE, ROW, US
Expected availability: beginning of Q3

“An old acquaintance that hasn’t been seen on the new releases list for a long time.
Well, what great things can one say about the original Corvette that haven't already been written? So I'll just quote word for word from the crazy guys at badboyvettes:

It's simple. Racing is central to Corvette. Without racing and all that it brings - competition, technology, and teamwork - the Corvette would have just been a footnote.

Racing is what transformed the fledging Corvette into a true sports car. Racing continues to keep the Corvette from becoming the flabby boulevard cruiser so many sports cars become - or always were.

We don't care about cup holders or heated seats. We care that Corvette Racing is out to beat its competition and win. Every time. We care that the DNA in every street 'vette out there is linked to this credo.

How cool is it that against world class competition of Astons and Ferraris and at tracks like Le Mans, the 'vette kicks major ass? It's the ultimate sports car overachiever - and inspiration for us all.

The Corvette is a lot more than just racing. It's always had that combination of incredible style and bad boy swagger that other sports cars only wish they had.

And there's really only this much to say about the model itself: Even seven years after its release, the old lady can still hold her own on the track. It's no coincidence that the car was and still is a popular and frequent sight in various racing series.

“v8racing team”

Who says the Dutch are a traffic nuisance? That may be true for the caravan-toting portion of this friendly bunch, but definitely not for the guys from the v8racingteam. They've been anything but slow for years. While they used to compete in the "National Dutch Supercar Challenge," the guys have been competing in the GT Open Championship since 2012. And they've been extremely successful!

After winning the Super GT title in 2013, the guys around team leader Rick Abresch fielded three Corvettes this year. Their efforts paid off, as the six drivers also took home the Super GT title in the team standings in 2014.
The vehicles used were 2 Corvette C6R GT1 (Z06) and one C6R GT2 (ZR1).

Further information can be found on the team’s homepage: http://www.v8racingteam.com/

The CARRERA model is the C6R GT1. This year, the car is available in both large and small scale versions, and they're both perfectly captured.
The "small" Corvette in 132 hp entered the lineup back in 2006, back then as a Pro-X car. Even after all these years, the Vette still performs impressively on the track. In full combat gear (read: with all the magnets), the thing pulls around corners very quickly. Be careful, though; the limits are relatively tight if you approach the turns and bends (much) too quickly. You have to provoke this, though; the car is normally impossible to throw off course thanks to the wide rear axle and the body's low center of gravity.

As I said: The Corvette is far from being obsolete!

Best regards,
CoMod Lotus

Chevrolet Corvette, C6R, all related emblems, and vehicle body designs are General Motors Trademarks used under license to Stadlbauer Marketing+Vertrieb GmbH

Review by CoMod Alex on the Carrera DIGITAL 132 Ferrari F138 F.Alonso No.3 (Art. No. 30695)
Why? Because starting with the 2014 season, V6 turbo engines will be used in Formula 1. That's why the F138 has the number 8 combined with the year in its model name; Ferrari wanted to make a statement with this in the last year of the V8.
The F138, with Fernando Alonso at the wheel, took two victories in the entire 2012 season. Alonso, considered the best driver in Formula 1, has unfortunately had the problem of driving the wrong car for years. There was simply no way to compete with the Red Bulls of the past four years. However, the current season has shown how quickly the situation can change; so far, Sebastian Vettel hasn't made a single run at it; Mercedes dominates everything.

The 2013 Ferrari was at least more successful. Visually, the car is also better than the 2012 one. Ferrari uses the vanity panel on its cars, and the nose cone was also somewhat of an imposition. The Carrera model definitely benefited from it, unlike the Red Bull. The F138 looks sleeker. The car's sponsor logos are printed with the usual delicate detail; note, for example, the Weichan Power logos on the sides.

As I already wrote about the Red Bull RB9: With the magnet in their standard condition, the cars drive quite comfortably; without it, I wouldn't put the red speedster on the tracks. In terms of wheelbase, weight, and dimensions, the car is almost identical to the Red Bull, so at least on our racetracks there are comparable cars, and perhaps the Ferrari will score a win or two!

Best regards,
CoMod Alex

Review by CoMod Alex on the Carrera DIGITAL 132 Infiniti Red Bull Racing No. 1 (Art. No. 30693)

Almost every die-hard Formula 1 fan knows the name. Sebastian Vettel, now a four-time world champion with the Red Bull team, has the charming habit of giving his cars female nicknames. And since the Heppenheim native apparently has a soft spot for the cheerful young wonder from Bergisch Gladbach, the 2013 world championship-winning car was named after her.

I'll only briefly touch on the car's technical specifications, which are also well known to fans: 2.4-liter V8 engine from Renault (RS27 - 2013), output of approximately 550 kW (approximately 750 hp). The braking system is from Brembo, the rims are provided by OZ Racing, and the tires are from standard supplier Pirelli. Length: 5.24 m, width: 1.80 m, height: 1.00 m, weight: 642 kg.

The sporting record of the Red Bull with the number 1 is impressive:
With 13 victories in the 2013 season, Sebastian Vettel equaled the record holder, Michael Schumacher. The second Red Bull driver in the field failed to win a single race that season, but still finished third in the drivers' standings.

Let’s get to the model:
I won't waste much time on the handling. Without the magnet, the F1 cars are almost impossible to drive; getting the cars to align correctly is almost impossible. With the magnet in their standard state, the cars handle quite comfortably, although I do notice that the current F1 cars with their long wheelbase aren't quite as fast around corners as the older Formula racers from earlier years. However, since the current competitor to the RB9, the Ferrari F138, has the same width, almost the same weight, and the same wheelbase, the cars are on a level playing field again in this case.
In any case, the hungry Heidi is a guarantee for exciting races on her home track!

By the way, if you're more into Vettel's teammate Mark Webber: The car with the number 2 is only available in the exclusive SPIELBERG set with the item number 30617.

Best regards,
CoMod Alex

Review by CoMod Alex of the Carrera DIGITAL 132 Ferrari 458 GT2 “Krohn Racing, No. 57” (Art. No. 30678)

As a self-professed non-Ferrari fan, I'm finally happy to be able to write a club report about a Ferrari. Why don't I like Ferrari? I'll just say one word: RED!!!

The Italian luxury racers are always red. Always red. Always the same shade.
Sometimes with, sometimes without racing stripes. But always red. Okay, sometimes they're yellow. But usually red. Why, actually? Because that was/is the Italian national color in racing? I find it deadly boring. Imagine if every Porsche was silver. A terrible thought.

This makes me all the more pleased with the current Carrera model of the 458 GT2, item no. 30678. Green! A green that perfectly showcases the Ferrari's proportions. And the 458 is a beautiful car, unlike some other vehicles from the luxury manufacturer in Maranello, which have a somewhat "pompous" appearance.

The green slot car handles like it's on rails on my home track. Thanks to the wide track, it corners smoothly, but thanks to the very low throttle limit, it's very unforgiving when approaching tight corners too sharply. So don't get overconfident; the car will tempt you to. There's nothing wrong with the acceleration, and the tires have plenty of grip. Those who want to drive without magnets and want to tune the suspension will find plenty of room to fulfill their ambitions.

A few more words about KRON RACING, since the team is probably unfamiliar to most of us: The team has existed since 2006, and the guys from Braselton, Georgia, have been racing the Ferrari 458 since 2012. Before that, they used a Ferrari F430 and a Lola prototype car. The racing team was founded by Tracy Krohn (who is already described as a car fanatic in the Wiki entry). At the age of 29, with $12,000 in his pocket, he founded the company W&T Offshore. This company explores for, extracts, and trades oil. Tracy Krohn is currently ranked 278th among the richest Americans according to Forbes, so apparently the company generates a few dollars so he can afford his racing team.

If you want to know more about the racing team, please visit their homepage:
http://www.krohnracing.net/

Best regards,
CoMod Alex

Carrera DIGITAL 132 VW Beetle "Group 5" Race 1 and VW Beetle "Group 5" Race 2
(Art. No. 30702 and 30703)

Beetle goes racing...no, not Herbie or DuDu...more like a Beetle with the mumps - big cheeks at the front - and a rear end that looks a lot like a 935.
Even if there may not be a real-life model for the two Group 5 Beetles we're looking at, a Beetle with a V8 engine and a very similar look did race at the Donington Park race in 1977. Just type "Beetle" + "racing" into Google... there were some pretty bizarre ones.

Optics:
Both models look really good, and could have been driven like this in real life. The otherwise very sleek Beetle was visually widened at the front and rear and brought into line with the track.

The color combinations of the Röschlein and the Scarabäus already reflect the look of the 70s and can certainly be supplemented with further variants in green, yellow, white, orange, etc. ... this could create a very attractive field of riders over the next 1-2 years.

The driver's seat, roll bar, engine, and exhaust systems are all detailed. The small, original Beetle-style mirror certainly won't last very long in racing.

Technology:
The vehicles have independent front suspension, which allows the wheels to roll freely. The rear axles rotate well and are straight with centered rims. There's very little space in the chassis, so without magnets, it's certainly not going to be easy to trim them with weights.

Processing:
Everything is perfect. The paintwork is flawless. Decals are neatly applied and legible. All parts fit well, and there were no problems disassembling and reassembling.

Driving behavior:
The tires have good grip; the front ones could be considered gluing and sealing. Even though the cars are relatively tall, their width makes up for it; they handle well on the track. Slight rear-end sags are quickly brought under control. Nothing that spoils the fun.

Conclusion:
After CarForce and HotRods, finally something where Carrera can really let off steam... I hope they do.

Best regards,
CoMod Jörg

Carrrera DIGITAL 132 Ford Capri RS 3100 Race 4
(Art.No. 30683)

Now in the lineup for five years, the Ford Capri RS 3100 can almost be described as a perennial favorite. Due to a lack of alternative original designs, another imaginative variant has appeared, which, however, is considerably more appealing than the somewhat flashy tuner versions. Bright yellow, a matte black hood, and orange-red decorative stripes – this car could have rolled around the racetrack in the 70s and would have fit in perfectly. The "Motor77" lettering on the hood, however, clearly indicates that this must be a modern design, as the magazine of the same name has only been published under this name since 2013.

Technically, everything remains the same; the Capri has the same chassis as all its previously released siblings. I'll probably never get used to the independently suspended front wheels; as is often the case, they turn quite stiffly on this test model, somewhat slowing down the car's forward momentum. The handling feels a bit jerky as a result. Apart from that, the E200 engine provides a good top speed, and the cornering limits are also wide. At least when I choose my preferred setup: rear magnet out, center magnet in.
To prevent the lights from shining through, the body is generously painted black on the inside at the front and rear, which proves to be an effective measure.

Conclusion: an existing set of shapes was used sensibly; only at second glance does one notice that it is a modern retro design.

CoMod Chris

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche GT3 RSR "Haribo Racing"
Item No. 30680

There's not much more to say about the Porsche 911 GT3; pretty much everything is known. But at least some car enthusiasts might not know what Haribo means. It's a simple abbreviation for Hans Riegel Bonn.

More information about the racing team can be found here: www.haribo-racing-team.de

Visuals: Black isn't really a "good Carrera track color," but with the red Haribo lettering and the Gold Bear, this is more than excused. The tires are without any sponsorship logos, which doesn't bother me personally... it's all a question of cost these days... and everyone is asking for more.

Technology: The old technology with the narrow rudder turning range is used here again. The driving disadvantage compared to other GT vehicles may be there, but other things are certainly decisive in the race.

Workmanship: Paintwork/printing flawless. The continuous front axle rotates a bit sluggishly and needs a little oil. Tires have good grip, so it can be driven as is. I can't even fault the antenna on this vehicle... it doesn't have one ;-)

Driving behavior: as usual, the Porsches are agile, but also a bit sensitive due to the width/height ratio.

Conclusion: The vehicle would certainly look good in 1:24 scale as well … there's already a corresponding thread in the club … and we've been heard quite often ;-)

CoMod JörgW

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Aston Martin V12 Vantage GT3 "AMR Bilstein, No.97", Silverstone 2013
Item No. 30676

The successor to the Aston Martin DBR(S)9, which has been racing since 2006 (and is no stranger to Carrera), entered the GT3 arena in 2012 with a 6-liter V12 engine producing approximately 600 hp and 700 Nm of torque, competing with the Porsche 911, Audi R8, and Mercedes SLS. A slightly slimmed-down road-going version is also available for serious fans.

This model, featuring the familiar yellow and blue Bilstein livery, is the result of a technical collaboration between vehicle manufacturer Aston Martin and suspension specialist Bilstein. Outings in the German VLN series, particularly with a focus on the 24-hour Nürburgring, were not bad for the V12 Vantage for a re-start. In 2013, it even managed to secure a 10th place overall finish in the 24-hour race. This Carrera 1:32 model was driven in the British Blacpain Endurance Series, in which Aston Martin is working towards a factory team. New outings at the 24-hour races at Spa and the Nürburgring are planned.

Visuals: The yellow and blue colors are easy to spot on the Carrera track. The new Aston Martin performs well in the GT field. I like the front view with its slanted headlights and the huge rear spoiler. From the side, the space between the tires and the wheel arch is still a bit too large.

Technology: Actually, all familiar components, even if the vehicle on them is new.
The headlights are white, bright enough, and barely glare inward. The taillights, which appear blue, are red. The brake lights, in particular, are clearly visible. The tires have good grip. True to the original, the tires are quite thin; dragging should be done with caution. Perhaps there will be matching Orthmann tires or similar for this vehicle; the vehicle would deserve them.

Workmanship: There are some minor—and I mean minor—imperfections in the paintwork, as well as an annoying flaw on the left C-pillar. All other components, such as decals and technical parts, are flawless and cleanly mounted. What I would have liked to change is the antenna. If it were made of flexible material, it could be left in place during the race without any concerns, but the slightly rearward-facing antenna is very vulnerable.

Handling: The car is a bit heavy at 102 grams, but it has a good wheelbase-to-length-to-width ratio and can compete quite competitively in the Carrera GT series. There's room in the chassis for tuning with weights. I find the handling, both with and without the magnet, to be quite balanced, comfortable, and lively.

Conclusion: Finally, a 'new' manufacturer in the GT3 circus on the Carrera track. I think there could be other variants, such as the Fischer Racing Team's car. The car would certainly look good in 1:24 scale, but will it be a success? Looking at the entry lists... there are several other manufacturers who aren't yet racing in 1:32.

CoMod Jörg

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Ferrari Berlinetta "No.4", Brands Hatch 1970
Item No. 23798

The third very interesting color variant of the Ferrari 512S Berlinetta.

It represents the Gelo Racing team's car that competed in the 1970 1000 Kilometers of Brands Hatch—or better yet, it should have. The drivers were team owner Georg Loos (Germany) and Jonathan Williams from Great Britain. Due to a lack of tires at the start, the car remained in the pits and did not participate in the race.

Porsche 917Ks crossed the finish line in the top three positions – another race in which this car dominated the 5-liter class of the time. The first Ferrari 512S finished eighth. The 1:24 Carrera model, of course, has all its tires mounted. The visual and technical workmanship of this sample are flawless. Only the front axle could benefit from a drop of oil and a slight loosening of the overly tight gear play.

The unique color variations of the 512S Berlinetta with this body style are pretty much exhausted – apart from the varying starting numbers. I was only able to find one Scuderia Filipinetti car with slightly different livery – but all of them had a dominant red base color.

CoMod Martin

Carrera Club Model 2014
Item No. 23802

Available in limited edition exclusively in the Carrera Club online shop from Q4/2014.

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Porsche GT3 RSR "Manthey Racing, No. 18", 24h Nürburgring 2011 (Item No. 23794)

...here it is at last, the Porsche GT3 RSR “Manthey Racing, 24-h-Nürburgring 2011”!

The 1:32 version has been on the market for a long time, so many VLN fans were waiting under
Carrera's fans are looking forward to the Manthey Porsche in the exclusive 1:24 scale. The selected model competed in the 24-hour race in 2011. Last year, things hadn't gone quite as well for the winning Manthey team... hence the starting number 18.
But in 2011, after 24 tough hours of racing, there was another victory. ... just by the way
mentioned, the third place was taken by the Audi R8 LMS, also published by Carrera, in the
yellow-blue Bilstein dress.

The handling is well-known ... I like the 911 Porsche, especially when the tires are cleanly ground and the edges are beveled. The Porsche also runs very well on Orthmann tires, if you want it to. Personally, I prefer more drifting and stick with the Carrera tires. I almost always drive the 1:24 scale cars without magnets; due to the relatively high overall weight, the use of trim lead is rarely necessary. Just get out of the pit, grind the tires, remove the magnets... ready for fun.

Now to the optics:
The paint is top-notch. I haven't seen the car in person, but the colors and decals are very consistent compared to the original photos. The driver's seat, interior, and hardware are flawless—as has become standard these days with Carrera. The front tires spin for a long time and track smoothly. The rear and front axles are well centered and have little play, just right.
If I were a model builder, I would give the vehicle a subtle dirt look,
just like after a long-distance race ;-)

… oh yes … next I want the Haribo Porsche ;-)

Best regards,
CoMod Jörg

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Audi R8 LMS "Team Phoenix, No.2A", Bathurst 2012
Item No. 23793

This model was used at the 12-hour race in Bathurst / Australia in 2012
Audi took the win with the Phoenix team… but with the black
Car (which we already know from the Carrera range). The white counterpart was eliminated after
Accident on lap 157.

Optics:
The varnish is first-class, the printing is very fine. Even the smallest lettering remains
legible, the spider web runs in detail across the body. The interior is rich in detail and
The front tires rotate for a long time and run smoothly in the
Guide.Rear and front axles are well centered and have little play, just right.The
Tires have good grip by default.... dragging was not really an issue this time
necessary. The front wheels are well positioned in the wheelhouses, the rear wheels still have some air
up.

The handling is actually quite familiar; of the modern GT cars, Audis, along with Aston Martins, are my favorites purely from a driving perspective. The wheels are well centered, and the car runs smoothly and unobtrusively.

CoMod JörgW

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Porsche GT3 RSR "Manthey Racing, No. 18", 24h Nürburgring 2011 (Item No. 23794)

...here it is at last, the Porsche GT3 RSR “Manthey Racing, 24-h-Nürburgring 2011”!

The 1:32 version has been on the market for a long time, so many VLN fans were waiting under
Carrera's fans are looking forward to the Manthey Porsche in the exclusive 1:24 scale. The selected model competed in the 24-hour race in 2011. Last year, things hadn't gone quite as well for the winning Manthey team... hence the starting number 18.
But in 2011, after 24 tough hours of racing, there was another victory. ... just by the way
mentioned, the third place was taken by the Audi R8 LMS, also published by Carrera, in the
yellow-blue Bilstein dress.

The handling is well-known ... I like the 911 Porsche, especially when the tires are cleanly ground and the edges are beveled. The Porsche also runs very well on Orthmann tires, if you want it to. Personally, I prefer more drifting and stick with the Carrera tires. I almost always drive the 1:24 scale cars without magnets; due to the relatively high overall weight, the use of trim lead is rarely necessary. Just get out of the pit, grind the tires, remove the magnets... ready for fun.

Now to the optics:
The paint is top-notch. I haven't seen the car in person, but the colors and decals are very consistent compared to the original photos. The driver's seat, interior, and hardware are flawless—as has become standard these days with Carrera. The front tires spin for a long time and track smoothly. The rear and front axles are well centered and have little play, just right.
If I were a model builder, I would give the vehicle a subtle dirt look,
just like after a long-distance race ;-)

… oh yes … next I want the Haribo Porsche ;-)

Best regards,
CoMod Jörg