Vehicle reports

Article number: 20030728
EAN: 4007486307285

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

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

Review by CoMod Alex aka Lotus of the Carrera DIGITAL 124 Audi R8 LMS "Carrera Safety Car" (Art. No. 23799)

Well, a lot of Carrera Club members will start to chuckle at the title of this review, some more, some less. ;-)
We CoMods are used to CARRERA vehicles evoking emotions – sometimes very different ones. Our job is, among other things, to manage these emotions in the clubbers when some of them get too carried away.

What makes the whole thing difficult is when you agree 100% with the clubbers' opinion, but you're not allowed to get upset yourself.
The Audi R8 Safety Car was a long-held dream of the 124-series. So, the joy was all the greater when the car appeared in the 2014 new releases list. We first saw a sample of the Safety Car in December 2013 in Salzburg. Back then, it still had black windows, as originally planned for production. This led to heated discussions with design, engineering, and marketing at the CARRERA showroom in Puch (as one CoMod put it: "That's absolutely unacceptable!").

When the first pictures of the vehicle were shown at the Toy Fair, the club members' reaction was predictable: A storm of outrage erupted! 1:24 scale with black windows? No driver involvement? It looks like a toy. These and similar comments were among the more harmless remarks the organizers had to listen to at the fair.
After endless discussions, which the decision-makers ultimately took to heart, it was decided to produce the vehicle with clear glass windows, true to the original. Technically, this meant that various cable feeds for the turn signal attachment in the roof would be significantly more complex, although certain concessions would naturally have to be made. Ultimately, the will of the club members prevailed. It may sound a bit pathetic, but it's true.

So, a few more words about the vehicle:
I'll only say a few words about the design, as this has also sparked some discussion within the club. I'll just say this: Some things are simply not feasible under licensing law, unfortunately. Personally, I like it; the design is "contemporary." And in the LMS starting field, the car is a pleasant change, just because of the flashing lights. :D

The handling of the R8 itself is well known; the base LMS racer is rightfully one of the most popular and best-running cars in the 124-series. The Audi boasts excellent acceleration and flawless cornering. It's no coincidence that the car is also frequently used in club racing series.

While Team Phoenix's spider R8 was a visual feast for the eyes, the Safety Car is a technical masterpiece. I hope you enjoy the car!

Best regards,
CoMod Alex

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS "No.51" (Item No. 30682/27459)

Technical data:

Weight (complete vehicle with magnets): 83 grams
Weight (body): 21 grams
Length including spoiler: 130 mm
Wheelbase: 72 mm
Track width (front axle): 47 mm
Track width (rear axle): 47 mm
Other: Independent front suspension


Overview of the color variants:
Following the red and silver versions from the two anniversary basic packages, the Porsche 904 Carrera GTS is now also available as a single vehicle, in a classic, understated sky blue color scheme.

Technology:
The vehicle's petite dimensions result in a correspondingly small and densely packed chassis. The front axle is independent, and the familiar E200 engine serves as the powerplant. Conventional LEDs are used for the lighting, although I would have preferred flat SMD LEDs for the headlights, at least. At just 83 grams, the vehicle is a lightweight.

Care must be taken when removing the body from the chassis. The front body screws are shorter than the rear ones, a feature also found in some classic Unimogs from the 1960s. If you mix up the screws during assembly, there's a risk of accidentally puncturing the body.

Optics:
There's hardly anything left to be desired here; the little Porsche cuts a fine figure from every perspective. The truly beautifully designed headlights and taillights are worth highlighting. The well-designed rims also contribute to the good visual impression. The delicate exhaust pipe is prone to breakage. The sponsor logo is contemporary and understated.

Driving test:
Due to its comparatively low weight, the car takes off like a rocket, so its performance is initially more comparable to a modern Formula 1 car than a classic vintage car. Despite the narrow track, there's no noticeable tendency to roll over; the two chassis magnets keep the Porsche 904 securely on track. Fast lap times can be achieved, but this requires a high level of concentration and good reflexes.

Without the rear magnet, you gain a bit more usable range – as always – but a sensitive thumb is still required. Regardless of the magnet configuration chosen, it's a good idea, at least with the digital model, to reduce the maximum speed slightly via the BB/CU to achieve more harmonious handling.

CoMod Chris

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 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 "Black Falcon, No.3", 24h Dubai 2012
Item No.: 23790
Preliminary availability: October 2013

Review by CoMod Lotus of the Carrera DIGITAL 132 Shelby Cobra 289 "No.21" (Art. No. 30651)

The (Shelby) Cobra is probably one of the most recognizable vehicles.

Almost everyone knows someone who has owned or has owned a Cobra. My friend Pierre had one, the junior manager of our Ford dealership has one, and so on. Of course, in most cases, it's not a real Cobra, but one of the countless real or fake replicas that have been in production for over 40 years.

Interestingly, the majority of Cobras I've seen over the years have one thing in common: They're metallic blue, and a large portion of them have white racing stripes.

Why that is? I have no idea. Probably because the killer machine looks simply awesome in this paint job. Or could you imagine a Cobra with a GULF, WARSTEINER, JÄGERMEISTER, MARTINI, or RED BULL livery? Exactly.

Then I can just stick PRIL flowers and “NO THANKS TO NUCLEAR POWER” stickers on my car.

But where does this preference for the blue and white paint come from?
Possibly from the original vehicle for the latest Cobra model from CARRERA:
The legendary Cobra CSX 2345 from 1964/65. In 1965, Shelby factory driver Bob Bondurant won the Rossfeld Hill Climb in Berchtesgaden in the "Grand Touring Vehicles over 2000cc" class. Relatively unknown in Germany, Bondurant is a racing legend in the USA. From 1953 to 1965, he was virtually unbeatable in both open and closed Ford Cobras.

Back then, CSX 2345 won virtually everything in its class under various Shelby factory drivers: Brands Hatch, Targa Florio, Spa, Nürburgring, Tourist Trophy, and more. The car is now owned by Steve Volk and is on display at the Shelby Museum in Chaparral Court. It has not been restored to this day and remains in its original condition from 1965, when it was returned to the USA after the Rossfeld race, then sold, and immediately mothballed.

Here is a link to the museum, just browse the “Collection”:
shelbyamericancollection.org

Comparing the pictures of the original with the Carrera model, you'll notice a few small differences in the body: the front air intake under the large nose, the slightly smaller air vents on the side. Unfortunately, this cannot be avoided due to production reasons, as it isn't possible to create a separate mold for each car. And the original Cobras all differ in various details. Otherwise, the model is no different from the original! The Cobra's handling is well-known: thanks to its low center of gravity and weight, the car corners very well, but it tends to judder in the corners due to the tires' very high grip. Grinding the tires helps, but on the straights, the car fully exploits its high speed.

Overall, for me the most beautiful Cobra after the UNI-Repro!

Carrera Evolution Porsche 904 Carrera GTS
Item No.: 27444

Carrera Evolution Porsche 918 Spyder
Item No.: 27445


Both vehicles are available exclusively in the now available Carrera Evolution set "Celebracers" (Art. No. 25197).

<< to the product >>

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Bill Thomas Cheetah No.63, No.5"
Item No.: 23783
Preliminary availability: June 2013

Carrera DIGITAL 132 BMW M3 DTM "B.Spengler, No.7"
Item No.: 30662
Preliminary availability: Fall 2013

Carrera DIGITAL 132 AMG-Mercedes C-Coupe DTM "J.Green, No.5"
Item No.: 30659
Preliminary availability: Fall 2013

Carrera DIGITAL 132 Porsche GT3 RSR "Team Falken, No.17", 2009
Item No.: 30642
Preliminary availability: July 2013

!! ATTENTION: new image data !!
The model was produced in 1:32 scale, similar to the 2010 model in 1:24 scale.

Carrera DIGITAL 132/Ferrari 458 Italia "Safety Car"
Item No.: 30646
Preliminary availability: June 2013

Carrera DIGITAL 132/Evolution Shelby Cobra 289 "No.21"
Item No.: 30651 / 27434
Preliminary availability: July 2013

Carrera DIGITAL 132/Evolution BMW M3 DTM "M.Tomczyk, No.1"
Item No.: 30661 / 27442
Preliminary availability: August 2013

Carrera DIGITAL 124 Gaisberg race 2013
Porsche 917K
Item No.: 23787
Preliminary availability: June 2013 (Clubshop only!!)

Carrera DIGITAL 132/Evolution GreenGT H2
Item No.: 30667 / 27448
Preliminary availability: October 2013

In the new test reports section, you will now find the first pictures of our shape and design variants!

Best regards,
the Carrera Club Team

We'll try to provide sample blanks and grayscale images from time to time, but unfortunately, it won't always be possible! However, we will present many great detailed shots and other images in advance and hope you enjoy them!