Automodello 1935 Duesenberg

Automodello is quickly becoming known as the company which produces those rare and outstanding models in automotive history. Therefore, it is no wonder that the 1935 Duesenberg SJ Mormon Meteor Speedster was on their "Bucket List" of must produce automobiles, and boy am I glad they did. So you are asking yourself; "What made this automobile so special?” First, it was a Duesenberg and that would be reason enough to produce it but what really made this automobile stand out was the speed record it held at the Bonneville Salt Flats. The Duesenberg was one of the fastest cars in the world by covering 3523 miles in 24 hours at an average speed of 135.47 mph. The 1935 Duesenberg SJ Mormon Meteor Speedster is truly a super car. You can read more about it at SuperCars.net

Automodello produced the Speedster in 1:24th scale as a resin static model. As a static model there are no working features to speak of. However, the wheels do roll which will prevent breakage; if you choose to remove it from the supplied base, and this was done at the insistence of Automodello to prevent breakage. And I personally think it is an excellent feature to include on their models.

Currently all 1:24th models, which Automodello produces, qualify for a payment plan, if purchased through Diecasm. Learn More.

OK, we got all the basic hype out of the way so let’s get into the model and tell you what I really think of it. First, I love the packaging, to remove the model from its packaging you need to slide the two end wings straight up. There is a wing on both the left and right hand side of the box once you open the lid. Once these wings are removed you simply grasp the ribbon, which is located under the base, and grasp the front and back of the ribbon, with two hands, and lift the model forward and up. The goal here is to tip the model so the front of the base lifts up, once you can get your hand under the base lift the model out of the box by the base. Do NOT grasp the model; doing so may damage the fragile etching that is found throughout the model, and we don’t want to do that.

Automodello uses a lot of photo-etched parts on their models which emulates the look of metal. What you must realize is these parts are extremely fragile so please don't wipe the model with a cloth to clean smudges; if you do be mindful that these parts; they are easily damaged, and running a cloth over them will definitely ruin them without question. And FYI they can't be repaired easily once they are damaged or broken.

My intent here is not to deter you from fondling your model, by no means, I am simply forewarning you of the "What ifs". If I can save a first time modeler from a bad experience, and it saves me a few dozen emails or phone calls regarding how to fix a self-inflicted wound then I am glad to have been of help.

So now we have the model out of the box, and sitting on our desk, you can't help admire the glass like finish, of the paint, so smooth and glossy with no flaws. I was especially impressed with the deep etching which accentuates the look and feel of working parts, found around the hood, vents etc. Remembering my tip regarding photo-etched parts the Ab Jenkins signature along with the Duesenberg insignia across the hood and the hood hinge are all photo etched so be mindful of them as you fondle your model; they will damage easily. That said to add these pieces any other way would not have the same stylish effect as the photo-etched parts do, I like them just be careful. Viewing the nose the fit of the grille is flawless. And be sure to look closely at the light along with the fender lights; perfect, as should be; this is a high-end replica, not a toy. The exhaust header melts into the hood, flows eloquently along the body side and has the proper cut viewing it from the rear. And what really makes all this work is the pipe is hollowed out about a quarter of an inch, and then sprayed a flat black, which gives the illusion of an actual exhaust pipe, nice touch. What really "Popped my Cork" is the wheel work. Check out our photos below, look at the hub caps, and notice the red pin stripe around the edge of all the wheels, stunning

The interior is very well done. However, the instrument cluster lacks the three dimensional look which I have come to expect in my models. I enjoy a detailed instrument panel, make me believe it works, this one didn't. However, the rest of the interior worked for me, I especially like the texture of the rubber floor mat, and the seat. The seat was very well done and it had the look of fine leather, it complimented the model nicely. Being a static model you want the interior to pop; this along with a perfect body style are what sells a static model, these two areas need to be spot on and this one was very, very close.

All Automodello models are delivered attached to a base via two screws, which are easily removed, if you decide to display it alongside the rest of your collection. However, be mindful of those photo-etched parts while you remove it from its base; they damage easily.

Also, Diecasm offers a dust cover, for their 1:24th models, I suggest you check their web site for current pricing; these covers are made exclusively for their bases.

In conclusion I like everything about this model; it really pops. I would have liked to see that instrument panel with a little more dimension to it but I won't sweat the small stuff and accept it as it is. If you love automobiles associated with speed, then you need the Automodello Dusenberg in your collection; it looks fast simply sitting on its base.

The Automodello 1935 Duesenberg SJ Mormon Meteor Speedster will be limited to 599 units worldwide; it was produced for the 1:24th market, and retails for $299.95 plus shipping and handling. If you would like to purchase this model on the payment plan I suggest you contact Diecasm and they will be happy to setup the payment plan for you.

Without a doubt this one is a keeper, we rate it a "Cork Popper" with a (4 1/2 Cork) rating for sure!