Spare time

 

I have just acquired two Datsun 240Z models, the #394 edition that was available from 1972 and stayed around until 1977. The early issue had the open 8-spoke wheel which replaced the ugly types that had been fitted on Whizzwheels models previously. Only a few models got this wheel: the #284 Citroen SM, #316 Ford GT70, #329 and #391 Ford Mustang, #393 Mercedes 350SL and #396 the other Datsun 240Z. Each of these, except the Ford GT70, also gets the later closed 12-spoke chrome wheel. (Maybe the Ford GT70 does get them but I have yet to find an example).

It was only when I was taking these photos, however, that I realised there was another interesting difference. In the back there is a spare retained by some cross-shaped device.

In the earlier edition teh wheel is quite small and look solid plastic and the retaining piece appears quite flimsy.

In the later edition there is what looks like a treaded tyre, similar to what is on the model and this fills the retaining device which also seems a little sturdier (although that may just be how it seems).

The stickers were supplied on a separate sheet with the model so you will find these in a variety of places or, as in the case of the later edition here, not attached at all.

The interior of the later edition also looks slightly darker but that may be because it has been exposed more to light than the other one.

The wheel in the earlier edition looks suspiciously like what might have been a 'pepperpot' or 'four crowns' style of the old Whizzwheel placed face down. It makes me wonder whether the model was going to get the older style and the spare was never changed. As we know, Corgi never paid a great deal of attention to the spares. Witness the #202 Renault 16TS with Whizzwheels but a nice #260 style wheel as a spare and, of course, the Lamborgini and Ferrari Dino still have the intended 'Golden Hacks' wheel as a spare.

What I need to figure out is whether the change of spare happened at the same time as the change of wheel - in other words are there a possible four variations of this model or just two?

When I first found the Datsun many years ago, I remember noticing that one has a nice and bright metal fitting for the bumper and spotlights whereas another had what seemed to be black metal. Perhaps this was merely how the bright metal aged? Or are there two types of bumper fitting? Something I need to look into again.

It is, I suppose, equally likely that the #396 editions will also have a different spare and I'll try to obtain a pair to compare in the near future. These models tend to be pretty cheap still, although well-made and with jewels and opening doors and an attractive interior. It had a long life and even re-appeared in 1998 when a special edition made for a racing driver who raced in these and whose name escapes me. I was in correspondence with him at one point as he wanted to sell the whole of his stock of around 3000 which Corgi had made for him. They appear from time to time and are worth getting if you collect the  British-made 1:43 editions.