Toyota TS010 model by HPI

Toyota entered the 24h Le Mans race, for the first time, back in 1985. It wasn't though until 1992 that got the long desired podium finish, with the TS010 finishing 2nd. So, it nice to have added a TS010 in my collection!  This is a model of TOM'S TS010 #8 24h Le Mans race car, which finished 8th in the race.

Lexus SC 430 model by Kyosho

This is a rather old model, but since I found it for €7.95, I immediately added it to my collection. Lexus SC 430 is a beautiful car and I am still waiting for an even better model version of it to come out. This is the last Toyota-branded series of Soarer coupes (Z40 series), introduced in 2001. From July 2005 onwards, it was sold in Japan as Lexus SC 430 only.

Ken Okuyama Cars presents kode57

Ken Okuyama Cars, the only carrozzeria in Japan, has unveiled the "kode57" at the Quail. All "kode" models (kode7, kode8, kode9) that have been revealed in the past were beautiful, unique and an expression of Ken Okuyama's superb design skills, but his latest creation is perhaps the finest example out of all. Below you can read more details from the official press release.

"Sitting on a highly rigid aluminum chassis, the kode57 is propelled by one of the world’s most powerful V12 engines mounted directly behind the front axle in a front mid-ship configuration. It is a limited edition car whose body has been meticulously styled to deliver a breath-taking visual experience and supercar driving pleasure. 

Ken Okuyama Cars guarantees you will be able to appreciate the high level of passion and commitment in all facets of this one-off model, built in a Japanese state-of-the-art facility focusing on specialist handmade techniques. 

The name kode57 pays homage to the year 1957, an iconic year in which many legendary cars were born and motor racing gained a strong worldwide following. 

As part of its exhaustive weight-saving efforts, the kode57 incorporates an aluminum space frame and carbon fiber body panels. With its low-cut windscreen and long side proportions, the roofless coupe achieves an open-air feeling not seen in today’s high performance supercars. 

kode57 features a driver-oriented cockpit with bespoke individual color themes defining each seat. Its handmade leather and ultra-suede (Toray) interior combination exudes an air of elegance and style while the rear-hinged scissor-type doors give the car a super sporty look. Electrically-adjustable seats, air-conditioning and an adjustable steering wheel add comfort and enable the pilot to find their ideal driving position. 

The V12 engine and suspension settings can be tuned to suit the owner’s tastes thanks to a collaboration with German specialist Novitec Rosso. This partnership allows the front ride height to be adjusted by up to 45mm using a dedicated switch to assist during parking and other driving situations. Specially selecting the tires to deliver both performance and comfort, Pirelli P-Zero 295/25ZR21) were fitted to the front while P-Zero 335/25ZR22 were shod at the rear."

Toyota Soarer 3.0 GT Limited (E-MZ20) model

Last month, Mark released the Toyota Soarer 3.0 GT Limited (E-MZ20) 1987 model in two versions (Super White Ⅱ & Crystal White Toning). I chose the first version and it just arrived from Japan! It will really look nice next to the Soarer 2.0 (GZ10) model by ignition model (会社概要) I already got (earlier post)!!!

Lexus LFA model by Mark

I already have three LFA models, made by Ebbro and Kyosho, as part of my collection, but I was really tempted in buying another one when I saw this version by Mark (Mark43). This is an LFA (RHD) in Pearl Grey colour made out of resin. A very beautiful model indeed!

Tomica Toyota Century model

One of the latest additions to my collection is this little model, a Toyota Century in 1/64 scale (LV-N105d), part of the Limited Vintage Neo series by Tomica. The model came in a different box, than the rest of the Tomica models I already got, making it more special. 

Tomica Toyota Crown Deluxe model

Another Tomica Toyota Crown model arrived (earlier post), this time a Crown Deluxe - gen. 1 (LV-148b)!

More Lexus UX renderings

Following the info Mag-X already published last month (earlier post) about the new baby Lexus  SUV, this time it's Best Car magazine that came up with new renderings. Those renderings are very different and I have to admit that I like this version better. The Lexus UX is expected to be launched in 2019.