Corgi Batmobiles Review
By Robert Covarrubias

Corgi, is one of the THE elite die-cast scale model companies that has been creating model vehicles for over 40 years now. You can’t say the name Corgi without thinking of the many cars, airplanes, trucks and buses that they have produced for fun, pleasure and collector geeks like myself. Today they are highly sought-after in the expanding collectible market. You can’t go on any on-line auction without seeing at least a dozen of these babies out there ready to suck your wallet dry. Some models in mint condition and complete with box which originally sold for a few dollars will easily snatch up over a thousand dollars today.

Although the idea of dropping that much cash on a toy may deter some, just remember that Corgi is always innovating its product and releasing new models every month at all price ranges. So whether you are looking for that vintage truck or interested in starting a new collection line, Corgi will not disappoint.

The first Corgi models appeared in 1956 and covered British-built saloon cars of the period. One of the top selling models of all time, reaching 5 million units, is the 1966 Batmobile.

One of the best things that could of happen to Corgi only because I am a die-hard Batman collector, was Corgi Classics announcement in 2004 that it had been awarded a global license from Warner Bros. Consumer Products to produce and market a line of high quality die-cast Batmobile's. I do back flips every time I see their new line, which includes all of their work, and it always gets better. I can go on and on with the Corgi history and accomplishments but then again you are all reading this for my Batmobile review. For a complete history of the company and information on their Corgi Collectors Club with over 10,000 members worldwide, you can visit their website www.corgi.co.uk/

So let’s begin the review of the different versions of my favorite vehicle of all time, the Batmobile.

First, the 1940s Batmobile is a larger version of the popular 1:43 scale vehicle previously released. This model has opening doors and detailed interior. Size: 7” x 3.5” Scale: 1:24 Retail Price: $16.49

 

 

The 1960’s Batmobile™ with Batcommunicator or without depending on which version you buy is the most recognized of all Batmobile's, this 1960’s version is in 1:24 scale which measures at 9.5” x 3.5” and again depending on which version you buy comes with an ultra-cool Batcommunicator. The car has a hinged hood and engine detail that will delight all Batman collectors. Retail Price $21.99

The 2000 Batmobile™ with Translucent Hood shows off its engine with an awesome see-through design. The high-tech translucent hood is hinged to expose its double-action rotating-turbine engine. This vehicle also has a removable cockpit shell to reveal its custom interior. Let’s not forget the state-of-the-art Batcommunicator that’s also included. Size: 13” x 3.75” Scale: 1:18 Retail Price: $39.99

Packaging 10/10

The packaging today is as attractive as the toy they protect and Corgi has always put a lot of work into their packaging design. I happen to be a big fan of Corgi’s handy art work and colors on the box. That is why with Corgi toys you can always choose to display out of the boy or mint in box, that is a decision that you will have to make yourself. And although their secure packaging with all those twisty ties makes it possible for your collectible to survive a nuclear blast, I feel comfort in the fact that my collectible is safe and secure, perhaps one less twisty.

Details 8/10

Corgi puts a lot of detail in these Batmobile’s. The engine detail in the 1960’s and 2000 Batmobile's is fantastic so is the interior of any of the three. You see the radio, gears, seats with the Bat symbol, and other contraptions I couldn’t even explain. Then there are the rubber tires and headlights. Definitely collectibles to appreciate but then again detail is something Corgi rarely leaves out. But, I would have loved to have seen more detail from the 1966 TV show put into the 1960’s Batmobile, which would have definitely rocked, oh well, perhaps the next line.

Paint 10/10

Paint is something I don’t think you will ever find a complaint with unless you accidentally get a defective item. Corgi has mastered the paint job they do on all their vehicles and I have seen many. These Batmobile's are shiny and rich in color and look even better in a glass display case with light shining on top of it. If you haven’t been to a convention where Corgi has their collectibles on display then I must highly recommend it. Any of their lines will blow you away.

Accessories 10/10

The 1960’s, again depending on which version you get, and the 2000 Batmobile each come with a Batcommunicator with its respective Batman from that era. Push the button and you will hear batman say a few phrases. You can even see Batman’s mouth moving as he speaks thanks to the flicker card like item placed in the communicator. It’s a cute idea and also displays well with the Batmobile’s.

Overall 10/10

I can’t say enough good things about this company and the merchandise that they are producing. I only wish that one day I am able to afford every single item that they have ever put out, which I know is an impossibility. But nonetheless, if I had the room and money I would collect their Aviation, Military and Pop culture and pretty much anything else I can get my hands on. But for now, I am happy to be able to collect all the fine Batmobile models that they can produce. Hopefully when my kids take over my collection in thirty to forty years Corgi will still be around creating the toys I grew up with as a child and collected as an adult.