1:20th scale Shocking Line 1970 Ferrari (1971 spec.) 512 M diecast

[swede70]

Greetings,

For years I was half-tempted to purchase a slightly damaged example from a friend who sets up at a local toy show, although with the passage of time I've been able to secure three of these toy/diecast metal sports prototype racers.  The Ferrari 512 S and 512 M typically competed against period rival Porsche 917's, while both fill the screen when viewing Steve McQueen's Solar production of Le Mans (the film then) from '71.  

The image above represents Swede Savage and Peter Revson NART entry at the 12 Hours of Sebring where they posted a DNF.  Concerning the models, the finish on these isn't amazing, the decal work iffy at best, although they are fun shelf pieces even as 1:20th isn't a common scale.  

Asking prices are all over the map for these, being either $150+ (typically with complete original packaging, plus the two keys enclosed) or fetching almost nothing, with the models seen being picked up for $15-$20 tops.  The third example I possess is out of sight, having been purchased for parts and the all important key.  A small length of square plastic stock can be used as a surrogate key which allows one to remove the wheels, lock or unlock the doors, and access the battery tray beneath.  

Sort of like the Schuco metal models where one could remove the wheels of such with a special tool provided, the tiny range of Edison/Shocking Line (odd name then) Ferrari 512 models had functional headlamps and tail lamps, functional steering, opening doors/engine cover/front clip, and delicate functional suspension. One example I purchased still had it's FAO Swartz branded AA batteries inside, likely being a pricey purchase for some kiddo visiting NYC back in the day. Thanks...

Mike K./Swede70

Edited June 29, 2021 by swede70

[1959scudetto]

Hello Michael, the body of this 512 M looks more like the Scuderia Fiipinetti car, which was nicknamed "512 F" (modified by Michael Parkes with a lower and much smaller cockpit than the regular 512 M.

The other car of this series is the 1972 Alfa Romeo 33 which I bought a blue one for € 10 at the Padua (Italy) classic car fair 7 years ago, and a second one (white) I won on ebay for € 1,00 = starting price, I was the only bidder (postage cost me 15 € from the Netherlands, though)

[swede70]

Thanks for your input.  I'm not well versed in the intricacies of the 512 and it's maturation (i.e. I tried to make some edits so-prompted), although happy all the same to have an example in scale.  It doesn't seem that Edison/Shocking Line lasted for so very long as a going concern, while happy to note that another passing through has been able to secure examples of interest (i.e. your Alfa Romeo 33) for not so much.  Kind regards...

Mike K./Swede70

Edited June 29, 2021 by swede70

[1959scudetto]

Hello Michael, I just found some pics of Scuderia Filipinetti's 512 F on the French Slotracing site: https://lemans.slot-racing.fr/le-mans-1971/ferrari-512F-7-spirit.html   This car raced only once (Le Mans 1971) and DNF after an accident:

The main difference between the model and the real car is the full-width rear wing. Here you can clearly see the narrower, smaller cockpit in comparison with the team's second car (# ? and the Penske 512 M of Mark Donohue (# 11):

 

[swede70]

Thanks for your input and guidance as to the differences manifest between the variants of the 512 M and the one-off 512 F.  I'd read Donohue's The Unfair Advantage and carry with me some remembrances of differences between the Kirk White/Roger Penske Racing 512 bodywork and aero configuration as contrasted to the factory cars, but really hadn't much appreciation or strict knowledge to discern the smaller frontal area of the solitary 512 F.  Darn - but one refinish choice then!  Again - I appreciate the interest displayed and the guidance afforded for the images posted.  

Mike K./Swede70