Tank!

The 1923 Bugatti Type 32, nicknamed the “Tank”, featured a number of mechanical innovations in addition to its radical, aerodynamic shape, and rode on a very short 79.5” wheelbase. Due to Bugatti’s inexperience with aerodynamics the car had a tendency to lift off the ground at speed.

Four of these racers were built, to compete in the 1923 French GP, each powered by a 2.0 litre straight-8 engine. The best they could manage was a 3rd place finish with car number 6, and Bugatti quickly abandoned further development, to concentrate on other models. The Type 32 car has been produced before by other companies in 1:43rd, but I can’t say the last time I saw any.

Top Model offers all four of the Tanks as raced at the French GP; I’ll give them an A for the attempt, and a C- for execution. Too bad; these could’ve been contenders. The subject is significant, and represents a great piece of racing history. The body shape is a simple one, so I’m not sure why it’s off in so many areas, but it is. The resin cast body with all the many vents is covered in high gloss blue paint; the problem here is that neither the shade, or finish, are correct for these cars. The blue should be quite a bit lighter, and have a matte finish. The wheels and tires are nice, but completely wrong; way too small a diameter wheel, and way too large of tire sidewall. The number 6 decals on the side, while at least being the correct font, are in the wrong position - too far forward. And the interior, well, there’s not much to it, and it looks more toy than a model. I could go on, but I think you get the idea.

My apologies to Top Model, but this one really should be much better, especially when compared to many other brands in this price range.

Top Model 1923 Bugatti Type 32 “Tank”, item gold046, $65.00. www.topmodelcollection.com.

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