For years, Ottomobile has focused on the production of beautifully detailed scale models. The Breton manufacturer is increasingly focusing on the Japanese legacy. For some time now, the miniature specialist has also been building the Toyota Land Cruiser 70. The 1:18 scale model is based on a Turbo version from 1987. But we don't call this Toyota - which has been around for forty years - an evergreen for nothing.
The Land Cruiser saga of course had its origins long before the 70 series appeared on the scene. It would take us a long way to go back in time, and we have done it before. The Japanese powerhouse launched the 70 series in 1984, as a successor to the truly legendary 40 series. In the first few years, this new Land Cruiser was available as 70/71 (short wheelbase), 73/74 (mid-range wheelbase) and 75/78 (long wheelbase). This heir to the 40 series was so good, and so strong, that Toyota saw every advantage in further developing the car and expanding the delivery possibilities. It would take us a long way to mention it all now. But this model is an absolute evergreen. Because this Land Cruiser is not only celebrating its fortieth birthday. No, it grew with the times, and… is still being built.
Back to today's photo model. This cool model is based on a version from the early years. This is a Turbo version, namely the LJ73. Now, a code like that may not mean much to you, but the letter L implies that there is a diesel engine in the front. In this case, it is the further developed 2L-TE turbo diesel engine, with 97 DIN hp. You will not see this power source in an eighteen times smaller form. What you do see is a scale model that is close to the original. Excellently reduced, well in proportion, the decals are excellently imitated and the Dark Grey Metallic is really fitting and period. And above all: the details are correct, both inside and outside. Great, very great work. See it as a tribute to an evergreen.
This scaled-down Land Cruiser tells how the original drives, what you experience as a driver of such a sturdy off-roader of Japanese make. It is impressive when a miniature manufacturer manages to convey that feeling. However subjective that experience may be. Speaking of that last term: Ottomobile offers this excellent and truly correct model for €69,90. That is - measured by today's standards - a bargain. The scaled-down LJ73 in Dark Grey Metallic can be ordered via the manufacturer's website. And keep an eye on the miniature specialty shops and the online suppliers. Real fans will get the Toyota Land Cruiser scale model in their home. And we don't have to tell them why. Except, that of the edition of three thousand pieces, not many are available anymore.
Photography: © Ottomobile
luckily I have a real one!
I just got back from a safari in Tanzania. Almost exclusively Toyota Land Cruisers in extended versions have taken over from the Landrovers of 50 years ago, which were used for that back then! Even the smaller work is mostly Toyota; that was mainly Peugeot 404, pickup or not, 204 and 504. Outside the parks the main roads are now paved, which certainly benefits the lifespan.
On eBay there are quite a few, both sedans and convertibles, in various colors, no problem to find the right SAAB there. Good luck!
Thanks for the reference to Ottomobile. I did not know this miniature builder, they only produce models in limited edition, so gone = gone.
Am looking for a scale model of the Saab 900 Turbo, they had one but it is sold out. They look really beautiful.
So if anyone has such a model from Ottomobile, I would like to hear about it.