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Review: GMP Swamp Rat VIReview: The GMP Swamp Rat VI in 1:43 Scale.
Swamp Rat VI is the first of the Don Garlits cars to have a rounded back chassis. Built in 1964 and originally painted red, the car was quickly changed to Garlits' signature black finish. As Swamp Rat VI, there are at least three paint schemes as documented in Garlits' series of books on his career. The present model represents an early version of Swamp Rat VI. A later version, known as the Wynns Jammer, was the first car to officially set the National Hot Rod Association national record above 200 mph. GMP's 1:43 scale reproduction of Swamp Rat VI is a real jewel. Measuring only four and five-eighths inches long, this model has details lacking on many larger scale diecasts. The ignition and fuel lines are all there, and there is even a tiny fuel filter. The removable nose piece and cowl show full chassis detail.
Tiny photo etched front spokes nicely set off the highly detailed rear Halibrand mags. The finned valve covers are outstanding, and GMP has done a great job of using different finishes on the various engine parts. For example, the headers and valve covers are chromed, while the injector and blower are different shades of silver. The lettering and contingency decals are amazing at this scale. Inside you will find soft rubber upholstery with painted seat belt detail. The accelerator pedal even has a tiny return strap. The wheelbase measures a scale 140 inches, just right for Swamp Rat VI. The glossy paint is perfect. Most important, it just looks right! If you want to play with it, it even rolls smoothly.
The Swamp Rat VI is the first GMP dragster in 1:43 scale that was not preceded by a 1:18 scale version. Swamp Rat I, Swamp Rat Ib, Swamp Rat 3, and the Greer, Black, and Prudhomme dragsters were all manufactured in both scales. Perhaps a larger scale Swamp Rat VI is in the works? This casting could also be painted as the Wynns Jammer. I'll bet that this version is in the works too. This is an excellent reproduction. At $29.95, it is a real bargain and a space saver to boot! Get one and tell GMP that you saw it on GeorgiaDragRacing.com. (Also, see Photos by Marvin T. Smith in our Photo Gallery.) (See, also, the review of Greer - Black - Prudhomme by GMP.) Get One at GMP DiecastAdditional comments from David DilbeckAfter a visit to the GMP showroom to see their products up close, I'm even more amazed at how nice their items really are! I, naturally, love the drag racing cars, but I'm also impressed by GMP's other diecast products! The 1:18 McLaren is one that I have to have! Road racers, sprint cars, airplanes, muscle cars, accessories, and more can be found at GMP. When you purchase one of GMP's products, you won't be disappointed with the detail and quality! I even purchased another Swamp Rat VI -- it's that nice! Get your favorite before they're sold out! (Also, see Photos by David Dilbeck in our Photo Gallery.)
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