With the shift to new materials over the last several years, it was only a matter of time before a classic first released in diecast metal would return in the material of the month. This material is known as composite and the model is the recently re-released AUTOart Toyota 2000 GT. Let me preface this review as follows. I never owned the original diecast version of the Toyota 2000 GT. This review is based on the execution of the new composite version, so making a comparison of two is not possible. Enjoy the ride!
It is funny how time changes perspective. My collection is 500+ strong. Mostly modern European, Sport and Supercar focused. On the odd occasion, I will step outside this path and taste the fruits of the common classic or vintage wine.
I recently introduced the Mercedes-Benz 190 SL from AUTOart and now the Toyota 2000 GT. Yes, a Japanese car! Personally, I find Japanese automobiles lacking character and depth. Modern cars are just copies. They are translations of “other” brands, so stepping outside the norm came with a be of trepidation. The Toyota 2000 GT is not the typical cookie-cutter; style and performance are two key ingredients here. It was considered the supercar of its era.
From an exterior perspective, the overall lines and subtleties of the design are captured very well by AUTOart. Our example is completed in White with standard non-wire wheels and is also a right-hand drive. Paint has been a bone of contention with AUTOart’s composite series, though I’m happy to report the paint on the Toyota 2000 GT is completed well with a deep and consistent feel. It is far from the generic look of earlier releases. The exterior chrome is on par too, a good thing as this model features a lot of it!
There is much to reveal in the design here. The model features a full 360 access with a few neat elements too. These include the side storage and pop-up headlights.
Shutlines are panel gaps are excellent in most areas. If there was one complaint it would be the two side compartments. The lower gap is little large when comparing to the original. Though I will mention access to both was flawless but does require the provided tool to access. The door is held in place with a small magnet which is different from the original diecast metal release.
The front of the Toyota 2000 GT is very unique in design. Along with the hidden headlights, there is a secondary covered pair below. A small grille is featured centre. As you move forward you are met by the hinge work for the forward sweeping hood. Upper side grilles are here too. The entire package is beautifully executed.
AUTOart’s attention to detail is very good. The lower grilles (underside) are present and the model as noted earlier features pop-up headlight. A button underneath the model is provided for release. It required a little finesse, but overall the operation was flawless.
Access to the motor requires the tool based on the tight panel gaps. Once opened you are presented a wonder detailed motor. This is something missing on newer releases from AUTOart as of late (please work on this!). What makes the motor great is the use of colour, individually defined parts, and textures. Not to mention the hood hinge work with capable locking position too. Love it! I like to note the engine bay surround is textured in black and the backside of the hood is finished too. Well done!
The backend of the Toyota 2000 GT is one of my favourite elements of the car. I love the subtle sweep design of the hatch and where all the components meet in line. The material on the taillights and grille inserts are quality. Bumper stoppers in centre and exhaust tips complete the package. Note the nicely defined indicators on each side.
I need to mention the undercarriage here. It is beautifully put together as the photos will illustrate. Attention to detail was a priority with AUTOart as suspension components, exhaust system and motor are all clearly defined. Impressive!
The rear hatch is accessible here. It opens up to a fully carpeted and spacious storage area. What you don’t see is the defined carpet section (original), here it is one piece. Small wood element centre and only the metal pins that hold the sections in place.
Underneath would reveal a spare and applicable tools, there is no access here. Also, the wheel well and related trim should be completed in leather/vinyl (I’m not 100% sure) these are executed in Black. Nonetheless, AUTOart’s depiction is sharp. Some would note the lack of hatch struts; well the original doesn’t have them either.
The standard wheels are much preferred over the wire type in my opinion. They just fit the car better. AUTOart’s execution is lovely. Gunmetal finish mirrors the original piece nicely. The centres also feature the script. You’ll need to get out your magnifying apparatus to see/read this one.
Moving into the cockpit the model continues to excel. Wood trim is the theme here alongside Black and chrome elements. All areas are nicely executed; this includes a centre console, dash, and door cards. There is a mix of carpet and vinyl (completed in plastic in scale) elements in the footwells. Seatbelts are present with large metal buckles representative of the era.
I knew the original diecast release of the AUTOart Toyota 2000 GT was a solid piece from all angles, so there wasn’t much AUTOart could do wrong on the re-release in composite and diecast. Thankfully they executed well and have released a near-flawless example. From my observations, it seems this new release is on par. The only difference is the price LOL. It definitely cost more, but that is ultimately due to the manufacturing costs applicable in 2018. Anyone on the fence in regards to adding this gem can surely see this is a worthy predecessor. It comes highly recommend. Enjoy the pics!
Looks like AA is doing everything right. It´s been voted favourite brand by a majority here.
Thank you for the review! Has anyone had experience with both the diecast and composite versions? I’d like to see how they compare.
Also, I couldn’t agree less with your statement about Japanese cars lacking character or being copies. As cars evolve and morph into new designs it’s unavoidable that aspects of design are recognizable from other past designs, but whether or not similar aspects are labeled as “copies” is relative to the perspective of the person doing the labeling. For instance, someone exposed primarily to Japanese cars would likely make the opposite assumption as you: that European cars are copies of Japanese cars. I think this hypothetical person and you are oversimplifying the complexity of design evolution.
This is what someone posted on our FB page, pictures of the original diecast metal version: https://razordiecast.weebly.com/2000-gt.html
I knew my comments on Japanese would strike a note with some, again just my opinion :)
I have the diecast version in the same color and spec and from your great pictures I can attest it is on par with the plastic version. A little bit sharper In some area and a little less in other but overall they are very close. Except the material of course. Autoart we need more of these!!!
… plastic ones, you mean????
Like it or not (I don’t) but plastic a given with Autoart. No I mean we need more models of the caliber of this S2000.
S2000 kinda reminds me of a Honda
Take a look at Paolo Tumminelli‘s „Car Design Asia“ issued by teNeues. Contains very intresting facts about who was first or second and the role of the Japanese culture.
Nice review. Convinces me to buy one.
I had the chance to see a real 1:1-car at Geneva Motor Show in 2017. Absolute stunnning classic sportscar!
Thanks for your nice review! I was waiting for that one.
Wow, someone at Autoart really must love this Toyota. First they make an upgraded version of an already really good model, and now they appear to have made a completely new mold!
I have the upgraded diecast version (after having owned the original release) and the body does look to have a different shape. The entire car, especially the front, looks more rounded, ‘bulkier’ than the diecast with its flatter nose. For example, the pop-up headlights look a bit ‘sadder’, slanted downwards on the sides, than than on the diecast, and the rear hatch has a more curved edge where it meets the rear panel.The composite model is definately closer to the real car. Also, the engine and interior have some different elements, like the steering wheel.
How is the feel of the model? Does it feel sturdy or flimsy?
I’m really thinking of exchanging my diecast for this, but definately not for the prices they go for now.
I am not a big fan of AUTOart’s shift to composite material but I say neither is the 1:1 2000 GT made of diecast metal. That said, neither is the diecast version an accurate representation of the real 2000 GT. The composite and diecast version side-by-side, the diecast version has some mistakes on its details which has been corrected on the composite version. Easily falls onto the eyes are the black gear shift lever collar and the hood insulation. What I have noticed so far. Likely there should be more. Overall look and feel of the entire dashboard on the composite version has been made sharper and more real and closer to the real car. All that said, I am getting the composite version.
Opinions are fine but best to stay with facts. Early Japanese car design took inspiration from forerunners in the industry but they have always been the forerunners when it came to design efficiency and reliability. Japanese designed cars have won European, International and World car of the Year. “Modern cars are just copies” and that they lack character are false généralisation having no basis other than perhaps a personal bias towards a particular make. I suggest you use IMO or IMHO next time. I love any well designed car, be it European, American or Japanese – they each bring their unique design attributes. One is never just a copy of the other, IMHO.
Thanks for the review.