The next model under the microscope is something outside the norm, a fun piece if you like, we present the 1:18 Meyers Manx Buggy. Both the open and closed roof model option is featured here. Each piece is crafted in diecast metal with plastic parts. Retail is around $75 CND a piece.
The Meyers Manx Buggy first surfaced in 1964 and was designed by Bruce Meyers. The initial pieces were fibreglass monocoque bodies that had a steel structural frame within the fibreglass that was utilized to attach the upper body section to the Volkswagen suspension and running gear. The company is still making buggies today and is based out of sunny Southern California. In addition to the original Manx Buggy, there are three other variants of the design, the most popular being the “New Classic Manx”.
The two Manx buggies are basically twins. The only addition to the Blue example is the hard roof in White. And other than the exterior colour the two are a matching pair. Which one to choose, both we say based on price. The tub or monocoque body is crafted in diecast metal. This model offers no opening bits other than steerable wheels other than this the model itself is static.
Exterior paint on both examples is fair and consistent throughout – we like them both so no favourites here. The remaining of the exterior elements and internal suspension bits is executed with plastic parts. We like to add the chrome, on the whole, is very good based on price point.
The rear features a fully exposed motor. As for detail and overall execution, we think its above average. Chrome is somewhat lacking in the exhaust components (definitely the weakest link in the overall chrome work). Solido presents air filters/intakes and related workings, wires, pullies and more. Possibly the best motor work from Solido to date.
The undercarriage is somewhat basic in detail, however as mentioned the front wheels are steerable and all four corners do spin. See the above image.
The wheels on the Meyers Manx Buggy are our favourite pieces of the design. We love that the front and rear rims are different in size and offset – also the centres are painted blackish/grey colour that is mated to chrome outers. Couple this with the aggressive tires and the added White script on the sidewall you can clearly see our enthusiasm for them.
Interior is pretty basic on each piece, again each is identical in nature. Black seats, Black dash are the main theme. The only colour comes from Silver paint that is used within the steering wheel design and shift knob. It may be basic but very fitting to the Meyers Manx Buggy. Finally, rear finds a large chrome gas tank.
There is something about the Solido Meyers Manx Buggy that is so cool! We’re not sure if it’s the outside the box thinking of doing something completely different in scale, but we’re definitely leaning towards this. Dare we say these buggies are our favourite pieces from Solido to date, yes, we do. If you want to add something different to your collection look no further than the Meyers Manx Buggy, both will make a cool and welcomed addition to your collection. Each comes highly recommend. Enjoy the pics!
Thanks for the review, the Manx deserves it. As you say, a fun piece out of the ordinary, and its in this spirit that I have added it to my collection.
Really nice! But the valve covers are upside down… 😉
Thanks for the info. Can you share a link to how the covers should look? TIA.
I don’t car about the whole car (it is an interesting subject for a number of people) but the wheels I’d swipe from one right away and use on a musclecar. They are gorgeus!
Wow, those replicas of the American Racing ” flower” spoke wheels will make a great replacement for the incorrect wheels on the Welly 1969 BME Mustang Boss 302 Trans Am racers. BUD Moore Engineering didn’t use Minilite wheels until the 1970 season.