Over the years the Bentley Blower has been popular with both die-cast and plastic kit manufacturers. Everyone from Airfix to Franklin Mint has had a version available. Additionally, scales from 1:76 to 1:12 are represented. So how does the Oxford models 1:76 scale model fair?
The prototype Bentley Blower
The first 4.5 litre Bentley cars appeared in 1927 and were fitted with various body styles. At the time a race win made for a good marketing boost. Hence the 4.5 lire was given a racing body and supecharger.
The Bentley Blower was developed from the Bentley 4.5 litre car, to win at le Mans. Consequently, The car won the 500-mile endurance race at Brooklands in 1929, with a top speed of 137mph.
Bentley Blower Models and kits
Minichamps Bentley Blower
Diecast models of The Bentley Blower have been produced by several manufacturers. Minichamps have a 1:43 scale and 1:18 scale version.
The Minichamps 1:18 blower has spectacular detail
The Franklin Mint Bentley Blower
For around £200 you could have a spectacular 1:24 scale Blower from Franklin Mint.
The Spark 1:18 Bentley Blower
Perhaps the most expensive version of the Blower was produced by Spark, at £249.
Plastic Kits
Airfix Bentley Blower kits
Various plastic kits of the Blower have been produced, one of the earliest was the Airfix 1:32 scale version, issued in the 1960s.
The Airfix 1:12 scale blower kit is still available for About £100
The Revell 1:24 scale Bentley Blower
Revell also produced a 1:24 scale blower for around £40.
The Heller Bentley Blower
Finally, Heller produces another 1:24 scale version for around £30.
The Oxford models Bentley Blower.
The Oxford models version is a lovely little thing. The body and wings are die-cast metal while the radiator and wheels are plastic. Wheel spokes are represented by painted embossing on clear plastic. This looks fine at this scale.
The number on the radiator is well printed. Even the mascot is present. Dashboard dials are present but are not detailed.
The rear lights are picked out in red.
Conclussion
There is a remarkable amount of detail for such a small scale, including minuscule hub caps and bonnet belts. For the price, you cannot go wrong.
