Monster Jam Batman (2016)

       
 
 
Hot Wheels 2016 Monster Jam Batman
Hot Wheels 2016 Monster Jam Batman packaging Hot Wheels 2016 Monster Jam Batman nose Hot Wheels 2016 Monster Jam Batman sponsor detail Hot Wheels 2016 Monster Jam Batman seat Hot Wheels 2016 Monster Jam Batman roof Hot Wheels 2016 Monster Jam Batman rear

 
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NOTE: This is a modified reissue of an existing model, and this review will focus on the changes made between the cars. You can see the original review for more details.

Background

Although the Batman Monster Truck received an updated look in 2013 and retired from competition in 2014, it wouldn't be until 2016 that Mattel released a their 1/24 scale diecast in its correct final configuration.

 

Packaging

The 2016 package is constructed exactly like the previous year, but has been updated with a blue front panel/bottom and updated backdrop with the Hot Wheels logo in the top right corner over a blue-tinted arena crowd.

 

Casting/Paint

The chassis and wheels remain unchanged, but the body has finally been updated to the latest look the truck used in Monster Jam. The nose and front fenders are shaped essentially as they were (albeit without the subtle flares along the wheel openings), but you really start to see changes at the back of the hood with a new one-piece windshield. The side windows are now open so you can see the seat and steering wheel, and up top the roof ribs are now separate gray plastic parts mounted under the body and fed up through holes in the roof. The biggest change, however, is to the rear deck and fenders. The wings are now gone, leaving low fenders with three shorter spines on each sides that match the front fender decorations. A ghost of the Futura chevrons are still on the back deck, but mostly covered by diagonal braces that stretch from the rear corners and rear center to the middle of the panel between the silver ribs. Finally, what used to be the jet exhausts is now a full-width 3D Bat symbol shaped like the door symbols. The new body looks great, with sharp lines and excellent fit to all the parts. Paint is about the same quality as before, the only real difference is the roof ribs as separate pieces. It does ensure that the edges between black and silver are nice and sharp, but the silver plastic just doesn't look as good as the dark metallic silver Mattel had been using the last few years.

 

Features/Accessories

No change from the previous release.

 

Accuracy

The diecast is finally a pretty solid match to the truck, two years after it left the circuit. Better late than never.

 

Overall

I miss the iconic wings, but have to admit Mattel made a lot of smart choices here. The updated body is easily as good as the previous, it's nice to finally see the interior, and the ribs do look good as separate parts.

 

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