Monster Jam Batman (2005)

       
 
 
Hot Wheels 2005 Monster Jam Batman
Hot Wheels 2005 Monster Jam Batman packaging Hot Wheels 2005 Monster Jam Batman nose detail Hot Wheels 2005 Monster Jam Batman sponsor detail Hot Wheels 2005 Monster Jam Batman roof Hot Wheels 2005 Monster Jam Batman chassis Hot Wheels 2005 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

As the full-sized Monster Jam Batman truck design was finalized, the promotional pieces - including Hot Wheels' diecast vehicles - were updated to reflect this newer design.

 

Packaging

The packaging was essentially unchanged from the previous design, though the truck has been flipped so the nose is now towards the right end of the box. This end has a little less cardboard overhang at the top, making it easier to see the new-for-2005 nose.

 

Casting/Paint

Gone is the 1989 Batman-inspired jet intake, replaced with a flat panel recessed into the cowling. A black sticker with a yellow Bat symbol, essentially a color swap of the door and roof symbols, has been applied to the panel. Otherwise the casting and paint remains as it was, including the glass, chrome, and soft vinyl parts. The stickers have been updated with larger symbols on the doors and new contingency sponsors on the frame panels, though few of them are applied straight and any that were placed on a curved surface have started to lift. Finally, the copyright sticker from the rocker panel has been moved to the underside of the upper frame rail.

 

Features/Accessories

No change from the previous release.

 

Accuracy

The nose is now more accurate to the truck that would actually run at Monster Jam, but the wheels and tires are still the incorrect low-profile style.

 

Overall

The first year of the "correct" body style, this is an interesting transition piece but not quite as unique as the original design as it would be reused with relatively few modifications for the next several years.

 

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