Slot Car Stocking Stuffers 2003!
Christmas Top Ten Under $50.00
Yes, Christmas is fast approaching and I thought it would be a good idea to quickly list my personal top 10 Slot Car Picks for this Christmas. So without further delay let us get on with it!
1. Carrera Classic NASCAR'S
Although not for everyone, these beauties make the top of the list for me for several reasons. They come with a very low price and have the all-new chassis design giving you even better performance. Ranging from $27 to $30...this low price makes it even easier for you to grab a pair and re-paint them to match you favorite drivers of the Era. Dollar for dollar these classic legends are hard to beat!
2. Scalextric IRL
Not only are these models smooth and fast they pack a great value. 2 versions are available as well that even make it easier on tight budgets to fill those stockings. Prototype liveries are $29.95 and fantasy liveries for only $19.95...now with that price some lucky IRL fan should get not one...but TWO this year.
3. Monogram Cobra's
These models are some of the most popular and smooth running slot cars in our hobby. Monogram's re-entry in to the slot car world not only gave us more models, but ones with value and quality. The price tag of $39.99 has this budget Ford within reach of almost any slot-budget.
4. Scalextric Modern NASCAR'S
Yes, you read that right. These models are still some of the most fun you can have in this hobby, and now come with an even lower price. Durability and quality make them ideal not only for beginners to learn to drive, but for $34.95 this model also has the value to allow veteran enthusiasts to re-paint and create a custom field.
5. Pro-Track 1/24th Scale Hard-body NASCAR Chassis
What do you get when you combine high quality components with a low price? Well, it usually mixes to create a good value and I think Pro-Track falls into this category easily. At $29.99 these make the perfect gift for those scratch-builders out there on your list.
6. Professor Motor Silver Series Controller
There seems to be different controllers coming out of nowhere lately, but for my money this is the only electronic controller. Not only is it made with the highest quality, the technical and customer support the good Professor provides makes it worth every dollar. The $47.95 base-line model will satisfy most every enthusiast and once purchased, your controller upgrade is complete.
7. Johnny Lightning HO Scale Thunder-Jets
These little machines have done so much for HO scale that they had to make the list. They brought back the vintage style of racing most of us had forgotten and also exposed it to a whole new audience. With continued releases adding even more choices to the field and a price of $12 to $14.95 (or even lower in most cases) make them ideal to slide into your stockings.
8. Scalextric L88 Corvette
How could this American classic not make the list? Speed, durability, and overall fit and finish...plus a standard version price tag of $42.95 makes these models perfect presents for that Chevy Vette fan. And don't forget these models are lighted and simply a blast to drive!
9. Ninco BMW M3 GTR
These models are not new releases but still are great choices for the enthusiast. Prices range from $32 to $45.00 so don't pass on them for long. Strong motor and durable gearing also make these good beginner models as well as having enough scale detail for most veterans.
10. New Compound Indy Grips
Nothing seems to help tune your models like a good set of tires. The new compound Indy Grips are stronger and better than ever and for $4.50 a set allows you to fill up anyone's stocking with their favorites.
And that is it folks! These are just a few of the great gift ideas we have available to us this Christmas, which just shows how much our hobby is grown over the years. Again this is by no means a complete list...just my personal choices of items I feel not only bring you value, but quality as well.
Merry Christmas!
- Harry
