Matchbox has a long history of fantastically executed, stock looking pickup trucks. Trucks like the Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500 police car show Matchbox’s prowess with this type of vehicle, so my expectations were high when I heard they would be releasing the new F-150 Lightning. It does not disappoint.
The F-150 Lightning fits well with Matchbox’s current brand, given their current strategic shift toward EVs and long standing affinity toward mainstream “regular” vehicles. The casting is well proportioned, fitting in very well with the rest of Matchbox’s truck and SUV lineup. While it’s to be expected with the orange brand, I still have to compliment the Lightning’s stock ride height and appropriately sized wheels. Regular trucks that look like monster trucks when converted to diecast are one of my pet peeves.
Matchbox’s tampo accuracy is essential to making a model like this work. Being an EV, the grill is completely flat, which means there’s almost no detail on the front of this casting. Instead, the grill and headlights are printed and look very good, including the Lightning’s signature front lightbar. This front view also shows off the wonderfully chunky side mirrors, as well as the tall profile that helps make this model so realistic.
Viewing the model from this angle, I am again struck by how perfectly proportioned it is. The side view really highlights the way the front and rear printing extends onto the sides, adding a sense of realism. You can see a part of the headlights and taillights from the side, just as you would be able to on the real truck. I’m a little surprised by the decision to have the base visible from the side rather than being recessed, but it does look reminiscent of running boards, so I think it works. Though not something I would usually comment on, I really like the door handles on this truck.
Those familiar with the F-150 will appreciate the window line on this model, as the front windows sport the F-150’s characteristic downward kink in the front, which lets the driver get a better view of the side mirror.
The rear ¾ view is this model’s most awkward angle, though that probably has more to do with the 1:1 truck on which it’s based. The Lightning looks very chunky, though I definitely appreciate the F-150 embossed into the tailgate. Of course, we also get the full lightbar spanning the width of the truck. It just wouldn’t be the F-150 Lightning without it!
diecastleno.com 