As the frustration of trying to find popular Hot Wheels and Matchbox models at retail grows year after year, I find myself exploring the world of more premium 1/64 models. I’ve covered my experiences with MiniGT, BBR, and Pop Race on this blog before, but after finding a killer deal on this McLaren 600LT made by LCD Model, I had to check it out.
I’ve actually been intrigued by LCD Model for a while, as I have been perpetually window shopping their Pagani Huayra…but $30 feels too rich for a 1/64 model. LCD’s presentation is certainly premium though, with this 600LT coming in an acrylic case with a metallic plate to identify the make and model. The cardboard packaging is on the basic side, but it looks clean and simple so I don’t mind it. I’m a loose collector though, so lets free this McLaren from its acrylic cage!
Immediately, I’m struck by the detailing here. It’s definitely superior to that of a MiniGT and fairly comparable to the detailing on the BBR Alfa Romeo I looked at a few months ago. Unlike most 1/64 models, the 600LT’s carbon fiber looks properly glossy, rather than having the matte look of a carbon fiber wrap. This yellow color is certainly striking, with a fair amount of metal flake and one of the nicest finishes I’ve seen from any 1/64 manufacturer!
I’m a big fan of the detailing in these headlights, where you can make out the shape of the bulbs behind the lenses. There’s a tiny McLaren badge on the hood and a front splitter with lots of lovely carbon fiber detailing.
The side profile shows off the 600LT’s proper supercar proportions with excellent carbon fiber color breaks throughout the body. There’s carbon on the roof, part of the door, the side skirts, and even the mirrors! I’m sure LCD isn’t the first manufacturer to do it, but this is the first 1/64 model I’ve looked at to have two tone side mirrors – impressive stuff.
Even more impressive is the air gap at the top of the doors, giving a sense of depth and providing a more realistic look than you generally find at 1/64 scale.
The 600LT’s wheels are very nicely replicated on this model as well. The spokes are thin and the McLaren logo is printed on the center caps – something I always like to see. Unlike a MiniGT, the brake rotors and orange calipers are visible behind the wheel. Unfortunately, this McLaren also differs from a MiniGT in its inability to roll smoothly. Since I use my models for display and photography it doesn’t bother me too much, but it may disappoint some collectors.
No collectors will be disappointed by the rear detailing on the 600LT, as carbon detailing abounds. It’s hard to pick a favorite part here, but I particularly appreciate the third brake light printed on the underside of the spoiler. The rear diffuser is certainly aggressive looking as well, with full carbon fiber detailing and another air gap at each side.
Frequent readers will know how much I hate when exhaust tips don’t get proper silver detailing, so I’m happy to see these very detailed exhausts on the 600LT. In fact, this whole engine cover section is incredibly impressive, with black mesh and carbon fiber sections all layered around each other.
Even though this 600LT is a coupe and the interior is barely visible through the narrow windows, this LCD model features some of the best interior detailing I’ve ever seen! There’s alcantara everywhere, from the dash and steering wheel to the seats. The steering wheel even features a McLaren logo and an orange stripe at the top. Even the seat belt release buttons are detailed red!
I was hesitant to add yet another brand to my perennially stuffed diecast collection, but I’m glad I did. This LCD model sets a new high bar for my premium model collection, and I’ll be keeping my eyes peeled for another sale on LCD’s excellent 1/64 models. They’re easily worth it.
diecastleno.com 
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