I begin this feature with an embarrassing admission: this MC20 has been sitting on my “to be reviewed” shelf for over a year. That’s absolutely no statement about the quality of this model – it’s truly excellent – but these models don’t tend to get the viewership numbers that their more mainstream Hot Wheels and Matchbox counterparts do, so it’s easy for them to get passed over in favor of more time-sensitive posts. That’s a shame, because this pearl white MC20 might just be one of the best diecast models in my entire collection. As I write this on a lazy Sunday, I can think of no better time to do a deep dive into this model and really appreciate it.
If you’re unfamiliar with BBR, you should know that this isn’t just some fly-by-night three-letter Chinese brand producing unlicensed models. BBR may be new to the 1/64 space, but they’re a storied Italian brand that has been making top-notch 1/18 scale for years. Just like their Alfa Romeo Giulia that I looked at in 2023, this MC20 has some of the best packaging in the world of diecast. It feels like a jewelry box, with thick cardboard and tight fitment, and a plastic shell inside to keep the model secure. Some may prefer their diecast in acrylic cases, but since I have a display case for all my models, I prefer a solution like this that lets me display my model or pack them away without having to break out a screwdriver.
The only proper way to spec an MC20 is in pearl white, and BBR’s take on this paint color looks stunning, with a nice finish and lots of blue pearl that makes this model look premium and expensive. Unfortunately, my example does feature a minor paint blemish on the quarter panel above the rear wheel, but that’s the only blemish I can find on the car.
Maserati did a wonderful job of ensuring the MC20 has proper mid-engined supercar proportions, and that design translates very well to 1/64. I love the long, low nose that swoops up over the fenders. The wheels are nicely done and roll smoothly, though they lack the center caps found on some BBR models. The carbon fiber effect below the door looks great, and I appreciate the inclusion of the Maserati trident badge above the intake.
The MC20’s side mirrors are metal and feature a proper reflective element!
The front is the cheapest looking part of this model, with the grille texture leaving a bit to be desired, but the steep angle of the hood shows off the paint nicely and I love that BBR uses clear headlight lenses with the DRL pattern printed in them.
Detailing around back is much more impressive, with carbon detailing across the bumper and diffuser, as well as a generic printed license plate. I love the way the exhaust tips poke out from the bumper, and the holes next to the license plate for the parking sensors are a nice touch too. Rear detailing is rounded off by a chrome Maserati badge and a set of printed brake lights that wrap nicely around onto the side of the model.
The detailing doesn’t stop with the exterior though, as BBR puts plenty of detailing on the interiors of their models too! Not only is the interior nicely modeled, but it features a carbon fiber center console and blue contrast stitching on the seats, as well as blue stitching on the dash!
One of the MC20’s coolest design features is the trident design cut into the glass engine cover, and I’m thrilled to see BBR replicate it here. This isn’t just printed detailing – the design is actually cut into the engine cover, and you can feel it when you run your finger over it. Beneath, the engine features more of that lovely carbon fiber detailing.
How much do you have to pay for the privilege of adding such a lovely model to your collection? At the time of writing, less than $20 from some vendors. That represents a pretty impressive value, as I think this model is nicer than most Inno64 or Tarmac Works Hobby64 models that compete with it on price. A standard MiniGT may undercut it on price, but the added detailing, especially on the interior, feels worth it to me. It may not have the toy-like charm of a Hot Wheels RLC, but it obviously blows RLC models out of the water when it comes to accuracy and detailing, so if you want a model that feels more like a piece of art than a toy, it’s hard to beat this MC20. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for BBR, and you can bet that I’ll be picking up the upcoming Ferrari 296 as soon as it’s released in a clean color. Stay tuned.
diecastleno.com 
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