This is FM’s fourth Tucker to date. Initially issued in 1992 in Waltz Blue, it was followed by two limited editions. They were gold and dark green releases of 15,000 and 2,500 units respectively. All are currently discontinued. Issued once again in a limited number of 2,500 pieces, this iteration is painted in code 600; Maroon. It is a dark red-based shade anchored in a metallic base with a beautiful clear coat top finish. Unlike Danbury’s release of the “Tin Goose” prototype, also in maroon, this car depicts the production version. Outwardly they look similar except for the rear suicide doors on this version.

Born of the original FM release fifteen years ago, the model shows good detailing from that period. And while it has not been updated or modified it is rather lovely in this new coat of color. FM opted to outfit the interior as light contrasting beige. The tops of the seats and interior door panels are tan with brown vertical valleys. The dash, what little there is of it on the driver’s side of the car, is nicely appointed and while the older style door hinges are still employed the parts all align perfectly when closed. The spare tire is found up front along with matched luggage. It all carries nice detail though it is non-removable. Tucker utilized a no-frills approach to the chassis and not much is readily seen beneath the car save for the front suspension and the rear drive train. FM was faithful to its replication.

As merely a nice repainted adaptation for those that have never owned any of the three previous versions, there have not been any improvements in the engine bay. But FM gives us a good representation of Tucker’s power plant. Overall, the model is very appealing, especially for the fans of the Tucker or the out of the ordinary breed of automobile. Issue price is $135.

-Tony Perrone