It’s time to get down and dirty! Auto World’s new release, OFF ROAD! has a combination of Thunderjets and Xtraction vehicles and , wait for it…. A NEW BODY! YES!!!! With this release, Off Road Release #1 (SC375), the new 1977 Chevy Blazer will hit the shelves and then our tracks. This is the first of the new toolings for new slot car bodies planned for 2022. And it looks great! This release has some very cool mud splattered, off road racers, ready to sling some dirt on your home track. Let’s take a look at this release and that new body style!
#1 1977 Chevy Blazer (New Body Style) Black/White & Red/White (X-Traction)
The second generation of the K5 Chevy Blazer hit the streets and dirt roads in 1973. Continually updated and improved by Chevy over the years, the new Auto World Xtraction Chevy Blazer is modeled after the 1977 edition. Decked out in a traditional two tone paint scheme and appropriately splattered with mud and grime, this classic will be a welcome member on our home tracks and HO garages.
#2 1965 Volkswagen Baja Bug Metallic Lime/Yellow & White/Red-Blue Stripes (X-Traction)
The Volkswagen Beetle was the ultimate starting platform for so many concepts. From being the chassis for several kit cars, to being modified to meet most any visionary imagination, it was a natural to become an off-road racer. Light and easily modified, the Bug became a staple in the off-road racing venue.
#3 1970 Chevy Baja Blazer White/Orange & Purple/White (ThunderJet)
When the Ford Bronco hit the dirt trails, Chevy needed to answer the challenge and came up with the Blazer. Based on the C/K model with a shorter wheelbase, along with an open top cab, it stepped up to the challenge. Although bigger than the Bronco, die-hard Chevy fans brought the Blazer up to par and offered stiff competition to the Fords. In this release we have two versions of the Baja racing Blazer, complete with the splattered mud and dirt to get the roughed in appearance. These are ready to see some off-road racing thrills.
#4 1971 Ford Bronco Blue/Black/Chrome & Olive/Red/Black
Back in 1965, Bill Strope partnered with Holman-Moody to build up a team of Broncos for off-road competitions. They continued racing the Broncos through 1969. In 1971 Ford offered an official “Baja Bronco” package that could be purchased through their Ford Dealerships. With Gates Commando tires, roll bars, flared fenders and other off-road add-ons, a total of 650 were sold from 1971 to 1974.
Here’s the packaging for the Off Road Release #1 (SC375)
And a few more views of this latest release.
So this release answers the most often asked request for new body styles. The new 1977 Chevy Blazer looks great and I can see how a lot of creative slot car hobbyists will take advantage of this new style. Look for these at your local hobby shop or on-line retailer later in April 2022.