Racing Champions Creates Classic 1:18 Scale Die-cast Replicas
2 March 2000
Racing Champions Creates Classic 1:18 Scale Die-cast Replicas for Ford Motor Company
GLEN ELLYN, Ill.--March 2, 2000--Racing Champions Corporation today announced it has been selected by Ford Motor Company to create a special collection of 1:18 scale die-cast replicas, called Ford Precision 100(TM). In commemoration of Ford's 100th Anniversary in 2003, this exclusive line will celebrate Ford's greatest achievements in automotive design, engineering and innovation over the last century. The collectible line was recently revealed to retailers at the 97th annual International Toy Fair in New York City and will be available to Ford enthusiasts by fall of 2000."We were challenged with creating the most detailed die-cast replicas to carry the Ford Motor Company name," said Pete Henseler, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Racing Champions. "We believe collectors and Ford enthusiasts will be surprised with the authenticity, quality and value inherent in this collection."
The Ford Precision 100 Collection consists of the most detailed 1:18 scale die-cast replicas available. Racing Champions and Ford jointly developed these replica vehicles from original Ford blueprints and actual antique vehicles.
The `64 1/2 Ford Mustang Convertible is the first vehicle available in this collection. This classic American sports car defined the automobile industry in the `60s and remained such an icon that it was redeveloped for a new generation in the `90s. This Mustang Convertible replica will be available through participating Ford Motor Company dealers and select hobby stores and specialty retailers nationwide beginning this fall. Other historic vehicles to be featured include the `55 Thunderbird, `37 Lincoln Zephyr V-12 and a special version of the famed Model T.
Founded in 1989, Racing Champions (www.racingchampions.com) is a leading producer and marketer of collectibles available at more than 20,000 retail outlets throughout North America. The company is best known for its extensive lines of officially licensed NASCAR die- cast racing replicas, Press Pass trading cards, NASCAR souvenirs and apparel, Ertl agricultural, custom imprint and American Muscle vehicle replicas and AMT model kits. High-profile licensing partners include NASCAR, NHRA, John Deere, Case, Caterpillar, Ford, GM, Chrysler, Coca-Cola and Warner Brothers.
Forward looking statements in this release are subject to many uncertainties in the Company's operations and business environment. These uncertainties include general economic conditions, demand for the Company's products, competition, availability of certain licensed properties and costs of operations. Such uncertainties and other operational matters are discussed further in the Company's quarterly and annual filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission
