THE CONTROVERSIAL CORGI FAB 1

Here are a few photos of the Corgi FAB 1 which came out to coincide with the fortieth anniversary of Thunderbirds.

At the same time Corgi released their version of Thunderbird 2 + 4 in a very attractive  presentation box.

As we know, Corgi have re-released these models along with a new Thunderbird 1 and 3, which have been generally met with dismay by serious collectors. While the Thunderbird 2, which is more or less just the same as the nineties Matchbox toy has been met with some minor excitement , the FAB 1 has come in for a lot of criticism from fans. 

Like the smaller Matchbox FAB 1 it appears to be based on the promotional full sized version which, although impressive, didn't have quite the same sleek look as the filming miniatures. It had a taller bulbous canopy which Corgi have copied resulting in a model which gives the impression it has the wrong proportions.

Some fans did complain at the time, but sadly it apparently fell on deaf ears at Corgi, who, naturally thinking it would be a good idea to cash in on the fiftieth anniversary simply re-released their fortieth anniversary version with a few minor adjustments.

Looking at the one shown on the Corgi website it looks like the new version doesn't have the Spirit of Ecstasy on the Rolls Royce radiator grill.

Here's a photo of the figures of Parker and Lady Penelope.

Here is the Corgi version compared to the classic Dinky. There's more detailing on the Corgi as its modern but give me the ol' Dinky any day.

Here's a comparison between the Corgi, Dinky and Matchbox FAB 1. 

Here's the special fortieth anniversary edition box.

Here's the Corgi new edition box.