Motormax 1:43 and 1:64 2001 Ford Ranger pickup

Now the only small-scale Ford Ranger pickup thus far has been from Motormax when they did the 2001 Ranger regular cab Edge model, and it looks not only fantastic but was a nice touch alongside the 2001 Toyota Tacoma Extended Cab SR5 model that was also released by Motormax.  Both are unique castings that are well-done and still hold their value today.  I have reviewed the Motormax Tacoma a few years ago, so this time it's the Ranger's turn.

The Ranger was introduced in 1983 as Ford's own small pickup to replace the Mazda-based Courier pickup and to challenge the Japanese rivals and Chevy's own S-10.  Over the years the pickup has remained the same aside from a smoother redesign in 1993 with a revised dashboard in 1995.  In 1998 the Ranger gets another revision with a more truck-like front-end and new independent front suspension to replace the twin I-beams.  In 2001, the likely final redesign, the truck still looks the same and stayed than way until it was discontinued in 2011.  By 2019 Ford will try to revive the Ranger name, this time the truck will be based on the European Ford Ranger.  The powertrain is a 4.0L SOHC V6 that produces 207 horsepower through a 5-speed manual transmission.

The 1:64 versions have several variations, most of them with wild graphics, but I have managed to hold onto the silver stock version for years and recently joined with a dark blue version.  The front has the tall domed hood of the Edge model with square headlights and integrated signal lights and mesh black grille with Ford logo.  The lower bumper has a round cutout for the grille and round foglights.  The sides have flared fenders and black extensions to the bed to an otherwise standard look with 5-spoke wheels.  Ranger badges are visible on the front fenders.  The cargo area is nice and deep ready for any type of cargo (and deeper than the Tacoma), while the taillights look a bit sloppy even though they do get a touch of red for the lenses.  The rear bumper is nicely done and is part of the base.  Speaking of the base it is nicely done and has the detailed drivetrain, suspension, and transfer case for the 4x4 system.  That doesn't stop there as the interior is one of the best from Motormax: note the detailed door panels.  The dashboard has the correct Ranger look with dual airbags, 4-spoke steering wheel, gauge pod, and central controls for radio and HVAC controls.  The bucket seats are aligned with the center seat with the armrest in the down position and the 5-speed manual shifter (the 4x4 shifter is a rotary knob on the dash).

As impressive as it is the 1:43 scale version can owe much to its success.  For starters the 1:43 is not as common as the 1:64 and trying to obtain one back then was a pain (I had to get a 6-car set just to get this Ranger!)  This one has the yellow paint and the Edge look even though it has no Edge decals.  The front has clear lens with detailed amber signal lights, exterior mirrors, and accurate multi-spoke steel wheels from the actual truck still mounted on plastic tires.  Details on the chassis are more magnified and sharper, same for the interior even though the steering wheels sticks out more, and the bed area is less deep.  Still it's a very nice and unique casting, so for anyone looking for a Ford Ranger replica of the recent U.S. model Motormax for now is the only way to go.

Update 12/1/19: Joining the 1:43 scale version is the same yellow Ford Ranger, but this time as a 1:64 scale version: