Diecast Review: CMC Ferrari 156 Sharknose 1:18 scale

It’s been a long time since I posted a diecast review. While secondary market values for collectors has declined for mass produced models like Minichamps due to re-releases and flat market conditions, the more detailed Exoto and CMC 1:18 scale cars have managed to retain their values. Both Exoto and CMC have produced 1:18 scale renditions of the 1961 Ferrari 156 Shark nose. If you want to read about the detailed history of this racer, Ed McDonough’s “Ferrari 156” is a good start. For this post, we’ll look at CMC’s 1961 rendition of Phil Hill’s Ferrari 156 raced in the 1961 Belgian GP which was a 6000 unit limited production batch.

Like Exoto, CMC models are boxed and tigthtly packed in a foam moulded insert. The top foam section holds a small Philips screwdriver which can be used to remove the top cowling. Also included is the model unit certificate and some basic notes.

The chassis is also wrapped for protection – once you unwrap it, the detail is instantly apparent. The fuel and air flaps actually work. The front cowling can be removed and the rear engine cowling can be lifted.

The cockpit is highly detailed – fabric seat, dashboard wiring, the steering wheel and column connect to the front axle and can actually steer the car. Tyres are removable which reveals excellent brake detailing.

For those who are wondering how the CMC model compares to the Exoto XS version – those who own or have seen the Exoto XS version will know the Exoto contains more removable parts (including chassis rivets) and some sections of the engine and fuel cell look more realistic metallic look than CMC plastic. Exoto’s removable cowling has a slightly different shape and angle. The Exoto’s brake detailing is more defined and more parts like the seat and fuel tank are removable which exposes the brake and metal accelerator pedals. Whilst the Exoto XS model is much more detailed (however more fragile when handling) it is also much more expensive – so it can be a little unfair to compare them.

Both the CMC and Exoto Ferrari 156 are retired models – the list and resale prices of each are relatively high. The CMC typically sells for € 400-USD500 and the Exoto is USD1000 via online auctions – however the buy now or list prices are considerably higher – so make sure you do your research.

CMC box

wrapped in foam insert

wrapped chassis

manual

underside of the CMC

underside screws hold cowling in place

oil tank

brake detail

radiator and suspension

beautiful cockpit and seat recreation

engine cover

engine and rear axle detail

working fuel flap

rear grille

CMC 1:18 vs Hotwheels 1:43