S14, a Japanese toy company primarily known for its fighter jet models, is set to release a 1/12 die-cast model car of the "FIAT 500", the vehicle frequently used by Lupin and his crew in the classic series "Lupin the 3rd", in March 2023!
Created by Japanese manga artist Monkey Punch (Kazuhiko Katō) in 1967, "Lupin the 3rd" (ルパン三世) has maintained a vast fanbase and undiminished popularity over the years. Beyond the manga itself, related TV anime and film adaptations continue to be released. Among these, the theatrical film "Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro" (ルパン三世 カリオストロの城), released in 1979, was the second animated film for Lupin the 3rd and marked the directorial debut of renowned director Hayao Miyazaki. The work received high praise and had a significant impact. For its 40th anniversary in 2019, the film was re-mastered in high definition, released in a 4D version, and also made available on Blu-ray.
In the series, the vehicle most frequently ridden by Lupin and his companions, Daisuke Jigen, Fujiko Mine, and Goemon Ishikawa, is the small and charming FIAT 500. With its nimble body and miniature size, the FIAT 500 always carries Lupin and his crew through mountains, seas, and bullet dodges, leaving a deep impression on fans. This FIAT 500 released by S14 is a 1/12 scale die-cast model car that faithfully recreates Lupin's beloved car from the film.
This FIAT 500 die-cast model car faithfully reproduces various settings from the original work, featuring yellow as its primary exterior color. The car doors, soft top, front hood, and rear trunk can all be opened. For accessories, the interior is fully recreated, including the steering wheel, seats, dashboard, and even cigarette butts. On the roof, there's luggage, along with their instant noodles and sake for meals, and a sniper rifle with its stand for taking down enemies. Displaying it with a poseable Lupin figure would enhance the overall feel.
Lupin the 3rd: The Castle of Cagliostro FIAT 500 1/12 Die-cast Pre-painted Finished Product
Reference Price: 44,000 JPY (tax included)
Scheduled Release Date: March 2023
Scale: 1/12
Materials: Die-cast, partially PVC, ABS
via： S14