1/27/20 31/100 School Bus

Now it is time to look at the next 5-car series in which all five represent a hometown based on what lucky kid might have received his letter from Mattel the year before.  Last year it was Ridge, New York and for 2000 it was Cleveland, Ohio and if the bus is any indication the student went to St. Thomas Elementary School in Rocky River, Ohio.  The casting itself is based on an International 3800 with aftermarket school bus body added to it, a very common sight in America back in 1990 when this casting was  introduced.  Problem is the bus is on the narrow side despite having the correct yellow color and front-end with round headlights and chrome grille.  The bus lacks any detailing on the upper flashers and the rear taillights, though note the Matchbox 2000 logo at the back door, and while it has an interior there is not much to see thanks to the small size.  Due to the size restrictions this is why Matchbox has shy away from doing another school bus, focusing on smaller buses like the Chevy Transport Bus and GMC School Bus.

Specifications:

· Engine: 5.9L turbodiesel I-6

· Transmission: 3-speed automatic

· 0-60 mph: 18.0 sec. est.

· Real vehicle price: #100,000 est. 1989

Rating:  2.8 out of 5 stars