3/27/20 91/100 Ford F-350 Super Duty Utility/Dump Truck

This is a make-up casting from the original 1999 release:  In 1999 the last series that ended in number 100 was supposed to have three castings that migrated from the 1998 sound and flashing series, and while the UFO and Missile Launcher have made it into the 1-100 line, the last three did not: the Ice Cream Truck (Snack Truck) was replaced with the Chevy 4x4 Van, the Tow Truck replaced with the Chevy Camaro Police, and the Ford F-350 rescue truck replaced with the Jeep Cherokee.  That F-350, based on the new and separate Super Duty line released in 1999, was used more in 2000 with a 1:64 collectible version and a 1:18 scale model, so this was the time for Matchbox to try the F-350 casting again for the 1-100 line and it was successful this time around.  The new truck is slightly smaller than the lights and sounds casting with a new utility bed that also incorporates a dump bed that can tilt back; if only the dump bed had a back lid it would be rather useful.  The front of the cab has the detailed grille and headlights of the much brawnier Super Duty line compared to the standard F-150 at the time, though it seems a bit small, and also it has a detailed interior with dashboard and seats.  The base shows off the detailed drivetrain with four-wheel drive and 8-spoke truck wheels that would give way to sawblades later for 2001.  I like the simple red and BILT deco, though this casting did not get much use after that and that’s because in 2001 another variant was added: the F-350 Raft Rescue truck that replaces the dump bed with a ramp that also uses the same raft that is on the roof of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and this version got more use than the dump truck version.

Specifications:

· Engine: 5.4L SOHC V8 250 hp. Est.

· Transmission: 4-speed automatic

· 0-60 mph: 11.0 sec. est.

· Real vehicle price: $35,000 est. 1999

Rating:  4.7 out of 5 stars