1970s BATMOBILE

 

After the 1960s Batman TV series was cancelled, and the 'Batmania' craze had died out, the Batman in the comics turned into a much darker character. This involved his using Batmobiles that were much less visible and more like lightly-modified production cars. This model, which was seen in Batman 251 (September 1973), appeared to be a modified Corvette, but with an angular roof line and a bat*-head outline on the bonnet.

Unfortunately, this was not one of Corgi's better replicas. The front end was quite bulbous, and it tapered heavily towards the stubby, narrow rear end. It was as if the front and back halves of the car were designed by two different people. However, the action feature was good fun. It had opening front doors, which doesn't sound very novel in itself; but these popped open on their own when the front wheels were depressed.--Diecast Collector

1960s BATMOBILE II

In 1964 Batman comics were selling poorly, so DC comics gave the franchise a new look, with a new, dynamic artist and more detective-based stories. The bulky 1950s Batmobile was replaced with a light, sporty roadster that was fast and maneuverable. Corgi produced the first ever model of this particular car, and it was a very accurate rendition. It had twin rear fins and a bat motif on the grille rather than a heavy battering ram. The dashboard was well detailed and there was a Batman figure at the wheel. The working feature involved an instrument panel in front of the windscreen that popped up when the front axle was pushed down.--Diecast Collector