Motorsports Authentics boasts new die-cast lines

Last season was a year of transition for Motorsports Authentics as the newly-formed collectibles conglomerate integrated the resources of Action Performance Companies and Team Caliber.

With that somewhat arduous task completed, the Concord-based collectibles giant is now seeking to establish its own identity via four distinct brands. We've had some inquiries to the Collectibles Q&A mailbag from a few confused collectors regarding the levels of detail now offered by Motorsports Authentics. So, it made sense to bring everyone up to speed at once with a breakdown of the four die-cast brands now being offered under the Motorsports Authentics umbrella.

• Browse die-cast replicas in the NASCAR.COM Superstore

Owners Elite: Veteran collectors already know that the Elite was the top shelf collectible in the Action arsenal, and the Owners Series shared the same status with Team Caliber. So, quite obviously, the Owners Elite leads the way in terms of authenticity as the most exquisitely-detailed die-cast in the Motorsports Authentics line-up. It is the ultimate choice for the hardcore collector.

With nearly 200 individual parts, Owners Elite boasts such amenities as a die-cast body, chassis and tie rod assembly; manufacturer-specific engine detail, hood and trunk that open, realistic fold down mesh window net and stamped metal hinges on hood and trunk. To capture the authenticity of the paint schemes, each car receives up to 150 different hits of paint, also known as tampo printing.

The Owners Elite is offered in both 1:64 and 1:24 scales. The 1:24-scale version is sequentially numbered with each car receiving a hand numbered Certificate of Authenticity. The sequential number or die-cast identification number may be registered using Motorsports Authentics' DIN program, adding value and security to every collection. By using the DIN program, you can also create a virtual garage, allowing you to view and catalog your collection at the touch of a button.

If low production numbers are your thing, Motorsports Authentics has more good news. For 2007, every paint scheme of every scale is limited to a production quantity of 2007. Each car is packaged in an Elite box with foil stamped sleeve. Exclusive opportunities to purchase Owners Elite are available only to Racing Collectables Club of America (RCCA) members.

Drivers Select: For the serious collectors who still seek authenticity-but at a more affordable price-Drivers Select fits the bill. This series features limited edition replicas with over 150 parts. Highlights include a die-cast body and chassis, opening hood and trunk, manufacturer-specific engine, accurate header contour and simulated exhaust openings. Once again, up to 150 hits of paint guarantee a cosmetically perfect collectible.

Drivers Select die-casts are available in 1:24 and 1:64 scales, with some pieces also being produced in the larger 1:18 scale version. Collectors will find standard, special and "win-raced" paint schemes available in this series. Each 1:24-scale car will also contain a DIN, visible through the back window, for registration. Limited production quantities will be determined for each car to maximize longterm collectibility. Each car is packaged in a custom printed box. Drivers Select replicas are available primarily through Motorsports Authentics' authorized dealer network- including the NASCAR.com SuperStore--and trackside.

Winner's Circle: This tried-and-true brand name has been a favorite of fans since the mid-1990s. In 2007, the collection debuts a new packaging design. Designed for the more casual die-cast enthusiast, the 1:24-scale Winner's Circle car is a hardtop die-cast with plastic chassis. Some cars will also be produced in 1:18 and 1:64-scale. These scales are available at all Winner's Circle retailers. A 1:87-scale collectible is available exclusively through Wal-Mart.

Winner's Circle die-casts are punctuated by full color paint scheme and graphics. Cars are packaged in window boxes or blister packs, depending on scale. The 1:64-scale cars may be packaged with specialty items like replica mini hoods, magnets, tattoos and stickers.

Pit Stop: For the fan who wants a great collectible at a really affordable price point, Motorsports Authentics offers its Pit Stop collection of 1:64-scale hardtop pieces. These cars are sold at trackside trailers and are also utilized for corporate, seasonal and special promotions.