Description: The Volkswagen 1600 TL Fastback appeared in the Dinky Toys catalog in 1966, at the height of the rivalry between the Binns Road firm in Liverpool—which had come under Tri-ang’s control two years earlier—and its competitor Corgi. In this race for features, each new model had to include opening doors, hood, and tailgate, a detailed interior, and "jewel" headlights. Reference 163 was no exception and showcased all this British know-how from the golden age, on a 1/43rd scale. The choice of subject was clever. The Volkswagen Type 3 was very successful at the time, and its Fastback version, launched in August 1965 with the 1600 engine, brought a new and sleek silhouette to the German range. Dinky quickly seized on this novelty to add it to its repertoire of touring sedans. Designed to replace the trunk version (Notchback), the Fastback would also dominate the British market, which fully justified Meccano's choice. The miniature faithfully reproduces the taut lines of the coupé: chrome bumpers and surrounds, a thin grille, "jewel" headlights set in the front, and clear glazing revealing the off-white interior and its steering wheel. The two doors and the hood open, revealing the compartment. It rolls on raw zamac cast hubs fitted with black treaded tires. Produced from 1966 to 1970, it was available in several colors: bright red, metallic red, and metallic blue. True to the packaging of the late 1960s, it was presented in a plastic display box, consisting of an illustrated cardboard base and a transparent cover, often enhanced with a promotional label. Our example corresponds to the bright red version, the most iconic of the series, with its off-white interior, cast wheels, and intact glazing. Very beautiful, shiny paint. It is presented on its original base, missing only the transparent cover of the display case... An element that should not be too difficult to find, and which allows us to offer it to you here at an exceptional price! The model remains complete and true to its original condition, a beautiful testament to the inventiveness of English manufacturers of this period.