The famous Plymouth Fury was originally a full-size car made by the American brand Plymouth between 1956 and 1978. This model, which dates back to 1958 and belongs to the third generation of the lineup, is still known today for its distinctive design, featuring prominent tail fins and a bold front. The cars of this generation were designed by Maurice Z. Rigaud. Following in the footsteps of the Plymouth Belvedere, the Fury established itself as a mid-range luxury vehicle. Under the hood, it boasted powerful V8 engines, including a 5.7-liter (350-cubic inch) engine with 305 horsepower, known for its reliability and impressive torque. In the 1950s, technical innovations like the TorqueFlite automatic transmission and improved suspension were key highlights for Plymouth. In the context of 1958, the world saw significant events, like the introduction of the microchip by Jack Kilby and the release of Elvis Presley’s hit “Jailhouse Rock.” These facts really put into perspective the time frame in which this car came to life.
The model shown here depicts the legendary Plymouth Fury in a 1/18 scale, produced by a company called Auto World. It’s part of the collection from model enthusiast "Stingrayman" and is crafted from diecast, a popular material for its durability and ability to replicate car details accurately. Visually striking features of the model include the detailed chrome accents, the meticulously textured grille, and the authentic dual headlights. One particularly interesting detail is the license plate "CQB 241," which is a nod to the vehicle featured in the movie Christine. The Auto World model emphasizes original design fidelity, capturing even smaller elements like door handles and side trim. The vibrant red paint job and stylized interior also reflect the elegance and character of the original.
This model is based on the car from the film Christine, adapted from the famous novel by Stephen King. The movie, released in 1983, tells the story of a possessed Plymouth Fury that develops a life of its own, exerting control over its owner, high school student Arnold "Arnie" Cunningham (played by Keith Gordon). The plot showcases how the car manipulates people and even commits murder in a series of eerie events. In key scenes from the film, the car’s creepy self-repair abilities and the chilling, glossy red paint create an ominous atmosphere. The character Arnie Cunningham becomes unhealthily obsessed with Christine, leading to a tragic escalation. Immortalized through the film and the car's haunting presence at the story's core, the Plymouth Fury 1958 has secured a special place in pop culture.
The model's brilliant red paint job with shiny chrome accents is a faithful representation of the iconic original. The clearly defined trim highlights the elegant shape and underscores the characteristic tail fins that reflect the aerodynamic design language of the '50s. The model’s interior, even if not fully visible in the photos, usually showcases a black-and-white color scheme that mirrors that of the original, combining simplicity with a touch of flair from the era. The lovingly crafted details, like the working front headlights – a rarity for 1/18 scale models – make this diecast standout among other reproductions. It’s definitely one of the cooler releases from Auto World and a must-have for any collector who appreciates vehicles from the heyday of American automotive history.