Maisto
Photos and text by Mr. Dana Johnson
Bend, Oregon - September 29th, 2007 - Maisto is the U.S. division of May Cheong of Hong Kong, China.  Previously branded as M C Toys, Maisto has become a powerful force in the diecast automotive model industry, especially since purchasing Bburago of Italy earlier this year.  Showcased below are some of their newest models.

Mini Cooper Cabrio, Maisto Special Edition 1:24 Scale
Maisto's Mini Cooper Cabrio is delightful in 1:24 scale.  This bold red ragtop has opening hood (bonnet) and doors with finely detailed interior and steerable wheels.

Range Rover, Bburago Bijoux 1:24 Scale
Loaded for adventure, Bburago's 1:24 scale Range Rover features steerable wheels, opening doors, hood, tailgate and rear hatch, with numerous accoutrements such as extra gas cans, tool box, hydraulic jack, water jugs, on the roof and inside.

Citroën C6, Bburago 1:18 Scale
Sleek, sophisticated Eurostyling defines the ultramodern Citroën C6, replicated in all its French glory in 1:18 scale by Bburago.  Features include opening hood, trunk and doors with steerable wheels.

1953 Studebaker Starliner, Maisto Special Edition 1:18 scale
Maisto captures the unfettered Fifties fashion of the '53 Studebaker Starliner with realism and style in this two-tone 1:18 scale diecast delight.  Wheels steer, and doors, hood and trunk open.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (Brush Fire Unit), Maisto Premiere Edition 1:18 Scale
Everything you need for fighting brush fires is right here!  Check out this fully equipped unit.  Featuring opening doors, hood and side-hinged tailgate, this model comes equipped with chain saw, shovel, ax and various other fire suppression gear.

Jeep Rescue Concept, Maisto Premiere Edition 1:18 Scale
By now, avid collectors have seen this model replicated as a 3" model by Matchbox, Maisto, Welly and others.  But this is the first I've seen it in 1:18 scale..  The benefits of producing the Rescue in this larger scale allows such features as steerable wheels, opening doors and hood, detailed interior and plenty of "rugged hotness!"