Article Number

RV0028

Author

Gerry

Toy Line

Transformers: Binaltech

Manufacturer

Takara

I have finally received the latest release from the Transformers: Binaltech line from Japan. BT-03 Silver Streak is another version of the Subaru Impreza WRX similar to the BT-01 Smokescreen. But what the hey? Takara originally released three different versions of the Nissan 280 ZX for the Transformers Generation 1 toy line. These of course are known as Prowl, Bluestreak and Smokescreen. So obtaining the same model though different in appearance somehow seems ok to me.

Whenever I order these new Binaltech toys, I am always excited about receiving them. The quality and engineering put into these toys is the best I've seen for a very long time. Not to mention, if you can afford it, invest the extra money it costs for the diecast versions, the US plastic versions, while the same in every way, leave me a little flat. There are plenty of US sellers who sell them at a very decent price not to mention of course Ebay. Personally, I have been ordering all my Binaltech items from Digital Toys. His service is very good and always answers his email.

The Packaging

The same style packaging is used as in previous releases for this line. A nice window-style display box with portals on the side panels and nice art on the front and back. Again the Subaru logo can be seen on the back of the box which indicates that this is an officially lisensed product. (BT03-1 - BT03-4)

The car comes encased in a plastic type coccoon that is hinged at the back and is tied together with wire ties. (BT03-5) Also included is a makeshift cardboard stand for use in displaying your toy in vehicle mode if you so choose as well as the motor/gun, instructions, warranty card and collector's card. (BT03-6, BT03-7)

Vehicle Mode

The detailing on this vehicle is quite impressive and seems to me to be an exact replica in 1:24 scale to the actual Impreza WRX. (BT03-8) If one didn't know better, you'd swear that you were looking at the real car instead of a toy, that's how good it is. This, like previous releases doesn't come with stickers to apply but it doesn't need it as it has real painted details which works for me.

If you are holding off on purchasing this item because it's the same model as the BT-01, there are some subtle differences. The stearing wheel is on the passenger side in this version and also a low profile rear spoiler are two very different features from BT-01. (BT03-9, BT03-10) Also if you notice in BT03-10, that the side mirror contains some sort of reflective mylar to simulate a real mirror, it's these kind of details that really impress me about this line.

Some of the neat features include tilt stearing wheel, folding bucket seats, (BT03-11) front and rear doors that open, (BT03-12, BT03-14) and opening and closing hood and trunk. (BT03-13) Other cool features include real rubber tires with front rack and pinion steering and also a simulated rear window defroster element painted on the back windshield. (BT03-15, BT03-16) Back again is of course the engine which is removeable and is used as Streak's gun in robot mode. (BT03-17)

The diecast content in this toy is pretty substantial with the hood, trunk and all four doors being completely diecast. I love the diecast content in these toys compared to the US all plastic versions. These toys really have some heft to them giving one a very warm sensation inside.

Robot Mode

After transforming this item to robot mode, I was happy to note several similarities to the original G1 Bluestreak. That being that the limbs are done in the same red color also the head sculpt is virtually identical. (BT03-18, BT03-20, BT03-21) The fingers of the hands are somewhat articulated with the thumb and forefinger having independent movement while the remaining 3 fingers move together. (BT03-19)

The gun is the same as with BT-01 even with the little bearing in the handle grip which seats in the hands so as not to loose the gun when handling the toy in robot mode. (BT03-22) Also there is a tremendous amount of articulation in this toy in many different areas including the waste. The waste can move around in 360 degrees. (BT03-23) As previously mentioned, the head sculpt is virtually identical to that of the original G1 Bluestreak, also the head sculpt is different from the BT-01 Smokescreen giving you another reason for purchasing this toy. (BT03-24)

Conclusions

Takara has once again outdone themselves with this toy line. I am really impressed with everything in regards to this toy. The only minor problem that I have experienced with this toy is that it seems a little top-heavy due to the diecast content and the toy has a tendancy to fall over easily. However, I am sure that this problem can be remedied with positioning the legs a little better. I like to postion these Binaltech toys in various dynamic poses because the articulation is really that good. If you invest in one toy line this year, you should really make it Takara's Transformers: Binaltech

Gerry