 | | NZG branded box. |  |  | | Very good steering. |  | | Interesting tailgate mechanism. |  | | Plain box. |  | | Tiny graphics on the cab. |  | | Loading some pallets. |
|  Comment on this model.
The Mercedes-Benz Antos is a class of truck that has been specifically developed for distribution work with load capacities of 18 tonnes upwards.
This model of the Antos is a 4x2 chassis with a box body and loading platform.
Packaging
The model comes in an NZG branded box and sits in a pair of expanded polystyrene trays.
There were no missing parts or defects on the review model.
There is no information about the real truck but a simple instruction sheet for the loading platform is provided. No assembly is required.
Detail
The chassis has the transmission fully modelled and the tanks and exhaust after-treatment system are detailed. The tyres appear to be the same on all axles and they are mounted on good looking wheels.
The cab roof has an aerodynamic faring which is angled to respect the box behind. There is a roof light underneath it and, a couple of thin aerials are attached to the edge of the roof. The door mirrors are colour coded. The interior is good too with the steering wheel having the Mercedes-Benz logo on it. The grille at the front is finely reproduced and the lights have plastic lenses. There are small graphics around the cab including some tiny BlueTec efficiency signs. There are number plates at the front and back with the dummy number NZG 880.
The side protection bars are metal and at the rear the lights have plastic lenses.
The box body is metal so consequently the model is heavy for its size, and the sides front and top are plain. At the rear there is a lifting platform with modelled hydraulic cylinders at the bottom. Some simple chevron graphics complete the artwork.
Features
The steering mechanism is good and turns to a very realistic angle.
The lift platform has an interesting operating method. It closes up tight to seal the box and lowers to form a platform at deck height. It can also lower further and tilt so the end touches the ground.
Quality
This is a very solid strong model with a high metal content.
The paint and graphics are simple but good.
Price
It is reasonable value.
Overall
Although a little plain in this livery it is a well executed version of the Antos truck. The rear loading platform is a nice innovation.
Footnotes
The model was first announced at the Nuremberg Toy Fair 2013.
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|  | | Profile view. |  | | Instruction sheet included. |  | | Antos cab looks great. |  | | Detailed chassis. |  | | Aerodynamic cab roof. |  | | Loading ramp fully loaded. |
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