Stahlberg Models - European Promotionals

European Promotionals

While other European car makers preferred the manufacturing of promotional models made out of diecast zamac in 1:43 OR 1:35 scale, it seems Finnish companies were unique in Europe by producing models - often promotional models - in larger scales and in plastic. Both of these traits were similar to American promotional model companies like AMT, PMC, MPC, or Johan. Stahlberg was the most well known of these Scandinavian large scale promotional model producers for its cars through the 1980s, whereas Finnish Emek Muovi was known for trucks. Nyrhinen Ky was another similar Finnish producer that made VWs and Toyotas, though it is uncertain if these were made specifically as promotionals.

Still, Stahlbergs were produced in a softer, somewhat more flexible, polyurethane plastic than the harder styrene of traditional American promotional models. Thus, Stahlbergs are prone to fewer cracks and breaks, yet are easier to scratch - similar to other toy vehicles molded in softer plastics. Models are molded in various colors and unpainted. Streaks of darker or lighter color are commonly found through the plastic.

Models include precise replication of proportions and detail of actual vehicles, including accurate moldings, logos, and name scripts. Tires are not rubber, but are made of the same type of plastic as body and chassis, though black. Models often have movable mud flaps behind rear wheels (which often are lost with play). Rather odd, and rarely seen on other miniatures of any type, are headlights often molded in white plastic as opposed to clear lenses. This may be the single most recognizable trait of the brand.

Interior and chassis detail is often simpler than seen in American promotionals. Chassis usually have no detail, are plain, and simply say "Made in Finland", but some carry promotional advertising statements relating to the real car, like "Exceptional roadholding", "High standard of safety", or "Swedish quality".