Well that is very STRANGE[xx(]
Why would a company like Tamiya would do such a thing? and for this specific model. Surely it’s a beautiful car and the box art of the original is amazing. half see-through the car. I have it. I sent them an emial regarding this and that’s HLJ.com (Which is HIGHLY reliable -from my own experience) reply: " The ‘black package’ version of the McLaren MP4/5B is identical to the previous release from Tamiya. The only difference is the box, which is completely black and which has no markings at all."
Once again I must mention that I never had trouble with them. they always served me right. I dont believe there is anything bogus about this.
So guys tell me what do tou think? is it some lazey boxart from Tamiya or
Tamiya think this F1 model should be “Back in black” (AC/DC - black album, Or maybe Metallica like 1991 HIT album)?
It may because of the Marlboro decals.
In alot of countries the "advertising " of tobacco is forbidden, and in the PC world, a model car with Marlboro decals or box art would be considered advertising.
Look at the diecast sold in Wal-Mart, a NASCAR Miller car becomes “RUSTY” so it doesn’t advertise beer to our youth. The IRL Marlboro cars become PENSKE.
Yes I agree with Don, although the box art is a strong part of the promotional package and so a black box is likely to have significantly reduced appeal to the casual buyer. Many other companies have not shown the Marlboro script but have used the vertical lines instead.
Considering the Tobbaco advertisment MAYBE explain the reason. However Tamiya has departed long ago from any tobbaco advertisments. Like I said I have this kit, I did buy it from HLJ only a few month ago (maybe 3-4). The box art is beautifull with McLaren logo’s instead of Marlboro. I did buy studio 27 Marlboro decals (extra 1000 yen!). I dont believe it’s the only reason (what you guys mentioned) I think there is somthing else going on. hope I’ll be able to investigate.
Maybe only the guys who fly in the black helicopters are supposed to buy them?
Maybe Tamiya is using a marketing ploy like record companies here in the States?
Maybe the printer ran out of ink?
Maybe these are the opposite of Clear View kits?
Conspiracy theories abound!!