Vauxhall Astra Mk2 Merit Central Scotland Police from Corgi's Vanguards range.
Since the mid-1960s the Police have relied upon basic small to medium size cars, such as the Morris Minor and Ford Anglia, to perform the ‘panda car’ role. This involves officers from local stations attending non-emergency incidents or enquiries and carrying out general patrol duties. The Vauxhall Astra Merit fitted this requirement perfectly. It was a no frills car that forces could buy in bulk at a fee that would please the local rate payers. The Central Scotland Police ran a large number of these cars over several years and they proved ideal, reliably covering very high mileages in conditions that are sometimes harsher than those found in more urban areas.
- Scale: 1:43
Original vehicle specifications:
- Engine capacity 1196cc 4IL OHC
- Power 60bhp @ 5800rpm
- Maximum speed 91mph
- 0–60mph 15.5secs
A detailed die-cast scale model for the adult collector. Not suitable for children under 14 years.