Volvo L105 Wheeled Loader

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Volvo L105 wheel loader from Motorart. the L105 is a machine specifically designed for the Asian market and it is good to see Motorart release a 1:50th scale replica, packed with the usual features we expect to see from a Motorart produced model.

The cabin has been modelled with a replicated interior which looks fine, highlighting the driver's seat and steering wheel while the outside of the cab is also nicely done with plastic grab rails, rear view mirrors and a front wiper added. The plastic railings are very flimsy and easily bend out of shape. This is another aspect of the recent Volvo releases where the models have different engineering and build standards, something somewhat unusual for Motorart.

The tyres have a solidly moulded tread pattern with plastic wheel hubs highlighting the ring of fixing bolts and the articulating chassis frame has a reasonably good range of movement. The underside of the chassis is fair with a front drive shaft modelled and an oscillating rear axle with some transmission block detailing.

The rear engine compartment is hinged and can be lifted up to reveal a plastic replica of the engine block, radiator housing and cooling fan. Unlike the L60G & L90G models, the engine components have been decorated with the engine block painted in the prototypical colour. The rear counterweight does have integrated lights with red lenses and a tiny printed safety label.

The side grille printing is crisp, as are the machine's designation and Volvo logos and the paint finish is of a fairly high standard. The addition of small safety and warning labels around the model add to the realism

This model is fitted with metal cylinder rams which is certainly an improvement over the plastic rams fitted to some of the other recent Volvo wheel loaders although the range of lifting height of the arms is limited, while the bucket linkage does not offer the complete range of movement found on the full sized machine. The hydraulic cylinders are stiff enough to allow the arms to be posed as required.