Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)After buying a Hot Wheels Enterprise refit model and discovering that it was misshapen (the saucer section was tilted to the left), I hopped onto Amazon to find an Enterprise model that actually had some quality standards. I was quickly directed to the Corgi die-cast U.S.S. Enterprise by user reviews.
This is a very high-quality model; the hull itself is all die-cast metal. The only plastic is located at the domes at the front and back of the nacelles, a few fins and projections on the nacelles, the deflector dish and the area immediately behind it, the top of the bridge, and the bottom of the saucer section. Nothing appears to be misaligned or misshapen. Although I wouldn't go dropping it on the floor or throwing it around, it appears to be very sturdy and no damage has occurred through regular handling since I received it.
In terms of staying true to the original design, there are a couple of minor issues. In the original Enterprise, the engineering section was essentially a cylinder that tapered off towards aft. In this model, the engineering section more closely resembles that of the refit Enterprise or the 1701-A, in that the cylinder is more streamlined and curves smaller towards the rear as opposed to being straight. Also, the clear plastic at the bridge takes the place of what would normally be a smaller dome. There may be more, but I haven't studied it or the original Enterprise closely enough to notice. None of these issues are really deal-breaking, and anything but the most hardcore of Trek fans shouldn't notice (even I had to research it a bit).
The stand is functional and relatively sturdy. The box the model comes in can be unfolded to display information about the Federation and the Enterprise, with a empty spot in the middle for the model to be placed. Pressing the button on the stand either shines the lights for about 6 seconds while it fades away, or fades the lights in and out every two seconds about 20 times. They're pretty pointless beyond the first couple of moments when you're still in awe of the model; it would make more sense to have the stand connect to an electrical outlet and allow the lights to be toggled on/off for permanent use.
Also keep in mind that this model is not painted, making it more of a collector's item and not a toy. If you're planning on getting something for a child, I suggest purchasing the Hot Wheels model I mentioned in the first paragraph: Hot Wheels Star Trek USS Enterprise NCC-1701. A child's not likely to notice the admittedly subtle manufacturing error, and the fact that it's made mostly of plastic means that it can likely be thrown or dropped without any damage.
This is finally a model worthy of the Enterprise name. It has a couple of minor flaws, but you'd be hard-pressed to find another product with as much sturdiness, detail and accuracy. If you're looking for a display model and not a toy, I urge you to pick this up right away.
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Star Trek U.S.S. Enterprise Die-Cast LE with Light
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