Takara's Alternator Sideswipe BT-02(Banal-Tech or Binaltech in Japan)

Transformer Binaltech BT-02 Lamboru Feat Dodge Viper Scale 1/24

Here is an advanced look at the new Takara Sideswipe in the "Alternators" series. Prototype pictures from LuckyX. Thanks to a lucky fan we have a great review to share. You will notice that Sideswipe appears to be molded in plastic first before making diecast molds, for the Japanese market, or refined plastic molds, for other countries.

Welcome to the second installment of the hyper-sized Transformers Binaltech line from Japan. Lamboru (Japan) or Sideswipe (United States) is a stunning SRT-10 Dodge Viper in car mode. It will make your siblings look twice in envy. I must say that I have not seen a transformers or robot toy of this quality before. The diecast Japanese Binaltech line has a polished gem here.

Is it a scale model or a Transformer? Those 1/24 scale car collectors will have to look closely, then look again. Hints of the transformer inside come from a mid-bumper seam, an Autobot insignia, and a Cybertron tire stamping. That is it! No other details give away the transformer inside.

Paintwork and detail is stunning. All paint is well polished as are the chrome wheels. Tires are rubber and the interior is a well made plastic. Doors open. the hood opens, and the front tires turn. Rear view mirrors are, well, mirrored.

Checking out the details on the prototype you will see that the fit and fasteners are quickly made. Dodge insignias are raised (later they become stickers). Also note the tires are changed from brand name stampings to Cybertonian.

I am stunned with the head sculpt of Sideswipe a.k.a. Lamboru. Look at the eyes and face. Sense the essence of the original G-1 Sideswipe toy. Collectors may recall the the Generation 1 Sideswipe was a Lamborghini Countach in Red with a black interior.

My suggestion is to get Autobot BT-02 if you can. Go ahead a scrape together the $59 for the Japanese release; it will fit the bill as a collector, kid (over 10), or adult. I can think of no better use of diecast, red paint, and rubber in a toy for the new year 2004. We have a polished diamond with an Autobot insignia, running on high octane fuel.

Specifications:
Engine: V10
Capacity: 18.5 Gallons
Bore: 4.03 Inches
Stroke: 3.96 Inches
Power: 500bhp @ 5600rpm
Torque: 525 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm

Ed

BBS Discussion

BinalTech diecast BT-02 in Robot Mode

BT-02 Sideswipe in Car Mode

The Viper Engine that doubles as an Autobot gun.

Sideswipe from the back with diecast hood and diecast fenders!

Raised "Viper SRT-10 "lettering in the prototype

Our trusty Autobot insignia.

Prototype windshield with "quick release" pins underneath and no detailing.

Prototype tires with different Michellin markings.

In the prototype the exhaust vents were not refined.

Here is a grill to grill comparison.

Prototype vs. BT-02 (production) .

BT-02/ Alternators Sideswipe from the side. Love that bling bling....

Unrefined pannels and connectors in the prototype.

Here is the artful bottom of the BT-02.

Note the different connectors and screws in the prototype; they were made for quick work.

Above is the bottom of the prototype, again the connectors are different and unrefined.

Glowing..... Energon Sideswipe?

Sideswipe in action

Thinking Autobot.

Someone on Takara loves details. Not the liscense of "SIDE-SWP".

"Refined" Transformers 2004 Sideswipe.

"Raw" Transformers Sideswipe.

This is one of the best "back sides" of a transformer I've seen. Now if we could only shrink the hood a bit.

Prototype BT-02 from the back.

BT-02 from above.

Sideswipe from the front.