Project Sandman

Triple Eight Race Engineering built this car as, well, we’re not sure why. It’s part promotional vehicle, part ride-day car, part test-bed. Beneath the bodywork lurked a real, pure-bred racing machine. Underpinning the Sandman exterior was one of Triple Eight’s former racecars; in fact, it was the chassis of the very Holden Commodore VF that Jamie Whincup had raced to eight victories during the 2013 championship season. “We’re here after six months of development to reveal our secret project and what an honour to be a part of a Tribute Edition Sandman and have it race around the track this weekend,” Whincup said at the time. “The heart and soul of the car is a V8 Supercar and it’s an absolute rocket!” The original 5.0-litre Supercarsspec engine was also soon replaced by a 5.7-litre unit capable of producing over 700 horsepower, with a range of guests having the opportunity to belt in alongside Triple Eight drivers for hot laps in the impressive beast. Later still it demonstrated the aborted twin-turbo V6 that nearly replaced the V8s in the Holden racers. As with all Biante scale models, these items will come with a numbered Certi cate of Authenticity with the 1:18 in our special premium packaging, and the 1:43 in a display case. Overall this famous car of Australian motor racing is shaping up to be a must-have and given it will be produced in a limited edition, it’s one that shouldn’t be missed. It should be available early next year. Expect a price of $300 or so for the 1:18 and $70-odd for the 1:43. Find out more at www.biante. com.au or your favourite model shop.