As a Corgi Collector, these British made 1:43 scale die-cast models appealed to me and I have set about creating this web catalogue. I buy models a few at a time, photograph and document them and then they’re yours to buy so I can afford some more.

Lledo launched the Vanguards range in 1996, which specialised in replica classic British cars. They did produce some other European vehicles but only the VW Beetle and Cabriolet came in the British made era. Vanguards are notable for keen attention to detail, with accurate decals for logos and scripts on the body of the car, chrome gas cap, door handles, and trunk hinges. Well-designed wheels and hubcaps also added to the sophistication of the finished model.

Rear view mirror and accurate windshield wipers were also offered. Many Lledo models came with rear view mirrors in the box that could then be affixed to the car. To put the car back in the box one had to remove the mirrors - so a word of advice - don't glue them on the car!

Although selling well, the company could not compete against low cost producers from Hong Kong and China who also entered the market with high quality products. As a result, Lledo went bankrupt in 1999, and the naming rights and model range were bought by Corgi which continued producing Lledo models in China until 2005, when the remaining models were merged into the Corgi Classics range.

The Lledo range was possibly the last mass production die-cast manufacturer to make its products in the British Isles or even Europe.