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Founded by Hugo Ripert who had been head of research and development for Vitesse Quartzo and Ixo, Spark are comparative newcomers to the model car world. As well as being a model car enthusiast Ripert is a motorsports fan and wanted to model many of the lesser known cars which are not modelled by the major diecast manufacturers.
Most of the lesser known cars would not sell in sufficient numbers to justify the investment in moulds to produce diecast models so Ripert decided to follow the example of many of the specialist 1/43 kit and handbuilt manufacturers and produce the models in resin.
The early releases were painted and assembled at various small factories in China but problems with such dispersed production it was difficult to monitor quality and delivery delays were a constant frustration so Ripert decided to set up his own factory.
Most of the models are still cast in resin although some are diecast. They still use the same techniques as 1/43 kit makers so the models are essentially hand built kits but by finishing the models in China using an assembly line for some parts of the assembly process Spark have managed to keep costs well below the cottage industry makers but can still produce limited run models often as low as 700 pieces of a model.
The quality is superb and they have made many unusual road cars and have filled many gaps in the history of Le Mans modelling many of the less well known entries. Their Bizarre range has included many of the more unusual Le Mans runners such as the oddballs produced by Rene Bonnet and Panhard. The range has also included some Land Speed Record cars and motorcycles.
As most of their subjects appeal to the dedicated enthusiast all models are short production runs so stocks sell out quickly. Their limited appeal is reflected in a slightly higher price but their quality is second to none.