Underwood Engineering Co. Ltd., New Zealand, first began producing scale model cars in 1939 under the trademark of FUN HO! (Note that the trademark always had an exclamation point, though the baseplates on the toys often did not!) The cars were similar to DINKY models of the era, being cast in heavy aluminum until after the war. The zinc diecast range of small-scale cars known as MIDGET MODELS was introduced in 1964, to compete with the popular Lesney MATCHBOX series. They were even smaller than MATCHBOX models, most being about 1/80 scale. The first nine models, including this VW Bus, were produced using tooling purchased from the Australian STREAMLUX company. The VW Bus was No. 5 in the series by STREAMLUX, and was produced by FUN HO! from 1964 to 1982. At first glance it looks similar to the first MATCHBOX VW Transporter, but is smaller with better details. There is a central mold seam that runs down the roof from front to back, with the earliest models having this seam neatly ground off. Later models had a rectangular raised section on the roof, possibly to help keep the model from rolling on its side in its box. Body details include cut out windows, air louvers and door lines, including cargo doors on both sides. While it appears to have a wide rear window, it's actually the narrow tailgate (from 1955 on).
The cast metal baseplate with bumpers was held to the body with three rivets. The small black plastic wheels on steel axles were riveted to the baseplate. Early models had VOLKS-BUS STREAMLUX cast into the baseplate. Later, STREAMLUX was removed, and a third variation said VOLKS-BUS FUN HO No 5 MADE IN NEW ZEALAND.
The models originally were available only through Mobil gas stations in New Zealand, in dazzling chrome plate, with some also plated in nickel or copper. Today collectors refer to these desirable models as "Chromies." After the contract with Mobil ended, FUN HO! began painting the models and selling them in colorful packaging for sale at department and dime stores. The FUN HO! VW Bus came in a rainbow of colors, with dark blue being the most commonly found.
