Review: 76240 Batmobile Tumbler
Posted by CapnRex101,
Numerous memorable Batmobile designs have appeared onscreen, including Batman's mighty Tumbler. 76240 Batmobile Tumbler depicts this armoured vehicle with impressive accuracy and incorporates wonderful detail, originating from 76023 The Tumbler.
However, the considerable similarities between this marvellous model and the previous example have attracted criticism, since relatively few changes have been introduced. Dramatic revisions were arguably unnecessary though, since 76023 The Tumbler was tremendous. Furthermore, two exceptional minifigures are included.
Box and Contents
76139 1989 Batmobile pioneered the dark packaging before 18+ branding was introduced and that styling continues here. Such dark colours are definitely effective for the Tumbler and I love the glossy finish too, returning from 76161 1989 Batwing and distinguishing the vehicle from its backdrop. The Dark Knight Trilogy symbol is presented as well, which complements past boxes where the 1989 emblem has appeared.
The box contains eighteen bags, numbered between one and eleven. The instruction manual features cardboard packaging for protection, matching both 10274 Ghostbusters ECTO-1 and 10278 Police Station. Doubtless these cardboard sleeves will gradually become more common as LEGO abandons plastic packaging in favour of cardboard and paper.
Reference images and information about the Tumbler occupies the first several pages of the instruction manual, alongside comments from LEGO Creative Lead, Jesper Nielsen. There is acknowledgement of 76023 The Tumbler and Jesper describes changes between the existing design and this rendition, notably including the wheel positions. Steering was also considered, but was omitted to maintain accuracy on display.
Thirteen stickers are included, divided between two sheets. The majority depict control panels inside the Tumbler, improving upon the original design which features several external stickers. Unfortunately, the small clear-backed sheet has been inaccurately cut which is unusual, but the sticker remains intact. Naturally, the ubiquitous information plaque necessitates another sticker.
Minifigures
Countless interesting Batman minifigures have appeared since 2005, including some inspired by the Dark Knight Trilogy. This example features remarkable detail, featuring complex armour designs which correspond with The Dark Knight. This distinctive emblem originates specifically from the 2008 movie, rather than Batman Begins where the symbol was different.
The metallic gold belt appears authentic too, while the legs display continued detail. Batman's arms lack decoration though, unfortunately. Furthermore, the minifigure incorporates the same double-sided head as previous versions which is somewhat disappointing because these white lenses deviate from the onscreen character.
Batman minifigures have included various capes and this example is odd, including one neck hole rather than two. These fabric components have previously appeared predominantly in 4+ sets and I prefer capes with two holes because they hang more naturally behind the minifigure. Nevertheless, I am impressed with this exclusive depiction of Batman.
However, I believe Batman is arguably overshadowed by the Joker. Heath Ledger's famous depiction of the character previously accompanied 76023 The Tumbler, wearing his colourful purple jacket. This minifigure instead features a waistcoat underneath, which is definitely less recognisable than the jacket, but looks marvellous.
The decorated sleeves are undoubtedly my favourite aspect of this minifigure though, further benefiting from removing the jacket. These patterned hexagons appear fantastic and achieve absolute accuracy when compared with this character onscreen. Moreover, the vibrant tie and printed legs maintain equivalent fidelity to the source material.
Of course, the Joker's most distinguishing feature is his classic smile. The double-sided head therefore displays two differing smiles, alongside chaotic face paint which looks splendid. The hair component has also been updated, featuring bright green rather than green. Either colour works, although I think the element developed for Mad-Eye Moody might be more effective.
Construction
Similarities between 76023 The Tumbler and 76240 Batmobile Tumbler definitely encompass the building experience, commencing with a simple Technic chassis. Plates are then attached across the Technic frame, before focus moves to the interior. Subtle changes are present here, but construction throughout this section remains predominantly unchanged since 2014.
Such consistency continues towards the rear axle, which is attached using Technic elements. Standard bricks and curved slopes enshroud this Technic structure, further resembling 76023 The Tumbler. Moreover, the frames surrounding the cockpit are certainly familiar, beginning to replicate the angular armour which distinguishes the Tumbler from other Batmobile portrayals.
Changes are focused primarily towards the front and that is certainly apparent when building, particularly around the weapon control station. The original slopes have been swapped for an angled trans-black window panel, requiring adjustments to the support between both windows too. However, the surrounding structure remains nearly unchanged, comprising layered bricks and slopes.
Despite appearing distinct when completed, the Technic structures which support the forward wheels are unaltered from 76023 The Tumbler. Moreover, the rear tyres deviate from the past model, although their internal structure returns from 2014. However, the varied brackets which appear along either flank have been updated slightly.
The bodywork is accordingly attached more securely than it was previously, combining various wedge plates and tiles to create layered armour. Several such elements were introduced after the previous large-scale Tumbler model became available, including 2x3 pentagonal tiles and 2x6 tiles, so their presence is beneficial.
Adjustments have been made towards the front, where angled plates now constitute armour. They replace large slopes that were used previously, but segments located between the rear wheels and windows return from 2014. These are connected using large ball joints and nestle neatly among the neighbouring armour panels, precisely matching 76023 The Tumbler.
Having constructed the roof panels, jet engine and air brakes, the Tumbler is complete. Once again, they remain essentially identical to the previous rendition, although the accompanying display stand is unique. Despite seeming simple, this Technic structure creates an ingenious angled support underneath the model, thereby presenting the Tumbler during a jump.
The Completed Model
Minifigure display stands have accompanied 76139 1989 Batmobile and 76161 1989 Batwing, hence an identical stand appears here. Batman and the Joker look great together, but another minifigure would have completed the stand. Furthermore, an updated design would have been superb, reflecting the change in architectural style between the Gotham of Tim Burton's movies and Christopher Nolan's trilogy.
Another display stand supports the Tumbler, further corresponding with the previous Batman vehicles. The consistent light bluish grey colour scheme complements those vehicles and the Tumbler, presenting a fantastic contrast. The angled structure looks marvellous and replicates jumps which the Tumbler performs onscreen. However, I am unconvinced that a display stand was really necessary.
This does provide an appropriate attachment point for the display plaque though, which looks good. 76023 The Tumbler established an excellent greyscale and white colour scheme for the plaque, continuing throughout the selection of Batman vehicles. Such uniformity is brilliant and the information is correct, matching the 2014 plaque.
Securing the Tumbler on the display stand only elevates the model slightly, further reinforcing my doubts regarding its necessity. Additionally, this vehicle can rotate which is helpful in some regards, but also creates the impression of the Tumbler floating in certain positions. I think this arrangement for the information plaque seems peculiar too, albeit complementing 76139 1989 Batmobile.
Fortunately, I think the Tumbler appears equally impressive without its display stand, featuring extensive detail. Realistic armour panels and articulated brake flaps are visible throughout this model, which replicates perfect texture. Moreover, this vehicle is correctly scaled beside 76139 1989 Batmobile and 76161 1989 Batwing because their size was established using 76023 The Tumbler, measuring 43cm in length.
Comparing the current model with its predecessor reveals various differences, although many are reasonably subtle. Nevertheless, the most important is definitely the narrowing of the front wheels, thereby eliminating the unsightly bulges which were included on the previous rendition. The weapon control station has also been updated and appears considerably enhanced.
The central section exhibits few noticeable alterations, while the existing rear tyres have been replaced with bigger examples. Beyond the tyres more closely resembling the source material, their widened proportions represent an enormous improvement too. This whole vehicle widens gradually between the front and rear wheels, reflecting the onscreen Tumbler.
76023 The Tumbler struck an appropriate balance between smooth and studded surfaces, so the introduction of additional studs towards the front provoked some concern when this model was revealed. However, I think those exposed studs are worthwhile because the shape seems more accurate here, wrapping around the Technic elements underneath. One blue Technic pin remains obvious on either side though, which is disappointing.
The angular structure between the tyres, from where Batman and Commissioner Gordon both deploy weaponry, exhibits pleasing improvement. The decorated window corresponds with the onscreen vehicle, featuring accurate armour. Moreover, I like the trans-clear lights fixed around the weapon control station, alongside scattered pearl gold highlights.
While not necessarily intended for removal, the window panel is connected using clips, so can be detached quite easily. The designer has therefore placed a stickered control console inside, presenting targeting information. Unfortunately, the weapons are missing from the exterior, but that is excusable because they should be comparatively small.
Beyond integrating an accurate window, the transition between that window and the bodywork also appears excellent. Furthermore, the windscreen sections look perfect, combining differing wedge plates to create superb shapes. Windscreen wipers are also present, returning from the previous large-scale Tumbler and reflecting the source material.
Several layers of armour surround the windscreen, closely resembling the angular panels that enshroud modern tanks. Their shaping appears completely authentic when compared with the onscreen Tumbler, although such complex angles require reasonably fragile connections. That issue is frustrating because 76023 The Tumbler included the same problem, although I cannot envisage how the construction could be strengthened.
Despite these structural consistencies, smaller external details have been upgraded. The light bluish grey rams that previously adorned the armour have been replaced with dark bluish grey elements, blending with the surrounding black parts more effectively. Moreover, the golden fuel cap and electrical discharge port are now printed, replacing stickers from the 2014 model.
The roof can be removed in two sections, revealing considerable internal detail. Unfortunately, access is quite difficult because the bodywork remains predominantly intact. I think the central structure should have been removable as well, thereby showing the interior more clearly when displaying the Tumbler.
Thankfully, that section can be detached easily. Two dark bluish grey seats are present inside, surrounded by intricate control systems. The central pillar incorporates two computer displays, featuring designs from The Dark Knight. This throttle lever looks marvellous too, excluding the bothersome sticker which was previously applied on a 1x1 round tile.
Several more control panels are situated inside, employing additional stickers. Some originate from Batman Begins, including one which displays Batman's planned route when escaping the Police with Rachel. Unlike those on the previous Tumbler, which appeared quite generic, these consoles definitely capture the essential aesthetic of the Batmobile's interior.
Layered armour continues behind the cockpit, surrounding enormous air intakes and offering brilliant articulation. The air brakes seem especially important in that regard. These structures were notoriously fragile on 76023 The Tumbler. However, their construction remains unaltered here, hence the flaps remain easily dislodged which is disappointing.
LEGO produces a limited selection of tyres, although the range has definitely improved since 2014. Admittedly, the texture on these tractor tyres varies from the onscreen 'Super Swamper TSL' tyres, but their size and shape looks tremendous. Simulated suspension is visible beside these wheels, but no functional suspension is included. 76139 1989 Batmobile included some functions, so missing functionality here is noticeable.
However, accuracy when compared with the original vehicle is indisputable. The powerful jet exhaust, which propels the Tumbler in preparation for rampless jumps, looks absolutely ideal and satisfying mechanical detail is present above the exhaust. Moreover, the smooth shaping around the engine, contrasting with the angular armour, has been faithfully replicated here.
Overall
76240 Batmobile Tumbler shares obvious similarities with its predecessor, which sometimes overshadows the quality of such models. The changes between 76023 The Tumbler and this rendition are relatively subtle, but certainly represent an improvement upon the earlier design, which was already impressive! I am therefore extremely impressed with this Batmobile, since the model includes extraordinary detail.
Nevertheless, several issues with the previous model remain intact, which is unfortunate. The dearth of functions and fragile sections are disappointing, especially beside the brilliant 76139 1989 Batmobile. Furthermore, including Ra's al Ghul, Rachel Dawes or Commissioner Gordon would have enhanced the minifigure selection, which seems incomplete without another figure.
The price of £209.99 or $229.99 also feels expensive, relative to previous large-scale Batman vehicles. Even so, this is an appealing addition to the selection, maintaining the design quality established previously. I would therefore recommend this model to anyone missing 76023 The Tumbler, although not to those who purchased the 2014 rendition.
This set was provided for review by The LEGO Group, but the review represents an expression of my own opinions.
112 likes
46 comments on this article
I know it is lego and all... but wow that's a lot of visible studs.
Great review, thank you.
But I think you meant "earlier" instead of "easier" design in the "Overall" chapter?
;-)
My biggest issue is the outrageous asking price… When I heard rumour of a Tumbler update, I was incredibly excited, expecting a £179.99 model, or at least if the price was increased, it would be clear what that additional money was going on… (And before someone goes on at me about inflation or something, compare this to the other two large Batman vehicles from the past two years- piece count, weight, substantial final product- whatever medium you want to measure).
The second issue is that I just purchased 76239 , which I didn’t expect to be a factor in my decision of whether to purchase this large Tumbler… and yet it has. That model is just almost perfect, and may be my favourite ever £34.99 model… Maybe. It’s certainly up there!
So to anyone looking at this who is thinking of commenting on the price, I encourage you to buy 76239 first, even if you’re someone who normally only buys the big models- I don’t think you’ll regret it.
To me personally, one of the ugliest movie vehicles I can think of. Anything tactical/military inspired is extremely tacky to me, and grimdark is not an aesthetic I'm looking for in my superhero entertainment at all, so while I appreciate the artistry of that movie trilogy, one viewing was enough for me. What I would love though is a LEGO model of the Batmobile from Batman: The Animated Series. Now that is a sleek and beautiful vehicle.
That said, I know I am in the minority and that is fine. This LEGO Tumbler looks like it captures the source material well and will make a lot of people very happy, which in turn makes me happy.
This is more expensive than the 1989 Batmobile - at least that has more ingenious building techniques, higher degree of accuracy, and more playability.
@kinggregus said:
"I know it is lego and all... but wow that's a lot of visible studs. "
Well, yes, but it does fit with the more military and rugged characteristics of this type of car, opposed to for example the sleek 1989 Batmobile.
LEGO realllllyyyy should have included Two-Face in this one, as is I reckon a lot of people will probably Bricklink the Scarecrow minifig that came in the small one and put it on the stand where Two-Face should have been.
I find it strange they went for a remake of the tumbler and didn't instead go for Banes version (maybe too close to an army vehicle?) or create a large scale 'The Bat'. Feel they would have been stronger options myself.
Upon reveal, I thought this was a must buy, but I’m less enthused after reading the reviews
@Capnrex101, any insight on the modifications needed to adjust the display stand to accommodate 76023? Mine sits on a shelf above the 1989 Batmobile and having it on a matching turntable might be nice.
@kinggregus said:
"I know it is lego and all... but wow that's a lot of visible studs. "
As it should be. Never understood the desire to make Lego sets as smooth and realistic as possible. Let the studs show, it's an aesthetic.
I’ve had 76023 (a couple of times strangely) I wasn’t a lover of the build, that back end is just a lot of carefully balanced stacked plates and even for a display piece is way too fragile. The 2021 version is just too close to the original , almost a direct copy, to draw me in for a purchase.
I don’t often criticise Lego, but this was an opportunity missed, either for a comprehensive redesign of the Tumbler or to do any of the other Batmobiles that are out there in this scale.
Didn’t preview images show a Scarecrow minifig coming with this? Did I just dream that or did they cull it to just two minifigs at some point?
@Brickalili said:
"Didn’t preview images show a Scarecrow minifig coming with this? Did I just dream that or did they cull it to just two minifigs at some point?"
You might be thinking of this one, which was also released very recently https://brickset.com/sets/76239-1/Batmobile-Tumbler-Scarecrow-Showdown
Is Brickset contractually obligated to review every 18+ set? Because I swear it's just one large, expensive set review after another.
Will the stand on 76240 work with 76023 ? I'd consider buying those parts, simply because I get tired of having to rotate the tires to prevent flat spots!
@guachi said:
"Is Brickset contractually obligated to review every 18+ set? Because I swear it's just one large, expensive set review after another."
How does someone even get this perspective? Before the Titantic, the last set review that was more than $60 was two weeks ago. They have a whole sidebar on the right of the screen that shows the last 10 reviews and you can instantly, easily, clearly see that the majority are of small, inexpensive sets.
Also, even if they *were* focused solely on reviewing the big-ticket 18+ sets (which is a hypothetical, since they clearly aren't.), that would make total sense because lots of people are interested in seeing those reviews. Either way, I don't get your point.
@guachi said:
"Is Brickset contractually obligated to review every 18+ set? Because I swear it's just one large, expensive set review after another."
Yeah, what's up with that?!
Please stop posting reviews of 18+ sets on a site that's predominantly visited by adult fans of LEGO!
I love that they re-release big expensive sets, to @&+ off the scalpers...
@guachi said:
"Is Brickset contractually obligated to review every 18+ set? Because I swear it's just one large, expensive set review after another."
To be fair, you claimed a Stuntz motorbike was too expensive, so I think Brickset might be quite hard pushed to find something small enough and cheap enough to review for you!
I'm disappointed that the color and shape of the Joker's hair didn't get more accurate. The TDK/TDKR Batman on the other hand is beautiful, and I'm probably going to buy it seperately.
Well, it's definitely black... It's funny, but I remember as a kid thinking all-black Lego stuff was cool (go Blacktron!) and it always bugged me when they'd throw in tiny bits of dark grey and brown as highlights. But now I understand--even in the ideal lighting of a review, I feel like there's a lot of detail being lost in the all-black color scheme. I think this model could actually use a little more dark grey.
So I did the calculations and the retail price of 76203 adjusted for inflation is $230 which happens to be the exact same price as 76240. I would still have to say this set feels slightly overpriced even accounting for the display stand and inflation.
It’s an odd choice on a range of levels, mostly noting the lack of significant improvements. It feels more like a cash grab attempt than a thoughtful or even remotely necessary model. There are so many other Batmobiles and Bat-vehicles that would benefit by this treatment, and important DK Trilogy characters who’ve not been yet realized. I imagine it’s only superfans of the DKT/Tumbler in particular who will be into this — and they would have likely already purchased the previous version.
Also @Johnny__Thunder97 is right; 76239 is excellent, and with superior figures (not in design, but desirability, being fully unique unlike the repeats here).
@fakespacesquid said:
" @Brickalili said:
"Didn’t preview images show a Scarecrow minifig coming with this? Did I just dream that or did they cull it to just two minifigs at some point?"
You might be thinking of this one, which was also released very recently https://brickset.com/sets/76239-1/Batmobile-Tumbler-Scarecrow-Showdown"
Ah! Yes, I see I’ve just gotten mixed up. In my defence, both Tumblers and nearly identical set numbers, I think my confusion is justified! XD
Like a lot Joker from this set
@tomenadi said:
"I love that they re-release big expensive sets, to @&+ off the scalpers..."
Waiting for the day they announce a Cafe Corner anniversary re-release.
I have the original from back in the day...and I'd probably still buy a re-release because I'm certain they'd add an interior this time.
I really wanted this set as I regretted not buying the original but the price difference between USD and CAD has put me off it. I can't see how LEGO can justify $100 difference when the exchange would be more like $55.
I'll probably get the Batwing instead.
@PDelahanty said:
" @tomenadi said:
"I love that they re-release big expensive sets, to @&+ off the scalpers..."
Waiting for the day they announce a Cafe Corner anniversary re-release.
I have the original from back in the day...and I'd probably still buy a re-release because I'm certain they'd add an interior this time."
Waiting for that Cafe Corner as well. But it's hard to call resellers scalpers if they bought sets in times that everyone could buy them. Just be happy that they're there to at least supply something. Otherwise the prices would be even higher.
They included the stand because this is the second UCS-style Tumbler they’ve made. There’s been enough time since the previous release that they discovered the tires (not being steel-belted) will collapse under the weight if left sitting long enough. Putting it on a stand takes the weight off the tires for any copy that’s just going to park on a shelf and sit there for years. Yes, there’s a story-based bit of legitimacy to the 1989 stand, but I suspect they only did that because of known issues with the tires from the first Tumbler.
For the minifigs, keep in mind that they’ve only done four Batmen from the Dark Knight trilogy before. The previous Tumbler had the Batman Begins batsuit, which has a very different logo that more closely resembles Jim Lee’s Hush Batman, or the Arkham video game logos. The other two retail versions were dark-bley, which just doesn’t work for that costume at all. And the fourth was the 2011 SDCC Batman, which is insanely expensive, and also put to shame by this version. I can think of five main looks for the Joker throughout TDK. There’s the bank job, with the rubber clown mask, there’s the full 3-piece suit plus overcoat (I don’t think we ever once see him wearing the suit jacket without the overcoat), there’s the jacketless look that we see in the precinct, and there’s his cop and nurse costumes. Since I’ve actually been able to replicate the jacketless and nurse looks with existing parts, I would have far preferred the bank job mask to this, and dark-green hair.
The white-band head is basically non-negotiable. The eyeholes on the mask line up with the forehead region, not the minifig’s eyes. To make actual eyes visible, the minifig would need two sets of eyes. The cape...I was thinking it might be because it works better for seared minifigs, but they don’t sit in this model. They just stand. They could have included the action capes, but at least you have the option of changing it unlike the 1989 Batman.
The problem with these large-scale Bat-sets is that even three minifigs isn’t enough. There are still some key minifigs missing from 1989 Batman, plus _all_ of the Batman Returns characters (even Batman got a new logo). For this trilogy, there are a ton of missing characters. With Scarecrow, we finally have _one_ villain from each of the three films. But there’s no Ra’s al Ghul, no other Ra’s al Ghul, no Two-Face, no Catwoman, no Talia al Ghul, no Falcone, no Maroni, no Alfred, no Lucius, Gordon only has his SWAT outfit, and he’s also the only GCPD cop. They could still do right by all the fans and release a _RETAIL_ version of the Bat-pod, plus the lobster-copter, which would help with filling some of these gaps, but throw Ra’s in the small Tumbler, and Two-Face in the large one, and it really makes things easier in that regard.
@CapnRex101 I am so glad, that you placed them side by side (even though you forgot to wipe off that dust from old Tumbler xD) so it's easy to feel the difference.
I agree that with this price tag there should be one more unique minifig. Doesn't matter who, could be even Alfred.
@PurpleDave said:
"They included the stand because this is the second UCS-style Tumbler they’ve made. There’s been enough time since the previous release that they discovered the tires (not being steel-belted) will collapse under the weight if left sitting long enough. Putting it on a stand takes the weight off the tires for any copy that’s just going to park on a shelf and sit there for years. Yes, there’s a story-based bit of legitimacy to the 1989 stand, but I suspect they only did that because of known issues with the tires from the first Tumbler.
For the minifigs, keep in mind that they’ve only done four Batmen from the Dark Knight trilogy before. The previous Tumbler had the Batman Begins batsuit, which has a very different logo that more closely resembles Jim Lee’s Hush Batman, or the Arkham video game logos. The other two retail versions were dark-bley, which just doesn’t work for that costume at all. And the fourth was the 2011 SDCC Batman, which is insanely expensive, and also put to shame by this version. I can think of five main looks for the Joker throughout TDK. There’s the bank job, with the rubber clown mask, there’s the full 3-piece suit plus overcoat (I don’t think we ever once see him wearing the suit jacket without the overcoat), there’s the jacketless look that we see in the precinct, and there’s his cop and nurse costumes. Since I’ve actually been able to replicate the jacketless and nurse looks with existing parts, I would have far preferred the bank job mask to this, and dark-green hair.
The white-band head is basically non-negotiable. The eyeholes on the mask line up with the forehead region, not the minifig’s eyes. To make actual eyes visible, the minifig would need two sets of eyes. The cape...I was thinking it might be because it works better for seared minifigs, but they don’t sit in this model. They just stand. They could have included the action capes, but at least you have the option of changing it unlike the 1989 Batman.
The problem with these large-scale Bat-sets is that even three minifigs isn’t enough. There are still some key minifigs missing from 1989 Batman, plus _all_ of the Batman Returns characters (even Batman got a new logo). For this trilogy, there are a ton of missing characters. With Scarecrow, we finally have _one_ villain from each of the three films. But there’s no Ra’s al Ghul, no other Ra’s al Ghul, no Two-Face, no Catwoman, no Talia al Ghul, no Falcone, no Maroni, no Alfred, no Lucius, Gordon only has his SWAT outfit, and he’s also the only GCPD cop. They could still do right by all the fans and release a _RETAIL_ version of the Bat-pod, plus the lobster-copter, which would help with filling some of these gaps, but throw Ra’s in the small Tumbler, and Two-Face in the large one, and it really makes things easier in that regard."
Meh. Nightmare Batman in the minifig-scaled Tumbler set has 2 sets of eyes.
@Johnny__Thunder97:
I’ve been saying it’s bound to happen sooner or later. At some point, “It hasn’t happened before,” stops being a valid argument, and it starts happening. They just announced a reset of their pricing, and it would make sense to bring any forthcoming sets in line with that upon launch. Regarding 76239, I plan to buy two copies of both. But I’d never put 76239 in a layout because it’s way too big. The camo Tumbler is actually just about perfectly sized. Remember, to a 6-wide car, a 10-wide “tank” is huge.
@illennium:
While I do like the B:TASmobile, there’s really not much to it in terms of what a LEGO set would offer. It was streamlined as much as they could from the 1989 Batmobile to make it easier to animate (and one studio still screwed up in a scene where it crests a hill). The whole center section would be a tiled brick if they did it in this scale. I can’t say it won’t happen, but especially this long after the series ended, I won’t hold my breath.
@Onatu:
They have some sort of internal rule that they have to leave a few studs showing to remind you that it’s still a LEGO set, but they give us tiles for a reason. Besides, dusting a studded surface is almost impossible.
@guachi:
I believe they try to review every set that’s given to them, and it’s these expensive D2C sets that probably benefit from some extra promotion. They’re also the sets that most sites won’t be able to review en masse if they have to buy the entire lineup.
@CCC:
It’s Batman. It’s a black cape between a black torso and a black cowl. Not only does the cowl help hide and flatten the neck loops, but it’s solid black so nothing stands out. I agree, someone like Superman looks like he got a cape with a turtleneck collar, but the worst you’re going to get with Batman is a light-bley suit with a Type 3 cowl. Even then it’ll probably look like it’s part of the chin/throat section of the cowl.
@mtpelepele:
Poor man’s stand: build little blocks of bricks and/or plates and attach them to the bottom. With the Tumbler wheelbase, it’s not as elegant as it would be for the Ecto-1, but it’s a large black car. If you don’t underlight it, you should be able to tripod it in such a way that the blocks aren’t really noticeable.
@FuddRuckus said:
" @Capnrex101 , any insight on the modifications needed to adjust the display stand to accommodate 76023 ? Mine sits on a shelf above the 1989 Batmobile and having it on a matching turntable might be nice."
No modifications would be necessary. The only changes inside the chassis are the colours of Technic pins and the Technic 8x6 frame where the display stand connects.
@guachi said:
"Is Brickset contractually obligated to review every 18+ set? Because I swear it's just one large, expensive set review after another."
We do review plenty of other sets, although I understand why it might seem like an absolute barrage of 18+ set reviews. After all, the sheer number of 18+ sets has increased significantly this year.
@Briczk said:
" @CapnRex101 I am so glad, that you placed them side by side (even though you forgot to wipe off that dust from old Tumbler xD) so it's easy to feel the difference.
I agree that with this price tag there should be one more unique minifig. Doesn't matter who, could be even Alfred."
I did remove the worst of the dust, but the Tumbler becomes exceptionally dusty! The black colour scheme and layered armour create a perfect storm of dust.
I missed out on the first Tumbler. This would be a must-buy if they had figured out how to integrate a single feature: a removable Bat-Pod. It's easy to think they could have, but in reality I guess it just wasn't feasible. I think I'll still buy, just disappointed at a mostly function-less model.
@mirkwoodspiders:
If you really think about the design of the Tumbler, the design of the Batpod, and what it would entail to make one turn into the other, that scene is an unapologetic bit of stage magic that in no way would be feasible in a physical set, any more than it would have been in real life.
Also why is this set $399.99 AUD?! it's $229.99 USD! Ridiculous...
The previous Tumbler felt a little off to me and I could never figure out why. Now I can see it was the width of the rear tires. This is a nice update, but not enough of an upgrade for me to purchase it, especially at the asking price.
I have skipped the previous one, so, I will definitely buy the new version, but I'm really disappointed that they didn't included some steering or suspension here.
The front wheel placement and the weapon control station are much better on the new version, but I heavily dislike the tractor tyres. I like the previous tyres better actually, even if they are slightly too small. The tractor tyres only look accurate when you view them directly from the side.
@LJ_McGowan:
Because they have to ship them all the way to Australia. You’re probably also getting shafted I’m having LEGO Certified Stores instead of actual LEGO Stores, so an additional layer of profit has to be built into MSRP, and then LEGO.com can’t sell it below that price.
@illennium said:
"To me personally, one of the ugliest movie vehicles I can think of. Anything tactical/military inspired is extremely tacky to me, and grimdark is not an aesthetic I'm looking for in my superhero entertainment at all, so while I appreciate the artistry of that movie trilogy, one viewing was enough for me. What I would love though is a LEGO model of the Batmobile from Batman: The Animated Series. Now that is a sleek and beautiful vehicle.
That said, I know I am in the minority and that is fine. This LEGO Tumbler looks like it captures the source material well and will make a lot of people very happy, which in turn makes me happy."
I could not agree more with everything you said; I thought I was the only one.
That 1989 Batmobile was an instant buy as it had functional steering wheels, its hood opened up like it's supposed to do and the guns popped out. I eventually bought the Batwing as well but this? I'm not sure. The lack of functional options is taking out all the fun. At this size, I expect all things to work, really. And I don't understand why it doesn't have a third minifigure considering there's plenty to pick from.
@Supersonic:
I understand the lack of steering. Given the wishbone design, there’s almost no room to work with, and they just reduced that quite a bit from the previous version. The design is so outrageous that they had to make I think four different versions for use during filming of different driving actions. One was used exclusively for jumps, as it needed to have heavily reinforced shocks that probably would have ruined the look for any other scenes. So, for them to include functional steering, either the front wishbone would have gotten beefier instead of smaller, or the construction probably would have been insufficient to support the weight of the front end. The lack of a third minifig, however, seems odd considering we got Vicki Vale and one of Joker’s goons that wasn’t even Bob.
I hope they will re-release the Batpod too some time. I would love to have it!
The set is crazy expensive in Canada which is unfortunate. I already own the 2014 set so I don't see any reason in picking it up. That said, it was a fantastic building experience at the time (and it was my first "adult" set).
For those who missed out on it and are fans of The Dark Knight Trilogy, go for it. The overall size is quite phenomenal although not quite the surprise or shock from the 1989 Batmobile which will probably stand the test of time much more compared to the Tumbler.