34a Volkswagen Van

[Idris]

The NAMC’s “Catalog of all Series Matchbox Models” (second edition) lists two body colours: blue and blue-green, the latter being found on MW c/a examples (variation code 34-1B, the equivalent of Nick's variation codes 1 and 2) which can also be found in the normal blue (variation code 34-1A).The catalogue further states that "...there are different shades of yellow-orange lettering...", but does single out one version of the MW, c/a issue as having orange lettering (variation code 34-1C). In addition, the 8 x 18 GPW variation (34-1G, Nick's variation code 5) is noted as having either light or dark grey wheels.
The AIM's “1-75 Series Regular Wheels” catalogue (second printing, 1983) has a note which reads "It is possible to find all models listed with blueish-green or blue body, with yellow- or orange-lettered decals", a statement which appears to make a complete mockery of the variation table! It is again noteworthy that the MW c/a release (Nick's variation codes 1 and 2) is listed as having either the blueish-green or blue body and coming with either orange or yellow decals (variation codes 34-1a to 34-1d incl.). Variation codes 34-1e and 34-1f (the equivalent of Nick's variation code 3, i.e 9 x 20 GPW, c/a, are also orange and yellow decal variants.
Stannard has no new variations, listing only one colour blue body, but has a note reading "silver trim was applied in varying degrees. Decals may vary from orange-yellow to yellow".
Whilst Houghton also acknowledges the orange decals, he too only lists one body colour. Houghton's variations codes 34a-1 and 34a-2 mirror Nick's variation code 1 (MW, FH, c/a) but have orange and yellow decals respectively. His variations codes 34a-4 and 34a-5 are a new variation (slotting into Nick's table as a new variation code 3), being 9 x 20 GPW, r/a, matt black baseplate, and with either orange or yellow decals respectively. Houghton's variations 34-6 and 34a-7 match Nick's variation code 6, but have orange and yellow decals respectively.
Leake ("Concise Catalogue of 75 Series Matchbox Toys by Lesney" (4th edition, reprinted 2006)) also notes two distinct body colours: dark blue-green and blue, but does not comment on the decal lettering.
U.K. Matchbox did not examine the model.
Before an attempt is made to update Nick's variation table. we therefore need to decide how body colours and decal colours are to be catalogued.
It should be noted that bodyshells were manufactured (and painted?) by Lesney for Eheim to use in their "draisine" (a "Deutsche Bundesbahn"-liveried VW van running on OO/HO model railway track).

[Diecast]

I think that there are three shades/colour variation. The difference between 2 and 3 is very small.
Antonin

[GHOSTHUNTER]

I agree, the difference between 2 and 3 on my screen is barely noticeable, but I bet 'In Hand' it is easier to see the difference.

GHOSTHUNTER.

[fixer]

I agree, the difference between 2 and 3 on my screen is barely noticeable, but I bet 'In Hand' it is easier to see the difference.

GHOSTHUNTER.

true of many model colours

[Idris]

I agree, the difference between 2 and 3 on my screen is barely noticeable, but I bet 'In Hand' it is easier to see the difference.

GHOSTHUNTER.

true of many model colours

The age-old conundrum of where a shade ends and a separate colour begins.....