22c Pontiac Grand Prix

[Idris]

The NAMC’s “Catalog of all Series Matchbox Models” (second edition) lists a plausible transitional model as variation 22-3B. This has a red body, metal door springs, a patent no., and the numberplate extension (i.e. type 3 body), but no tow slot ribs on the baseplate (i.e. type 2 baseplate). If confirmed, this would slot into Nick's table as the new variation code 10.
The AIM's “1-75 Series Regular Wheels” catalogue (second printing, 1983) lists an identical model as variation code 22-3d.
Stannard has no new variations.
Houghton lists a new body type, fitting between Nick's type 2 and type 3. The description of the new body type reads as follows: "Inside the bonnet (directly behind the grille) is a thick ridge running directly across the body. The rear seat side panels have a single ridge at the top. The door sills have a double ridge. There are four retaining posts inside the bonnet to hold the metal door spring.The numberplate is extended down from the front bumper to form part of the new tow guide". (Nicks type 3 body is described as follows: "Inside the bonnet (directly behind the grille) is a thick ridge running directly across the body. The rear seat side panels have a double ridge at the top and a thin vertical brace near the back of the back seat. The door sills have a double ridge. There are four retaining posts inside the bonnet to hold the metal door spring.The numberplate is extended down from the front bumper to form part of the new tow guide." This new body type is found solely with a matt black baseplate, roof stud, metal door springs and the type 3 baseplate (i.e. patent no. plus tow guides). If confirmed, this would slot into Nick's table above the existing variation code 11.
U.K. Matchbox did not examine the model.

This model has already been extensively discussed on the Forum. The thread (including an updated variation table) can be found here.