So, I finally finished my 6-week fitness program, which means I got to reward myself with the set I purchased way back in February and has been sitting on my shelf waiting for me to get my flabby butt into gear. I wanted the Clone Turbo Tank, even though I already had the original (#7261). I'm a sucker for clone troopers, so this one was a natural choice.
Here is the original 7261 on the right and 8098 on the left. The set comes with two clone troopers, Aayla Secura, another Anakin and Ahsoka (they're for sale on my Bricklink page if you're interested), and the bounty hunter Cad Bane. My first thought, and I don't think I'm alone here, was, "I'd gladly trade out Anakin and Ahsoka for a few more clones." They are probably the two most over-used minifigures in the Star Wars line-up. Fortunately, thanks to battle packs and Bricklink, I have a few extra clones and filled in the gaps from my own supply. Aside from the minifig selection, I think 8098 is improved on nearly every detail from the original.
The new wheels are a nice improvement, and the new suspension system is a lot nicer. It gives the tank a higher clearance, even though the two models are roughly the same height.
The rear-view. The turret is nice and simplistic, no need to get overly fancy with it.
The rear hatch opens to reveal seating for two. These clones are from the battle pack, not the tank. I always like having extra clones on hand.
Where the engine compartment was located on the old model, this one has a removeable weapons storage rack for two pistols and two rifles.
I'm still trying to decide whether or not I want another pull-out troop rack like I installed on the 7261. It's nice being able to carry the scout walker, but I still think the tank should be carrying more troops. The walker with green accents came with the kit, the other one I put together because I like the scale better than the 7250 version.
To the front... room for two at the controls. I'm thinking about putting a third seat in the middle somewhere. Anything to fit in more troops...
The front guns were handled much better on this one than on the original...
Around to the other side, there is a mobile command center which can be stowed on the opening side panel. I think someone at Lego figured they needed to put something on this side to even it out.
While not much of a handle, this slides up and down and is compatible with the Republic Dropship (10195). The adjacent gun turret is actually a flick-fire missile, complete with the obligatory "you'll shoot your eye out" warning symbol in the instructions. Which leaves me to wonder just how much force is necessary and how close does one's eye need to be in order to inflict sufficient damage.
