1977
These little guys are the result of a one-shot Popy experiment -- the Super Machinder series. They're a good five inches shorter than the average Jumbo, but they feature the same polyethylene construction and use the same missiles.

Sky and Ground Zero come from a live-action show called "Kyodain," and they're supposed to be brothers. Just as with the small diecast versions, both feature a removable faceplate that covers a photograph of the actor's face. Creepy. Each has a rocket punch on the right arm and fires missiles from waist-mounted launchers. They were also provided with oddly colored missiles (yellow and white for Ground Zero and blue and white for Sky Zero). Although they were sold seperately, they look best as a pair and are often sold that way in Japanese toy-shops.

In the show, the brothers could transform into weird-looking vehicles called the "Grand Car" and "Sky Missile." The Jumo versions can be broken down and mounted on little car-like platforms to duplicate the effect.

All in all, they're short but sweet -- these little guys are classic Machinders in every way except height.

Matt Alt