Exin Scalextric STS - The Sets

STS set boxes, with a red Nissan Patrol and a track layout

Exin Scalextric STS 4x4 Sets | By Peter Zivanovic

Introduction

Fourteen different STS sets were available through the life of the system. Each had a four-figure reference and the larger the number, the larger the set. All set references began with 20. The third digit was 0, 1, 2, or 3. This reflected the number of 2154 convex/concave track pairs contained in the set. 0 meant a flat circuit, 1 gave one elevated section (usually a bridge or mountain), 2 gave two elevated sections (a bridge and a mountain or mountains only). The two exceptions to this are the early sets 2020 and 2030 which had 3 and 4 sets respectively but in both cases, one of these was used with the 2301 Ford Crossing so could be considered as a separate obstacle. The fourth digit uniquely identified the set and usually, the larger the number, the larger the set. Four of the sets were named as well as numbered.

The minimum track in a set was four standard curves and four 260mm straight sections, which would make an oval or square shaped circuit. This was the shape of all the sets numbered 200x. Most but not all of the sets included one of the special obstacle sections and a rough terrain section. Each set was specified to contain two cars. Generally these were one particular model of car with different liveries but sets 2011 & 2016 had two different models.

The following information about the sets that were produced and sold and their contents has been gathered from a variety of sources. I have seen some sets, and the contents sheets from some others, which generally give an accurate number for the major track components but is not always complete. The major source has been the Exin catalogues from 1985 to 1989, which give detailed information about the contents of the sets sold that year.

Boxes had card tops with attractively painted, action illustrations of the type of vehicle enclosed. There was also an illustration of the set contents laid out as though for use. The contents were held in an expanded polystyrene base.