I got one from the “better batch” recently. The cab gap is now virtually non-existent, which makes the whole experience so much better.

I completely agree with Magnus’ point that the truck mode has been compromised for the sake of robot mode. I’m no truck expert but the proportions definitely look off compared to the rotf Leader mold. The cab section is too short, overall width too narrow (judging by the nose and grill section) and even the tires are unrealistically narrow to make the ‘bot mode look better.

I also wholeheartedly echo Magnus’ opinion that the rotf Leader mold not only beats mpm04 on truck mode but also still looks good in its own right all these years later. It blew my mind when it came out and for me it’s hands down the best mass-release toy in the past two decades. Imagine what it could’ve achieved without having to accommodate electrics, mech-alive, AND combining with Jetfire!

But with its imperfection and compromise, MPM04 is by far the definitive movie Optimus imho.