Darth Vader (Detailed Torso and Legs, Spongy Cape)
sw0163a · Star Wars
Classic Trilogy · 2007
Figure ID
sw0163a
Theme
Star Wars
Year Released
2007
Rarity
Uncommon
Head
Black head with standard angry expression printing under the iconic multi-part helmet piece.
Torso
Black torso with detailed silver, red, and green chest control panel and belt printing, featuring arm printing and a spongy fabric cape.
Legs
Black legs with intricate silver and grey line printing depicting his armored lower robes.
Accessories
Standard black spongy fabric cape and Darth Vader helmet (two-piece design introduced around this era).
Color Scheme
Primarily black with silver, grey, red, and green accents on the torso and leg printing.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on torso, arms, and legs with sharp metallic silver details and small red/green button accents.
Variants
Includes variants with different cape materials (spongy vs. stiff fabric) and updated helmet molds released in later years.
Condition Notes
Prone to dust accumulation on the spongy cape, minor scratching on the glossy black helmet, and fading of the silver torso printing with heavy play.
Estimated Value
15 to 25 USD depending on condition and inclusion of lightsaber.
Price (New)
Came in sets ranging from 40 to 100 USD originally.
Compatible Sets
10188 Death Star, 7667 Imperial Dropship (Battle Pack related or similar flagship sets of the 2007-2008 era).
Character Background
Anakin Skywalker, seduced by the dark side of the Force, serving the Galactic Empire as the feared Sith Lord Darth Vader.
Design Notes
Marked a significant upgrade from earlier simple black Vader figures by introducing detailed leg and arm printing.
Similar Minifigures
sw0273 (Death Star version with slightly updated face), sw0835 (newer era Vader with dual-molded arms).
Collectibility
Moderately high due to being the definitive mid-2000s detailed version of the iconic villain before major modern redesigns.
History
Released during the 30th anniversary of Star Wars in 2007, representing a leap forward in LEGO's minifigure detailing capabilities.
Interesting Facts
The spongy cape material used in 2007-2009 sets is noticeably softer and thicker than the stiff plastic-like capes used in later years.
Display Suggestions
Display on a black baseplate next to Imperial stormtroopers or facing off against a Luke Skywalker minifigure under focused LED lighting.
Modification Potential
Can be upgraded with modern dual-molded arms or paired with a custom red lightsaber blade.
Overall Assessment
An essential classic Star Wars figure that bridges the gap between simple early designs and modern hyper-detailed prints.