1/8 scale F1 kits

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MPK
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1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by MPK »

I ‘d like to have at least on large scale F1 model and I’ve been trying to make up my mind witch one would offer me the best possible quality and level of detail. The four I have mind are: Rosso Ferrari 643, Kyosho McLaren MP4/4, Centauria Ferrari 312T4 and Pocher Lotus 72D (not released yet)

I’d appreciate a lot if you who have built any of these would share your insights. I know that the MP4/4 is a great kit as well as the 312T4, but I really don’t know what to expect with 643 or upcoming 72D…

Thanks,
Matti
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scaleautofactory
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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by scaleautofactory »

I have build the mp4-23, mp4-4 and the 312t4.
All 3 models have lights and shadows.
The best designed model is the mp4-4, then the 312t4 and the mp4-23.
The two mclaren are in my warehouse one more time :shock: :wink:
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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by MPK »

Thanks Torsten.

How does MP4/4 and 312T4 compare to Rosso 643 or recent Pocher detail and quality?
Are they better designed as I assume?
Matti

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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by rjfk2002 »

I have built both the mp4 and 643. The detail is much higher on the mp4. The 643 is relatively basic out of the box more of a scaled up 1/12 design. The mp4 is a part works so everything is prepainted and off the sprue. Some parts are done well while others require clean up of mold lines and sprue. The engine block is metal as well as a few other bits so it could make modifications slightly more difficult than if they were plastic.

The 643 is still an impressive kit it just requires much more detailing. The kit is quite old at this time so you will need to hunt for new decals. I used the autograph ones but they are out of print now. The separate grade up kit is not worth the money and has very few parts for the price.

Rich
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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by MPK »

Rich, thank you for the insight on MP4/4 and 643. Exactly as I have thought.

So it seems that MP4/4 or possibly 312T4 would be the best base kit for a well detailed 1/8 F1.
Matti
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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by sky1911 »

I have built the 643 in my late teens, so early 90s. I remember it being not too difficult to build for me then (with no experience at the time). What I found out later is that there was an upgrade kit for the engine. I believe finding that may be looking for the hen's teeth. And I think the Autograph kit Rich mentioned came later but might be easier to find. What struck me with the car was the paint. I LOVE just that paint. After all these years it's still super. The decal stickers, especially when hit by actual sun light, bleached a lot - which led to me covering the entire car under a black cloth for a decade or two ;). The decals on the other side, however, are still good to go, so I think if you find a kit with decals in the box, not hit by uv / sunlight, they should be ok.
With a bit of work and touch up, I think you can make this one really shine. Note though, that this kit was, from what I remember, mostly screwed together... It scores higher as in my book it's the most beautiful of the line up :)
Cheers,
Roman
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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by MPK »

Thank you Roman. The 643 is absolutely beautiful 😃
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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by leafs004 »

I’ve read several reviews where the new Pochers are a lot better than their predecessors. I’ll be watching the release of the lotus closely because if it has solid quality and detail, I’ll be adding it to my collection.
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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by MPK »

Yes, I’m aware of that Pocher has improved the quality greatly, and hopefully the detail level is there too. 72D is certainly a legendary car.
Matti
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Re: 1/8 scale F1 kits

Post by robby »

Hello,
if someone is interested I have one Rosso Ferrari 643 new and sealed for sale, asking euro 1100.
Any question please ask.
Regards
Roberto
Icarohobbies.com
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