Doug Cole
Reviews By Author
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Lamborghini Countach LP500SPublished:
Carrera-Revell has re-released its Lamborghini Countach LP500S Model Kit in 2024. It’s 1:24 scale in a European boxing as kit #07730. Rare for the times, the Lamborghini Countach debuted in 1974 sporting a striking angular wedge shape, a huge rear wing and innovative scissor doors that made it an icon of the 80s supercar set. The LP500S version came with a 4.8-liter V-12 engine and a top speed 182 mph. It literally looked like a jet plane on wheels. Shod with Pirelli P7 tires and Campagnolo cast magnesium wheels, it looks awesome just standing still! There were 321 built from 1982 to 1985. If you can find one for sale these days, it will carry a price tag of around $600,000! This kit is molded in 1:24 pieces of white styrene with clear parts and rubber tires. It has color… more |
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The LighthousePublished:
This review covers the Lighthouse 1:160 Scale Atlantis L70779. Its 22 pieces are molded in white and clear and has a battery (Two CR2032’s) powered light that fades at the top of the tower. This kit’s scale, Aka "N" scale, is meant to be displayed separately or with numerous N scale ships and model railroads. This kit was originally released by Lindberg in 1969 and most recently re-issued in 2023 by Atlantis Models. Finished dimensions are~ L-11.5”W-6.5” H-10.5.” Overall, it’s a nice level 2 snap kit but adding some glue in places is really a good idea, and we’ll show where to do that. There is also a leftover error that must be addressed for realism. Detailing the base is mandatory and the use of washes will really make details stand out. Rigging the poles is tricky but a… more |
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Pie Wagon Custom Show Rod by Tom DanielPublished:
Atlantis Models has done it again bringing back the classic Pie Wagon Custom Show Rod by Tom Daniel from the crypt. It’s a skill level 2 number M6738 MADE IN THE USA kit and has around 40 pieces in 1:24 scale kit. Originally released in 1968, the kit features decals refreshed by Tom’s son, Kelly Daniel. The model contains 70 pieces molded in the original purple, with clear, chrome and brass plated parts. It also features rubber tires, waterslide decals and the original sell sheet. The decals are great and really set off this, “One Cherry Ride” model! Speaking of decals, I also added some tire script decals from the aftermarket for emphasis. Final dimensions are L-6½”, W-3½” & H-3¾”. I’ve always loved Tom Daniel kits, and this one hasn’t been seen since… more |
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2022 Corvette Stingray Z51 CoupePublished:
This review covers the 2022 Corvette Stingray Z51 Coupe. It’s a 1:25 scale, skill level 4 kit, #14556. Carrera/Revell has finally released models of the C8 Corvette that we’ve all been waiting for. Following on the heels of their recent “New Era” Mustang models, this kit, featuring the new Z51 variant, was worth the wait. Revell’s new offerings are not only state of the art - they’re affordable as well. The level of detail is stunning and accurate, and the build is straight-forward. There’s almost zero flash on this kit. The “glass” is thin and crystal clear. The tires have excellent tread including a posable front end. Decals fill most of the details that are too small to paint and that includes two stripe colors for the exterior and a bevy of details for the interior… more |
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Highway 32: 1982 Z/28 CamaroPublished:
After decades in the Monogram “tomb of doom” Atlantis has saved some of the Route 32 kits from the crypt and reissued them for us to enjoy once again. This model of the 1982 Z/28 Camaro was initially issued in 1982 and is now available as brand-new stock. Back in the day, because these kits were relatively inexpensive and perfectly sized, many of these kits were primarily adapted to serve as slot car bodies. As fashionable as that was, they were also nicely detailed models when built with moderate detailing. If you collect a lot of models, or you’re concerned with space, 1:32 scale car models are only about 6” long but are good representations of the real thing. The kit consists of 47 pieces for the single-purpose version of the 1982 Camaro Z/28. It is molded in color and… more |
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Tom McEwen's Mongoose Rear Engine DragsterPublished:
This review covers Tom “The Mongoose” McEwen’s Rear Engine Dragster kit. It’s a 1:24 Scale kit from Atlantis Models #M7529. Rescued from the scrap heap by Atlantis and re-released in 2024 it hasn’t been seen in decades. It’s not for the average builder, but with some forehand knowledge, it’s not that hard to get this nostalgic model on your shelf. Tom “The Mongoose” McEwan was half of a tag team with partner Don "the Snake" Prudhomme that’s been called The Greatest Rivalry in Drag Racing. Known for his endless promotion, Tom ushered in a new era for motor sports when he got a sponsorship deal with Mattel’s “Hot Wheels” franchise. Aside from being NHRA winners this put the team in the hands, and minds, of nearly every boy in America. It was a stroke of marketing genius - bringing… more |
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Don Garlits’ Swamp Rat XXX DragsterPublished:
This review covers the Don (Big Daddy) Garlits’ Swamp Rat XXX Top Fuel Dragster 1:25 Scale Atlantis H7152. Saved from oblivion Atlantis has reissued this model. It’s made in the USA and soon to hit model retailers everywhere. In the drag racing world, they don’t come any bigger than “Big Daddy”. He helped make changes for safer racing and his designs live on in the modern era. He’s a legend to his fans and his numerous championships, speed records and innovations made drag racing what it is today. Originally issued in 1987, I don’t think it’s been seen in decades. This brand new re-release from Atlantis Models has 77 pieces, molded in white, chrome and clear with vinyl drag racing tires and nice-looking waterslide decals. Included is a replica figure of Don Garlits. … more |
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McLaren MP4/2CPublished:
The McLaren MP4/2C is a legendary Formula 1 racing car that debuted in the 1986 season. Designed by Gordon Murray, the MP4/2C was highly successful. The car featured an aerodynamic design and innovative technical advancements. Powered by a turbocharged TAG Porsche engine combined with the car's lightweight construction and advanced aerodynamics, it was hailed as a marvel of engineering, pushing the boundaries of Formula 1 racing. The talented McLaren team, led by the exceptional Alain Prost, enjoyed a remarkable 1986 season. Prost's stellar performance not only secured him the drivers' championship but also clinched the Constructors' Championship for McLaren. The MP4/2C's outstanding performance and reliability were pivotal factors in the team's triumphant campaign that… more |
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DHC-6 Twin Otters Decal SetPublished:
This set of decals was released by Iliad Designs in 2021 and includes the following markings for some unusual DHC-6 Twin Otters. Markings for the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter and the DHC-6-300 Twin Otter in these liveries
The decals are in excellent register and show very accurate color for these unusual aircraft. Iliad Designs has always been a leader in the aftermarket decal sphere and this great set won’t disappoint. Thanks go to Iliad Designs for providing this set and to IPMS USA for allowing me to review it for them. |
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More DHC-6 Twin Otters Decal SetPublished:
Iliad Designs has released a new sheet for the DHC-6 Twin Otter, which is their second. The subject aircraft has seen extensive service with various nations. There are six sets of markings. The first is a short-nosed aircraft with United Nations insignia. The second is a USAF Academy plane with period WWII markings. The third livery is of the Ethiopian Army. Next is the Panamanian Navy. The fifth is a Chilean SAR unit and the decals are of the black separation bands. Lastly, there’s a Peruvian DHC-6 float plane The decals are in excellent register and show very accurate color for these unusual aircraft. Iliad Designs has always been a leader in the aftermarket decal sphere and this great set won’t disappoint. An instruction sheet is included. showing upper and… more |