1/18 Tamiya Nissan R381

[DRUMS01]

This is one of the early Tamiya kits (late 60's or very early 70's). It was designed more as a motorized toy than a detailed model. The entire front and rear suspension was only 5 parts (combined) and nothing like the actual car. Originally it had no inner structure, chassis, etc. ; basically an outer skin, a very basic 3 peice interior and roughly a 10 piece engine.

I was fortunate enough to locate a book from Japan with outstanding detailed photo references. My goal was to create an accurate replica of the car on race day. I could never have accomplished this authenticity without the book and various You-tube videos.

The entire authentic substructure, inner-fender wells, full tube chassis, and complete front and rear suspension are built from scratch. The car is totally wired and plumbed as well. I also made numerous modifications to the body and beneath it. The driver was sourced from another 1/18 Tamiya kit and greatly modified to have him steering and shifting. All of the modifications to this kit were completed in brass, aluminum, solder, plastic, PE, cloth, etc. I also used after-market suppliers for the braided hoses and fittings. Your constructive feedback is greatly welcome.

Basic kit body and chassis


Lower body with kit suspension to the left. Beginning the creation of the tube chassis and inner body blanks


End result

[GaryDavis]

Man OH MAN...you've done some MASTER model work here Drums01. This build looks GREAT. Modifying the driver like you did is spot on. Like you...I'm taking on the Tamiya's Zakspeed Capri. Like you...I want to really detail this out but...there aren't to many reference pics available on line. I think I might go hunting for a book like you did. Again...very good build.