Global Scale Modeller

Can anyone tell me what the build quality is on the Airfix 1/24 2002 Ford focus wrc model, I’m looking to buy one off eBay but don’t want to pay ridiculous price if it’s not that good

Is it a new release?

I would be wary if its an old kit from Airfix, their older stuff really shows its age.

In case you are unaware of Scalemates.com, let me tell you that I think it is an invaluable resource to the modeler. Not only does it allow you to keep track of your kit stash, but it also shows you the history of model kits. Another nice feature of Scalemates is that for some kits, they have scanned copies of the instructions. That way, you can look at what you are getting into. They will also show you any appropriate aftermarket parts suitable for the model.

Here is a link that lists all models matching the search term "2002 Ford Focus."

It looks like the Airfix kit is the first result.

Based on the history, Airfix released it twice, but all of it stems from a Heller model released earlier. Unfortunately, Heller isn't what I would consider a "preferred" brand. They have some nice kits but require some finesse to get them built properly.

It looks like Tamiya has a similar kit. I personally think that Tamiya kits are the gold standard of model kits. They are the bar that I judge other models against. They tend to fit well and are easy to assemble. They aren't always the best choice but they will never be the worst.

As Matthew says Scalemates is fantastic tool.
It lists your kit as being tooled in 2003 so it shouldn't be too bad. Although I'm no expert and on closer inspection by drilling down and bringing up that first kit on the time line. On the box it says it's a Heller and that is enough to put me on guard.
More investigation is necessary.

Thanks guys I haven’t purchased it yet and may give it a miss, I did build the revell version which wasn’t to bad I do want the Tamiya one but so expensive and rare

Found one on the dread evilbay - as you say, a tad expensive.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/256107659351 ... media=COPY

RangerNeil wrote: Thu Jun 22, 2023 5:36 pm Found one on the dread evilbay - as you say, a tad expensive.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/256107659351 ... media=COPY

That is a lot of money for a 1/24 car kit.

I have the Hasegawa 1/24 version, not built it yet but it looks pretty good and can be found generally quite a bit cheaper than the Tamiya equivalent.

WordenB wrote: Fri Jun 23, 2023 10:27 am I have the Hasegawa 1/24 version, not built it yet but it looks pretty good and can be found generally quite a bit cheaper than the Tamiya equivalent.

Thanks, Worden, I had meant to mention that the Hasegawa would probably be good too.