Monogram Ultimates

Does anyone remember these “gems” that Monogram released a while ago? They were 1:43 scale with the level of detail normally associated with 1:25 scale kits. They had full engine detail, chrome parts, vinyl tyres and a fret of photo-etched parts.

As far as I know they only ever released the two models, an AC Cobra 289 and a '67 (I think) Corvette Stingray Convertible. I have both models and recently was able to buy a second Cobra on UK Ebay. Might be something a little different to try building.

I wonder why they stopped at the two kits. Then again not everyone likes building in 1:43 scale I suppose.

Never heard of them. When was “a while ago”? What price did you pay? How do they rate against other 43rd scale kits from say Tameo or Provance Moulage? 43rd is my preferred scale only because more can fit in the cabinet!

I’ve built both of these kits and they turned out to be little gems. With lots of detail, complete engines, stainless steel PE parts, and very good decals; they are far better than the Starter, Provence Moulage, and most other French 1/43 kits. [^]

In addition, I was lucky enough to take a silver medal for the Cobra a few years ago. I recently finished the Corvette and will be showing it in competitions Nov 15 and 22. [:-^]

NICHOLMA - I’m not sure about E-Bay, but I see them for sale every so often from vendors at model shows/contests for about $20, which is really a bargain as compared to most other 1/43 kits. By the way, these were both made in Germany. They never should have discontinued that line after only two kits, but I guess that there wasn’t a big enough market for this scale at the time. [V]

Pete

Got to agree with you guys, they are wonderful kits and were ahead of their time. I have the Cobra in my pile of unfinished projects almost finished (screwed up the paint on the body and needs a re-do.) The PE wire wheels are awesome! They dont show up on eBay very often, but are definately worth looking for.

There are a couple of Cobras on Ebay at the moment:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3154596596&category=2583

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3155736177&category=2581

There is a Corvette but that looks expensive (Buy it now for $45 plus $5 shipping… minimum)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=3154781415&category=2585

Bassman,
I’ve got both - two 'Vettes and one Cobra - they’re simply terriffic little models.
Monogram had plans for 4 or 5 in the series but stopped with only two being produced.
Didn’t pay enough, I guess. If they were re-release in the current market, they’d sell like hotcakes - even at a $20-30 pricetag. There’s nothing on the market like them for under $100.
I’m struggling with myself as to whether I should build them or same them for posterity…
Cheers
LeeTree

Having 2 Cobras I may consider a build on one. If I could manage another 'Vette then that as well maybe. I almost went for another Cobra on the UK Ebay but it was more expensive so I didn’t bother.