NASCAR Kits

Folks,

Got a question:

Why are all of the NASCAR kits (that are out now) Snap-Tite kits only?? At least, that’s all I can find at the local shops and on-line. And I’m referring to the newest kits - not the older Revell, Monogram, MPC, etc., kits.

It trended that way long ago, with most folks migrating to die cast collectibles (no work, instant satisfaction). Licensing issues took out most aftermarket decals, which started limiting what you could build. Combine those with a general lack of interest, looking at the empty stands and declining tv ratings plus tooling costs to keep up with the changes in aero packages, I’m surprised they’re doing anything.

Too bad for those of us who enjoy NASCAR. I was really hoping for a larger scale kit, think 1/16 or 1/12 with multiple driver/sponsor options during the surge in popularity before the recession. Oh well…

Revell just released a 1/24 version of Kevin Harvick’s Ford Fusion. It’s a proper glue kit with motor, suspension and full interior. I just got it but haven’t started building yet. It looks good. Kit 85-4218.

Hey, Jeff, does it include the digital dashboard, and efi setup?

Yes to both questions but not overly detailed. There is a decal for part of the dash that should be OK considering the window net will obstruct some of the view. Considering there hasn’t been a proper NASCAR model in ages and that it only costs about 25 bucks you can’t go wrong. Here’s a link to the Revell product page that allows you to download the instructions:

http://www.revell.com/model-kits/cars/85-4218.html#.WZCNMFGGNGM

Jeffpez -

Thank you for the link, that is a good looking kit. I wish someone would produce more kits like this and also the NASCAR trucks.

Am I missing the Goodyear tire markings, or are they not included?

I opened the box to look and the tire sidewalls are completely smooth with no markings. The decal sheet has no mention of Goodyear anywhere.

Gotta love those licensing fees. Back before Monogram got licensed by NASCAR for the 98 season, you couldn’t get the NASCAR sticker that is prominent on the A pillars either. Of course, that and the other contigency stickers aren’t as obvious as missing Goodyear logos.

I think the tires are smooth on the sidewalls on the real tires - no raised lettering at all. I figure the decals ain’t there 'cause Goodyear probably wanted too much for the licensing fee. But, that’s ok - after a couple of laps, the cars have rubbed up against each other and rubbed off the lettering anyways…

That’s great news!! Too bad it’s a Ford, though…[:P] [proplr] I’m a MOPAR man myself, and was greatly perturbed when Dodge pulled out of NASCAR- AGAIN!!!

I wish I could get some of the latest Nascar kits here in the UK even if they are ‘Snap-Tite’!

I buy various tyre decal sheets, only one or two have yellow Goodyear tyre decals for both edges!

Not so sure about aftermarket decals being taken out…mikes decals has tons of aftermarkets. I counted at least 10 different decal manufacturers that they stock. Almost every driver past and present and many schemes they used.

Hey, thanks, that’s good to know. I just remembered when Slixx got out of it, they were the only ones I ever used outside of the box decals. I got a couple of bodies that need some decals, I may check them out.

It is not just NASCAR. Auto racing is a declining sport. When was the last time you saw a new Indycar kit or new USAC kit? Worldwide, it still seems to be popular, and you do see international racing kits now and then, but I am afraid US racing models are gone except for very small garage operations. The guys that took over Etzels kit business are going under. The Revell KK midget is one gem of a kit, very nice, but it was not a good seller and the disappointed company will not be doing serious kits, just things that appeal to kids and beginners.

The new Kevin Harvick NASCAR Fusion is a very good glue kit. They’ve update the engine and chassis and added a lot of nice details. In many ways it seems to be a better kit than the previous generation of NASCAR kits. I agree with you, Don, that auto racing seems to be declining, but this kit is a breath of fresh air and I hope Revell makes and sells a lot of them!

Ken