64Comet404

I have just started my build of the early Pantera (kit #RS-68). It's a simple build, but there are a few things to watch out for:

1. Those hood vents (cribbed right off a Mercedes C-111) didn't show up until later versions. It took a few rounds of filling and block sanding to get things level. The next coat of primer should have everything hidden.

2. The front and rear pans have the seams set up for the matt black on the later GTS versions. For an early car, there are seams very close to the turn signals, and they are not there on the real car. Be careful when sanding.

3. If Fujimi could call it a DeTomaso Pantera on the box, why couldn't they give us the lettering for the rear panel, or the emblems for the wheels?

4. The painting guide shows the scheme for an early GTS. Break out the Alclad for the bumpers.

This should not be taken as a flame on the kit, because the basic shapes are there. Unfortunately, Fujimi has tried to provide several versons of the car from one basic tool. Get plenty of reference pics, and be prepared for some modelling, and you should be set.

It will be nice to have the kit back, especially if the molds get cleaned up. The Halibrands will be great to have back, too. The only issues I have had (apart from broken windshield frames) is the thickness of some of the chrome parts. The headlight bezels need to be replaced with less prominent pieces, and the grille surround needs some massaging.

IIRC, the fastback roof was based on the unit from the Cougar II show car (Cobra chassis with new body).

I built this one many years ago.The ony issue I had with it was the roof to body joint; it still pops off without warning. Otherwise, a nice kit to have in the collection.

Looks great Gregg. I have been waiting for a good kit of the early Pantera for a while (never liked the later ones with wings and flares).

Hey Oldscool,

The peaks on the 57 Mercury had to be big, since there were two different lighting styles available; single 7" or dual 5" headlights. It all depended on the laws in your jurisdiction.