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Looking stunning, and I'm liking the "over-restored" thing.

Am I the only one that does this "stream of consciousness" thing where one build gets me thinking about the next associated build, and so on? Recently it's been a Maserati kick. First was the Boomerang that had been calling to me, then the Bora I had buried in a box that needed a little refurbishing, but then came this Merak. My son and I built it probably 15 years ago, but it had definitely seen better days. Dusty, dirty, and more than a little haggard with its worn racing decals. But I had so much sentimental attachment to it, I couldn't bring myself to strip it and start anew. So I learned the art of cleaning models with a gentle touch, rubbing alcohol, and lots of quality q-tips. I decided to leave the decals as is, going for the "as raced" look, and finally finished it off with some Tamiya clear. Now it will sit proudly next to the other Maseratis, all of which are now in cases away from dust and grime Before pics: And after pics: BTW; for those who are interested in building a Merak, this Testors version has a nice body. What you are seeing is actually the unpainted and unretouched body. The tires are Goodyears on one side, and Michelins on the other, the glass is a nice fitting one piece affair, and the interior is a fairly good representation. However, because it is a model meant for an electric motor, it is rather basic underneath, and has a battery compartment where the back seats would be. Also, this version has no engine or opening compartment (I believe there are one or two other Merak models out there that do have engines and even opening parts). Overall though, considering these can be had for reasonable prices, I would recommend this model for a quick and fun build.

Absolutely beautiful Tom. If it's of any interest to you, the two Testors Maserati Merak's I've done both had very good bodies and none of the problems you ran into. One easy way to tell them apart is the front fenders have holes for forward mounted sideview mirrors on the Testors models. Also, due to a battery compartment built into the floorboard, the Testors models only have two front seats. I recently finished refurbishing one I did with my son, and all we did was clearcoat the bare plastic. In case you want to see a Merak without any bodywork done to it, check mine out.

I would totally own love to own that vehicle - - - either 1:1 or 1:25!

Well, color me interested! What is this based on, and what scale is it?

Came out very cool Chris! It's always neat to see such a unique build.

Greg, I always love it when you say "I'm building it OOB". Beautiful work as always. Just the door cards alone look like little works of art!

Thanks Jim. Lotsa fun

They are! I bought them after Christmas in the clearance aisle of my Walmart for $11 each. Most fun for the buck I've had in a long time

Super way to showcase your cool engine with a beautifully made car!

Way awesome!

Enjoying watching your build, and interested in your insights on this new model

If George Thorogood had a custom car, THIS would be it because it's Bad To The Bone! Love it

Way cool!

Totally love it! I believe this car has named itself "Blasphemy"

Aah, the ravages of time Consider it a challenge that will make the final product that much more meaningful! I, for one, will be watching your progress with interest on this classic model.

Super sweet! ...we live life quarter mile at a time

I love it! Looks like something right out of Hot Rod Magazine

Thanks Guys, I have no idea why I got on this roll, but they are quick builds and so much fun!

Fresh off the Tiki Trike, I had to dive into this one while I was still high from the fumes . I hope @Hmann68 considers it flattering that I totally cribbed his decal design on this build! The color is Testors Fiery Orange Extreme Lacquer over Tamiya White Surface Primer.

I remember you referring to this build during my review of Hot Rod Magazine, and WOW you never cease to amaze me!

Oh my gosh Simon! I just happened on your post and am AMAZED. You are not building a model, you are doing a masterpiece! Thank you for posting.

This thread might be a year old, but I just ran across it while searching for the Taco Trike - - - and darn it your skills are AMAZING!

You Keith, were my inspiration to start these myself. I don't know whether to thank you or blame you I'm already halfway through the Taco Trike and cannot keep the smile off my face.

This is coming out AWESOME! Talk about making a silk purse out of a sow's ear (the sow's ear in my life being my mother's '79 Volare with a slanted six)