iBorg

There appears to be some buzz that Ford might bring back the Pinto nameplate. Some of the info online isn't believable while this video does look possible. This looks like an updated late model Escort. Maybe Ford would rather bring back the Pinto name to go along with their other horse names (Bronco, Maverick and Mustang) for a new model release. If so, maybe they don't want a Poison Pinto on the shelves. Here's a link to a video that might be real.

I think Steve is right. Is the display part of an overall model or is it a distraction. For example I built the Bates mansion from Psycho. The base was built to match outside still shots from the first movie. The base is part of the model. I've seen other models where it seems like the base is trying to distract you from deficits of the model. Of course that can be a good thing. At a contest a person had a really nicely built GT40. the builder asked why it seemed to get ignored then the discussion came around to the left side door being opened (driver sits on the right. The judge suggested he get a mechanic filter to be looking into the car. The mechanic would be a distraction from the non driver's side door being opened.

Models like this show the possibilities in larger scale. I keep on wondering why I play around with 1/25th when such masterpieces can be obtained by builders better than I in the larger scale.

Where did you get the decals for the Mr. Norm car?

I've never seen this kit before. I'll be interested to see how it builds up.

Looks great! One feature I'm seeing is the body hinges. Great job,

I think Mark is right on several accounts. The Green Elephant Vega sold more for people who were happy to have a 1/16 kit available. I think either would had sold well but both would not. I think the Grand Am will also have poor sales. Nothing against the Grand Am, but there were so few of that body raced that there's not many options except variations of Mickey Thomson cars. I think a Cuda or Mustang would be great sellers. Of course, those need kitted up. The charger would be better than either the Grand Am or the second Vega but not be a huge seller. As for tires, I don't think either Revell or Atlantis have scaled those correctly.

Or you realize its not worth and a great product leaves the market.

I totally agree. The promo market is graying. Those cars are all from 50 years ago. They're like a lot of hobby items, the hobby ages out and the value plummets. I think now you have good value there. I didn't see a car that I think would bring less than a $100. Don't flood the market. Sell two or three at a time but unless they have value to you, sell now. I say this as I'm trying to help my Mom (93) downsize. Her Hummel collection will sell for pennies on the dollar or less. My Father's HO trains will clutter my garage until I find someone who I can almost give them to. Both are hobbies that have grayed out.

One of the huge problems with the Alps line was that the computer requirements were beyond most computers. Now, that wouldn't be a problem. I alsways thought something like it would be released for the scrapbooking market. Instead of a printer, they got a plotter/die cutter.

Looks great!!! There's so much to like here its hard to know what to comment on. Is there any stock parts in this build?

Great work.....how did you make the radiator cut out?

Nice build on a kit with terrible fit. Mine is in the box when I couldn't figure out how to get the front end to fit. Your is much bette than I achieved.

That would do Michael Quarterman proud. Wonderful build.

Knowing the history of that mold, that's amazing.

Do you ever look at an in process build and think to yourself you need to pick up another hobby?

Great work....I've tried to open the Johan Maverick grill before. I've also ruined the Maverick grill before.

Tom never mentioned the MPC kits to me.....just his irritation at the Aurora Pinto body being changed from his drawings.

Your build up is really enhancing this kit. GREAT job! Your pictures will give inspiration to others who build this kit.

A couple of observations. Collecting cars is a hobby just the same as building model cars except it just takes a larger budget. I inherited what was about $20K of model trains from my Father 15 years ago. I'd love to get half of what the collectors guides from 20 years ago valued his collection at. Now, I might get $3-5. As the demographics in a hobby ages either the hobby shifts as this article implies or it fades away. As for changes in the car market, I give you this example of a very nice Honda CRX at auction on Bring a Trailer: https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1991-honda-crx-si-6/

I ordered the STYNYLREZ to give it a try. Overall the reviews are quite positive. I have been happy to see Tamiya putty works on the vinyl. It is a totally different medium.

I think the concept of scanning and recreating an original kit is not the right way to do it. If you can create the files for a resin printer, I'm certain those same files could be used to create dies with the right software. That ability more than likely lowers the cost to bring a model to the marketplace.

That has held up amazingly well. The decals look right for a local racer.

I've had success just cutting the wiring harness and using what's there but polarity must be right for it to work. I'd create the harness and twist the wires before even considering wiring it together.

If its a mold I know, box art may not be critical. On the other hand if its a new to me kit, box art is critical. For example here's two Tamiya kits. Let's say they're both sealed and both are the same price. Which one are you going to take home?