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Posted

Lotus Esprit
 
This will be a dual build of a special car and era. When I purchased this kit I was pleasantly surprised it actually contained two complete kits of the same year Esprit which the previous owner packed together in one box.
 
I will start by building the 300 Sport version which is slightly wider and meaner to the narrow body original Esprit. It will be painted in a dark colour which I am not yet set on, but am getting there.

I am aiming for a clean build with a touch of ‘been driven’ characteristics.

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Posted

I look forward to seeing how you'll slay this monster. The Monogram Esprit is well known for its questionable fit ESPECIALLY when it comes time for the chassis to sit inside the interior tub.

  • Thanks 1
Posted (edited)

Having built one of these beasts I can give you some insight... the fit issues are REAL. The backbone chassis will need some trimming at the top to bring the ride height down. I also had to move the front spindles up to get the nose level. You'll also want to add positive attachment points for the front and rear bumpers and side skirts as the kit's attachment points are vague and minimal.. These kits are complex and challenging and a nce replica can be built from them, but test fitting is necessary every step of the way! P1040866.thumb.JPG.00e48489379636f4032dd07650ef8648.JPG

Edited by jaymcminn
  • Like 10
  • Thanks 2
Posted

Hello, of the Lotus in the photographs, the second one, metallic red; I will follow your progress since it is a kit that interests me.

  • Thanks 1
Posted

This is really cool. I couldn't get enough of the X180 Esprit in the early 90s, I think I collected every magazine article I could find about those cars.

As already pointed out, the Monogram kit is a bear to assemble, but worth it. The 300 Sport is definitely a looker.

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Posted

@jaymcminn stunning build yours in the red! And I can see what you mean directly with part fit at mocking up most … ?

Overall however I am impressed at the quality and detail of the kit considering it is from 1994. Both the part count and scale accuracy to photo references is very high. The "drop in" ease as  Tamiya kits is definitely not here.

I primered everything but the Motor in Mr.Surfacer black 1500. For the interior cabin and rear engine compartment / storage I added flocking by using a base of Revel enamel as a glue. 

I am no hyper detailer or weathering master but I get excited to learn when I get to see and touch such nice pieces that make up the motor.  

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Posted

Looking fantastic so far!  I havent touched a model in two years, but i am about to start my Lotus back up to finish it. So cool to see another one built as difficult as they are.

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Posted (edited)

Couldn’t help but mockup the body to interior to see how the rear compartment will look. I’m leaning towards an exterior colour of black with a yellow UK plate.

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Edited by Technics
  • Like 7
Posted

I don't think you can ever go wrong with black, but honestly, the Arden Green is a really cool color.

I'm not sure you can put an Aston martin color on a Lotus without causing some sort of rip in the fabric of the car universe, though. ?

  • Haha 3
Posted (edited)

I decided to go with a colour since my other build will be black and this car has a great rear lamp graphic once trim is painted. I am super pleased! 

Content how it coated the body. It is possibly the best paint job I have done so far. In part it is the use of an airbrush, another is a "new" technique I am adopting which is trying to keep everything extra fresh, clean and debris free. 

I am misting down all rooms that the model will be in with water. Including myself and clothing.. to limit the chance of floating debris. When the mist settles I step in. I do not have the situation available of having a paint booth so it is all a bit of a hassle but It´s what i got available which is a balcony.

In person the metallic flakes read very fine that feels realistic. The colouur itself feels very understated and mature. Dare I say OEM feeling

 

Streetblisters Arden Green x3 coats

Mr Color Black Primer 1500 x2 

 

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Edited by Technics
  • Like 7
  • 4 weeks later...
Posted (edited)

x3 passes of Mr Hobby Super Gloss from the can. I wet sanded the roof and bonnet 4-6000k before the final 3rd coat. 

Front lip and rear lamp trim was taped off and painted with game air.

I really like how Mr Hobby clear and the primer products feel, harden to the touch and overall settle on the surface if that makes any sense. I’m a life long user of Tamiya up to this point. For convince and speed I am continuing to primer and clear with from the can.

It’s not perfect “2K wet” but project momentum and being content with the process is most important for me I am learning. I’m happy with it.

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Edited by Technics
  • Like 3
Posted

Very nice.  I'm really interested in this one because I also have an Esprit Sport 300 kit to build.  I'm loving your choices so far & attention to detail.   Really looking forward to following this one.  Great work.

  • Thanks 1

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