BMW Alpina V8 Coupe (Dubai), Revell, 1/24

[Matt Bacon]

Inspired by another recent build, I remembered I'd got one of these in the stash. Revell's older Alpina Roadster kit is based on the BMW Z8 that has recently been re-issued in James Bond form, but it comes with the bespoke Alpina wheels and a hard top rather than the raised hood in the base kit. When I searched online for Alpina Roadsters, I found one in a very distinctive BMW "Hellrot" that had been sold by Sotheby's from a Dubai collection that got me thinking.... (If you want one, there are also plenty on "Bring a Trailer" for s lot less than the half million dollars the Dubai car sold for...)

 

 

 

For a kit that's a couple of decades old, Revell's offering is pretty impressive. There's very little engine detail, but that's no bad thing given that the Alpina engine is completely different from the original Z8 version, optimised for a relaxed GT rather than a sports car. The visible changes for a curbside are in the kit (roof, steering wheel, wheels) and the fit is excellent. It's a bit nerve-wracking getting the inside into the body, which wraps around and tucks under it. I'd highly recommend fitting the cockpit tub into the body first and letting it set in place, and then adding the chassis underside separately. Leave off the exhaust and rear suspension until you've got the chassis in place, and add the rear valance with exhausts last.

This is the look I was going for:

I'm pretty impressed by how well Revell nailed it...

best,

M.

Edited 4 hours ago by Matt Bacon

[bh1701]

That is an excellent and very clean build! I also like the photo with the mirrors!

Bart

[PappyD340]

Very nice BMW!

[Rattlecan Dan]

Very nice. Looks like great inspiration for a Miata. Good-looking car and build.

[iamsuperdan]

That turned out great!

 

[Jim B]

Beautiful BMW. Very well done.