New to cars, and I could use some help... looking for a specific car.

[Crimm]

Hi there. I just joined, because I need help from people with knowledge. I'm not entirely new to building models, but I'm definitely new to model cars.

I'd like to surprise my dad with a model based on a car he used to own: a 1968 Pontiac Firebird 400 convertible. I spent a few hours on google, but so far the only two models I could find were the Revell 2'n'1 (which doesn't appear to be a convertible but I could figure out a way to make it one, if I had to), and the Exact Detail diecast (which is a bit pricey and a little hard to find, apparently).

Does anyone know of any other companies that produce a 1968 Firebird convertible model? I'd prefer something plastic, I'm on a budget and I already have paints for plastic models.

If these are the only two, does anyone have any advice on how to go about turning the Revell model into a functioning convertible?

Please and thank you, very, very much. Any help would be very much appreciated.

[Craig Irwin]

Welcome to car modeling! Now for the not so good news, the Revell kit you mentioned is the closest kit to your subject, the convertable is not done as a mainstream kit. You can cut the roof off of the hardtop and use a few parts (top boot, visors, dog legs, ect) from the Revell 69 Camaro kit, and cutting down the rear seat will need done too. A resin transkit MAY be advailable from the aftermarket.

You can do this subject, but not out of one box.

Edited February 27, 2012 by Craig Irwin

[mikemodeler]

The Modelhaus has a 67-69 Firebird convertible boot listed for $3.50. As was mentioned, start with the Revell kit and carefully cut the roof off, a little at a time until it looks "right".

I am not aware of anyone offering a resin cast conversion body so it will come down to your abilities and patience!

Welcome and be sure to visit here often, lots of great people and a ton of resources to pull from.

[Crimm]

Oh, wow, awesome! Looks like I came to the right place for help.

Thanks, guys.

[disabled modeler]

Hi Kristina....welcome! Yes you did come to the right place...there are many great people here who you can get help and information from,tips,etc. The Revell kit is the closest thing you will find on a budget and if your careful and take your time you can build it into a convertible. And a very honorable project you have in mind...I am sure he will love it!

[KevinMoparFord]

What you need is the 68 Firebird convertible trans kit from Reliable Resin.

http://www.reliableresin.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=59_65&products_id=26

[timc]

I'm not trying to start anything, but ask around before you order.There has been alot of negative feedback about that company.Look in the resin section here.Tim

[jerseyjunker1]

not a model to build but there is a 1/18 diecast of the car on ebay but it does cost. another may show up cheaper at another time.

ertl also has some gto convertables on ebay now

http://www.ebay.com/...=item3372707a82

http://www.ebay.com/itm/ERTL-1968-Pontiac-GTO-Chase-Car-Convertible-Polished-Silver-/230752766665?pt=Diecast_Vehicles&hash=item35b9efcac9

Edited February 28, 2012 by jerseyjunker1

[Crimm]

I'm leaning toward just cutting down the Revell model by myself, but I'll keep looking around a bit. I'm not doing this right away anyway.

Thanks for all the help, guys. Much appreciated.

[espo]

The Revell kit would be your best starting point, but removeing the roof for the first time you want to be sure to be carfull. Check over at the help part of this form for some guidance. You might want to check with banditresins.com. I think he has a body based on the Revell Firebird. Good luck.