by Protar
The Protar models are not as bad as some may say. However, I was very disapointed by the awful quality of this kit. The fitting was bad from the beginning. The pre-cut tubing system is a bad idea and does not always fit or attach firmly to its ends. They form, for most of them, a group of tube attached together and manipulating them is not easy. Each tube has has a ring to both ends and that ring is seldom the right size. Hence the tubes tend to detach themselves and fall.
Protar always state that there models don't have to be painted since the linings are already the right color. This is true, but does not give a really good result. The colors are not precise and dull.
On a good note now, this kit can be built in no time (especially if you don't add more colors by yourself). Care must be taken before fixing EVERY piece to make sure the fitting is right. Sometimes, you must check and plan many steps ahead before gluing.
To have a more detailed on the 312 T engine, Tamiya makes the following kits: 312 T1, 312 T2 and 312 T4.
This car was introduced in 1976. Its in this car on the 1st of august at the Nurburgring German Grand Prix that Nikki Lauda nearly killed himself: after a terrible accident he suffered multiple injuries and third degree burns. He surprisingly came back before the end of the season.
Pilots : Nikki Lauda (world champion 1975) , Clay Regazzoni, Carlos Reutemann (Italy Grand Prix), Gilles Villeneuve (First presence in F1).
I would not suggest that kit to novice modelists. You must take time to verify every piece fit. I am not an expert, but I have done quite a few still. However, this kit does have good sides: it is a nice collector's piece. I just wish the instructions were clearer and the tubes were simply the normal tubes found on most models out there.
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