There have been several questions concerning 1/18 scale Triumph TR4
models. At this time there are none made. The best you can do is 1/43
scale for the TR3, TR3A, TR4, TR6, and a number of other variations
which are usually race modified cars. Some are diecast, and others are
resin. The resin are generally better models, but often cost more.
In 1/18 scale, LBC's include two new issues of a MGB and MGF by Gorgi.
Both of these are great models. There are also two Healey's of
different years, but the details are not significantly different, a Jag
120 in both built and kit form, Cobras' (LBC'S ???), F1 McLaren (LBC
?), and two models of the Jag XKE - one hardtop, one convert.
Most of these are average to good shelf models, but some of the details
are toy-like. ie. overscale wire wheels, oversize hold downs on the
XKE bonnets, etc. They are all put together without glue, so they are
easily taken apart and new parts can be made and added. This is also a
good time to paint the plastic inner parts and make a very acceptable
scale model.
In the 1/24 range the selection isn't much better. Guyua Sanos (sp?)
makes a nice range of TR2, TR2 LeMan's (which can also be made as the
speed record car), TR3, and TR3A. These are good models, but not
accurate. The same body is used for all the TR models and has a trunk
handle on the 2 & 3. However, again many of the inaccurate details can
be corrected. The TR2 and TR2 LeMan's come in a "high tech" version
which has some beautiful photoetched wire wheels and metal chassis.
These are a bit more difficult to build, but make great display models.
The TR2 in both versions comes with a Tonneau, and scale drawings for
rear wheel skirts. However these two are in left hand drive which is
incorrect for the cars they represent. The same company has a TR7 rally
car, and a Jag XKE. The TR7 was originally kitted by Airfix and you
can still find some around.
Monogram made a TR8 which has been discontinued. You can still find
them at swap meets and model shows.
There are some very old TR3a's in 1/32 scale by Linburg and Aurora, but
these are extremely rare and the Lindburg is nearly a toy.
Finally, Pryo made a Spitfire GT6, but again this is a very rare kit
which may cost up to $50.
Finally finally, there is a great model out by Tamiya of the Morris
Cooper in 1/12 scale. The is a big model and has lots of great detail.
It's not cheap, but makes a great display model.
Paul g. Wiegman
Allison Park, PA
1957 TR3
1972 VW Bug Semiautomatic
1978 VW Van Automatic
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