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Internet Modeler : First Look : Automotive RSS News Feed

Revell’s 1/25 Chrysler PT Cruiser

By Chris Banyai-Riepl

Overview*

From the realm of a designer's dream, the first sketch of PT Cruiser was rendered. And only one aim was established in bringing it from conception to reality: preserve the essence, but maximize the utility. Chysler's renowned "heritage approach to design," a technique that contemporizes classic forms, influenced PT Cruiser's engaging looks and very American style. Still, the commitment to produce a roomy, utilitarian and remarkably versatile car was never overlooked. The proof of the PT Cruiser concept is the reality of the car itself... PT Cruiser satisfies a car lover's need for individuality, with the flexibility that meets everyday needs.

The Kit

What an interesting mix in this kit. The kit is of one of the newest vehicles on the road, but the instructions are in the pattern used by Revell back in the early 1960s, using photos of the parts instead of drawings. Talk about bringing back memories. The instructions are the only throwback to that age of old, though, as all the parts are very well molded in several colors as well as having many pre-painted. There’s a full interior as well as underbody detailing, but no engine and a simplistic representation of the steering mechanism.

Taking a look at that interior, you get a pair of front seats, split into front and back halves, as well as a rear bench, again split into front and rear halves. These fit onto the interior floor along with the shift lever. One very nice feature for this kit is the separate interior side panels. This will make painting the interior much easier than the traditional one-piece interior tub. Rounding out the insides are separate parts for the dashboard (with a separate steering wheel) and a tailgate panel.

Stepping outside, the one-piece body comes pre-painted with a silver top and yellow flames, with the metallic blue color being the plastic it was molded in. The front light assembly is made up from a smoked clear part and a bright chrome part, resulting in a very realistic set of headlights. There’s separate bumpers and side mirrors, and the rear taillights are molded in transparent red plastic.

Once you have the main body ready, the window glass (with the interior painted, including the third light in back) fits inside, with the completed tub coming next, all being held in place by the one-piece chassis assembly. A pair of screws in the front wheel wells holds the front in place, while tabs keep the back end from popping out. The wheels have separate disk brakes, with rubber tires finishing the wheel assembly. These fit onto metal axles running through holes in the chassis. The final step is to add the few self-adhesive stickers, including license plates and rear window art.

Conclusion

Even though this is a pre-finished model, it has some excellent detail, especially on the inside, making this a kit for modelers of all ages. If you’re wanting to add a PT Cruiser to your shelf, don’t pass this kit by merely because it’s already painted.

*Taken from the Chrysler 2002 brochure.

Our thanks to Revell-Monogram for the review sample.