Johnny Lightning 1/24 1950s DC Comic Book Batmobile

I can't help it - I'm a Batfreak for 1/24 scale Batmobiles. I went gaga over the 1960s Batmobile a few months ago and now Johnny Lightning has done it again with a 1950s version. Basically a simple plastic model with a diecast metal body this latest version is very similar in execution to the last one except that it's a curbside kit with no engine detail.

The body is prepainted with a smooth glossy finish that looks fantastic, with the separate fin finished to match. Window glass is pre-installed, thin and distortion-free, and fits tightly. Also pre-installed is most of the exterior trim including lights and bumpers. The appearance of the lights could be improved by carefully removing them and using some foil or bright silver paint behind their lenses.

There is a lot of interior detail and the dash engraving is especially nice, making it relatively easy to detail the gauge faces. Most of the painting suggestions apply to the interior but there's little point in being dogmatic about colors since there was no real car in the first place. The instructions suggest "moss green" for the upholstery but I don't have any idea which shade of green that might be.

Good-looking chromed wheels are provided, wrapped with no-name black sidewall tires featuring a good tread pattern. Separate exhaust pipes and simplified front and rear suspensions compliment the nicely-engraved chassis plate, and front wheels are steerable. The interior fastens to the body with screws and the chassis is likewise screwed to the interior pan - all other parts either snap into place or are attached with normal plastic cement.

A single sheet of adequate instructions is provided, English on one side and French on the other, undoubtedly to comply with regulations for sale in Canada. No decals are necessary and none are included.

I'm looking forward to tossing this kit and its younger brother together some weekend soon. Both of the JL Batmobile diecast kits are great values and either would be an ideal introduction to the car modeling hobby. Highly recommended to one and all!

Review kit courtesy of my debit card and a Hobby Lobby 50% off coupon.