Tamiya releases a 1/24 Mercedes 300 SL “see through” model for you to drool at

We are familiar with scale model kits that need to be assembled, painted, and detailed to resemble a real car, providing satisfaction for hobby enthusiasts. However, how often do we come across a kit with a clear body that can reveal the chassis and components inside the car?

Tamiya has released the 1/24 scale “full view” model of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, the latest addition to their series of plastic models.

When assembled, this model has a length of 188mm, a width of 75mm, and a height of 53mm. The body of the 300 SL is intricately modeled and can be assembled without painting, allowing you to appreciate and gaze at the details inside.

The iconic ‘gull wing’ doors can also be opened, as well as the front hood. The cabin section is also detailed with sporty seats, gear lever, and instrument panel. Other parts are also quite realistic, such as the suspension, mesh in the front air space, logos, emblems, and rubber tires.

Of course, beneath this clear body, you can observe the tubular chassis frame and the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine. It is a unique model when assembled.

Tamiya showcases real-life Lunchbox monster van at Shizuoka Hobby Show

As fans of vehicle toys, we often imagine what it would be like to drive that car in the real world. One way to make this a reality is by producing the vehicle in a 1/1 scale size.

This is exactly what Tamiya did recently. The toy manufacturer unveiled a full-sized Lunchbox to be showcased at the Shizuoka Hobby Show 2024, which took place recently.

No technical details were disclosed, but this monster van bears a striking resemblance to the 1/12 scale radio-controlled (RC) version.

The real Lunchbox comes in the iconic yellow color, with a front bumper bar, chrome grille and exhaust, “Vanessa’s Lunchbox” graphics on the side, and even a wheelie bar at the back, mirroring the RC version.

What’s most amusing is the battery pack found underneath the chassis, even though the actual truck surely runs on a petrol engine.

The only difference is the tires, which are not the giant monster truck ones. Instead, the real version uses regular off-road tires, and its chassis looks like a four-wheel-drive (4WD) drive when looking at the front and rear axles.

The 1/12 scale RC version is rear-wheel-drive (RWD) with a motor at the back. Despite this, the real version retains its height, ensuring that Tamiya RC fans will recognize it immediately.

Tamiya has previously produced a full-sized Monster Beetle model, and an external company once offered the Wild One MAX buggy.