Model Art

Auto Modeling Vol. 22, #787, December 2009 "80's Formula 1 Machines"

Reviewed By  Joe Staudt IPMS #39453

MSRP: 1150 JPY (approximately $12 USD) Website: www.modelart.jp This is a special issue from the folks at Model Art, featuring builds of kits of Formula 1 cars from the 1980's. One vehicle from each year is represented, with the exceptions of 1985 and 1986, which are omitted. The text is almost entirely in Japanese, so most of the information is lost if you don't speak the language. The photos, however, are spectacular, as are the models in the photos. If you want some good reference photos for your own F1 project, this would be a good place to look. In addition to the F1 articles, there is a feature on a diorama of an F1 team garage, plus reviews of Trumpeter's new 1:12 Ford GT40 kit and Aoshima's 1:24 Daihatsu Copen kit (apparently a Japanese-only two-seater with a retractable roof that appears to borrow design elements from the VW New Beetle, Audi TT, and Porsche Boxster, among others). While the photos are beautiful, the Japanese text limits the usefulness of this magazine. If you can figure out what's going on from the pictures only, then go for it. Thanks to Model Art and IPMS USA for the opportunity to review this magazine.