1/24 Honda S800 Racing Version
Tamiya No. 24177
Molded in Yellow, Black, Metallic Gray,
Clear, and Chrome.
Decals and Metal transfers included.
Avg. retail: $25.00
 
 

General

This is a replica of the Honda S800 coupe entered by Racing Service Club (RSC) in 1966. Almost completely overshadowed by Honda's F1 efforts, this little car was apparently quite successful in the races it contested.

The kit itself is a pleasant surprise. Full engine and chassis details are included, along with many high-quality details. Although this is a very basic little car, it comes alive with the help of Tamiya's commitment to superior quality.

Body

The body is a one-piece casting with only the panel lines molded-in. This is a good thing, because all the details are separate parts: door handles, windshield wipers, trunk hinges, etc. are all chrome parts. You can use either paint or foil to detail the chrome ridges on the fenders.

Chassis

The chassis is a ladder frame that's highly detailed. The front suspension is poseable and includes all the pieces needed to be accurate. This is a refreshing change from the curbside approach seen on most of Tamiya's recent releases. 

The interior is a bucket with separate sides that fits into the body. The seats have belts molded-in, and twin roll bars are included. Decals for the dash gauges are as crisp as I've ever seen in 1/24 scale.

The engine bay is a separate piece with lots of crisp molded-in details. You'll be proud to show off the underside and engine bay of this model when completed.

Engine

The engine is a 9-piece unit that has great detailing. The hood/bonnet is hinged so you can show it off when completed.

Wheels

The wheels are very nicely detailed. They're molded in the body color, so you don't have to strip any chrome. Just use your favorite aluminum metalizer, chrome for the bolts, and flat black wash. They'll look great.

Tires

Tires are excellent treaded rubber.

Markings

Two small sheets provide everything you need.

References

I have no idea where to find references for this car. I will use the instruction sheet, unless anyone has better refs for this version of the car.
 

Buy Rating: 8*

I really love this kit! It shows how great Tamiya is when it comes to engineering a highly detailed model kit in 1/24 scale. Whether you choose to build it out of the box or go nuts with detailing, it will be a knockout when completed. Although I prefer to build replica race cars that I recognize, this is a unique tribute to the racing history of Honda.

*1-10 scale, 1-5 = don't buy it, 6-10 = buy it.