Tamiya has announced they will re-release the following kits later this year:
Here is a preview of what we can expect.
This revolutionary design carried Mario Andretti and Gunnar Nilsson to several wins in 1977. The kit is a straightforward slab-sided design that isn't as fiddly as its 1/12 scale big brother.
There are not many parts, but what is there is very accurate. Lots of room for aftermarket improvements also. Conversion decals to build the Imperial Tobacco version should still be available.
Photo by Eric Evain
For years this has been the holy grail of 1/20 F1 kits. While some of the other kits in the series are seen regularly as re-releases, this one has not been around for many years. I've heard there are Brazilian copies, but that they are not high-quality.
The Ligier is very similar to the Lotus - both are Cosworth-powered wing cars. The Ligier does come with a driver, which is nice if you like to add drivers to these models. The wheels are very nice, especially the rears, which are the spun aluminum type never seen today. One question comes to mind: how will Tamiya get around the tobacco restrictions? Last I heard John Player and Gitanes make cigarettes. We'll see . . .
The Renault is interesting because it's a slightly different design, and it represents an early turbo car. The kit includes a very well-detailed engine and rear suspension that looks impressive when completed. The tires are rare Michelins that are nice to have, and the wheels are beautifully accurate.
Model and Photo by Eric Evain
The Williams brings us fully into the modern era. This car dominated the 1986 and 1987 seasons, and it set the standard for future Williams efforts. The kit is straightforward and perfect for a high-detail project. There are many reference photos available for this car that show the details of the Honda turbo engine. The fine example shown above demonstrates how proper tire markings, seat belts, and other details can make this a very accurate finished model.
