1:24 Isuzu 117 Coupe Late Version (XC-J) (1979)

Isuzu 117 Coupe Late Version (XC-J) 1979 in 1:24 scale from Hasegawa

An injection-molded plastic kit of the Japanese Isuzu 117 Coupe in 1:24 scale. This boxing from the Japanese firm Hasegawa captures the late form of the car, specifically the version designated XC-J of 1979.

The real subject

The Isuzu 117 Coupe is an elegant two-door coupe built in Japan from the end of the 1960s to 1981. The body was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro during his time at the Italian coachbuilder Ghia, and the car kept that signature throughout its production. Technically it is a classic layout: an inline four at the front and rear-wheel drive. The late form, to which this kit belongs, can be recognized at first glance by the square main headlights and the reworked nose; the letters XC-J refer to a particular period version of the car.

Building and painting tips

On a civilian coupe it is the finish that decides. Smooth the body and spray a primer, and only then the color in several thin coats and finally a gloss varnish, which can be polished once dry. The chrome strips around the windows and the bumpers are among the real car's striking features: self-adhesive chrome film, with the excess cut away with a sharp blade, looks cleaner than silver paint. Mask the glass precisely and glue it in only after the finish is done, ideally with glue for clear plastic, which does not dull it. The interior is clearly visible through the large window area, so it pays to shade it at least with a dry brush and a dark wash.

Who the model is for

• For collectors of Japanese classics and older production cars
• For modelers who want to practice a high-quality gloss finish
• For owners of other forms of the 117 Coupe who are putting a range together
• For a build for a cabinet, without weathering and damage

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.