1:24 Nissan F50 Cima/President '03

The Nissan F50 Cima and President in 1:24 scale from Aoshima

An injection-molded plastic kit from the Japanese manufacturer Aoshima captures the Nissan Cima with the type designation F50, or rather its prestige sibling the President, in the 2003 model year version. The 1:24 scale is the most widespread for road cars, and the model goes well together with the other vehicles in a display case.

The real subject

The Nissan Cima of the F50 series was introduced in 2001 as the top of the brand's range. It was a large rear-wheel-drive sedan with a V8, with extensive equipment taken for granted and an emphasis on quiet running and the comfort of the rear passengers. On the same technical basis the President model also came about, that is, the most prestigious Nissan car, typically used with a driver. In Japan cars of this type became the main scene for the so-called VIP style, that is, for modifications with large wheels and a lowered chassis, and they are still among the favorite subjects of collectors of Japanese car culture.

Building and painting tips

The large smooth surfaces of a luxury sedan will reveal any unevenness, so spray filler primer and wet-sand the surface. Apply metallic and pearl shades evenly and without interrupting the stroke, otherwise streaks will stay visible. Finishing with clear varnish and polishing will give the body depth. Imitate the chrome window surrounds with bare-metal foil and glue the glazing exclusively with cement for clear parts.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of Japanese luxury sedans in 1:24 scale
• Modelers with an interest in the VIP style
• Builders who want to try more demanding painting of large surfaces
• Adding to a collection of cars from the turn of the millennium

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