1:24 Nissan Laurel HT 2000SGX (KHC130) Late Version - Custom Version (1973)

Nissan Laurel HT 2000SGX (KHC130) - Custom Version 1973, 1:24, Hasegawa

An injection-molded plastic kit in 1:24 scale from the Japanese brand Hasegawa. The box defines it as a Nissan Laurel of the C130 generation in the two-door hardtop body, in the top SGX trim, in the late form of 1973 and in the Custom Version guise, that is in a modified form. A hardtop has no frame in the side windows, so the profile of the car stays completely clean once the glass is lowered.

The real subject

The Laurel of the C130 generation was built in the first half of the 1970s, and in Japan its two-door hardtop earned the nickname butaketsu, meaning pig's rear, because of the strikingly bulged tail with the lights recessed into the bumper. The SGX trim sat at the top of the range and was given the L20 inline six-cylinder engine of two liters with a pair of SU carburetors and an output of 130 hp, while the ordinary form with a single carburetor had 125 hp. This very body became one of the pillars of Japanese street customizing.

Building and painting tips

Sand the bulged tail carefully before painting and check it with a coat of filler primer, because a ripple in the plastic shows clearly on a curved surface. Do the chrome window surrounds, the handles and the trim strips with masking tape or a fine brush and a metallic shade. Apply the gloss clear coat in two layers and polish the surface once it is dry. Finish the interior before you join the body to the chassis.

Who the model is for

• collectors of Japanese sedans and hardtops of the 1970s
• fans of Japanese street customizing and low wheels
• modelers who want to practice chrome detail and a glossy finish

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