Revell 1/72 P51D (old mould)

This is the review of a very old model kit, Revell 1/72 P51D.

 The P-51Mustang… I believe its the airplane that doesn't need introduction, as most know its name. 

It was the one that turned the game table, as it was able, on its D version, to escort the bombers all the way. Fast, reliable, agile, deadly. A recognizable icon on its own mostly due to its belly oil radiator cowling.

 

This is a Revell P51D Mustang in 1/72, early eighties boxing… I've bought it with this box and it is the worst thing I've ever seen.  I don't mind that the mould was from the early sixties and I do have the notion that at that time could be hard to properly do some parts. It could be tolerable to still use it in the nineties, some of the best kits I've seen are that old. What I don't accept is that it is still being sold and made (in 2010 was...)… 

I don't complain only for the fitting of the parts, which is terrible, I do complain for its accuracy, which is bellow anything you've ever seen. I'm not a rivet counter, but take a look on the detail of the landing gear. how is this similar to the real one? 

One is elegant, the other, seems like it was randomly cutted. And the distinctive belly oil cooler cowl? worst interpretation ever. 

I wanted to save mine, was built as a kid, and I wanted to keep its memory, but when I've started researching a little more, did ended up to scratch build most of it. 

I don't mind with the raised rivets and lines… but to make it a little better, had to sand it all off. I do have the notion that I didn't do a perfect job, and saw some built out of the box with better finish… 

The interior was rebuilt. landing gear wells… full scratch building of the oil cooler…

As a final remark: If you did built this kit with a relative of yours when you were younger, if you want to pass that feeling, or if you were a kid when it was released, go ahead. Your memory is on the kit, on that time, and I assure you that it is the same, it will take you back in time. If you are beginning on the model building, or if you want to do an accurate P51D, get the new Airfix. Its on the same price tag, and that one, the new mould, it is astonishing!

P.S. Video Review in here.