Hornby 1/32 Porsche 911 GT3R

The Porsche 911 series of cars is probably one of the most recognizable series of cars that have been produced by Porsche. Though the current 911 GT3 is a very different car from the twitchy and rather dangerous initial production 911 that hit the road over 40 years ago, it still has all the body clues of its older version. Still powered by a flat six cylinder engine, the greatly modified suspension geometry, increased power and improved road handling of the more modern car has made for a great racer. It has dominated its class in international racing since it first hit the track at the turn of the century and is still the car to beat in its '997' form.

As some of you know, Hornby is a major player in all sorts of hobby aspects in the UK. They have resurrected many companies and lines including some rail road companies, Airfix, and Scalextric. It is in the vein of the slot car company Scalextric, that this kit belongs. Basically, this is either a source of spare bits that have broken off during racing, a new body for a livery not available in their slot car line, or a nice 1/32 curbside kit.

Provided in a nice vacuformed package that separates the body, chassis and clear bits. The chassis is very much like those supplied with the slot car, though there are sections modified for the plastic wheels. Unlike the slot car, there are no plated parts in with the kit and all the clear bits are clear, whereas in the slot car the head light lenses are a clear yellow and tail lights a clear red. There are also no metal bits for the grille as in the slot car.

Interior is quite basic but well done with a tub, seats, roll cage and other accessories. The roll cage is particularly well done and is something that one basically just folds into place. The kit comes with rubber tires that are pretty much the same as what comes on the slot car. As one will strip out the hubs when removing the slot car's wheels, buying this kit is actually less expensive than getting a replacement axle/gear assembly if one only needs a wheel, though the wheel needs to be painted to match.

Instructions are well done and consist of several very basic construction steps. Decals are well printed, though a bit thick. It looks as if they'll hold up well.

The body itself has the appropriate mounting lugs as most buyers will be using this as a replacement for one damaged or just to provide a basis for a custom livery that isn't available from the manufacturer.

So there you have it. Though most will buy this as a slot car parts supply, it also makes into a very nice kit on its own and is perfect for the youngster, thanks to its simplicity and colorful markings.