The 10 Best Model Car Kits
This wiki has been updated 30 times since it was first published in February of 2018. Following through on a project to completion and showing off your finished work can be incredibly satisfying, which is what makes these model car kits so much fun. We have options for children who enjoy putting things together and need a break from screen time, as well as choices for adults who want a reminder of the cool muscle car they used to cruise around in when they were in high school. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Lego Aston Martin DB5
2. Maisto 2008 Dodge Challenger
3. Revell GMC Pickup
Editor's Notes
October 30, 2020:
For this update, we've added four very different sweet machines that are loaded with details, starting with the 1968 Volkswagen Beetle Limousine. It's great for hobbyists who are just starting out, as is the cherry red Maisto 1957 Chevrolet Corvette. Both get high marks for their quality and their authenticity.
For an intermediate challenge, try the high-speed Formula One Ferrari SF70H racecar, and for a next-level build - the Revell Ford Bronco will keep you busy for a while.
We've removed the Ebbro Team Lotus because its price had increased too much in comparison with similar models. The Revell/Monogram 1967 Camaro and the Monogram Ford T Street Rod have also been taken off the list due to availability issues.
We've also updated the information for several items, including the Revell 55 Ford F-100 Street Rod, the AMT 1989 Batmobile, and the Lego Aston Martin DB5.
November 20, 2019:
Made sure to include models that appeal to a wide range of ages & skill levels, as model kits have a wide appeal but not all cars are good for everyone. For example, the Revell SnapTite 2017 Ford GT is great for kids or beginners, because it doesn't have too many pieces and doesn't require glue, but it's probably too easy to be engaging for a serious builder. On the other hand, the intricate details of the Monogram Ford T Street Rod make it a fun challenge for those with some experience, but probably a frustrating choice for someone who's just starting out.
Added the Lego Aston Martin DB5 for fans of James Bond, adult fans of Lego, or anyone who doesn't want to deal with messy putty and glue. Also added the Revell GMC Pickup, which makes a seasonally appropriate holiday gift during the winter.
While some of the options on the list come with everything you need to build it, most require you to get glue and paint separately. So make sure to check the details before you buy so that you know what supplies you'll need to have on hand.
4. Tamiya Laferrari
5. 1968 Volkswagen Beetle Limousine
6. AMT 1989 Batmobile
7. Revell Ford Bronco
8. Maisto 1957 Chevrolet Corvette
9. Revell 55 Ford F-100 Street Rod
10. Formula One Ferrari SF70H
Shilo lives for adventures in far-away lands and reads books like it’s going out of style (which it is). Dogs are her co-pilots. She’s traveled to 60 countries and has lived in Austin (where she received a BA from the University of Texas), Maine, Paris, Seattle, New Zealand, Los Angeles, and now—Fort Worth. Before becoming a freelance writer over a decade ago, she had more than three dozen jobs, including high school teacher, record label manager, tour guide, and farmhand for endangered livestock breeds. She speaks fluent French and horribly mangled Spanish, which she is working every day to improve. Shilo geeks out over history and culture, and her areas of expertise include travel, art and design, music, pets, food, crafts, toys, and home furnishings. Current obsessions: Gobekli Tepe, tassels, and fresh lemonade.