11/15/2006

Aoshima is releasing Initial D products in 1/24 scale, going head to head with Fujimi. The AE86 includes fog lights, Watanabe wheels, 4AG engine and a cup holder (nice!).

10/3/2006

Here's a list of notable future releases from major Japanese manufacturers

Aoshima's S13 is a welcome surprise, especially with the SR20 engine which is the first in 1/24 scale plastic. Their recent Trueno kits have been well-received, and I think we can expect the same level of quality in the new S13 kit. It's logical to expect that they'll release the 180/240SX, as well as some D1 variations in the future.

Started in 2004, Fujimi's onslaught of new kits continues with three brand-new tools, namely the Berlinetta Boxer and the previously reported 599 and Cayman. I hope Fujimi gets the differences between all three BB variations right. Also, the Cayman and the 2nd gen Boxster share a lot of components, so I'd expect to see the new Boxster kit sometime next year.

No new tool from Hasegawa, but their acclaimed 328 and 348 kits will finally be reissued. Hasegawa is the last major Japanese manufacturer to reacquire the Ferrari license, and I think that marks the end the dark age of Mattel monopoly.

As far as car models are concerned, Tamiya's been been low-key for the past few years, and it doesn't seem to change anytime soon. But at least the company seems to be responding to a high(?) demand, releasing the FXX based on their Enzo kit. Also, Super GT NSX Takata version, my personal favorite, will be released. 

6/29/2006

5/17/2006

4/24/2006

Here is a long list of new kits announcements from the Japanese kit manufacturers for 2006 Spring Shizuoka show.

03/20/2006

2006 early spring new kit announcements

03/07/2006

Recent Purchases