The Visible V8

While trawling through Revell’s American website I came across the ¼-inch scale kit of the Visible V8. At a foot long and with a 314 parts count, it is a formidable kit that bears further investigation. It is one of the most enduring plastic kits of all time, having been introduced by the Renwal Model Company back in 1958. Of no particular design, many of the parts are produced in clear plastic, so the operation of the internal components can be seen working. Originally motorised with flashing spark plugs, when Revell acquired the tooling in about 1975, the kit was simplified to more reliable hand crank operation.

It’s been reboxed and slightly modified over the years but is still essentially the same kit, featuring moving pistons and connecting rods, rotating camshaft, pivoting rocker arms and lifting valves. There’s a detailed carburettor and intake manifold and a rubber fan belt operates the generator and fan. The fuel pump has an operating activator arm and a clear fuel bowl. It includes a distributor, vinyl ignition and coil wires and a scale starter. Inevitably these days prices vary enormously, but some quick Googling found the kit listed with an online retailer at £88.99. Cheaper examples can be found in the States, but beware of the shipping and import costs.