1963 and 1964 Ford Galaxie 500-XLs - Advanced and Curbside Models
It’s some years since the term ‘curbside model’ first appeared in model car magazines, but nowadays it seems to be in reasonably common usage. For newer modellers, curbside models are generally simpler kits which look the same as a conventional kit, but on closer inspection have few, if any, opening features. As a result, bonnets are moulded shut, there are no engines and the underside probably has an indication of suspension, exhaust system etc., but these are part of a one-piece floorpan. The interior is generally as you’d expect to see in a conventional kit, but the overall parts count is significantly less, around 30-40, compared with 100-plus of a full kit.
Having trawled through the extensive Round 2 Models website recently I saw that in contrast to rival, Revell, it lists a number of new models expected to be released in the coming months. Ford’s full-size cars were perennially popular during the early Sixties with their jet aircraft-inspired circular rear lights, generously proportioned bodies and wide range of engines. The 1963 and 1964 models were very similar with only detail changes and a more sculpted rear roofline for the latter year, to improve the aerodynamics for NASCAR racing. In both years the 500-XL badges indicated the top of the range.
Over the years, AMT has produced 1:25 scale kits of both model years. The 1963 Galaxie was brought back in 2020 and they plan to reintroduce the 1964 Galaxie this year.
However, whereas the 1963 two-door hardtop is a full kit, numbering 154 parts and promoted as suitable for more advanced modellers, the 1964 Galaxie is advertised as an ‘easy-to-assemble project for any modeller’. Given their common lineage, it might be possible to swap parts between the kits.
The ’63 can be built three ways: stock, custom or ‘advanced custom’, utilising optional replacement front and rear bodywork that can be moulded to the stock shell for a truly unique look. It provides stock and modified engine parts, alternative seats, optional chrome wheels, whitewall tyres, moon hub caps, substitute bonnets and rear fender skirts. There’s also an extensive decal sheet.
In contrast, the 1964 Galaxie has just 30 parts, so assembly should be a much quicker affair. Nevertheless, despite its simplicity, it has whitewall tyres, chrome bumpers and wheels, bucket seats, clear red tail-lights and its own unique water-slide decal sheet.
The Sixties vintage-style packaging adds to its appeal, especially for those of us who remember AMT kits back in the day.
A wide range of die-cast models and American-range plastic kits are available online at competitive prices. However, you should be able to source most models reviewed in Scale Autos from www.modelstore.co.uk or see American Classic Diecast at www.american-classic-diecast.co.uk