Revell of Germany
1/24th Scale Ferrari Superamerica

By Gerry Nilles

History

The history of the Ferrari Superamerica dates back to the 1956-1961 time period when this unusual convertible sports car first made it appearance. Like its predecessor the new Ferrari Superamerica, a variant of the 575M Maranello, is a very unusual convertible. Produced in 2005 as a limited edition of only 559 units this vehicle touts some of the most sophisticated technological feature ever seen on an automobile.

The Superamerica, which is powered by a twelve cylinder 540 bhp engine coupled to an optional Formula I transmission boasts exceptional performance as is demonstrated by its ability to go from 0 to100 km/h (0 to 60 mph) in 4.25 seconds. Its unique transmission can be used in the automatic or manual mode as well as “normal” or “sports” at the driver’s discretion. Likewise its suspension is state of the art and can be adjusted to sporty or comfort at the flick of a switch. However, and without a doubt, the most high-tech feature on the Superamerica has got to be its “electronically controlled color change” convertible top. This unknown feature is a first of its kind ever used on a production automobile. Similar to the idea of eyeglasses that darken to sunlight the “Revocromico” top can be electronically adjusted from clear to almost black at the driver’s command. Overall the car has been designed as “user friendly” and is very easy to drive.

The Kit:

The highly detailed Revell of Germany 1/24th scale Ferrari Superamerica kit comes molded in gray and red plastic. Accuracy looks good to this reviewer. Typical of Revell of Germany the kit includes a very nicely done power train assembly including a detailed engine/transmission and rear differential and axle. If desired this assembly looks to easily lend itself to additional super detailing. Likewise the interior is very nicely done. A piece of black screening is provided along with a template of shapes that are required to cover the side vents, the hood intake and the left rear fender intake. The hood is molded separately and can be left in either the open or closed position. Overall the kit is molded crisply with little if any clean up or filling needed. The instruction sheet is equally well done and easy to follow.

Markings:

There are not a great number of decals with this kit, however attention to the instruction as to placement and sequence should be observed, especially with the engine and other internal markings. Of course the decal sheet also includes the traditional items such as the Ferrari logos, license plates etc. As for the quality of these markings the registration looks good and traditionally Revell’s decals are of high quality.

Conclusion:

The Revell of Germany 1/24th scale Superamerica looks to be a very good kit of a rare and interesting Ferrari. Kit details include both a nicely detailed power train and interior. You Ferrari fans should be very happy with this kit.

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