P51D Mustang Aircraft

This kit has been released in three different versions, all of them with the same basic tooling for the aircraft, the only difference being in the decal set. Over-all this is a fairly good model. There are some quality control issues with some of the parts, (IE: the parts not being completely molded correctly). In the two kits I purchased, both had corners, (the same corner of the same wing), not completely molded properly. The parts also require lots of fitting, test fitting, and more fitting before final assembly. And... caution on final assembly because the parts don't line up properly in the critical areas like wing roots and along the nose of the fuselage, (upper and lower). I have had better parts fitment on 1/32 scale and 1/48 scale models at half the cost of this kit. Because of many of the fitment issues, you will have no choice but to wipe-out some of the surface details. The model once assembled and painted is indeed impressive, but that is just because of its sheer size. Bottom line here, Airfix needs to address some quality control issues, and re-tool this model with recessed surface details. And... Directly at Airfix, you guys really need to look at a real P-51 Mustang. They do not have raised rivets!!!!! The wings and fuselage are smooth, (its called Laminar Flow), with panel lines only. Lastly, if you want to show the engine, be prepared to have a surprise. The nose panels do not align properly with the exhaust stacks. This model was designed to display with panels off, engine installed, or panels on and exhaust stacks and panels glued together to close the engine bay. You cannot have both worlds with this model, (I have built 3 of these kits, all of them are In Flight models for this very reason).