This is the best non-engine kit I've built from Round 2. However, that does not mean it's a major revelation for the frugal company. Sure, it's a new tool, but at what cost? Can you say, lack of detail? I'm sure you can! (see my photos for what I'm referring to here) In addition to an engine plug showing only the bottom in all its pre-molded glory, they've generously included a radiator support and a firewall. You still must provide an appropriate engine to finish the picture. Now, while that might be a walk in the park for some modelers, this could require another major expense on the part of others who just want a finished engine bay and who might be afraid that their choice of engine will somehow be a wasted investment because of fitment issues. And it lets Round 2 off the hook for not including one in the kit. I have to ask, Is this the kind of thing we can expect out of Round 2 when they decide to throw a bone to modelers who happen to love this era, while the trend seems to be satisfying the wants of modelers who are insisting on more modern subjects? I really hope not, because this kit was otherwise a joy to build, especially when it came to the endgame, where it was so easy and trouble free to install chromed bumpers and windows, both front and back!

This is a snap kit, but it has some very nice options for improving the overall appearance. It comes with a separate engine plate to do as a curbside or you can add an engine from your parts box or an aftermarket vendor. A firewall and radiator support are included as well, and there is a separate hood. The interior tub itself is fairly sparse on molded in details, but things like the door handles and window cranks are included on the decal sheet to help give it a little life. The dashboard looks good, and the decal sheet has gauges, radio face, and defroster vent that really spiffs it up. The wheels and tires are ok for making a base model Malibu, but most will want to replace them. The chassis molding includes the exhaust, driveline, and suspension parts that will need detail painting to distinguish them from the floorboards. The parts fit is very good, and assembly was a breeze. I did heavily modify mine with aftermarket wheels/tires, engine/transmission, interior parts, and a custom fabricated exhaust. This is a very nice upgraded re-issue that I highly recommend.