1972 Chevy Vega Pro Stock

I found this kit to be a nice fitting model with not much flash. The kit comes with many extra parts to use if you choose to. Only problem was red decal for around the window fell apart when I tried to use it.

Body molded well; some flash, but not bad. Instructions were not very detailed and left out several part placements. Fit was nominal, engine was very tight. I saw a version online with the battery in the rear. I did the same as it was not a good fit under the hood. Decals were horrible. They shattered as to be unusable, and had to paint the red trim on. It was a challenging kit, but going slowly, it turned out ok. Not for beginners.

I saw this car race back in the day and have a love of these early pro stocks. The body on this MPC offering is a lovely piece. Mold lines and sink marks are virtually non-existent and the one piece glass fits tight, however, the body would benefit from some panel line scribing. The instructions advise that the glass should be cut into separate pieces, but you can get away without this added complexity. The period correct Crager Super Trick wheels and pad printed tires are also well done and appear accurate. The decals are also a big plus. Unfortunately, the chassis plate, with all underside detail molded in, is for me, a major let down. Use the lower holes for mounting the front wheels as the upper set will cause the front to sit too low and drag the headers. In addition, the supplied engine, a big block Chevy, is incorrect as this car ran a 331 c.i. mouse motor. The engine is paired with an integrally cast automatic transmission, which is also incorrect. The kit comes with many extra parts, I assume these are included to facilitate building something other than the Jenkins car, but does not include racing necessities, such as a tach and fire extinguisher. For better accuracy the area under hood should feature aluminum panels. The roll cage is also simplified, lacking an X brace behind the driver and the main hoop is too short. If you hope to build a more accurate replica, you had better have a well stocked parts box and be willing to scratch build. Despite the inaccuracies and compromises, the built kit will look nice on your shelf. I’m hoping to see more reissues of these vintage drag race subjects.