If you're a racing fan with a keen eye for detail, then you've come to the right place as our list of the best model car kits for adults has you covered.
We've put together a selection of standout models based on their scale, price, difficulty, and reviews to kick off your search in the best way possible, regardless of your model-making experience.
We'd argue that there's no better way to channel your enthusiasm for cars into a hobby. Not only that, but the process can be incredibly entertaining, and the finished product can often make for a great display piece as well.
You don't have to complete a model alone. If you fancy, you could always build a model with a friend or family member to share the joys of the building process with others. If you have a notable Formula One fan in your life, for instance, then building one of the best F1 models together could be a great bonding experience.
With this in mind, if you're looking for a relatively simple set, like this Toyota Supra, to get you started, or you're searching for one of the best LEGO cars around in this Ford Mustang to build with a partner, then we've got everything you need right here.
We've also made sure to answer a few questions about car kits as well to help you figure out which model is right for you and your experience. So, without further delay, here's our list of the best model car kits for adults...
Best model car kits for adults
- Lamborghini Aventador LP-700 Roadster
- USA-1 Chevy Silverado Monster Truck
- Toyota Supra
- Nissan Skyline GT-R V-SPEC R34
- 1960s Ford Mustang
click to enlarge1. Lamborghini Aventador LP-700 Roadster
Best metal model car kit for adults
When it comes to metal kits, this Lamborghini Aventador, from leading model kit manufacturer Maisto, looks to well worth considering, especially as a beginner.
With only 24 pieces and no glue or paint required, this model should be an excellent way to begin your kit-making journey.
The build process is said to follow a realistic assembly line, with the finished product accurately representing the car in real life, even down to openable doors and the working steering wheel.
All in all, we feel there's a lot to like about this LP-700 Roadster, which is why we've included it in our list.
click to enlarge2. USA-1 Chevy Silverado Monster Truck
Best plastic model car kit for adults
For more experienced modelers, this Chevy Silverado looks to be the ultimate kit if you're interested in an all-American monster vehicle.
AMT boasts its kit features several finer details like a supercharged engine, an opening hood, a sixteen-shock suspension system, a double rollbar with lights, and gigantic monster truck tires with bonus chrome rims.
It also features USA-1 decals for the ultimate American aesthetic. On the whole, this Chevy Silverado should be the perfect kit to fulfill your modeling needs.
click to enlarge3. Toyota Supra
Best beginners model car kit for adults
Tamiya is a great vehicle kit manufacturer, with this Toyota Supra from 1993 no exception.
We believe it would make for the perfect kit for new modelers as it comes with relatively few parts, but is still enough to provide a challenge.
The Supra is also a great-looking vehicle from the '90s, with several design details reminiscent of the time like large, rounded headlines.
Ultimately, this Tamiya model looks to be a great pick if you're just starting your car modeling journey.
click to enlarge4. Nissan Skyline GT-R V-SPEC R34
Best budget model car kit for adults
Continuing with Tamiya but with a slightly cheaper car kit, this Nissan Skyline looks, in our opinion, to be an awesome model to add to your collection for less.
This particular Skyline is the same iteration used in the Fast & Furious franchise, drawing several comparisons to the car with its blue finish.
Like many of Tamiya's kits, this model is a 1:24 scale replica of a Skyline, which means it should fit nicely on a display shelf without taking up too much room.
With a relatively inexpensive price and a great-looking chassis, this Nissan Skyline looks to be an all-around great pick.
click to enlarge5. 1960s Ford Mustang
Best LEGO model car kit for adults
LEGO is one of the largest names in the field of plastic models, so we couldn't have finished our list without mentioning the brand at least once.
We've chosen this '60s Ford Mustang because it comes with a ton of realistic details, such as white racing stripes and five-spoke rims, plus there's a V8 engine, air filter, and battery under the bonnet.
Moreover, you can open the boot and doors, as well as remove the roof panel, radio, and steering wheel.
There are also several customisable parts, including exhaust pipes, front chin and rear ducktail spoilers, license plates, and a nitrous oxide tank.
Overall, this LEGO Ford Mustang looks to be a real standout kit to add to your collection.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
When it comes to model kits, there are usually a few questions that pop up.
Don't worry though because we've answered some of the most common queries right here.
How long do model car kits take to build?
There is no one set answer as to how long a model car will take to build as it will depend on the pace you work at.
Smaller models may have fewer parts and should, therefore, be completed slightly quicker; however, this isn't always the case.
Generally speaking, a car kit could take weeks, months, and sometimes even years to completely finish depending on the level of detail.
What do you need to build a model kit?
Even though most of the components will be included in the kit, it's worth keeping in mind what you'll typically need to build a model.
Firstly, some sort of glue or superglue is almost always required, except in the case of LEGO.
A small, soft-bristled brush can also be required to wipe away debris.
You may also need a hobby knife and/or a pair of clippers to remove the parts of your kit from their housing.
Finally, you may need some paint to finish off your model depending on the type of kit. Some, for instance, come pre-painted for ease and finer detail.
Do model cars come with spare parts?
Model car kits may or may not come with spare parts, depending on the manufacturer and the specific kit. Some manufacturers may include a few extra pieces in case of breakage or loss, while others may not. Generally, however, it is a good idea to take care when building model cars to avoid breaking or losing any parts, as it can be difficult to find exact replacements.
If you do end up needing a replacement part for your model car, you may be able to find it by contacting the manufacturer or by searching for it online. Some specialty hobby shops may also carry replacement parts for popular model car kits. It's always a good idea to keep track of any spare parts that come with the kit and to store them in a safe place in case you need them later.
Should you paint a model before assembling it?
A model should generally be painted after assembling and gluing it together; however, there are times when it is easier to paint small pieces first and then attach them to larger, different coloured pieces.
It's likely the painting order will be detailed in the manufacturer's instructions, so we'd recommend checking that first before you begin.
Do you need to prime a plastic model before painting?
The short answer is no, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't.
Priming your model before painting essentially helps the paint stick to the surface. As a result, priming your model should make the painting process easier.
Priming can also help smooth out uneven surfaces, meaning the paint should look better when applied.
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