An interest in model cars is universal in the motoring world – If you like cars then you’ll almost certainly be a fan of Tamiya model cars. Whether you’re nine years old or 59 years old, there’s bound to be something that’ll appeal to your taste.
Tamiya is one of the most well-known and successful brands when it comes to model kits and remote-controlled cars thanks to their attention to detail. The phrase ‘built not bought’ is wonderfully appropriate here, since there is a huge amount of satisfaction when you’ve constructed your own model car by hand.
The best Tamiya model car kits at a glance
Tamiya has been around for decades and has lived through the rise of racing games and is even experiencing a bit of a renaissance over the last couple of years. If you’re looking for a rewarding hobby, or your mantle has an empty spot, then read on.
Here, we cover Tamiya’s greatest model car kit sets to build. They’re all brilliant but do require patience, perseverance, and the occasional expletive.
The best Tamiya model car kits
Best for Rally Fans
The 1999 model Impreza WRC car came two years after Group A became WRC, relaxing rules in the process. Subaru's iconic 1999 car was the first to feature a flappy paddle gearbox (semi-automatic). It along with other changes allowed Subaru to come second in the Manufacturer's Championship. The WRC99 Impreza was a pioneer in this technology which was later seen on a wider variety of rally cars. When it comes to motorsport the WRC99 Impreza is hugely significant.
Pros
- Recreation of an iconic racing legend
- Incredible details
- No painting required
Cons
- Cement and paint sold separately
Best for Porsche Fans
The 993 911 GT2 was a truly wild machine, like the Ford Sierra RS Cosworth but faster. It was of course a homologation model for GT2 class racing, featuring a twin-turbocharged air-cooled 3.6-litre flat six. It had 424bhp when it came out but upgraded to 444bhp in 1998. The model incorporates the most recognisable features like the large rear wing and the air scoops in the struts for cooling. The 993 is considered a collector’s item since it’s the last air-cooled iteration of the 911, and it looks extremely cool.
Pros
- Popular car model amongst motoring enthusiasts
- Can be painted to your preference
- Good interior details including roll cage
Cons
- Some parts might be a bit fiddly
3.
Ford GT
Best for American Car Fans
Inspired by the American success in endurance racing during the 1950s and 60s, the Ford GT40 has cemented itself as a motorsport hall of famer. To celebrate the dominating performances Ford created a road version, and this second-generation Ford GT was created in 2016 to celebrate 50 years since then 1966 victory at Le Mans. While the GT is a road car, it’s more than capable on the track. As far as American cars go, the Ford GT is legendary.
Pros
- Good size for Tamiya model at 20cm long
- Great details like the visible 3.5-litre V6 engine
- Decals, metal transfers, and masking stickers included
Cons
- Cost more than other 1:24-scale Tamiya models
Best for F1 Fans
Nicknamed ‘the black beauty’, The Lotus 79 Formula 1 car is one of the most significant cars in the history of F1. It was the first car to take full advantage of ground effect aerodynamics which generated a tremendous amount of downforce therefore increasing grip and top speed. This aerodynamic enhancement made such a profound effect that it was banned in the 1980s by the FIA for safety reasons. In 2022 ground effect made a comeback to F1. This is your chance to own a 1:20 model of that incredible car.
Pros
- Removable cowlings to see hidden details
- Detailed Ford engine with metal air funnel covers and plug cables
- Slightly larger than other 1:24-scale models at 22cm long
Cons
- Painting it any other colour would be an injustice
Best for Toyota Fans
Along with the Gulf Ford GT and Subaru rally cars, the Castrol Tom's Supra GT is one of the most recognizable racing cars of all time. It appeared on the racetracks of Japan in 1995, determined to beat the Nissan Skyline GT-R that had dominated touring car racing both in Japan and abroad in recent years.
Pros
- Iconic model racing car
- Lovely interior details like roll cage and fire extinguisher
- Plenty of stickers for the livery
Cons
- Cement and paint sold separately
Best for GT-R fans
The R34 Skyline GT-R was a result of brand’s success in Group A racing which it dominated in the early 1990s. The earlier R32 was so triumphant it caused Australian motoring media to brand it ‘Godzilla’, and naturally the R34 was celebrated as ‘Godzilla Returns’. The R34 is the crown-jewel of JDM cars and was thrust into superstardom thanks to the Gran Turismo racing games, and more notable the Fast and Furious franchise. We’d have ours in Bayside blue.
Pros
- One of the most recognisable cars in automotive history
- Accurate details like multi-link suspension and mesh front grill
- Paint it any colour you like
Cons
- One of many Skyline GT-R models
Best for Hypercar Fans
The McLaren Senna is inspired by one of the greatest F1 drivers to ever turn a wheel, Ayrton Senna. Ayrton won the F1 driver’s world championship in his first season with the team, and then went on to win a further two driver’s championships in six years. This limited-edition Ultimate series hypercar is an engineered masterpiece that’s designed to be the best on the track. If you want one of the best hypercars in the 21st century then the Senna cannot be ignored.
Pros
- Impressive details like V8 engine, brake discs and calipers, and dashboard
- Windows don't require cement to slot into place
- Separate parts makes it easier to paint
Cons
- Doesn't come with tools, glue, and paint
What you need for building your Tamiya model
With the static models, you won’t need batteries and chargers and a full miniature tool kit like you do with the remote-control cars. But you will need a pair of cutters, glue, and paint.
Best for cutting
Sharp, nimble, precise – The Valtcan diagonal nippers are ideal for your cutting and trimming needs. The high-quality Japan steel can provide a clean cut, and the rubber handle means that you’ll have a comfortable yet secure grip. There’s even a spring to save time in between cuts. If you’re wanting to build a one-off kit, or you’re a serial model builder, the Valtcan nipper is bound to make your life easier.
Pros
- Comfortable to use thanks to rubber handle
- High quality sharp design for clean cuts
- Quick spring release makes life easier
Cons
- Alternative options may offer better value
Best for Joining
Tamiya cement is considered the best glue for polystyrene plastic, but it can also be used for wood, cardboard, and paper. Thanks to its extra thin formula it can be used to glue together even the smallest and most precise parts of your prized model. It even comes with an applicator brush to help you get the best out of your build. It can be incredibly strong when dry so avoid getting it on your fingers.
Pros
- The best glue for Tamiya models
- Extra-thin formula for precise parts
- Comes with applicator brush
Cons
- 2 x 40ml may not be enough for some
Best for working on
Naturally, you’ll need to make some space on a benchtop somewhere for your construction site. However, if you’re feeling pro, you can opt for a proper Tamiya workstation that will help you keep organised and features a magnifying lens. If you want to do the job as best you can, then the Tamiya workstation is your best friend.
Pros
- Designed for Tamiya model building
- Magnifying glass is useful for intricate details
- Durable and sturdy
Cons
- May seem a little unnecessary for some
Frequently asked questions about Tamiya model cars
Does Tamiya still exist?
Yes, Tamiya is still going strong today, and they offer a strong selection of model cars, motorcycles, and even aircrafts. If you want to go one step further you can explore Tamiya's selection of remote control models. Since 1953 Tamiya has been focusing primarily on model cars, and has since become the go-to brand for hobbyists.
Is Tamiya suitable for beginners?
We were all a beginner at some point. Yes, Tamiya has a number of models that are a little easier so they offer a great introduction to the model-building industry. Tamiya models come with easy-to-follow instructions with plenty of resources available online. If you want to get into model-building then Tamiya is probably your best place to start.
Are Tamiya kits worth it?
That depends on your model-building ability, but generally we believe that Tamiya models are definitely worth the money since they provide hours of creative fun. If you don't fancy arts and crafts to be your thing then a nice Lego car set might be more your style.
Naveed Hussain is a commercial content writer at Bauer Media writing for Parkers and CAR. He enjoys anything with four wheels, and is always planning his next road trip.