Reviving a Classic: Building the Revell Plymouth Cuda 426 Hemi

Revisiting a model kit built long ago can be a nostalgic journey. This particular Revell 1971 Plymouth Cuda 426 Hemi kit was one of my earliest builds, tackled with youthful ambition but limited resources. Coming back to it years later, it’s clear the kit holds up reasonably well, especially considering its molds date back to the mid-1980s. The goal this time was to surpass that initial, albeit crude, childhood effort.

Side profile of a completed Revell 1/24 scale 1971 Plymouth Cuda 426 Hemi model kit painted in Sassy Grass green.

Assessing the Mid-80s Revell Kit

Characteristic of Revell Monogram 1/24 scale kits from that era, this ‘Cuda features decent engine detail and strong exterior lines. However, the interior detail is minimal, and the decal sheet is quite sparse. Another common trait is the chrome plating on parts like tail lights and fog lamps, which often require careful painting to look realistic. Without proper treatment, these plated parts can detract from the model’s appearance.

This build attempt was approached with more preparation. To elevate the model beyond the basic kit offering, several aftermarket enhancements were sourced. A photo-etched detail set from Model Car Garage was acquired to add finer details. BF Goodrich Radial T/A white letter tire decals from Fireball Models and Magnum wheels sourced from a ’70 Ford Mustang Boss 429 kit were chosen for a more authentic look. Since the kit’s included decals were limited (HEMI stripes, a Plymouth logo, North Dakota plates), a set of dash decals from Best Model Car Parts was essential. Finally, a custom paint mix was created to replicate the iconic Sassy Grass high-impact color.

Detailed view of the customized interior of the Plymouth Cuda model featuring photo-etched parts and aftermarket decals.

Navigating Kit Variations and Build Challenges

It’s worth noting that several variations of this basic mold exist. Some, like the Nash Bridges ’71 Cuda convertible version, surprisingly include a more comprehensive decal sheet and potentially better interior options. This standard 426 Hemi kit represents the more basic interior configuration, lacking details like armrests or wood grain inlays which were optional on the real car. An option for these would have been welcome. A persistent mold issue across versions involves the fog lamps, which feature oversized mounting arms angled incorrectly – a flaw visible even on the box art photograph.

This specific build encountered unique hurdles. The kit was purchased second-hand for a low price, having reportedly spent years stored under heavy game boxes. This resulted in a significantly warped chassis, bent into a noticeable banana shape. This warping created major alignment problems, particularly because the exhaust system is molded directly onto the chassis, and the exhaust tips need to align precisely with the rear valance and bumper. Consequently, the exhaust tips ended up crooked.

Close-up of the warped chassis and molded exhaust system of the Revell Cuda model kit, highlighting build challenges.

Further challenges arose from beginner’s mistakes, especially this being a first attempt using a full photo-etched (PE) detail set. Incorrect clearcoat finishes were applied – satin over gloss, matte over satin – due to inattention. Despite these errors, the PE parts significantly improved the model’s realism. The PE badges are sharp, and small details like keychains add a lived-in feel to the sparse interior.

Key Details: Engine and Grille Enhancements

One of the most impactful modifications involved the front grille. The kit’s solid plastic grille backing was carefully removed and replaced with photo-etched grille mesh. While tedious, this process yielded a vastly more realistic front-end appearance.

Front grille detail of the Plymouth Cuda model showcasing the improved look with photo-etched grille backs installed.

As typical for Revell/Monogram kits of this vintage, the engine detail is a strong point. The 426 Hemi engine was wired for added realism. A drawback, however, is the firewall, which is completely flat and lacks any molded-in detail or wiring impressions common in newer kits. Additionally, the gap between the front valance and radiator support reveals the less detailed backside of the headlights, a minor point but noticeable upon close inspection.

Conclusion: A Worthwhile Restoration of Memory

Ultimately, rebuilding this Revell Plymouth Cuda 426 Hemi wasn’t just about revisiting a past project; it was about enhancing those memories. The final result – a Sassy Grass green ‘Cuda with engine wiring, improved interior detail, and a generally decent finish – fulfilled a long-held vision. The effort invested in wrestling with tiny photo-etched parts and sourcing aftermarket components proved worthwhile. Despite its age and minor flaws, this kit offers a rewarding building experience. If you can find one, as they are becoming less common, it’s a recommended purchase for fans of classic American muscle car models.