[KensRedZed]

I've tried to buy the Airfix Aston Martin DB5 on three separate occasions. I've had to return all three kits for a warped roof line that doesn't match the windshield.

Several people have told me that the Triumph TR4A is either straight as an arrow. Or unbuildable. Ouch!

I was excited to see the re-release of the Jaguar 420. So I bought one. Oops. Big mistake. One rocker panel was warped inward. The other outward. This is on a new release.

   
   

Instead of going back to the store. I thought I would try a different approach. I contacted Airfix directly. They said they would send me a new part if I send more money (30% of the cost of the kit) for shipping. I said "you already got my money. I'm not paying more for this kit or your mistake in sending it out". They suggested I take it back to the store for a refund. Done. The store said they won't re-order more Airfix car kits for the lack of QC.

A friend approached me at the slot car show last Sunday with a box under his arm. He plops it in my hands and asks for mere coffee money. I laughed and told him the story.

I'm told this is the same mold. But handled very differently under the MPC brand.

   

Unlike the Airfix. This MPC kit came with a full compliment of chrome. Sweet!

   

The body is straight as an arrow. Flash is minimal.

   
   
   

So while this thread is under the "what grinds your gears" section. It has a happy ending.

Thanks for looking,
Ken

[CMOTD]

When I was a child in the early 60s Airfix kits were within pocket money range. You could buy a Mk1 Spitfire from Woolworths for two shillings and six old pence which is roughly equivalent to £2.50 at today's prices. The current price of the same kit, albeit from new moulds, is £8.99! I don't think the quality of production has increased by quite the same margin over the years.

Incidentally, Dapol are still producing the Airfix range of model railway buildings from the original 40 year old moulds.