There was some debate amongst the team on whether we should or should not do a full review on the new AUTOart 1:18 Nissan Skyline RS Turbo Super Silhouette 1982. Which by the way is already noted by AUTOart as sold out. This would lean to the popularity of the model in general, and why the past variant of the same is commanding some serious coin on the secondary market today.
In the end, we went forward with the review, here is the 1:18 Nissan Skyline RS Turbo Super Silhouette in full by AUTOart. This is especially valid for those new to the hobby that are not familiar with the original release. And it vitally important to document as many models as possible, a valuable resource for those who take the time to educate themselves rather than watching the endless supply of “unboxing” videos. If you’re not in the know, the latest release is actually based on a similar model from AUTOart – original release date 2009-2010? Both are relatively the same, slight differences for obvious reasons the wheels and front fascia.
By no stretch are we an authority on the Nissan Skyline RS Turbo Super Silhouette or race series. And to be honest the car doesn’t truly doesn’t appeal to the immediate DiecastSociety.com team. What we will say, the replica is a true spectacle, and in short, one needs to respect it for just that and appreciate how well this reproduction truly is. It touches on all elements of AUTOart’s past successes when we considered AUTOart as a true giant and innovator in scale.
As the Super Silhouette racing, it started in the late ‘’70s. The category allowed for some seriously modified production cars; if there was a definition for the coined term “Godzilla” for certain Nissan cars this race car could take the title too. The tubular interior frame was a hint to what this racing legend would become. The exterior was based on a production Skyline, where several items were stretched, flared and extended to offer performance with a novel look. The end result, performance that rivalled F1 cars of the period. All of this equated to a successful race car with multiple wins through 1982-1983.
As for AUTOart’s definition, it cannot be disputed that the Nissan Skyline RS Turbo Super Silhouette is one of their best efforts ever, and the proof in our praise and the 40+ photos we share with you. If ever one craved a complete 360 effort, this one would be in AUTOart’s top five!
The subject matter is niche, and likely why the model doesn’t receive the proper accolades in all channels… The “mass” appeal isn’t here and it doesn’t offer the fanfare a typical Ferrari, Lamborghini or Porsche badge would. That aside, the model excites the imagination of what is possible in scale. And also begs the question, why aren’t we seeing more examples at this level?
Out of the box, the model itself requires some assembly to complete. The front cover and rear hatch are shipped separately and require you to install them. The roof antenna requires installation as well – all simple tasks. We need to mention one of the coolest accessories we have ever seen to date, AUTOart supplies a scale helmet, fully painted with a functional visor. How cool is that!
Paintwork along with decals on our example was definitely up to speed – overall effectiveness would include the shutlines and appliable panel gaps. Everything worked and fit quite well. It truly looks as good in person as the photos will show. Did we mention, this is a rare diecast metal effort from AUTOart? It is so! Hopefully, this will also address a fair group that still has an objection with their direction to move to composite exteriors.
There are multiple locking pins made of metal throughout the exterior side and somewhat functional too! AUTOart was proactive to include a few extras pieces inside the box for good measure. They are definitely fragile so handle with care and without canvas gloves!
The entire front section of the car separates from the chassis. Note, within this upper front section are some of the obvious differences from the original release. This would include the nature and positioning of the cooling/venting – a variant of the original car. The level of detail here is impressive. We do need to apologize in advance, some may have noticed the photos with the model fully assembled does not have the front cooling hoses (adjacent to the headlight) aligned. This is our fault. We did not realize the misalignment prior to the photoshoot. We can confirm with proper installation both sides align to satisfaction.
Once the metal cover is drawn away the proper tubular frame is revealed alongside a highly developed motor. What AUTOart does extremely well here (and is lacking from most of their recent offerings) is offer a complete motor that rivals and possibly exceeds the exterior brilliance.
The use of colour is key. It offers up a multitude of definitions and layers. Also, the plastic parts that are painted to look like metal lean more towards metal than plastic. Again, this is not the case with recent releases by AUTOart, and may we add, extremely frustrating based on price point alone.
The cooling apparatus with the supporting bits, like hose connectors, wires add that additional realism. Are you convincedyet?
The underside of the Nissan Skyline RS Turbo Super Silhouette is another marvel and possibly one of the best examples our team has witnessed by AUTOart. Along with the fully functional independent suspension front and rear, the model provides highly detailed suspension components, exhaust and transmission view.
The rear-end of the model mirrors that of the front. Lifting the rear cover one exposes the storage area to reveal the fuel tank and supporting cast of hoses and whatnot. Look at the level of realism here with the precision riveting work, applicable hoses and connector bits. Truly outstanding!
Moving to the wheels the rear versus the front definitely offers up some serious dish. The BBS shoes are all racewear, each set offering up a stunning level of definition. The added ability to remove the supporting turbo fan style covers is an accomplishment in itself – each is held in place with magnets. The function is precise and clean.
It gets even better! The interior is another aspect of this magnificent race car. The level of detail starts as soon as one opens the doors. The White-faced door card with drilled holes for weight saving is truly impressive – note the small detail inbehind. The supporting metalwork with rivets around the door opening is eye-catching too.
Inside each area of the cockpit is truly inspiring to race car fans. The model is not short on details and definition. The multitude of gadgets and gizmos are too many to count, each precisely crafted and placed. Even the seat-belt harness for the driver features fabric. God knows we’ve been complaining about this for years now as AUTOart for some reason has embraced rubber over fabric! Race fan or not, one can appreciate the effort and level of craftsmanship.
The AUTOart Nissan Skyline RS Turbo Super Silhouette 1982 is without a doubt one of the best examples to leave the AUTOart factory floor. Our team is extremely impressed with every inch of the model. Can we say it is their masterpiece? We think so! Overall the effort here is better than any Pagani example past or present when you measure all levels of competencies of scale model design.
What is somewhat puzzling, why does this model retail less than its current Pagani Huayra Roadster? And if you read our Photo Gallery entry on the Pagani Huayra Roadster it clearly falls short in almost all aspects next to the Nissan Skyline RS Turbo Super Silhouette.
We’re not surprised that AUTOart already defines this latest incarnation of this Nissan Skyline RS Turbo Super Silhouette as sold out. It really is that good. One could only wish AUTOart would get back to this level of craftsmanship more often than not or at least provide us with a true, complete, 360 effort with the latest assortment of new models. Unfortunately, more often than not, the motor or interior or both are leaving us, collectors’ desiring more. Enjoy the pics!
I’ve bought this product and I like it very much. This is the product with the most complicated details of Autoart in recent years. If Autoart can continue to launch this kind of product, I will definitely buy it. I will not buy any models of composite materials.
I don’t reject composite materials, but I am more and more disappointed with the attitude of Autoart. They have lost their serious attitude, and the product quality is far worse than before.
If Autoart uses composite materials, it can still make high-quality products, just like Tamiya, I will still support it
FYI, this is diecast, not composite. Does Tamiya still produce scale models? What have they produced lately? How many examples in total?
I’m very clear about the material of this product. I’m just talking about other composite products.
There is no compromise with composite in our opinion The real issue is their level of commitment to providing a complete model that displays the same level of detail inside and out. The example here is showing what is possible.
I agree with you！I hope you can give feedback to AA.
Great model, since I first saw it, I thought it was cool.
Seeing this review is making me thinking of buying one.
I don’t mind it being composite or diecast but I do mind the price point for the detail and quality it gets.
In one of the photos there’s clearly a tool in front, could you kindly tell me what is it?
I’m a new collector and finding the best way to open the models without scratching them or worse. Thanks
You won’t be disappointed, get one if the subject matter excites!
As for the tool, to be honest it came with one of the models. What makes this one unique is the size, larger than the typical one and it has two different heads, one on either side that helps access some of the more difficult areas. Where to buy it? Not sure, sorry.
Thanks for the time and the reply, I appreciate it. :)
I do like it, when auto companies go wild and create great, crazy things like this Nissan skyline. I also have the Peugeot 206 t16 from Autoart and looks great too.
Yes, it looks unique and a great tool for opening those difficult parts. Specially the composite models tend to be more brittle than average and a tool like that definitely helps.
” And it vitally important to document as many models as possible, a valuable resource for those who take the time to educate themselves rather than watching the endless supply of “unboxing” videos.”
This resonates with me, being a newbie into the hobby and all, it’s difficult to choose model cars and navigate this world of Diecast, composite and resin models.
Thanks for the review!
The tool is called a SPUDGER, also known as a nylon prying tool, often used by people fixing electronics and come in all shapes and thicknesses.
You’ll find them all over Amazon. The stick types are great for general purposes but look for a variety pack with tools thinner than the sticks. With AutoArt’s tight tolerances, the stick spudgers can sometimes be too thick to slide into the opening.
Thanks!
Got my own sample of this magnificient diecast last week. Just love it!!! Love it for what it is : 360 degrees full access metal diecast…with full of details. Layers and layers of details! The experience is so immersive, one can almost smell the heated brakes and racing fuel. Almost! ;-)
I believe the doors are composite (better fit?), but the rest of the exterior is defitively metal. What a show-off! Thank you DS Team for such a great review, and photos. Thank you Autoart for such gem. As collectors, we need more of these highly detailed metal models!!!
Thank you. Just helping the community that is all.
Very very cool. I’ll have to get one of these
Don’t wait too long!
Not my subject matter, but very revealing in terms of how they not better than what they deliver on other subject matters, so that they seem to be cutting these corners deliberately … and that makes worse … complacency!
It does make you question their full intentions.
I was attracted by the pics but the price is prohibitive. Thanks for the review.
For the level of details and depth of the detail. In comparison to other brands, we believe it’s justified.
This product cost me 200 USD. I don’t think it’s expensive
I have a few models which, to the car/subject matter itself, I do not find particularly to my taste. But, I get them as great examples of model making.
I did exactly the same as you did! At first, this model is not my cup of tea, but considering the art of medeling, this model is a great example. As a 1:18 scale model with openings, this one is a must have.
I was so happy to finally receive mine after 2 years of waiting, and for the same price they’re asking for the new Aventador Liberty Walk. The car is amazing, but it disappoints me a little that they paid so much attention to some details, yet they could have used photoetched grilles for the radiator and mesh wire for the hoses, 2 things that wouldn’t cost too much and would have made this model a solid 10.
“Overall the effort here is better than any Pagani example past or present”. I have to disagree here. The Zondas are even better than this car, and they have almost twice the amount of parts (although it doesn’t feel like it, I actually thought the difference was smaller), plus they used to cost way less than they’re asking for the skyline.
“yet they could have used photoetched grilles for the radiator and mesh wire for the hoses, 2 things”
Now we’re getting to CMC/Exoto territory. As collectors, our wish list is always that little bit more :)
As for the comparison to the Pagani new and old, yes the older examples are brilliant but we would give this one the edge. Let’s agree to disagree.
Perhaps one thing that goes against the Zonda is the modeled plastic carbon in some parts, but that suspension work is a piece of art by itself. But yeah, it’s also matter of preference.
About the hoses and photoetched, If I’m not mistaken Autoart used to do it in the past, at least for the grilles I’m certain. I’m thinking about modifying those aspects in my skyline, but I’m afraid the hoses go too deep to be able to change them without taking everything appart.
I’ve already bought this product because the details are so great, much better than those of composite products.
I hope Autoart can produce at least one high-end product every year！
“I hope Autoart can produce at least one high-end product every year！”
This is my wish too! At least one high-end model every year from Autoart!!
I agree with you. I hope so, too
‘If ever one craved a complete 360 effort, this one would be in AUTOart’s top five!’
I wonder what the others would be? :)
Zonda R/R EVO/Revolucion, Nissan R390 (first one), Mazda 787B, Alfa Romeo 33 TT
These are Autoart’s most classic products, very popular
Status Sold out – I think it would be reissued like Delorean was – from diecast to plastic.
As you noted, the niche category meant it didn’t generate that mass appeal.
With that same understanding, I’ve been hoping to snatch this one up on eBay on the cheap whenever one’s up for auction. I’ve thus lost all roughly 5+ of them over the past several years, one actually just last month. This post just opened up that old wound.
I wonder if anyone compared this to the original release and is this an improved version of the 2009-10 release?
Technically the cars are different. As for the manufacturing process, we believe the same. This model is crafted in diecast metal with some plastic bits.
Thanks for the accurate review. After reading it “Santa” gifted one to me and it stands great near the Exoto Martini Porsche 935: exaggerated spoilers and incredible width of added body panels to cover giant tyres. Typical of end of the 70’s and beginning of the 80’s racing cars. This model can stand near to the Exoto models of the first years without inferiority complexes. Ciao!
We can call them IMPOLITE CARS ;)