MONKEEMOBILE 1:25 Scale MPC Model Kit #772 Review

Right On Replicas, LLC Step-by-Step Review 20150115*
MONKEEMOBILE 1:25 Scale MPC Model Kit #772 Review

Review and Photos by Alan Mann

The Monkeemobile is a modified Pontiac GTO that was designed and built in 1966 by designer Dean Jeffries for a new TV show called “The Monkees”. Jim Wangers from the Promotional Department at Pontiac supplied two base 389 4-barrel 1966 GTO convertibles with automatic-transmissions to be converted into Monkeemobiles. The car features a tilted forward split two-piece windshield, a touring car convertible top, modified rear quarter panels and front fenders, exaggerated tail lamps, set of four bucket seats and an extra third row bench where there was originally a trunk, a rear-mounted parachute and a GTO emblem on the front grille. Jeffries was under contract with Model Products Corporation (MPC) at the time and MPC was in turn given exclusive rights to market a model kit of the Monkeemobile. They would end up selling over 7 million copies of these kits. Two complete cars were constructed for the show. The “TV car” (aka car # 1) followed the Monkees on tour only to be left in Australia in 1968. It later resurfaced in Puerto Rico as a hotel courtesy car painted Pink. The “show car” (aka car #2) was purchased by custom car designer, George Barris. This car would be the most visible during the years. Barris later went on to use and display the car for promotions at many large and small events. In 2006 the car went through a major restoration. Even though it became a 100 point show car, many changes and upgrades were made. In January 2008, Barris, through Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Arizona, auctioned the car for $360,000. It now resides in the hands of a private collector in southeastern Michigan.

 

For the Modeler: This review covers the MPC/Round2 Re-release (Re-Pop) of the Monkeemobile in 1/25 scale. This is Kit #MPC772. While no Skill Level is given this is a Skill Level 2 for Moderate Builders as it requires Glue and Paint.  This kit has seen multiple releases and different box arts. At one time it was even released as “Fonzie’s Dream Ride” to promote the TV series Happy Days. Round2 has re-released this kit with all original parts and it still includes the little logo Key ring. The kit has about 80 parts molded in White, Chrome, Clear and Clear red with Rubber tires and Metal axles. Overall this is a simplistic kit with a fairly well detailed motor, basic suspension, nice interior and correct looking body. Decals are included in a Gold color. There were multiple versions of the Monkees graphic used on the real cars, and these most represent the original style from Car #1 Promo Shots. Although in the actual TV series the car did not have any graphics on it. Overall size is Length: 9”, Width: 3”, Height: 2-1/4”.

 

Covered in this Review:  If you want to perfect your build; basic construction; preparing parts for better finishing; alternate assembly sequence suggestions for fit and ease of finishing; complete paint and adhesive selections and applications; test fitting; complete engine construction; fitting the interior tub; car version considerations; how to foil the trim; using a wash to detail the grill; dashboard detailing; interior color scheme; chassis installation; removing unwanted copyright script; making realistic looking tires; using “clear” glue for the windows and glass; comparative kit history; making your own custom license plates; carpeting the interior pan; identifying and removing the A-Pillar post;  front/rear wheel differences; decal preparation and application; how to use decal setting solutions; promo decal considerations; trimming unwanted flash; using floor polish to make perfect windows; are all fully examined in this extensive 15 page, full-color Step-by-Step review in PDF format.

100% money back guarantee!

Click the Buy Now link below to purchase the full Step-by-Step review for $2.95 USD.

Important – You MUST click on the “Return to Right on Replicas, LLC” link after you’ve made your purchase to download your review!

Right On Replicas, LLC ©2015 All rights reserved. *All registered trademarks are the property of their respective brands. Follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations for any product mentioned here.