Growing up in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s saw the development of extensive prosperity, of previously unknown luxury, and a level of frivolity that the previous generation never knew. Television, expansion into the suburbs, and the rapid growth of automobiles all led to a development boom that people had never experienced. Combine this with automotive growth, hot rodding, car shows, kids playing with toy cars and building models, and you have the elements necessary to create the show rod craze that proliferated in America during the 1960s and 1970s. A complement to author Scotty Gosson's previous title, America's Wildest Show Rods of the 1960s & 1970s, this all-new book covers what was often the inspiration for all those crazy show rods, the model kits themselves. Viewed from a collector's standpoint rather than a builder's point of view, all of the coolest and wildest kits are featured. Kits including the Red Baron, Li'l Coffin, Mysterion, Uncertain-T, Batmobile, and many more are featured from manufacturers such as Monogram, AMT, Revell, and MPC. Interviews and insights from the designers, the car builders, and the corporate suits provide a unique behind-the-scenes insight into not only what enthusiasts were demanding, but also the methods and marketing savvy that made it all happen. Author Gosson's entertaining prose, unique perspective, diligent research, and color photography throughout make this book essential for show rod enthusiasts. Whether you are interested in picking up the collecting hobby, just want a few cool kits from your childhood to display, or simply want to reminisce about building and obsessing over these crazy kits from your youth, Show Rod Model Kits: A Showcase of America's Wildest Model Kits will be a fun addition to your library.

Do you love Ferraris? Do you want to know all that you can about Triumph Motorcycles? Or perhaps it is Learjets that pique your interest? Whatever transportation subject fascinates you, the Enthusiast series by Motorbooks International likely has a book for you! There are over 100 titles in this series which covers all aspects of the transportation industry- Automotives, Bicycles, Motorcycles, Trains, Military and Aviation, Auto Racing, and Tractors.

Hollywood movie monsters are enduring pop culture standards. Kids and adults around the world recognize Frankenstein, Dracula, the Wolf Man, and the Mummy. Although monsters are Aurora's most famous products, the company created model kits of all varieties, including historic sailing ships, sports cars, moon rockets, military and commercial aircraft, TV stars, comic book heroes, wildlife scenes, knights, and much more. Over 500 color photographs enhance this comprehensive history and guide to Aurora models, now updated to include new companies continuing the Aurora tradition. Aurora executives, sculptors, artists, and engineers who created the models tell the story in their own words. Every model Aurora made is described in detail. Today, Polar Lights, Moebius, Atlantis, and Monarch continue the Aurora tradition. Executives from these companies explain how they have added to the list of revived Aurora models, with information on reissues and current collectors' market values.

This engaging book details the wide variety of model kits produced by Revell, Inc. of Venice, California, from the 1950s through the 1970s. Over 545 color photographs display many of the much sought after kits, ranging from automobiles and ships to aircraft and spaceships. Also included are a fascinating history of the company and the men and women who drove its success, a detailed recounting of the wide ranging, exquisitely detailed models produced, discussions of the artists who brought the box art to life, a bibliography, and a model kit index providing listings of the models produced, their variations, and their value in the secondary market. Newly updated values are found in both captions and the index. Anyone collecting or building models will be fascinated with this book.

Since the 1960's and '70's, model companies have brought modelers some really crazy car models. They have been very popular kits to youngsters and adults of all ages over the years. This book is about building some of those models. If you ever wanted to create one yourself, you will enjoy the tips and ideas in this book to help you build a fun project of your own. Some of the projects inside the book are: The rare Monogram 1/12 scale Tom Daniel's Red Baron, the George Barris "Bathtub Buggie", the AMT "Aqua Rod", and the AMT "Lil' Mixer", and a version of Tom Daniel's "Vandal" with a twist. No matter what kind of wacky kits you are interested in, this book will help you work through some of their unconventional assemblies, and learn how you can enjoy building your own fun models.

The pioneer of the Kustom Kar Kraze of the 1960s and the creator of the Rat Fink character offers an irreverant account of his life and work

Car modelers love adding eye-catching realism to their projects, from a delicately wired engine to an exquisitely detailed dashboard. The tips and secrets shared in this book will appeal to all skill levels and apply to any car project -- from brake pads and upholstery to body trim and more! By Pat Covert. 8 1/4 x 10 1/4; 88 pgs.; 145 bandw and 39 color photos; softcover.