[dbonser]

1:18 1996 Impala SS Black
UT Models


The Good
Overall

• A surprisingly accurate replica of a black 1996 Impala SS. I specify black because the dark cherry metallic and dark gray green metallic versions have some issues with the exterior noted below.

Exterior

• Correctly reflects all 1996 Impala SS-specific exterior elements - C-pillar shape, emblems, rear deck spoiler, and correct taillight lenses to name a few.
• Decent amount of detailing on black plastic chassis with the exhaust system set off in silver plastic.

Interior

• Correctly reflects all 1996 Impala SS-specific interior elements - floor shifter, 'SS' logos on front headrests, and 'Impala' emblem in center of rear seat.
• Detailed center console with legible gear indicator & instrument cluster (decal only), nearly all switches & buttons, climate control knobs, and detailed radio/CD player.

The Bad
Overall

• Large gaps on the doors.
• Some of the edges are too 'soft' - for example the detail on the rear bumper is just not there (see 1:1 photo).

Exterior

• A lot of orange peel.
• Mirrors are black on the dark cherry metallic & dark gray green metallic versions; they should be body-color.
• Grilles are body-color on the dark cherry metallic & dark gray green metallic versions; they should be black.
• Tires are not to scale; they are more accurate on the AutoArt Impala SS 510 Concept.
• The Impala SS script on rear fenders is almost unnoticeable. I'm not sure how this is accomplished on the model but on the 1:1 they are vinyl (I think) body-color letters attached to the rear fenders. I really don't know how else UT would have done this on the model - maybe body-color photo-etch? - and I'm glad they didn't use stickers!
• Missing chrome trim around side windows (see 1:1 photo).
• Air intake is not stock; the baffles are missing (see 3 items called-out in 1:1 photo).

Interior

• The 'carpet' is black; it should be gray.
• No window controls on front door panels.
• Interior plastic should be more gray.

Verdict: Go!

• Considering the age of this model and the amount of correct detail it's quite an amazing model.
• There are other very minor issues I could point out but what's the point? Overall everything you would expect to see in an Impala SS replica is here and done very, very well.
• All 3 colors are still available on eBay occasionally for reasonable prices if you hold out long enough.

Click thumbnails below for larger images

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[av_phile]

Had this UT model years back. Exquiite detailing for a 1/18 sedan at that time. I'm just a bit uncomfortable looking at the wheels, they look too small for the car. Didn't have internet then to compare with the real thing. Are the wheel sizes correct?

 

[dbonser]

The wheels are a little bit off: they're 17" wheels on the 1:1 and work out to about 16.5" on the model.

I also checked the tires themselves (255/50-17) and they're a little small in diameter (27" vs. about 25.875") and width (10" vs. 9") as well.

Finally, looking at the model closer I think they didn't get the wheel arch shape quite right on the model - compare with the 1:1 photo linked in the original post - making the wheels look even a little smaller.