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?
1996 Impala SS
1:18 1996 Impala SS Black
UT Models
The Good
Overall
Overall
Click thumbnails below for larger images
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.
- 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.
- 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.
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).
- 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).
- The 'carpet' is black; it should be gray.
- No window controls on front door panels.
- Interior plastic should be more gray.
- 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.
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