The large, second-generation, B-body Chevrolet Caprice saw its last year in 1976. As the largest Caprice ever produced by GM, the V8, 150 horsepower 350 two-barrel powerplant engine came standard, with options up to the 215 horsepower big-block 454 that couldn’t be sold in California. Round 2’s new MPC ’76 Caprice kit features the iconic 454 with a dual exhaust system, correct for only this engine. But should it be GM corporate blue or Chevrolet orange? Digging around on the internet, the orange beat out the blue; most agree that the blue was used for the smaller 1977 Caprice.
MPC’s instructions start with the wheels and tires. The kit includes a set of stock wheels and hubcaps for the car and custom wheels for the trailer. The tires are all whitewalls, but I flipped the tires on the trailer to show a black wall.
The 18-piece V8 454 engine looks small for a big-block. The engine’s size is further accentuated by the lack of A/C, heater, and master brake cylinder detail in the engine bay.
Inside, a front bench seat, fairly detailed dash, and steering wheel make up the cabin. There is an option for a CB radio if you decide to build it as a service or security car.
The simplified chassis features a separate exhaust, rear end, and driveshaft assembly. In typical annual style, steel axles pass through the chassis to secure the wheels. Yes, the battery, like the engine, is a bit undersized, but with some detail paint, you can make the whole look reasonably accurate.
A one-piece window assembly fills the front and rear glass. The interior and the lightly detailed firewall pop easily inside. The clear red taillights, chrome grille, and bumpers go on before mating the body to the chassis. The body slid over the completed chassis without problems.
Turning to the trailer, its 18 pieces and straight-forward design meant it assembled without any surprises. However, ejector-pin marks mar the tread pattern on the topside of the trailer. Knowing the trailer mold probably dates back to the 1960s, I get it, but it’s still a disappointment to see.
The new decal sheet features markings for a security detail, a race team, all the badging needed for the body, the dashboard radio, and the speedometer. There are plenty of extras that you’ll want to stash away for use on future builds.
Overall, the MPC 1976 Chevy Caprice was a pleasant distraction with its promo-style platform, lack of any real build issues, and a body that reminds us of how big the American automobile had become just before the ’70s gas crunch. The kit assembles well, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys an unusual kit as a shelf model.