Round 2 continues the onslaught of legendary kits from the past with its MPC 1/25 scale 1980 Chevy Monte Carlo “Class Action” plastic model kit. Third-generation Monte Carlos started in 1978 and continued through 1980, offering in this last year of the G body a 155 horsepower 305 V8.
The kit’s engine looks nice and builds up from 20 parts that include a two-barrel carb, manifold, and stock air cleaner. Only stock options are offered in this kit, but the little details, like the realistic appearance of the manifolds and HEI distributor, keep your attention.
The kit gives you a three-speed manual transmission. Although it’s mostly hidden, the detail is still there. A starter, fuel pump, water pump, and fan assembly complete the small-block engine.
The Monte Carlo’s interior has the standard tub with bucket seats. Although few, the interior parts don't lack detail. The backseat has the luxury appearance it should — plush was the wow factor for these cars. The crisp door-panel detail has withstood the test of time, and the molded center console with floor looks good!
The kit provides decals for the dash gauges, radio, and climate controls. However, the instructions could be better at indicating the decal options.
Assembling the firewall and radiator support posed no challenges. But, when attaching the exhaust to the motor and then installing the engine, things got awkward.
Test-fit Part 6, measure, and cut down the exhaust while retaining the catalytic converter. The rest of the exhaust and front and rear suspension come molded to the chassis. Detail paint does a lot to bring up the appearance.
The kit offers stock rims or wire wheels for the upgrade package.
Built box stock, the car would sit too high in front. Starting with the rear suspension, I drilled the hole in the rear axle a little deeper so the rear wheels would sit higher. And, for the front suspension, I drilled the holes a bit higher inside the wheel well so the front end would sit at a more stock height.
The instructions do not show the windshield washer tank. Fit it into the opening on the driver’s side, front, and wheel well close to the radiator support.
For the body, you can choose from a T-top (not clear T-tops) or a landau top. The quad headlights were offered only for 1980 models, and they slid right into place on the model. The kit contains sport mirrors for both sides, but they take some work to fit properly. Even so, totally worth the extra effort.
The bonus for this kit is definitely the included chopper motorcycle and trailer. The chopper comes with a Honda four-cylinder engine and assembles easily. To display it, you can permanently mount it to the trailer or use an optional stand.
Overall, the MPC 1/25 scale 1980 Monte Carlo “Class Action” makes a great replica of GM’s late-70s midsize luxury car. The addition of the chopper plays into the nostalgia. If you dig this kind of car, don’t miss the opportunity to build it.