Model car enthusiasts seeking the ultimate desktop centerpiece might consider the IXO Collections Subaru Impreza WRX. This 1/8th scale replica is a sprawling project that demands a serious commitment of time and shelf space. The finished product, based on the rally-bred Impreza, is an ultra-detailed assembly that looks sensational on display. However, the journey to get there involves a build process that tests patience as much as it does manual dexterity.
The first shock for most builders comes when the box arrives. It measures roughly 77x60x26cm and weighs about 10kg, making it one of the largest model kits on the market. Despite the bulk, the contents are packed into smaller, numbered boxes to protect the parts. This organization is helpful, but it requires a significant amount of floor space during construction. The manual is thick, resembling a phonebook, and provides a clear, step-by-step guide for the assembly.
Builders should expect to spend weeks, not just weekends, on this project. The 859-piece kit includes 206 metal parts, which require a specific technique to assemble. You must drive a screw halfway in, then back out to clear the metal shavings, before driving it in fully. This process is necessary to prevent the metal screws from binding up. The kit comes with a dedicated screwdriver, which is durable enough to handle the hundreds of screws required.
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Complex assembly and fine details
Construction moves from the suspension struts to the engine, then to the chassis and interior. The engine bay features a compact Boxer four and a complex web of rubber hoses. While the instructions are generally clear, distinguishing between similar hoses can be tricky. Builders will need tweezers and a steady hand to route these components correctly. The suspension components provide a bit of movement, giving the finished model a slight realism compared to static kits.
Once the chassis is built, the wiring loom must be pinned down before the body panels are added. This is a fiddly stage that requires care to ensure the cables don’t get trapped. The interior features a hydraulic handbrake, fire suppression system details, and a dashboard with various controls and dials. The doors present their own challenges, particularly the window winding mechanisms, which require precise alignment to work smoothly.
Assembling the body parts requires squashing the main elements together. At this stage, builders often discover hidden details, such as a roll cage netting that can obstruct the closing of the doors. After the body is fixed, the final step involves applying the decals. These must be soaked in water before transfer. While the kit includes spares, they are limited, making the decal application a high-pressure task that requires patience and a wet surface.
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Functionality and final impressions
After the build, the model functions surprisingly well. It features working lights and sound effects that activate once the ignition switch is pressed. The brakes and steering are operational, and the wheels fill the wheel arches neatly. Despite the mechanical sympathy required for the moving parts, the overall finish is impressive. The rubber tires are hard and not the most realistic, but they do not detract from the visual appeal.
This specific model appeals most to detail-obsessed collectors. It offers a rewarding experience for those who have built static plastic kits or RC cars before, but it requires a dedicated building space. The sheer amount of parts and the fiddly nature of the assembly mean that rushing is not an option. For those with the time and patience, the result is a substantial piece of automotive history that reflects the dedication of the builder.
