Fiat 131 Abarth Rally "Alitalia"

- Primed with Tamiya Fine Surface primer
- Painted with Tamiya TS-26 white
- Clear coated with Mr Hobby C-46 Clear
- Using Iwata HP-CS airbrush
- Interior painted with Tamiya acrylics
- Used replacement Studio 27 decals and upgrade PE Set
- Polished body with 6000, 8000 & 12000 micromesh pads. (Didn't use polishing compound or wax for fear of burning through/tearing decals)

I've always liked this boxy car and the flared arches along with the iconic livery.
Taken way longer than I expected, mainly due to self-inflicted issues with the body (scriber slipped a few times while trying to deepen panel lines) and some procrastination regarding the bonnet and boot openings and the complex decals.
Typical early Tamiya model, alot of parts for detail which is hidden. I wouldn't worry about the upgrade P.E set as it doesn't add much detail for the cost (apart from the seatbelts).
Fitment of the engine is tight into the chassis and location points leave a lot to be desired.
Everything else went together fine.
Decals were frustrating with decals for the bonnet and boot having to be cut to allow for them to be opened. A number of the larger decals were a little oversized as well. Alot of decal softener and setter had to be used along with a hairdryer to get them to conform. This caused splits in some decals which had to be touched up with paint.
The body fitment to the chassis is extremely tight (tighter than the infamous Lancia Stratos kit) but it does fit with some "stretching". The body will not come off easy. There's also a noticeable gap between the rear parcel tray and bulkhead which I don't think can be prevented.

Overall, very happy with the result for a 40 yr old + kit. and relieved it's finished.