Be vewy vewy quiet

I'd also advise Tamiya. Even if they don't have one you're 100% interested in, it's a great place to start. And make it a simple colour-scheme! No use trying to do a B188 paint job on 1st attempt! Get the feel for it with anything from the MP4-13 onwards. They really improved the ease of assembly after that - esp stuff like the rear wing.

Fujimi's releases seem to be right up there. I have the 126CK and it looks a good kit indeed. Not assembled yet, so can't vouch for that part of it.They've also released several versions of the 126C2 and the mentioned 641/2 (F190). Plus one I'd love, if I did not have the MFH already - the 248F1 - Schu's last ride.

Hasegawa made a 24th 640 (F189) and a 20th 312T2.

So as you can see, if you like Ferrari, you've got plenty to choose from! 

Even though it's really really awesome kits, I won't advise starting off with a 43rd kit - it is something to get used to! But I think once it's bitten, it won't let you go, as it did with me. Lots of variety.

Maestro wrote:

As an avid armor modeler I need to be discreet without taking a direct hit, but I have the urge to build a Formula One racer.  I've always been a closet F1 fan (big time Rick Mears fan) so I now I feel like taking the plunge.  Trouble is I don't know diddly about F1 models or which are good or bad.  And I want one with a driver.  Any info would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks.

Maestro,

I agree with Bob with a Tamiya kit being a good starter kit.  If you've got to have one of the latest cars, you're gonna have to go with Revell Germany as they have the contract now.  If you're a one scale for everything kind of guy, you're kind of screwed as their kits are 1/24 and the Tamiya are 1/20 (Formula One scale).  If you want to keep 1/20 as your scale, you'll end paying what I think are outrageous prices for Model Factory Hiro or Studio 27 kits ($200-250).  Don't get me wrong these kits are really nice and build into really nice replicas, it's just that I'm not willing to pay that much for a kit (yet).  Another way you could go is 1/43, a fantastic selection, many different makers, and they run about what a Tamiya kit with the aftermarket decals and photoetch would cost (65.00-100.00).  Just one thing they are SMALL, no make that TINY.  Here's a good car related site I like to recommend to guys looking for car stuff (actually they're good for all kinds of stuff)  www.rocketfin.com Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the model car links.  Post pics when you start. 

I think I would be inclined to stay with the Tamiya 1/20 kits. Neither Fujimi or Hasegawa have the selection of Tamiya, most come in at 1/24 scale. Though they do offer some different models, they are quite pricey especially with the PE.

Will

Do tell!

What are they?

Got a site?
Man! THis is taking the vewy,vewy quiet thing to the extreme! Another F1 weekend goes by and: NOTHING. I realize the F1 race today looked like a NASCAR debacle, sitting in the rain waiting for something/someone to decide something, but some interest might be in order here.

W

Cool, another one out of the closet! But Rick Mears wasn't in F-1.Teammate Danny Sullivan was, as was Bobby Rahal, both as driver and team principal, but Rick stayed in the Indy Car circuit, with off road excursions with brother Roger.
Maybe Tamiya will give us some new Braun Models????

Maestro

You didn't mention what era of F1 you prefer, but my thoughts would be toward a Tamiya kit.  There is a good selection (1/20th scale) out there of various era's and most include drivers.

 Good luck in choosing a kit and please post progress pics.