Is a toy a model?

buying  a toy to fix up is no different than buying an assembled kit to fix up. They call them Wreck-scue on AAMB forum.

Don Stauffer

This is very similar to modifying die cast models (sold already assembled). I have seen such models entered in contests and no one complained that I am aware of.  Just refinishing might not be enough, but when they are extensively modified like the OP did, I think it qualifies.

i don't mind diecasts, as they usually have subjects not done by plastics manuf. they have an annoying habit of sticking all together in the box. Sometimes they almost look finished, like someone had a try at assembling it.

Got to add my two cents to all this,if you play with it it is a toy,If you display it,it is a model a form of art,

I know one thing; I've made a lot of models into toys.

I would consider rebuilding a "toy" or diecast as modeling. Look at it like being on different levels--scratchbuilding-->building from a kit-->building or rebuilding an existing article.  Purists might say scratcbuilding is the ultimate form of modeling expression whereas a model kit has some or a lot of the work done by the molding or casting process.  I have a number of models I built from kits back (way back) in my high school days that I would like to "fix" ie repaint, clean up seams etc. that occured when my skill set was not what ii is now or will be.  I think that would be modeling.

Freem

Nitehalk    The RC guys are coming to get you!   I have taken some of my subs to a pond just to see if they would float......  Am I playing ?    Or does that count as "research?        If it sinks is it a model?

I have a Kenner A-Wing toy I bought years back with the very same intention. Take it apart and rebuild it and add fine detail to it. I did the same with a SW Land Speeder.

My opinion is this. Repaint a toy. That is a nicely repainted toy. Rebuild that toy to incorporate better detail and fill in seams add scale fidelity then you now used that toy as a starting point. The end result is a scale model. IMHO.....