Model kit engine building can bring a whole new dynamic to model kit making. They come in all types, sizes, prices and skill levels. They are fun to build and will teach you how engines work.
Here are 9 of the best engine model kits ever made. (Prices are approximate)
1- Revell Visible V-8 Engine Plastic Model Kit: Around $99
This model engine kit is considered to be a classic, and my favorite of the top selling engine kits of all time. I built one as a teenager and got many hours of enjoyment in building and having as a display piece.
This kit has received several awards including the 2008 Parents Choice Award and a Silver Honor – 1995 Doing & Learning Toys.
The kit features parts molded in clear, metallic charcoal, black, and silver. A hand crank operates the pistons, camshaft rocker arms and valves.
The kit includes a rubber fan belt and vinyl ignition wires, plus a display stand and screwdriver for construction. Glue and paint (not included) are required. Product is intended for ages 12 and up.
This model kit is built to 1/4 scale so the finished model is 12″ long, 7″ wide, 9″ tall.
As you turn the crank, each of the parts move, just like the real thing. A superb educational tool on the inner workings and construction of a V-8 engine!
Your Visible V-8 Engine is a Level 3 kit – it is perfect for intermediate and advanced model builders. The kit includes 314 parts, screwdriver, and fully illustrated instruction guide.
2- Trends UK Haynes V8: Around $68
If you are looking for a motorized model engine kit, try this V8. This model kit includes a working electric motor, light up spark plugs, engine sounds, and automatic shut off.
Lots of detail in this fully working model, with a very detailed instruction manual that has step by step instruction and diagrams that are easily assembled.
Includes over 250 parts. This is an excellent model kit for the intermediate to advanced modeler 12 years and older who is interested in how an internal combustion engine works.
The major mechanical components assembled into the engine block by the builder include the crankshaft, crank pulley, connecting rods, pistons, wrist pins, cam shafts, timing sprockets, timing belt, cooling fan, fan belt, rocker arms, valves, and valve springs.
Requires 2 AA batteries (not included).
3- Wind Machine Works Jet Engine: $89 +
This jet engine model is a greatly simplified version of a real jet engine. It’s designed just like a jet engine in a plane and will be a fun kit to assemble.
Kit includes a number of transparent parts that make it a practical aid to understanding how a full-size two-spool turbo fan engine works.
The kit contains all the parts you need to assemble the working model and a detailed instruction manual with step by step instructions.
Makes real jet engine sounds. Recommended for ages 10 and older.
4- BMW R/90-S Flat Twin Engine Model Kit: About $218
The BMW R/9- S was one of the motorcycle icons of the 1970’s, and considered by many to be one of the greatest motorcycles ever made. With this kit you can build a transparent functional model of the famous two-cylinder flat engine. It even has the original engine sound; recorded from an actual R90 airhead flat six.
No glue needed, screws together, tool included. This model is very realistic inside and out, it won’t disappoint. Very well made, great precision. Everything fits. The transmission even shifts through all five gears.
Requires 3 AA batteries. Not included.
5- Porsche 911 Flat Six : About $214
Round out your collection with this fully-functional 1:4 model of an all-time classic motor – the flat-six engine from the Porsche 911.
There are more than 280 parts in the in this model with a transparent casing so the moving parts can be seen when switched on.
This is a great introduction for kids to the inner workings of such an iconic car engine with real working sounds.
Includes a detailed manual, with clear instructions and diagrams to follow. Requires 3 AA batteries. (not included).
This is a great model for ages 10 years and over.
6- Haynes BYO Internal Combustion Engine: About $65
A less expensive choice that is still challenging and fun. This model includes over 100 detailed and precise parts with illuminating spark plugs and electric motor to make it run.
Complete with an on/off controller that has a built-in sound chip that reproduces the sound of an engine starting.
Requires two AA batteries (not included). This is a great model for ages 12 and up.
When completed you will have constructed a fully working model of a car engine.
7- 1965 Ford Mustang V8: About $197
With this model kit you will build a transparent, functional model of the famous and formidable V8 engine from the 1965 Ford Mustang.
This kit is a 1:3 scale model and contains approximately 200 individual pieces. With the supplied electric motor all of the models parts move exactly as they do on the original life-size model with the real sounds of the 271 horsepower motor.
The components fit together easily, either as interlocking pieces or with screws – no glue required.
This kit comes with an exclusive 100-page booklet, complete with top-notch details and numerous stunning illustrations that guide you through the building process.
Recommended for 14 years of age and older. Requires 3 AA batteries (not included).
8- Playz V-8 Combustion Engine Model Kit: $69
This is a great model for the hobby enthusiast who loves cars and car engines.
Features plenty of chrome and movable parts that will allow you to discover how an engine works by constructing a fully working model.
This model has an electric motor with illuminating spark plugs and ignition sound.
The instructions included have step-by-step diagrams for easy assembly of the 100+ parts.
Includes a working electric motor, light up spark plugs, engine sounds and automatic shut off.
Recommended for ages 12 and older.
9- Playz Steam Engine Model Kit : About $70
All model and engine enthusiasts should learn how a steam engine works and this kit will teach you.
With this Playz Train Steam Engine Model Kit, steam fans are shown how nostalgic energy is created. The engine runs, the whistle sounds, lights flick on & off and real steam blows!
This model is great for ages 10 and older.
You can’t go wrong if you pick any of these nine models.
Some are glue or screw together with no moving parts.
There are hand crank models so you can turn the engine over and see the parts work together.
Others have small electric motors to spin them while also available are steam generated model kits.
Whichever one you choose I’m sure it will be fun and entertaining to build and display. Happy Modeling!
Related Questions?
What are some of the most classic model car kits?
- Ebbro Team Lotus
- Tamiya Laferrari
- Lego James Bond Aston Martin DB5
- Revell GMC Pickup
- AMT 1989 Batmobile
- Maisto 2008 Dodge Challenger
- Revell 55 Ford F-100 Street Rod
What is the most popular scale for model cars, military vehicles, and aircraft? For car models, the most common scale is 1:24; for military models, either 1:35 or 1:48; for aircraft, 1:32, 1:48, or 1:72.
Do I need to prime plastic models before painting? You should not only prime them, but you should wash the parts first. The mold release agents on the plastic will keep the primer from sticking, just as lack of primer will make the paint bond weaker.