It has always been our argument that when you make a kit of something open topped or requiring a crew, then you should provide at least a skeleton crew, but for this reconnaissance set Airfix actually went further. As well as the two seated figures for the Kubelwagen, Airfix provided three fine standing figures which are not essential to the set but certainly add appeal to it. What is more, by the time this kit was first released (in 1975), they were making some excellent figures, and those here are some of the best Airfix ever included in their kits. The sculpting of the standing figures is very good, with nice detail and good proportions. The uniforms are correctly done, and both men have a decent level of kit with a canteen, entrenching tool and gasmask case. The only negative observation is that the soldier with the MP34 has no sign of the suitable ammunition pouches, which would be largely obscured here but should still be in evidence on his left side. We loved both the poses too, which could be used in all sorts of situations, so these are some of the most useful as well as some of the best kit figures. Unfortunately both have a mould mark on their backs, but there is very little flash so anyone will find these usable.
Things are a bit less rosy for the seated figures. As usual they are noticeably smaller so they fit into the vehicle, and the officer has his right arm across his chest in a strange pose perhaps intended to help him fit into what is certainly a cramped space. For no obvious reason the peak of this man's cap is fully turned down like that of a British RSM, so the sculpting is not quite so good on these. They too have mould marks, though on the back where the seat will hide them, so these are adequate rather than great.
It seems rude to ask for more when Airfix have provided extra figures like this anyway, but it would have been nice to have had someone for the armoured car working the anti-tank gun. Still this is a great and useful set.
Below are examples of how the completed kit was illustrated in Airfix catalogues.
