The 10 Best Engine Model Kits

This review has been updated 16 times since it was first published in December of 2016. Building a realistic scale model of an engine is both challenging and rewarding, and it’s one of those few activities that can truly be called “fun for all ages.” Get started with one of these kits, which offer step-by-step instructions for constructing a miniature motor. They’ll work well as a conversation piece on your desk or serve as a valuable teaching tool for a budding mechanic or engineer. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Review.

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10. Wooden City V8

The Wooden City V8 is different from most, in that it boasts a wood construction rather than the usual metal or plastic. It comes packaged attractively in a box made from the same material, giving the whole kit a solid, high-quality feel.

9. Airfix 1876 Four-Stroke

Be sure to block out a solid chunk of time before starting the Airfix 1876 Four-Stroke, because this realistic version has plenty of pieces to keep you busy. It doesn’t come with any paint or painted parts, which will add to the investment of effort and cash.

8. King of Toys Overhaul Set

For younger children with limited patience and hand-eye coordination, the King of Toys Overhaul Set may be the way to go. It is a toy, but it arrives with plastic tools and hardware for removing and replacing some of the pieces, which makes pretend play more realistic.

7. Haynes Build Your Own

The Haynes Build Your Own is a diminutive four-cylinder internal combustion model. Its see-through plastic housing allows the observer to watch all the inner workings of a motor, offering an understanding of the type of engine that powers so much of our world.

6. Wilesco D5

Steam engines may not be that common today, but they were a revolutionary technology when first invented. The Wilesco D5 takes you back to their glory days and illustrates the principles by which these mechanical marvels worked.

5. Porsche 911 Flat Six

With the Porsche 911 Flat Six you can create your very own 1/4-scale model of the motor that powers one of the world’s most recognizable high-performance automobiles. This comprehensive set includes more than 280 components.

4. Revell Visible V-8

This Revell Visible V-8 helps you create and simulate a working eight-valve engine, much like one you might find under the hood of a powerful truck or sports car. The set features a sturdy rubber fan belt and vinyl ignition wires.

3. Hawk Dodge SRT-8

The Hawk Dodge SRT-8 puts a 1/6-scale replica of a powerhouse in your hands. It is crafted to demanding specifications, so every component matches its real-life counterpart, which makes it a thoughtful gift for any automotive enthusiasts.

2. Trends UK Haynes V8

You will know you have built the Trends UK Haynes V8 correctly the moment its throaty ignition sound reaches your ears. Then just sit back and watch the illuminated spark plugs flash as this plucky little built-to-scale motor fires away.

1. Elenker Mini Hot Air Stirling

This handsome Elenker Mini Hot Air Stirling is not only amusing and relatively easy to build and operate, but it looks great as a decoration for your desk or shelf once completed. Its basic design makes it a good introduction to mechanical engineering.

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