Product Description

Revell 1/32 Hawker Tempest Mk.V

The Hawker Tempest was one of the finest Allied fighters of World War II. Developed from the Typhoon, the Tempest featured a thinner laminar-flow wing, improved performance, and exceptional low-altitude speed. It became famous for intercepting V-1 flying bombs, combating Luftwaffe jet aircraft, and establishing air superiority during the final months of the war.

Revell's 1/32 scale Tempest Mk.V is a reissue of the highly regarded Special Hobby tooling and offers an impressive level of detail for the large-scale aircraft enthusiast. The kit features finely recessed panel lines, detailed cockpit and wheel wells, optional open panels, and an excellent representation of the powerful Napier Sabre engine. Builders can create a highly detailed model of one of the RAF's most respected late-war fighters.

Features

• Scale: 1/32

• Manufacturer: Revell Germany

• Kit Number: 03851

• Based on Special Hobby tooling

• Detailed cockpit with instrument panel decals

• Napier Sabre engine detail

• Fine recessed panel lines and rivets

• Detailed landing gear and wheel wells

• Optional open access panels

• Large decal sheet

• Accurate late-war RAF markings

Finished Model Dimensions

• Length: Approximately 13 inches (410mm)

• Wingspan: Approximately 16 inches (410mm)

Skill Level

Advanced

Revell rates this as a Level 5 kit intended for experienced modelers. Test-fitting and careful planning are recommended throughout construction.

Paint & Glue Required

Paint and cement required for assembly and sold separately.

Historical Background

Entering service in 1944, the Tempest Mk.V quickly earned a reputation as one of the RAF's most capable piston-engine fighters. Powered by the 24-cylinder Napier Sabre engine producing over 2,000 horsepower, the Tempest was exceptionally fast at low and medium altitudes.

Tempests destroyed hundreds of V-1 flying bombs during the German offensive against Britain and later proved highly effective against Luftwaffe fighters and even early jet aircraft such as the Me 262. By war's end, many RAF pilots considered the Tempest the finest British fighter of the conflict.

Review Summary

What Modelers Like

• Excellent overall shape and accuracy

• Beautiful surface detail

• Detailed cockpit and engine areas

• Outstanding Napier Sabre engine representation

• Unique late-war RAF subject

• Strong value compared to the original Special Hobby boxing

Builders consistently praise the molding quality, detail level, and overall appearance of the finished model.

Things to Consider

• Not a "shake-and-bake" kit

• Requires substantial test fitting

• Some builders report fit challenges and filler use

• Benefits from previous experience with Special Hobby-style kits

• Occasional reports of warped parts in older boxings or second-hand kits.

Working Title Models Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.5/5

This is arguably the best 1/32 Tempest currently available and rewards careful builders with a spectacular replica of one of WWII's greatest fighters. Experienced modelers will appreciate the level of detail and the opportunity to showcase the famous Napier Sabre engine.