Tamiya 61042 - 1/48 Scale North American P-51B Mustang Model Kit - Classic Mustang display kit  [61042]

Overview of the North American P-51B

The P-51B Mustang earned a reputation in WWII for its mix of speed, agility and operational reach. The design lineage traces from the Allison-powered versions through the P-51A Apache, itself an evolution of the RAF's Mustang I used for ground support and reconnaissance. Installing the Merlin engine marked a turning point, bringing the Mustang to the front lines alongside British types like the Spitfire.

Packard began licensed manufacture of the Merlin V-1650-1 in Detroit in September 1940, which later led to the V-1650-3 that powered the first P-51B airframes. That upgrade made the aircraft a long-range escort capable of deep penetration missions. The XP-51B was unveiled on November 30, 1942, with a revised coolant radiator scoop that improved top speed by around 50 mph and raised the service ceiling by about 10,000 feet. Production reached 3,788 examples.

Kit notes for modellers

Tamiya's 1/48 P-51B kit lets you recreate the Mustang with crisp panel lines and well-fitting parts. The kit includes historically researched decals and components that let builders produce a faithful display model. Assembly will call for standard modelling adhesives and paints to complete the period finish.