ProtoForm 3-series Bimmer

[CarterTG]

Using the old-school masking tape & techique I mentioned in another thread, here's a ProtoForm 3-series done up street-style. Haven't had time to snap some outdoor pics yet.

[CarterTG]

Didn't bother using the vinyl window masks supplied with the shell since it wasn't perfectly matched. Ended up using masking tape throughout.

[CarterTG]

Trying it out for size on the TA04 Pro.

[CarterTG]

Finished shell. I'm mostly satisfied with the final results, but I'd only give ProtoForm 7 out of 10. Without the front finishing decals, it could probably pass for an Accord.

[CarterTG]

More nits to pick include ProtoForm's physical packaging labeling #1436 as a "BMW M3 Sedan" the decals are all geared toward making the shell an M3 (side grills, ///M3 markings). Problem is, there's no power bulge molded on the hood (Shell #1440 has it) and there's no such E46 4-door M3 from the factory. The door handle decals are wrong too.

[CarterTG]

I'll probably try to print some decals and badge the rear with a "330xi". Since most companies don't supply side mirrors, I crafted a set from a piece of solid aluminum then polished them.

[CarterTG]

I was initially gonna paint the mirrors the same as the bodyshell, but it looks like leaving it as-is makes a nice match with some of the silver from the rear wing.

[masTers]

Nice!!! I love it, always had a soft spot for BMW

[CarterTG]

Their wheelwell molding is 'bout 3mm too long for a 259mm TA04 chassis. Here's how the profile matches up with the real thing. See why it looks more like an Accord than Bimmer?
http://www.roadfly.org/bmw/gallery/photos/photos-05-2002/8578.jpg

[CarterTG]

Last thing to do might be a light tint to the "glass", but it'll be my first attempt with Tamiya X-19 acrylic smoke so there's some hesitancy there. I'll try to snap some outdoor shots soon.

[Baller Status]

I like :eek:

[KawadaKid]

Why did u mask the tail lights and head lights if u didnt paint them in?

[CarterTG]

Originally posted by KawadaKid
Why did u mask the tail lights and head lights if u didnt paint them in?

Should I decide to add a lighting kit later on, I just peel off the headlamps and will be all set... instead of kicking my head in that I painted the spots in. Vinyl decals from HPI and ProtoForm seem to remain intact somewhat during future removal. Any stubborn residue can be scrubbed off externally with a body wash or NPR.

[masTers]

What paint did you use? and how did u do those black panel lines?

Steve

[ToxicSoup]

Looks nice man, really nice.

About the wheel wells, if they would have moved them any more the front bumper wouldnt be able to fit under the body.

[draggerman11]

That color is awesome! Really a great body!

BTW, HPI makes a REALLY nice M3 if you want it. Very, evry detailed.

[Rampant]

Great job. Beautiful color. I also really like the rims as they are very "BMW looking".

Don't blame Protofrom too much. There are certain allowances they need to make for the bodies to fit on our chassis/bumpers. But, it is pretty lame they tryed to pass that off as an M sedan when it isn't even close, except for the front bumper.

[masTers]

Hey, I am really interested on those lines, i have a Protoform M3 Coupe on the way, and Id love to do those lines, actually i should chase it up, i ordered it a week ago...

Steve

[the real noxen]

whered you get those rims?

[masTers]

*BUMP*

[tervis]

i think he usued a fine tip sharpie its justa estamation but that is what i would use

[HauntedMyst]

No, He painted them on. Beautiful job Carter!