I Built a Toyota 2000GT: Video

I'm sure the Toyota 2000GT needs no introduction, so I'd just like to point out a very unfortunate fact for us mere mortals. If you want one today, plan on spending at least $1 million. Another downside: Only 351 examples were built, so the chances of even seeing one up close are almost zero. I absolutely love the 2000GT, but I hate that it's way out of my reach. Or is it?

I purchased a Toyota 2000GT for $139.92. Admittedly, it is a 1:16 scale plastic model kit. But compared to the real deal, it's a real bargain. I just had to build it, and that's exactly what I did. But it wasn't easy. How, Really not easy.

And now you can watch the entire process from start to finish. I had two HD cameras mounted for the six week build – every time I sat down the cameras came on. Our video team (all miracle workers) compressed 1.6 terabytes of footage into the 45-minute clip you see here. You may not be able to buy a real Toyota 2000GT, but you can still have one that's unique to you. This video will show you how, and if you're looking for automotive entertainment, you might enjoy a few laughs too.

It also shows me how to cope with the most difficult body type of my life. I have assembled hundreds of scale models over the last 40 years, but this Fujimi kit has been a battle against inferior parts from the start. Even the smallest parts required excessive sanding, and the 2000GT's beautiful body required special attention to maintain its smooth, uninterrupted curves. There were no guide pins or marks to align the parts. Some were too warped to be used without significant modification. The instructions conveniently omitted important steps for the interior. And all the while, I was battling my own frustrations and the tendency to go too fast and too far.

Photo by: Christopher Smith / Motor1

Photo by: Christopher Smith / Motor1

Any of these factors can frustrate a complex model build. The 200-piece 1:16 scale Fujimi 2000GT may not be overwhelmingly large, but it does have a wealth of moving components. The doors, hood and hatch all open. Access doors in the fenders for the battery and air cleaner open. The headlights go up. The front wheels turn and all wheels roll. Thanks to real springs at each corner, the suspension is also flexible. It's a fantastic kit provided everything runs smoothly.

Spoiler alert: Things didn't go smoothly for me. But I persevered, and I'm happy to say it's now on display in my personal “model museum.” So sit back, grab some popcorn and join me on this journey to own one of the most beautiful and iconic sports cars of all time.