Mirage 1/72
Panzer IV Ausf.C

Background

The Panzer Kampfwagen IV Ausf.C was the first of this series to be ordered in relatively large number (300 units), though production was halted after 134 tanks were completed.

The main differences between this version of the Panzer IV and previous models were minor, with improvements in the engine mounts, carburetor, gun mantle and the addition of a shield on the coaxial machine gun.

The Panzer IV Ausf.C saw its first combat during the invasion of Poland in 1939.

The Kit

Mirage continues to turn out some beautifully detailed kits. This latest represents the Panzer IV Ausf.C as used by the Germans during the blitz on Poland, the Balkans in 1941, or as part of the armor reserves during the Normandy invasion in 1944.

The kit is impressively detailed for a 1/72 kit, with the parts provided on four trees. Molded in light gray styrene, the kit definitely is packed with detail.

The suspension is every bit as detailed as its 1/35 scale counterparts. Don't let the scale fool you. Where the larger kits have one-piece upper and lower hulls, Mirage builds up their kits by facets, which makes for a little more complex build, but a great deal more control over the results too.

The instructions clearly show which details need to be added or removed to represent the tank in each of the three time periods represented.

Photo-etched parts are provided for the fenders and stowage brackets.

Markings are provided for three examples:

• 5th Panzer Division, Germany, 1939
• 3rd Panzer Division, Balkans, 1941
• 21st Panzer Division, Normandy, 1944

While the color tables used in the kit reference Humbrol or Vallejo paint lines, the colors won't be a problem matching to your favorite enamel or acrylic paint line. Even easier if your favorite happens to be Humbrol or Vallejo!

Conclusions

This is a nice-looking kit that provides the modeler with the options to build the tank in any one of three configurations that the Panzer IV Ausf.C would appear during the war. Recommended!

My sincere thanks to Squadron Mail Order for this review sample!