Once I started looking at those 1:32 scale Dekotora model kits, I knew I was in danger of being dragged back into the cruel, eyestrain-inducing vortex of Model Car Hell.

I thought I'd retired from Model Hell after my last project, but now I've found some kits that might force me to break out those headache-inducing tiny paintbrushes again: Dekotoras in 1:32 scale!

So I built my share of models as a kid, but I hadn't touched one for many years when I started hanging out with several professional modelmakers about 15 years back. These guys worked at a shop that made architectural models, courtroom exhibits, product prototypes, etc, and when they weren't on the clock they'd crank…