Type 320 (W142) Cabriolet Model Kit: Build and Paint Guide

By Modellbau & Plastikmodellbau | Published: 2026-11-02

Category: How-to Guides

Follow a staged build for the 1:35 Type 320 (W142) Cabriolet: test-fit, paint in subassemblies, detail the interior, and protect the finish.

Quick answer

Build the Type 320 (W142) Cabriolet in subassemblies: prepare and test-fit first, paint the body and interior separately, then assemble and add the final details. This order protects the open cabin and keeps the 150 parts manageable at Skill Level 4.

Why this kit rewards a staged build

At 1:35 scale with 150 parts and Skill Level 4, the Type 320 is a kit for modelers who are comfortable planning before gluing. The open cabriolet body means the interior stays visible, so painting and detailing it after the body is closed would be awkward. Treating the body, interior, and chassis as separate subassemblies lets you reach surfaces that would otherwise be hidden.

The trade-off is more handling of painted parts. Work in a clean, uncluttered area and let each stage cure fully before moving on. If you prefer to assemble everything first and paint afterward, expect extra masking around the cabin and a higher risk of paint reaching the interior.

Where the difficulty actually sits

The challenge is not the part count alone but the combination of a classic car body and an open top. Body panels and interior components need clean seams and consistent paint coverage because both remain visible. Plan your paint sequence around that visibility rather than around the instruction sheet's assembly order alone.

If this is your first Skill Level 4 car kit, build a simpler closed-body subject first to practice seam cleanup and gloss control. The Type 320 will still be there, and the extra practice shows in the finished cabin.

Step-by-step build and paint sequence

Wash and inventory the sprues: Rinse the sprues in lukewarm water with a drop of mild dish soap, rinse well, and air-dry. Check every part against the instruction sheet and set aside any short-shot or damaged pieces before starting. Mold release and dust cause paint to bead; a clean, complete kit prevents mid-build surprises.
Test-fit the body and interior: Dry-fit the main body panels, floor, seats, and dashboard without glue. Note where seams need sanding and where paint will be hidden after assembly. Mark hidden areas now so you do not waste finish work on surfaces that will be covered.
Paint the interior before closing the body: Prime and paint the seats, door cards, dashboard, and floor as separate pieces. Add interior detailing such as trim and instrument faces while the parts are still easy to handle. The open cabriolet keeps the interior visible, so complete it before the body goes on.
Finish the body shell as its own subassembly: Sand seams, prime, and apply color coats to the body panels before final assembly. Keep the body supported on a stand or foam pad to avoid fingerprints in the fresh paint. A painted body that is still separate is easier to rotate and inspect than one already joined to the chassis.
Assemble chassis and running gear: Build the chassis and suspension as a unit, checking that the stance sits level. Test-fit the body onto the chassis before glue sets so you can correct alignment. A dry run of the body-to-chassis joint catches twisted alignment while it is still fixable.
Join the subassemblies and add final details: Attach the interior, body, and chassis using small amounts of glue at hidden contact points. Add remaining trim, lights, and mirrors last, then apply a clear coat if your paint system calls for one. Keep glue away from painted exterior surfaces; squeeze it onto a scrap card and apply with a toothpick.

Product facts

Type 320 (W142) Cabriolet: 1:35 scale kit with 150 pieces, rated Skill Level 4 for advanced model makers. The part count and skill rating justify planning subassemblies and allowing extra build sessions rather than rushing the interior.
Type 320 (W142) Cabriolet