King Tiger “Production Turret” Full-Option
History & Significance
Released 1 November 2002 as the fourth full-option kit in Tamiya’s 1/16 RC tank series. It specifically models the Henschel-designed “production turret” King Tiger — the version equipping the tank after the first 50 units, which had used a distinct Porsche-designed turret (modelled separately by Tamiya as kit 56007). The recorded engine sound was sourced from the only running King Tiger, with its original Maybach HL230 P30 engine, at the Musée des Blindés in Saumur, France.
Chassis Engineering
ABS plastic hull body with a stamped-aluminium chassis, powered by a 540-brushed motor. The rotatable turret carries an adjustable 88mm gun with elevation and depression, with light-and-sound effects simulating main-gun and machine-gun firing. Includes a tank commander figure and decals for three historical King Tiger markings.
Variants & Re-releases
Distinct from Tamiya’s related King Tiger with Porsche turret (kit 56007) — the two model different real-world turret variants rather than one being a re-release of the other. No further reissue of this kit is documented.
Manuals
Restoration Guide
An older kit (2002) but still within a generation where Tamiya spares support is generally available. No specific vintage-style failure points were documented in research; typical tank-kit maintenance items like gearbox/motor brush wear and track pin wear would be the general expectation.