The Meng 1/35 Type 82 Kübelwagen North Africa Edition is here, and it does not disappoint! This model brings one of WWII’s most iconic vehicles to life, combining historical accuracy with a smooth and enjoyable building experience.
Kubelwagen: A world war 2 icon
The Type 82 Kübelwagen was designed by Ferdinand Porsche for the “People’s Car” project. However, the outbreak of WW2 transforming it into a versatile military vehicle used extensively by the German forces.
This lightweight, 685 kg vehicle was easy to maintain, produce, can even be lifted by two people. To fit he North Africa battlefield, the Type 82 was further refined to meet the German forces need:
- Balloon Tires: Wider tires to reduce ground pressure and prevent sinking into soft sand.
- Accessories: Jerry cans and anti-aircraft lights enhanced its utility in desert operations.
Inside the Box: Meng’s Quality Design
Meng excellently replicated the North African version of the Type 82, the ease of fitting make it suit for all skill levels builder.
What's in the kit:
- Sprues & Parts:
3 sprues for the main parts.
1 clear parts sprue for the windshield and head lights.
5 rubber tires with tread patterns.
- EZ assemble: NO PE parts, making it beginner-friendly.
- Features:
No Pin Marks on the Doors on both sides: you can make it open or closed without do much polishing.
Separate Floor Part: Ideal for ease of painting and weathering.
Optional Front Jerry Cans: Requires pre-drilled holes, pre-marked for hole position.
- Three paint options to choose from.
Building Experience: Quick, Fun, and Rewarding
Even though the kit got more parts than the tamiya type 82 it is still a straightforward build, should be a EZ weekend build. Following are some highlights from the building process:
- Painting: The separate floor part allows for easier masking and painting.
- Accessories: The kit includes four Mauser 98K rifles, though their detail is modest. Swapping them out for higher-quality 3D-printed replacements could be a good option for detail upgrade.
- Optional Jerry Cans: If you choose to install the front jerry cans, pre-drilled holes are required, but Meng has thoughtfully provided clear positioning marks on the reverse side. 
The overall build quality and fit are excellent, with little to no sanding or adjustments required. The absence of pin marks on the doors is a notable touch that speaks to Meng’s commitment to delivering a quality product.
Final Thoughts
Meng’s 1/35 Type 82 Kübelwagen North Africa Edition is a fantastic kit for both beginners and seasoned modelers. Its combination of historical accuracy, excellent detail, and ease of assembly make it a standout addition to Meng’s range of WWII vehicles.
The thoughtful design features—like the no-mark doors, separate floor part, and quality clear parts—enhance the building and painting experience. Meanwhile, the affordable price makes it accessible to all modelers, regardless of skill level or budget.
If you’re a fan of WWII military vehicles or looking for a quick and satisfying project, this kit is highly recommended. Bring a piece of history to life with the Meng 1/35 Type 82 Kübelwagen today!