Name: German Sd.Kfz.171 Panther Ausf.A (late) 1:35 Model Kit by Meng
Brand: SCH Models
SKU: MNGTS-035
Price: 43.99 GBP
Availability: InStock

German Sd.Kfz.171 Panther Ausf.A (late) 1:35 Model Kit by Meng

£43.99

Model Features

1:35 scale plastic model kit
Accurately represents the German Sd.Kfz.171 Panther Ausf.A (Late Production) medium tank, one of the most advanced armoured vehicles of the Second World War
Highly detailed representation of the late-production Panther Ausf.A with historically accurate exterior features
Detailed hull and turret with realistic armour texture, weld lines, casting marks, and surface details
Accurately reproduced 7.5cm KwK42 L/70 high-velocity main gun with detailed gun mantlet and muzzle brake
Detailed late Ausf.A turret featuring improved commander’s cupola and production-specific fittings
Includes finely detailed engine deck, exhaust system, tools, tow cables, and external equipment
Realistically reproduced overlapping road wheels and suspension components
Detailed running gear with accurate drive sprockets and idler wheels
Individual track links included for realistic track sag and positioning
Includes photo-etched parts for enhanced scale realism
Metal gun barrel included for improved accuracy
Clear parts included where required
Includes fine wire parts for realistic cable and equipment details
Waterslide decal sheet featuring seven authentic German WWII marking options
Highly detailed moulding with advanced engineering for experienced modellers
Ideal for German WWII armour collections, Normandy campaign displays, or detailed Panther diorama projects.

Specifications

Brand: Meng Model
Scale: 1:35
Subject: German Sd.Kfz.171 Panther Ausf.A Late Production
Material: Injection-moulded plastic
Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate to advanced modellers
Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
Recommended Age: 14+
Kit Number: TS-035
Photo-Etched Parts: Included
Metal Parts: Aluminium gun barrel included
Track Type: Individual track links
Decal Options: 7
Model Length: Approximately 255mm
Model Width: Approximately 97mm
Box Dimensions: Approximately 380mm x 250mm x 110mm

What's in the Box

Plastic sprues
Detailed upper and lower hull components
Panther Ausf.A late-production turret assembly
7.5cm KwK42 L/70 main gun components
Detailed suspension and running gear parts
Individual track links
Engine deck and exhaust components
External tools and vehicle equipment
Photo-etched detail parts
Aluminium gun barrel
Fine wire parts
Clear parts
Waterslide decal sheet with seven German WWII markings
Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Vehicle

The Panzerkampfwagen V Panther Ausf.A, designated Sd.Kfz.171, was one of Germany’s most important medium tanks of the Second World War. Developed in response to the appearance of the Soviet T-34, the Panther combined powerful firepower, advanced armour design, and excellent mobility, creating one of the most capable tanks of the conflict.

The Panther programme began in 1942 after German forces encountered the Soviet T-34 during Operation Barbarossa. The T-34’s combination of sloped armour, mobility, and firepower demonstrated the need for a new German medium tank. The resulting Panther design incorporated similar principles, including heavily sloped frontal armour and a powerful long-barrelled 75mm gun.

The first production version, the Panther Ausf.D, entered service in 1943 and experienced reliability problems during its early combat debut at the Battle of Kursk. These issues led to a series of improvements, resulting in the Panther Ausf.A, which became one of the most successful Panther variants.

Production of the Ausf.A began in August 1943, with approximately 2,192 examples produced, making it the most numerous Panther variant built. Late-production vehicles incorporated numerous improvements designed to simplify manufacturing and increase battlefield reliability.

The Panther Ausf.A retained the highly effective 7.5cm KwK42 L/70 gun, which provided exceptional armour penetration capability. The weapon could defeat many Allied and Soviet tanks at ranges where enemy vehicles struggled to respond effectively. Combined with thick sloped frontal armour, the Panther was capable of engaging opponents at long distances.

Late Ausf.A Panthers featured improved production details including a redesigned commander’s cupola, updated hull features, and simplified manufacturing methods. These changes improved reliability and reduced production time while maintaining the vehicle’s excellent combat characteristics.

Powered by the Maybach HL230 P30 V12 petrol engine, producing approximately 700 horsepower, the Panther offered impressive mobility for a medium tank of its size. Its advanced suspension system provided excellent cross-country performance, although the complex design required significant maintenance and resources.

The Panther Ausf.A saw extensive combat service on both the Eastern Front and Western Front. It played a major role during defensive battles against Soviet armoured formations and was heavily involved in the fighting following the Allied landings in Normandy in 1944.

Despite its technical advantages, the Panther suffered from mechanical complexity and production challenges. Early reliability issues were gradually reduced, but maintenance requirements remained higher than those of many Allied tanks such as the Sherman and T-34.

The Panther’s combination of firepower, armour protection, and mobility led many historians to regard it as one of the best medium tanks of World War II. However, limited production numbers, fuel shortages, and Germany’s deteriorating industrial situation prevented it from having a decisive impact on the war.

Late-production Panther Ausf.A tanks continued to serve until the final months of the conflict, with examples appearing in major battles across Europe. Today, the Panther remains one of the most recognisable German armoured vehicles and is a favourite subject among military modellers due to its distinctive appearance and technical significance.