M8 Greyhound / M20 Armoured Utility Car 1:72 Model Kit by Italeri

Model Features

Build either the M8 Greyhound or the M20 Armoured Utility Car with this highly detailed 1:72 scale plastic model kit from Italeri. Featuring accurately moulded parts, crisp surface detail and authentic decals, this kit faithfully captures two of the most recognisable American armoured vehicles of the Second World War.

Ideal for military modelling enthusiasts, the completed model looks equally impressive displayed on its own or as part of a WWII diorama. Whether you're expanding an Allied vehicle collection or tackling your next armour project, this kit offers an enjoyable and rewarding build.

Specifications

• Scale: 1:72
• Manufacturer: Italeri
• Vehicle options: M8 Greyhound or M20 Armoured Utility Car
• Finely detailed plastic parts
• Authentic decal sheet
• Illustrated assembly instructions
• Assembly required
• Glue and paints not included

What's in the Box

• Plastic model kit parts
• Decal sheet
• Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Vehicle

Historical Snapshot

The M8 Greyhound was developed by the Ford Motor Company in response to the US Army's requirement for a fast, lightly armoured reconnaissance vehicle. Entering service in 1943, it featured a six-wheel-drive configuration, a 37mm M6 gun housed in a fully rotating turret, and a .50 calibre machine gun for additional defence. With a top road speed of over 55 mph (88 km/h), the Greyhound excelled at scouting, convoy escort, communications and security missions, where speed and mobility were more important than heavy armour.

Although designed primarily for reconnaissance, the M8 quickly proved to be a versatile vehicle. It served extensively with American, British and Free French forces during the campaigns in Italy, Normandy, Western Europe and later in the Pacific. Its reliability and ease of maintenance made it popular with crews, while its speed allowed it to gather vital intelligence ahead of advancing Allied formations.

Recognising the need for a dedicated command and utility vehicle, the US Army developed the M20 Armoured Utility Car using the same chassis. The turret was removed to create an open fighting compartment capable of carrying command personnel, scouts, radio operators or additional equipment. Armed with a single .50 calibre machine gun mounted on a ring mount, the M20 served as a command vehicle, personnel carrier and reconnaissance platform throughout the remainder of the war.

Following the end of the Second World War, both the M8 Greyhound and M20 Armoured Utility Car remained in service with numerous countries around the world for many decades. Their combination of speed, reliability and versatility ensured they became two of the most successful and recognisable wheeled armoured vehicles ever produced.

Please Note

• This is a plastic model kit supplied unassembled.
• Glue, paints and modelling tools are required to complete the model and are sold separately.
• Suitable for hobbyists, collectors and military modelling enthusiasts.
• Manufacturer's specifications and box contents may vary between production runs.