Special Armour 35009 Panhard 178B ‘47 mm Gun Late Turret’ 1/35

The Special Armour 35009 plastic model kit depicts the iconic French armoured car Panhard 178B equipped with a 47 mm gun and late turret. Offered in the popular 1/35 scale, this kit faithfully captures the intricate details and proportions of the original vehicle. It is a unique proposition for armoured vehicle enthusiasts and modellers specialising in World War II dioramas.

Brief Historical Overview

The Panhard 178B was an evolution of the well-known French armoured car originally designed in the 1930s. The B model was developed during the German occupation and later put into production and service by French forces after the country’s liberation. Its modernisation included a new, efficient turret and a 47 mm SA 47 gun, making the vehicle competitive with other armoured cars of the era.

• Scale: 1/35
• Category: plastic model kit
• Country of use: France
• Service period: World War II (1944–1945) and post-war period (up to the early 1950s)
• Material: high-quality plastic
• Extras: transparent parts (headlight lenses), decals with various historical markings

Historical Usage

The Panhard 178B was used in combat operations during the liberation of France and in engagements on the Western Front in the final phase of World War II. It was deployed by French Army reconnaissance units and took part in numerous armoured skirmishes, also serving in post-war security missions until it was replaced by more modern designs.

Recommended For Whom?

We recommend the Special Armour 35009 model for intermediate to advanced modellers, enthusiasts of armoured vehicles, and collectors of French World War II military equipment. The kit features good manufacturing quality, fine details, and compatibility with aftermarket accessories. Thanks to its clear instructions and high-quality castings, assembly poses no major issues for those with some experience.

• Build difficulty: 3/5
• Glue and paints not included – must be purchased separately

The Panhard 178B ‘47 mm Gun Late Turret’ model is an excellent choice for hobbyists looking to recreate World War II realities and enrich their collection with a unique and rare French reconnaissance vehicle.