First, wait for the Trumpeter T-62. It should be better but we will see.
Problems(short list - longer one in not really worth the effort):
1. Scale ...it measures out to about 1/32.5 scale, not 1/35. It is noticable if you compare it to the Tamiya T-55 parts like the roadwheels.
2. Detail. It has a VERY low level of detail even for a early Tamiya kit. Definately made more for motorization than for scale detail.
3. Turret. Turret is about 2mm too shallow. Shape of overall turret is incorrect, especially the overhang on the front. Artwork on box top is somewhat correct, model is not.
4. Hull. Motorization - Ugh. Tracks are sub-par. Roadwheels are too shallow and incorrect in detail. Engine deck is simplified. Front lights and "cage" are incorrectly engineered. Cast on pioneer tools.
Overall, it is the only kit available for now. But it started out life messed up in a way that was...unfortunate. (Kinda like having a M1 with a rounded turret front instead of the proper flat slabs) I have built and converted many of these kits and I have always been unsatisfied with how they turn out. Even adding as many extraneous details to the base kit, it just looks wrong. And I am NOT a bolt-counter by any stretch, but ...
If you HAVE to work with a Tamiya kit, SP Designs has several conversions. They will probably be remastered (and unlike current Verlinden bad-habit, this means that they really WILL be remastered, not just renamed) for the newer Trumpeter kits.
At least there is hope on the way. It would have been nice if Tamiya had followed up their T-55 with a brand new T-62, but they missed the boat. Oh well.
