1/72 ACE Models BTR-80 (Early Production Series) 72171

1/72 ACE Models BTR-80 Early Production Soviet Armored Personnel Carrier

The ACE Models 1/72 scale BTR-80 (Early Production Series) is a highly detailed plastic model kit of the Soviet Union's most advanced eight-wheeled armored personnel carrier of the Cold War era. Introduced in 1986, the BTR-80 represented a significant evolution of the BTR family, featuring a powerful diesel engine, improved armor protection, and enhanced crew comfort that made it the backbone of Soviet motorized rifle units.

Key Features:

• Authentic 1/72 Scale: Perfect for Cold War and modern military dioramas
• Early Production Variant: Represents the initial production series with distinctive features
• Detailed Molding: Crisp panel lines, accurate eight-wheel configuration, and realistic suspension
• Diesel Engine Configuration: Features the improved single diesel engine that replaced the BTR-70's twin gasoline engines
• 14.5mm Armament: KPVT heavy machine gun turret with 7.62mm PKT coaxial machine gun
• Amphibious Capability: Represents the vehicle's water-crossing features with single water jet
• Quality Engineering: ACE Models precision tooling ensures excellent fit

About the BTR-80:

The BTR-80 entered Soviet service in 1986 as the successor to the BTR-70, addressing many of the earlier vehicle's shortcomings. The most significant improvement was the replacement of the BTR-70's troublesome twin gasoline engines with a single, more powerful and reliable diesel engine. This change dramatically improved operational range, reduced fire risk, and simplified maintenance. The early production series featured the original turret design and initial armor configuration. With its eight-wheel drive, amphibious capability, and ability to operate in NBC-contaminated environments, the BTR-80 became one of the most successful Soviet armored vehicles, serving with Russian forces and exported to over 30 countries worldwide.

Complementary Products:

Build a complete Soviet/Russian mechanized force with these related kits:

• 1/72 ACE Models BTR-70 APC (Late Production Series) - The BTR-80's predecessor for comparison
• 1/72 ACE Model BTR-70 (Early Production Series) - Earlier BTR-70 variant
• 1/72 ACE Model BTR-3E1 (Ukrainian APC) - Modern Ukrainian evolution
• 1/72 ACE Models Infantry Fighting Vehicle BMP-2D - Soviet IFV for combined arms displays
• 1/72 ACE Model BTR-3RK - Command variant of the BTR family
• Browse our 1/36 to 1/80 Scale collection for more compatible armor kits

For more information about ACE Models products, visit www.ace-model.com.