3D printing your own model car: how hard can it be?
Yeah, not that easy but let's give it a go
Who would not like to have a model of their beloved classic? Preferably quite large, and with many details that would be nice.
I would also like to have a model of my 12-cylinder 7 series BMW. But unfortunately no manufacturer offers a model of a 750i E32 in scale 1:18. There are models that are smaller and also a 730i in 1/18th scale, but a 730i has a completely different front bumper, kidney and exhaust system.
So I had to find another solution.
I print my model myself!
How hard can it be?
It sounds easier than it is at first. The basis is sufficient knowledge of CAD. Also a template of the vehicle because to build everything completely by myself is beyond my abilities. With a MeshMixer and other programs I built the model ready for printing.
Simple is the answer
Details that can be designed on a model can quickly take over and you have to keep in mind that the 3D printer can only print up to a limited size and then it becomes too small to print.
Because of this and the amount of work I would have had to do, I decided to neglect the interior completely. It was more important to me that you can open the hood and the "mighty V12 " is underneath it.
More work than it looks like
I am not finished with the work yet. Not all parts are printed yet but everything is already built in CAD. I also want to sandblast and paint all parts in the original paint like my car.
I hope you like my project.
Join In
Comments (43)
Well, your title says 'Print your own... how hard can it be'...
No idea, because you actually didn't tell us anything other than you've done it.
A bit pointless really.
It’s only like clarkson saying that
Do you have the files so we can print it?
No sorry, unfortunately I cannot pass on the files because otherwise I would have trouble with BMW. Only for my own personal use...
Why would you have trouble with BMW?
Interesting. Pity there's no interior. I can understand why you didn't do that though.
Where'd you get the vehicle template? Looks great all things considered! Also I'm a bit worried about you sandblasting it... maybe just use some sandpaper so you don't blast a hole in all your good work ;)
I think hardest part is drawing 3d model.
How many hours to draw this bimmer model?