Building the Aoshima Initial D R32 Snap Kit: Part 1 Unboxing

TL;DR: In Part 1 of this three-part build series, I unbox Aoshima’s 1/32 Initial D Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 Snap Kit. Based on Takeshi Nakazato’s iconic car, this beginner-friendly model features 26 parts, a pre-coloured body and snap-fit assembly with no painting or glue required.

There are some model kits you build because they look cool. Others appeal to you because they challenge your skills.

Then there are kits like this one.

The kind that reconnects you to a particular era, a familiar feeling and an entire wave of nostalgia the moment you see the box art.

For this project, I am stepping away from Gunpla for a little while to build something different: the Aoshima 1/32 Initial D Takeshi Nakazato Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 Snap Kit.

Even before opening the box, this kit carries plenty of personality.

The manga-style artwork, dramatic mountain-pass setting and unmistakable shape of the R32 immediately establish what this build is about. If you grew up around JDM culture, anime, arcade racing games or late-night Initial D marathons, you will probably understand why this kit feels special.

For me, the R32 has always been one of those cars that commands attention without needing to shout. It is aggressive, clean and iconic at the same time.

That is exactly what made me want to build it.

What Is the Aoshima Initial D R32 Snap Kit?

This is a 1/32 scale plastic model of Takeshi Nakazato’s Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 from Initial D.

Nakazato is the leader of the Myogi Night Kids, and his black R32 GT-R is one of the series’ most recognisable rival cars. Its appearance reinforces many of the qualities associated with the real R32: power, grip, stability and an imposing road presence.

Aoshima’s kit recreates distinctive features from Nakazato’s car, including:

• NISMO front bumper

• Lip spoiler

• 17-inch wheels and tyres

• Sports muffler

• Steerable front wheels

• Optional lowered configuration

The kit contains 26 parts and uses Aoshima’s accessible snap-fit construction. Its body is moulded in colour, so painting is not required, and the components press together without glue.

This simplified approach makes the R32 suitable for newer builders while still producing a recognisable display model for experienced modellers and Initial D collectors.

You can also explore more Aoshima Snap Kits at Hobbyco, including classic Japanese cars, modern performance vehicles and other automotive icons.

A Different Kind of Model Build

Most of my recent projects have involved extensive customisation, scribing, painting, weathering and detailed modifications.

Those projects are rewarding, but they can also become enormous commitments. A heavily customised model can take weeks or months to complete, particularly when every surface becomes another opportunity for improvement.

This kit feels like the opposite, in the best possible way.

Aoshima’s Snap Kit range is built around accessibility:

• No glue is required

• No painting is required

• The parts count is manageable

• Assembly is straightforward

• The body is already moulded in colour

• Details are applied using the supplied stickers

But simple does not mean boring.

Sometimes it is refreshing to sit down with a model and enjoy the process without overthinking every step. There is no pressure to modify every panel, repaint every component or turn the kit into an extensive custom project.

It is simply about building for the enjoyment of building.

That relaxed approach also feels appropriate for an Initial D project. The series is memorable not only because of horsepower or technical specifications, but because of driving instinct, determination and the emotional connection between a driver and their car.

A straightforward model kit can create that same connection.

First Impressions Inside the Box

The first thing I noticed after opening the box was how clean and approachable everything looked.

The body shell captures the proportions of the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 surprisingly well for a simplified 1/32 model. Its squared-off shape, restrained bodywork and broad stance are immediately recognisable.

The wheels also caught my attention. Nakazato’s 17-inch wheels are an important part of the car’s appearance, and they help give the model the planted, aggressive profile associated with his R32.

There are fewer components than you would find in a larger or more complex car model, but that works in the kit’s favour.

Nothing about the box feels overwhelming.

Instead, it looks like the kind of project that can produce satisfying progress in a relatively short building session. Each completed section should make a visible difference, which is encouraging for beginners and relaxing for experienced builders.

There is also something refreshing about returning to straightforward modelling after spending so much time immersed in custom Gunpla work.

The subject may be different, but the creative satisfaction is the same.

Is the Initial D R32 Snap Kit Good for Beginners?

Yes. The Aoshima 1/32 Initial D R32 is designed to be an approachable model kit for beginners.

Its snap-fit construction removes the need for model cement, while the pre-coloured body means builders can achieve a display-ready appearance without learning how to paint immediately. The limited parts count also makes the project easier to organise and complete.

That makes it a good choice for:

• Initial D fans building their first model

• JDM enthusiasts exploring scale cars

• Younger builders ready for a model kit

• Gunpla builders trying automotive modelling

• Experienced modellers seeking a relaxing project

• Collectors wanting a display model of Nakazato’s R32

Although the kit is beginner-friendly, careful assembly still matters. Removing parts cleanly, checking their orientation and taking time with the stickers should produce a sharper result.

Simple kits still reward patience.

Why the Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 Remains an Icon

The Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 was introduced in 1989 and helped revive the GT-R name after a 16-year absence.

Its 2.6-litre RB26DETT twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, electronically controlled ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system and advanced chassis established a formidable performance reputation.

Its competition results added to the legend. The R32 GT-R won every round of the Japanese Touring Car Championship held between 1990 and 1993, recording 29 victories from 29 starts.

But racing success is only part of its lasting appeal.

The R32 simply looks right.

The boxy proportions, subtle aggression and balance between function and style give it a timeless quality. It does not need oversized aero or excessively complicated bodywork to make an impression.

Its appearances in anime, games, films and wider JDM culture also introduced the car to generations of enthusiasts who never saw it compete.

Initial D became an important part of that legacy.

The R32 in Initial D

Takeshi Nakazato’s R32 represents a different approach to mountain-pass racing from the lightweight, rear-wheel-drive cars used by many other Initial D characters.

Nakazato relies on the GT-R’s power, traction and stability. The car appears intimidating and controlled, particularly when contrasted with the lighter Toyota AE86 driven by Takumi Fujiwara.

That difference is part of what makes their confrontation memorable.

The R32 is not just another vehicle placed into the story. Its characteristics influence how Nakazato drives and approaches competition. The car becomes an extension of his confidence, determination and weaknesses.

That connection between car and character is one reason Initial D model kits are so satisfying to build.

You are not only recreating a vehicle. You are recreating part of the story.

[Insert close-up image of the body shell, wheels and detail parts]

What Comes Inside the Aoshima R32 Box?

The kit includes the main components required to build Nakazato’s R32 in 1/32 scale:

• Pre-coloured R32 body shell

• Chassis components

• Interior components

• Clear window parts

• 17-inch wheels and tyres

• Sports muffler

• Steering components

• Detail stickers

• Assembly instructions

Aoshima has simplified the construction while preserving the car’s most recognisable features.

The pre-coloured plastic is particularly useful for builders without access to paint, an airbrush or a dedicated modelling area. Once assembled and detailed with the supplied stickers, the model should already capture the identity of Nakazato’s R32.

Experienced builders can still add painted details, panel lining or subtle improvements, but these are optional.

The Plan for This Initial D R32 Build

For this project, I want to keep the model clean and reasonably faithful to the original appearance of Nakazato’s R32.

Rather than turning it into a heavily customised project, I plan to focus on:

• Clean part removal

• Careful snap-fit assembly

• Sharp sticker placement

• Subtle detail improvements

• A balanced and convincing stance

• Cinematic photography and video

I also want the finished presentation to capture the nostalgic atmosphere surrounding Initial D and classic JDM culture.

Expect moody lighting, dramatic angles and plenty of nighttime mountain-pass energy once the model is finished.

Sometimes the simplest projects become the most enjoyable.

Judging by these first impressions, this R32 could become one of those builds.

Useful Tools for an Aoshima Snap Kit

The kit does not require glue or paint, but a few basic modelling tools can make assembly cleaner:

• Plastic model nippers

• Hobby knife

• Sanding sticks or fine sanding sponges

• Tweezers for sticker placement

• Soft polishing cloth

Nippers help remove components from the runners with less stress on the plastic. A hobby knife and sanding tools can then clean up any remaining attachment marks.

Tweezers are particularly helpful when positioning smaller stickers.

If you are preparing for your first model car, Hobbyco’s hobby supplies range includes tools and modelling accessories for assembly and finishing.

Key Takeaways

• The kit recreates Takeshi Nakazato’s Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 from Initial D.

• It is a 1/32 scale model containing 26 parts.

• Snap-fit construction means glue is not required.

• The body is moulded in colour, making painting optional.

• Its manageable parts count makes it suitable for beginners.

• Experienced builders can enjoy it as a quick project or add subtle details.

• This build will focus on clean assembly, presentation and Initial D atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

What scale is the Aoshima Initial D R32?

The Aoshima Initial D Takeshi Nakazato R32 is a 1/32 scale plastic model kit.

Does the Aoshima Initial D R32 require glue?

No. The kit uses snap-fit construction, so the components are designed to press together without model cement.

Do I need to paint the Aoshima R32 Snap Kit?

Painting is not required. The body is moulded in colour, and stickers are included for additional details.

Which Initial D character drives the R32 GT-R?

Takeshi Nakazato, leader of the Myogi Night Kids, drives the black Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 in Initial D.

Can the model be built with a lowered stance?

Yes. Aoshima includes an optional lowered configuration. Test-fitting the wheels, chassis and body will help you choose the preferred stance.

Final Thoughts

This build is a change of pace for me, but that is exactly why I am looking forward to it.

After working on complex Gunpla projects involving extensive painting, detailing and customisation, it feels good to approach a model with a simpler goal.

Build it cleanly. Enjoy the process. Capture the personality of the car.

The parts are ready.

Nakazato’s R32 is waiting.

Next in the series: In Part 2, I begin assembling the chassis, interior, wheels and unmistakable Skyline body as the R32 starts taking shape.

Shop Aoshima model kits at Hobbyco and explore more beginner-friendly builds, Japanese performance cars and automotive icons.

For more builds and behind-the-scenes updates, follow me on Instagram at @rosie_custom_gunpla.