We recently stumbled upon a social media post from Tamiya UK on X, which revealed the fascinating use of scale model race car parts in the construction of the Millennium Falcon model for the first Star Wars film. The sheer number of parts involved was astonishing. Once you become aware of these components, you can't help but notice cylinder blocks, exhaust pipes, transmissions, and more scattered across the exterior of Han Solo's iconic ship.
As enthusiasts of both race cars and Star Wars, we were compelled to delve deeper into this revelation. What we initially thought would be a straightforward exploration turned into an extensive journey through various websites, uncovering thousands of different model parts used in the original Falcon build. Our search eventually led us to the SquareModels YouTube channel, where a video documents the years-long process of creating an accurate replica of the ship. This video lists over 2,000 parts from various kits used in the original construction, including numerous components from five Tamiya 1:12 scale race cars.
Among the most prominent car components are those along the sides of the Falcon. For instance, what appears to be half a transmission is actually half of the engine and transmission housing from a Wankel rotary engine kit, mounted on both sides. At the very tips of the mandibles are engine parts from a Tamiya Ferrari 312B, identifiable by the twelve cylinders visible in plain sight. Adjacent to these, on the inner sections of the mandibles, are exhaust and frame sections from a 1957 Chevy. One part of the ship even resembles the head of a four-cylinder engine. This is merely the beginning of a vast array of components.
A detailed and lengthy discussion on the RPF forums provides additional insights, showcasing locations and photos of other parts, many sourced from military vehicles and aircraft, as well as cars. You'll find tank barrels, wheels, treads, landing gear, and much more adorning the exterior of this legendary spaceship. No wonder it was considered the fastest and toughest ship in the galaxy, with Ferrari parts and tank armor integrated into its design. The inclusion of rotary engine components also explains why it was prone to frequent breakdowns.
The Falcon model used in 1977's Star Wars: A New Hope measured five feet and was exclusively used for that film. A smaller version was created for The Empire Strikes Back, with the design slightly revised from the original. Now that we are aware of the extensive use of car model parts in its construction, we can't help but continue searching for all the hidden components.
