Scale: 1 / 1
A genuine Tiger or a replica may not be for sale; but it is, in a sense, in the same category as a model kit. It is an artefact that attempts to represent how a real Tiger looked.
On that basis we can assess such a vehicle for accuracy of representation, just as we would assess a model. And, since model builders sometimes use these extant vehicles as references, I believe it is useful to publish such an assessment.
Tiger "131" of the 504 battalion is billed as the world's most famous tank. Captured after a dangerous battle in Tunisia in 1943, it was analysed by the British military and then preserved in very good condition for many years. Some parts were apparently lost or discarded during the technical tests, or perhaps they are archived somewhere now. A project to restore "131" to running condition began about 1990, and of course this resulted in more changes to the vehicle, with attempts being made to recreate some of the missing or worn parts, and with some modern equipment (e.g. a fire suppression system) being added.
Tiger "131" is still in marvellously good shape, better than any other surviving Tiger.
The true and unique name of this Tiger is its chassis number, 250122.
My ongoing review and comments;
| Radio sets | Mufflers | Markings |
| Loader's hatch | Grilles on the deck | Modern equipment added |
| S-mine system | Track toolbox | Step at the front |
| Feifel ducts |