Model Kit released October 19, 2026.
A limited-production run of 50 Collectors Edition kits has been completed.
Scroll to the bottom of this page for ordering details.
Production of the first 25 kits has been completed. Boxes are handmade and individually serial-numbered 1/25 thru 25/25. A second batch of 25 kits has also been completed, indivually serial-numbered 26/50 thru 50/50.
These parts are expensive in small volumes. To keep costs down, and to prevent any single manufacturer from viewing the entire design, parts have been sourced from different manufacturers, such as Mexico, India, China, and five manufacturers in the USA. Break even cost on this special Collectors Edition kit is a whopping $165. Plus $20 s&h in the lower 48 states. Although, for Wildfire owners and serious historic car model collectors, if you want a kit, it is suggested you don't dilly dally.
The first 50 kits were manufacutered and produced in collaboration with automobile historian and collector Steve Cowdin. Continued production will exclusively be by JoHan Models, although without the Collectors Editon boxes. All further production will have a box with totally different artwork.
The model kit has 38 total pieces, produced using Resin SLA printing, Filament FDM printing, Machining, and Vacuum-forming.
This is a curbside style kit, thus it doesn't have an engine, transmission, nor authentic chassis. The wheels and axles are supported by posts that mount to the underside of the body. The hood is removable but does not have hinges.
The kit comes with extremely high quality water-slide decals, a racing windscreen, rotating wheels, and three build options.
Option #1: Idaho Special #21 with bumpers, as seen early in the movie Johnny Dark. Decals included.
Option #2: Idaho Special #11 without a front bumper, as seen later in the movie, as the car gets progressively beaten-up in the race. Decals included.
Option #3: Wildfire with a Continental Kit, bumpers, and White Wall tires. In the movie, a black Wildfire with a Continental Kit and White Wall tires is test driven at the Packard Proving Grounds, with the grumpy owner as a passenger. An extra wheel, tire, and 5 white wall inserts are included with every kit.
Completed boxes for the first 50 model kits. Handmade boxes are numbered 1/25 thru 25/25. The second Production run 26/50 thru 50/50.
Every handmade box is individually numbered. Box top, lower right, and box bottom, upper left, are numbered, as seen in photo.
Pre-production samples.
Front Bumper and Headlights mount into pockets in the body.
Production headlights were made with clear plastic, these samples are white.
Pre-production samples.
Model has Continental Kit, spare tire option, often called a "Conty Kit" in the 1950's. Note recess in bumper valance.
Tires also have a White-Wall option.
Tailights have a locating pin for mounting. Production Tailights are made in clear, these are white. Production tires are made in black, these are blue.
Box design by Jeff Allison. Tribute/Retro-style box looks like it came right out of the 1950's. First sample box June 14, 2024.
Box top view.
Jeff Allison is nationally known for his automotive artwork. His box design beautifully recreates that look and feeling of the happy-go-lucky times, evoking warm emotions, and drawing the viewer in closer for a better look.
Box side view.
We are so fortunate and grateful that Jeff came onboard to create the box. He brilliantly exceeded all expectations. As a lifelong car collector and scale model builder, for me, the box is almost as important as the model itself.
Box side view
Jeff Allison also created the incredible renderings for the Studebaker Stiletto, which can be seen at: www.granthamstardust.com
The 5/8ths Scale Woodill Brushfire with the model box on the hood, above.
The process of creating a Model kit from conception to completion is being detailed below. More to come.
Shown here is rendering nearing completion.
Kit will have a White Wall tires "option". The Idaho Special had Black Wall tires, shown here with White Wall "option".
After the artist completes the 3D Rendering, project enters the production design phase. The body and all the separate components need to be detailed. Each designed to allow the appropriate production process to be employed.
Front bumper being detailed.
Rear body section being designed to be printed. Thickness of the body is critical in certain areas to maintain rigidity.
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Kit has White Wall tires option.
Gathering detailed information and dimensions is needed, shown here is one of many photos used.
Getting details and proportions right takes time, and patience.
Photo showing frame with newly added stronger "outriggers". The bottom of the new outrigger is contoured to exactly fit the bottom contour of the body. Built by Master-fabricator Dick Shelton.
Typical photo of detail parts. All photos have a scale or tape added to allow proper modeling. Here a Tail light assembly, Steering wheel center, and Gas pedal.
How to order a model kit
The first 50 production kits were manufacturered with no profit margin, and are offered at cost. A gift of $165 plus $20 s&h can be made to obtain a model.
Go to Paypal.com
📅 Step-by-Step Guide
Log in to your PayPal Account on the web or mobile app.
Click or tap Send & Request on the main dashboard.
Enter the recipient's name, email, phone number, or username. Steve Cowdin, mvcowdin@yahoo.com, 303-625-3374
Type the exact amount you want to give as a gift. $185 GIFT $165 + $20 s&h to lower 48 states = $185 GIFT
Select "For Friends and Family" (do not choose "Goods and Services").
Add a personal note or select a festive digital theme/emoji. In Note Section provide: Your full name, mailing address, telephone number, and email. "Gift for Wildfire model project."
Choose your payment source (bank account or PayPal balance is usually free).
Review the details and hit Send Payment Now.
Personal checks and Money Orders are also accepted. Checks should be made out to Steve Cowdin, 15822 El Dorado Way, Larkspur, CO 80118 303-625-3374.
Shipping to locations beyond the lower 48 states can be arranged, but all additional costs must be paid by the recipient.
