Quick answer

Building the COBI Citroen 2CV Charleston 1:12 scale set is a rewarding experience. Follow these steps to assemble the 1,465 pieces, avoid common mistakes, and display your finished model.

Before you start: what to expect

The COBI Citroen 2CV Charleston set (item #24341) includes 1,465 blocks and is recommended for ages 10 and up. The finished model measures 30.5 cm long and features opening doors, access to the engine compartment, and a detailed trunk. Because of the scale and number of pieces, plan for 4-6 hours of building time over one or two sessions.

Common challenges with 1:12 scale sets

Large-scale brick models like this 2CV Charleston require careful attention to symmetry, especially on the body panels and fenders. The curved shapes of the 2CV are achieved with specialized blocks; make sure each piece clicks fully into place to avoid gaps. The opening doors and hood add moving parts that need precise alignment.

Step-by-step build guide

  1. Sort and organize the blocks: Open the box and separate the blocks by color and size. The 2CV Charleston uses many cream, red, and black pieces. Use small containers or trays to keep them sorted. This will speed up later steps and reduce search time. Sorting by color first helps you find pieces faster, especially during the body assembly.
  2. Build the chassis and floor pan: Start with the base of the car. Follow the instruction manual step by step, building the frame and floor. Make sure all connections are tight, especially where the suspension and wheel arches attach. A loose base will cause alignment issues later. Double-check that the wheelbase is square before adding the body panels.
  3. Assemble the engine and front suspension: The 2CV's engine is visible through the opening hood. Build the engine block and attach it to the front of the chassis. The front suspension uses a unique design; ensure the springs are seated correctly so the wheels sit level. Test the hood hinge movement before attaching the engine cover to avoid binding.
  4. Build the body panels and doors: Construct the left and right body panels separately. Pay close attention to the curved fenders and door frames. The doors are hinged; align the hinge pins carefully so the doors open and close smoothly without rubbing. If a door sticks, check that the hinge pins are fully inserted and the door frame is not twisted.
  5. Add the roof, windshield, and interior: Attach the roof panel, then install the windshield and rear window. Add the seats, steering wheel, and dashboard. The interior details are visible through the large windows, so take care to place each piece correctly. Press the windshield gently from the inside to avoid cracking the transparent pieces.
  6. Complete the exterior details and wheels: Add the headlights, taillights, chrome trim, and the distinctive Charleston decals. Attach the wheels and check that they spin freely. Finally, place the model on its display stand if included. Use a soft cloth when applying decals to avoid trapping air bubbles.

Product details

  • COBI Citroen 2CV Charleston: Set #24341: The COBI Citroen 2CV Charleston set contains 1,465 blocks and is built at 1:12 scale. It includes opening doors, access to the engine compartment, and a trunk. The moving parts let you display the interior and engine bay, making the build more interactive than a static model.

    COBI Citroen 2CV Charleston: Set #24341

    COBI Citroen 2CV Charleston: Set #24341