So i have been transforming Maisto models into Premium models for some time now, what i like to do is buy in bulk from costco or sams and detail(redo) the hell out of them,
What i do to transform a budget into a premium?
dismantle the entire car, Of course.
Sand the paint, to a desired finish, then buff, to get rid of orange peel, or repaint the car.
sand the interior, repaint the interior, using testers, model master or tamiya paints. matts and glosses depending on trim or material.
Sand around interior edges to correct errors.
adding seat belts.
add side glass.
removing head light/ tail light studs, then sanding and repainting the inside of the lens( a clear color(tamiya turn signal red/orange for example.
1:1 details everywhere, especially the chassis, different paints etc.
lowering for the correct stance.
spacing out wheels for a close to 1:1 finish.
detailing head lights, trim, etc
Detailing brakes, adding brakes calipers, and make them free rolling.
adding flocking to the entire floor, roof,trunk panels of the model, or cutting felt into the shape of the entire corresponding latter of the model.
detailing engine, replacing engine plastic plate with "loose" engine from ebay or donor model.
is just some of the stuff i do to transform a budget into a Premuim.
i like buying premiums, but man is it fun to transform a budget!
Recently just finished a Lamborghini gallardo spyder, it looks beautiful, will have pictures soon.
These photos are very convincing!
I couldn't help myself so I got that one in 1:18 
