cross-posted from: https://sh.itjust.works/post/17781622
This is my latest work - a Mitsubishi Space Star (also marketed as Mitsubishi Mirage) modelled in Version 3.6.9.
It took me approximately 180 hours which spread over the course of 6 weeks (Blender, modelling only) as well as an additional 8 hours for tracing the side, front, back and top view (using Affinity Designer) which I used as reference images to create the general shape.
All details were built with eye measure from photos.
Most of the car is symmetrical, which means that only one half had to be built. I used the mirror modifier for almost everything as well as the subdivision modifier, shrinkwrap modifier (for the decals and the back lights) and array modifier (for the grille and for the heating lines in the back window, also for the wheel caps to an extent).
As mentioned above it took some hours to complete the work. One reason might be that the work process is much slower than anticipated, due to lack of knowing all the tricks and features.
My question to you is: Do you also spend so much time creating your work with Blender?
The result (for the upload I removed the number plates):
Looks good, but I think the shadow under the car could be a bit sharper. Less global illumination and possibly more directional light from the sun should do the trick.
This is because there are no further lights than the HDRI background image present at the moment. The correct setup with the background picture an proper lighting will be the next step. I am testing various HDRIs for the correct color and reflectiveness of the cars' painting, since the appearence is different with each scenery. The rendering you are referring to is the "best" compromise (without putting any further effort) yet.