[Timstone]

I consider myself to be an adept 3D modeller. I've made quite a few 3D models sofar. Not all of them are spaceships, but that is not important. I own a copy of 3D Max 7, Solidworks 2005 and a few other programs. I only use SW 2005 and Max 7 for making pics to post here. SW 2005 is for the modeling part and Max 7 for rendering and texturing.
I really would like to make lots of models for SE V, but the only thing is the time to do it in. I have a regular job (a job which is not very ordinary), so that leaves me with very, very little time to do something for SE V.
Agreed, 3D modelling consumes more time than your average 2D pic, but when you use the right tools, the result can be breathtaking. You'll see when SE V comes out that suddenly tens of people are going to try and create some beautifull models of their own.

And please don't say that 3D programs are all Lego based (snapping different pieces together). I've played around with DOGA myself and I found that it was a crossover between Max 7 and SolidWorks. The ease of making seperate models of SW (for use on other models) and more or less the horrible way of making models like in Max 7.
Max 7 is a program which uses basic forms and is focussed on surface modeling (adding details on non-straight surfaces like faces). The modelling in Max 7 isn't quite the same as DOGA, but looks somewhat similar.
SolidWorks (my alltime favorite) is very adept in making industrial things and uses basic forms. When they are created they can be altered with great ease and thus forming most complex models.

It's not about trying to duplicate the production process of MM, but to make your own process. Try to find your qon way of working. Okay, you can use MM's methods and build on those, but finding it out yourself is so much more helpful. Just go about and make some basic models (cube, orb, etc.) and import them into StarFury (the enige should be somewhat similar) and see how they turn out.

If you need any help with modelling, use the net to search for help or post it here. There is always a friendly, maybe even helpful, post.