[Sticky] Lost Reviews - Franklin Mint & Danbury Mint

Franklin Mint 1972 Corvette Coupe- ZR1 – E887 & E926

Once again I applaud Tony Cerra of Diecast Reproductions for commissioning TFM to do three more rare and appealing Corvettes. I will chronicle two of them here. These two are both coupes. Built from FM’s high-tech fiberglass tooling! Both 1972 vintage, they share a claim to fame by being among only 20 such cars produced by Corvette with the rare ZR1 option package. Tony opted to distinguish them by color choice. The third recently commissioned Vette is a 1971 model year with the even rarer ZR2 package; more on that in a separate review. In a lot of ways these two ZR1 cars are all about the numbers.

As already mentioned, the ZR1 package was rare for 1972. Corvette’s RPO (Regular Production Order) ZR1 was only ordered for 20 Corvettes. And while we do not know how many were Pewter Silver metallic and how many were Ontario Orange Firemist, we do know that orange outsold the silver models by numbers of 4,891 to 1,372. By the way, Pewter Silver was the rarest color option that year. For the princely additional sum of $1,010.05 the buyer could order the ZR1 package. Here’s why only 20 did so; not necessarily because it was the most expensive option on the menu; let’s face it, the coupe’s base price was only $5,533.  But maybe because of the options that did not come with it. The ZR1 could not be had with A/C, power steering or power brakes, no power windows, rear defroster or even a radio.

But what this puppy did come equipped with, was ‘go fast’ goodies: the LT-1 350 cube V-8 engine, M21 close ratio tranny, heavy duty brake system, transistorized ignition, a cooler aluminum radiator, high performance cam, stiffer springs and shocks and anti-sway bars. If we look closely we can tell that, as always, Tony did his homework. Open the hood; you’ll notice the working metal prop rod. The engine is, indeed, a gorgeous rendition of the LT-1. The valve covers, air cleaner housing and un-shielded distributor proves it. The wiring and plumbing are superb. The smog lines and connectors are super realistic and the hood itself is perfection. It bears the thin pinstriping that circumnavigates the hood’s dome and exclaims, “LT-1”. The model wears the correct Firestone Wide Ovals and the Rally Wheels are flawlessly replicated.

Next, go ahead and open the light, (remember, it’s fiberglass) doors. The interior is astonishing in its detail. The optional leather seats are simulated in spectacular fashion and rival the brilliant replication of the seat belts and photo-etched buckles. Steering wheel, dash and console are beautifully reproduced. I love the look of the shift pattern and stick. The chrome metal-foiled scripts and lettering were done without any flaws and are sealed into the body. The headlights unfold but you’ll see no radio antenna on the fender or radio in the dash – Tony nailed the radio delete as part of the ZR1 option package. The 2 partners, TFM and Tony Cerra, have reproduced 2 wonderful models here. I equally like both color combos.

One other exceptionally important number to consider is 350. That’s how few of these models will be available for each color.

TP 09/25/2009

Franklin Mint 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass Indy 500 Pace Car- Nbr Ltd Ed of 5000 – E424

Oldsmobile had the honor of pacing the Indy 500 for 1970 in a 442. So it came as no surprise that two years later they were once again asked to pace the prestigious 500 miler. But it was not repeated with a 442; this time it was a, “Hurst/Olds” Cutlass. Specifically, it was a team effort between Oldsmobile and Hurst Performance Products. They specially modified a 1972 Cutlass convertible. The car was powered by a 455 cubic inch displacement V-8 pumping out 300 horse power. Driven by Jim Rathmann, Indy 500 winner in 1960, the Cutlass marked the first time for a performance products maker to have their name in the pace car titling. Only 130 convertible Hurst/Olds Cutlasses were produced for 1972. There were 499 coupes also made for a mere 629 total that year.   

Franklin Mint built a stand-out 1970 Olds 442 hardtop in 2005 with new tech features and followed it up a year later with a 1972 model-year rendition in drop top configuration. Based from that model we are treated to this little beauty in white with gorgeous gold graphics. The diecast carries forward terrific detail in many areas. I appreciate the reconfiguration into the Pace Car, incorporating the design elements of the graphics and paint blend from light gold to darker gold. The door hinges mimic the real machine’s pinnings. These are more than an alternative to internal hinges, they are a twin-fork assembly with spring-loaded holding mechanisms; the first such I have personally seen. The seat belts with photo-etch buckles are realistic and while the sunvisors are in static positioning, they are fashioned with great detail. 

Interior, engine and trunk detailing shapes up like this: beautifully scaled dash, steering wheel and center console, flip-up seats and diminutive window cranks and door latches give full license to the authentication of the driver’s and passenger’s compartment. The up-top and down-boot fit precisely. The engine detailing is wonderful. The big V-8 possesses accurately scaled plumbing and wiring and exhibits great detail to engine bay stickers, heater hoses and continues to reveal fuel lines and starter wiring and brake lines downward and rearward as you examine the chassis detail. The suspension is operable and the trunk has excellent detailing as well. You’ll find jacking instructional stickers affixed and a full spare with jack on the floor.

All panels are fit precisely and the doors, hood and trunk lid exhibit no gapping whatsoever. The stance looks good and the model’s appearance is welcome in any collection. FM has done well to bring us another pace car and this is a relatively rare rendition. Issue price is $120. TP 06/10/2007

Danbury Mint 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1- Numbered limited edition of 5000 – 1491

Following in the footsteps, or should I say tire tracks, of their 1971 Ford Mustang Boss 351, Danbury extends that year’s body style change by offering this Mach 1 version. It comes with the big, bad 429 Cobra Jet motor and Ram Air forced air induction. Rare by most standards, the 1:1 was only produced for four months. The model itself will be a limited run of only 5000 pieces and may become rare in its own right.

I gave the ’71 Boss 351 model, in Pewter, a 10 rating and did not anticipate an off-shoot iteration that might equal it. But in its Bright Blue Metallic, accented with an argent hood, side stripe, front air dam and rear spoiler, the Mach 1 429 CJ is every bit as handsome and impressive as its slightly less muscular brother. Make no mistake; this car was all about the power that it brought to the dance. Ford intentionally under-rated its oomph by claiming that 370 mustangs lived under the silver, twin-scooped bonnet. But there were a lot more spirited and uncounted ponytails hiding out down there. There were some other subtle differences between the 351 car and this 429 ‘Stang too. DM did not merely spray a different color coat on the body and stuff a bigger mill into the engine slot; they researched the nuances and built them in accordingly. The Mach 1 rode on Goodyear tires where the Boss came shod with Firestones. The hood accent color is shaped differently as well and DM followed the prescribed outline correctly. Don’t miss the infinitely tiny, “429 Ram Air” stenciled so diminutively alongside the scoop. Danbury carried over the grand detail touches that adorned the Boss. The door and trunk lock buttons are separately cast in chrome, the inside door latches and window cranks are delicately fashioned and the “T” handle shifter grip is in place. Wood grain enhances the door panels and steering wheel and the console door opens. The working sunvisors feature a caution sleeve and you will find nicely crafted floor mats in rubber. In the trunk we still see a temporary spare with jack stand and under it is the inflator bottle.

Except for the brass plate affixed to the underbelly of the gas tank reading, “Limited Edition ---- of 5,000”, the chassis is the same exquisite rendering that DM gave us in the Boss 351. Unbelievable care went into fabricating this much detail into a 1:24^th diecast. The metal lines running fore and aft while connecting to delicate springs lend amazing realism and the transmission linkage is beyond this scale’s expectations. I still marvel at the level of detail in replicating the fuel lines flowing from the fuel pump and the exacting specs for the oil filter, air cleaner and radiator warning labels. Once again we’re treated to realistic hinges. The doors use them and the hood is supported flawlessly by them. The suspension is operable and the stance, shape and form of the model overall is outstanding.

At only 5000 copies I would expect every Ford, Mustang or muscle car fan to snap this little beauty up in record time. Issue price is $140. TP 12/29/2006

Danbury Mint 1:24 1971 Ford Mustang Boss 351 – 1459

I was afraid this would happen. It was only a matter of time. With Danbury Mint’s amazing attention to accuracy, detail, research, development and model-making execution, it was bound to occur; again. Mustang Boss 351, meet the DM 1948 Buick Roadmaster Convertible. Now here’s a Kodak moment for you; a perfect 10 meets another perfect 10. As Danbury further develops scale automobile models, I might have to develop a new, or an improved, Thrillometer to rate them more efficiently. I know that in the past, I have factored in a car’s historical importance, a completely subjective thing, when applying Thrillometer readings to review pieces. That’s why we came up with the Collectors Comment feature, so everyone has a say into how they rate a particular diecast model. I know, too, that there are many Mustangs but not too many were Boss 351’s; well, duh! So how is it that this particular piece rates the full Monty? Let me attempt to chronicle that now.

First, the Boss 351 really was an important Mustang milestone. In some ways it marked the changing of the guard. By replacing the Boss 302, and growing substantially in size, it evolved from the image of a  ‘pony car’ to a full-on muscle car. In fact the ’71 ‘Stang grew almost 8 inches in length and 6 inches in width over the original Mustang model. The ’71 is remembered for the nearly horizontal rear window. Danbury’s designers captured every nuance of the change and issued a milestone replica of their own.  Just consider the engine bay alone and you’re sure to agree with me; but more on that later. Starting from the bottom and working your way around the car from there you will be struck with the considerable attention to infinite detail. DM has pioneered the use of various metal materials to replicate flex tubing and such is again the case here. You can see it in the brake cabling. They have also paid attention to historic accuracy in chassis markings. These were used in originally building the car and are researched closely and re-applied to 1:1’s by top restorationists. DM has gone a step farther in adding these to select models. You’ll see Ford’s markings on the oil pan and front anti-sway bar. Look, also, at the incredible detail of the oil filter, the totally realistic metallic paint of the transmission and dual mufflers. They are far better than the old standard paintings. But be completely amazed at the separate moldings and metal work on the trans linkage. Simply the best I have ever seen on a 1:24^th model. Then just beyond, check out the genuine metal spring assembly for the clutch throw-out assembly! It sets the tone for what you will see later in the engine compartment. Of course the suspension is functional. As is the scaled antenna. And DM used the right wheels; Magnum 500’s and they exhibit great detail contrast between the flat black inset and the chrome outer bright-work with chrome lug nuts. Note, too, the correct Firestone Wide Oval 60 lettering.

Before I get too far ahead of myself let’s not forget to appreciate the paint, and DM’s great color choice, Light Pewter Metallic, and its flawless application, smooth and shiny. The hockey stick stripes all line up faultlessly and the “Ram Air”, “Boss 351” and “Mustang” scripts are perfectly applied. Open the trunk lid. See the, “Jack Usage and Stowage” caution label? It is perfectly miniaturized. If you remove the ‘gimp’ spare, you’ll see the inflator bottle beneath it. The spare is also labeled and comes with a removable jack. There are some remarkable details in the interior as well. Open the doors; they are on the new-tech hinges, but do not overlook the door locks or well-scaled door handles and window cranks. All details are sharp and crisp, including the fabric seat belts, folding seatbacks, opening floor console door and check this out; a vehicle starting instruction sleeve surrounding the driver’s sun visor. Perfectly readable to the 1:24^th collectors among us. A nice new touch DM!

Ok, it’s time to crack open that dual scooped hood, but not before admiring the flat black paint treatment with infinitely scaled black pinstriping flanking it. The pinstripe separates the flat black paint from the body color edges of the long hood. Once again, we see the delicately crafted scissors hinges that hold the hood in perfect alignment. To the rear, beautifully formed wipers over air intake grills. But wait until you see the lengths that the DM guys went to to replicate the Ram Air induction mechanicals on the underside of the hood. Nothing short of dynamic. And DM has this labeling thing down! Perfectly miniaturized labels replicate the 1:1 for the spec sticker on the radiator support, air cleaner label and fan shroud caution sticker. But above and beyond is the replication of the Ford cooling system pamphlet hanging on the radiator! It’s a perfectly scaled folding brochure. The builder’s markings are found here as well and perfectly readable! The driver’s side valve cover is marked with a yellow, “O-K” and carries a tiny code label and instruction sticker. All wiring, plumbing and paint coloration applications are authentic and thoroughly realistic.

From the standpoint of being an important model, in terms of the increase in level of detail over prior issues, this diecast is more than worthy of a perfect 10. But is this score worth more than one used some time ago on a model with that day’s top tech? In my estimation, no, they are both top achievable scores for their particular day and technology.  This model deserves to be examined at a leisurely pace and perhaps savored over an Amaretto with lime, on ice, to be fully appreciated. TP 01/31/2006

Danbury Mint 1971 Plymouth Hemi Cuda Convertible – 1554

The Danbury lads finally entered the ‘Cuda fray and developed this incredible little entry. It’s a 1971 version and it refrains from yielding to the crazy color and adornment packages that so many 1:1 buyers perceived that they had to have back in the day. You’ve seen the big name auctions; these “Hemi” factory hot rods sell for rock star earnings. But we can’t lament and wish we could go back to 1971 to plop down the paltry sum, as we now look back at it, to purchase one of these future retirement investments, so thanks to the Danbury boys for having the foresight to grant us the better choice we might have purchased.

A little inside information; this model was replicated from an actual ’71 Hemi Cuda. The historical low-down on the car, as it readied for auction, laid out the rarity of its factual nature. Only 11 ’71 Hemi Cudas were made in convertible configuration and 7 of those were sold in the US market. The other 4 were imported to Europe. This duplicates the car that was originally sent to the European market but found its way back to the states. It also boasts that it is one of only 8 automatic transmission cars with an original kilometer-marked speedo! Estimated value; $5,000,000.

DM not only did their due diligence in the exact replication of the actual car, but built into the model all the ‘techie’ stuff we collectors like to jaw about on the forums. We’ve come to expect a flawless paint job and, where appropriate, a seamless transition from paint to graphics. DM excels in this arena and it shows, never better, than on this lovely little offering. But the fit of each part, one to the other, the tight tolerance of boot and ‘up top’, doors, hood and trunk lid, all exceed our best desires. Then we have the not so usual, but always welcome, tech details. The innovative scissors springs hood hinges consistently make me smile. The internal door hinges, folding sun visors, removable spare and the cool little metal-foiled emblems, now clear-coated to stay in place, are all here.

A nice extra, this go-round, is the hood pin arrangement. More on that later. Awesome details are everywhere on the Sno-White and black Mopar. Stickers are accurately placed in the engine bay and inner trunk lid. The seat belt ends are faultlessly fashioned in photo-etched metal and the floor mats, door and console hardware is perfectly scaled. Check out the T shifter. The space-saving spare is properly labeled and so are the white-lettered tires; Good-Year Polyglas GT’s. The engine detail is simply DM-Magnificent! Every hose, wire and fuel line is masterfully recreated to exacting scale. And it follows down the exhaust system, past the correct yellow exhaust jackets and on to the factory marked rear differential housing.

Ok, the hood pin assembly. Over the years we have seen various methods of crafting these hood pins, tethers and pin posts. Obviously the coolest are those that work like the genuine article, that is, to have the realism of pulling out a scaled hood pin from the post and letting it dangle on its lanyard. Only problem is that adult fingers do not allow for refastening without much effort and magnification. Another recent idea was to fashion the pins in the post and attach the tethers to the underbody of the hood. Closed, it grants the proper illusion but once opened the hood displays the misconception. DM solves this dilemma to my full satisfaction on this ‘Cuda.

The hood pins are held in check by the wire lanyards and are positioned through the pin posts. But instead of pulling the pins, you pull the entire post assembly out of the hood. Then once the hood is closed you simply replace the post and it is held in check by a tiny magnet. Voila! Realism and ease of operation. DM continues to build valuable little treasures for us and each seem different in many ways each time we examine them. This is one new tooling that you will enjoy for years to come no matter what other new techie things may show up. It is the next car in the Classic Car Preview Society. Be sure to order now; you do not want to say later, Cuda, wuda, shuda.  TP 07/03/2008

Danbury Mint 1974 Corvette Coupe – DM1592

This was another missing link in the diecast Corvette lineup. Thanks to the Danbury Mint we can now cross off the previously unmade 1974 model year. It comes to us in coupe form, the most popular base model that year, representing 32,028 units sold compared to 5,474 convertibles purchased. The DM Boyz had tooled up a new C3 image, from which to base this ’74, back in 2008. They released the 1975 convertible in Bright Green. That issue set the stage for this coupe. The new Stingray immediately commands your attention in Mille Miglia Red. The interior features optional leather seating in black. DM equipped the car with Rally wheels and white lettered tires and it’s powered by the biggest motor available for ’74, the 454 producing 270 hp.

Although the body styling is essentially the same as previous Stingrays first introduced in 1968, only subtle changes took place up until now. Model year 1972 was the last full steel-bumpered car that Corvette made. For ’73 they replaced the front chrome bumper with a plastic-clad shroud. For model year 1974, depicted in this diecast, we see a matching plastic cladding in the rear. For this initial effort, it was a two-piece arrangement later replaced by a singular unit for all subsequent cars in the C3 lineup. DM accurately replicates that split bumper. They also got the alarm key button right too. It’s right there ahead of the driver’s side “Stingray” emblem on the fender. Speaking of which; it is elegantly scaled and chrome metal-foiled. So are the block letters in that rear shrouding previously mentioned.

The door lock buttons and door handles, like the alarm key lock, are separately fashioned pieces, not painted-on dots. The front Corvette emblem, as with the real car, is more dimensional. The fuel filler door is operational and the twin roof panels are removable. DM has crafted tiny pins in each panel and they fit and hold in place remarkably well. There’s a button hidden within the front recesses, on the passenger’s side of the car, in front of the air dam, which activates the headlamp pods. A pen may be used to push it, partly opening the headlights. A finger nail can open them the rest of the way. Interior-wise, this is as good as it gets. DM’s magic wasn’t lost on the missing link; the floor mats, console, dash, steering wheel and working visors are resplendent in overall detailing.

The internally hinged doors have a locking mechanism featuring spring-loaded pins that fit into door jamb plates. The hood opens on a telescoping prop rod and avails us a magnificent view underneath. Wait until you see the new way DM models the wiring here. The stickers are superb and more than realistic, the hood’s closing locks are depicted accurately and the brake cylinder, exhaust headers and steering components are masterful. The fit and finish are, of course, DM-perfection and the stance and fidelity of the seventy four is faultless. One by one, we’re getting our missing link Vettes and thanks to the DM Boyz, we’re getting fantastic detailing along with them. TP 10/23/2009

Danbury Mint 1975 Corvette Convertible – 1547

This is an all-new tooling exercise for DM’s generation C-3 Corvette. The ’75 was not a monumental year for the marque but a darn good one. The body had sprouted plastic bumpers; first the front in 1973, looking a might awkward still sporting chrome rear bumpers and in ’74 the tail section was a two-piece affair. 1975 marked the last drop top until the late eighties and it had worn well over the development years so that by ’75 it had a pleasing style, shape, stance and functionality to it.

Danbury decided to paint this puppy what Corvette minimalistically called, Bright Green. Guess what; it is just that! The metal flake is scaled beautifully. And do I really even need to tell you how perfectly the paint was applied? DM should win an Oscar or something for their paintwork. The DM Corvette boys opted this one out with cool feature picks but it is the execution of detail that makes this such a flawless model. I like the luggage rack on this body style. The upgraded leather buckets don’t hurt either. The saddle color choice was perfect. The Rally Wheels shod with Firestone Steel Radial 500’s was the only way to go.

The Danbury Vette Guru built this baby right. Go ahead and hold the model, you’ll swear you’re holding the perfectly shrunken 1:1. The fuel filler door opens. The top storage lid opens and shows off a simulated down top. The interior shines in a light all its own. The fabric belts snake through the seat tops but still allow them to fold forward. The center console is exceptional; it shows off the shift gate pattern and the dash, floor pedals and mats are gorgeous. Not only do the visors work, they have excellent texture and detail. Talk about detail; wait until you see the inside of the soft top. It’s exquisite. The chassis is one of the best I have seen. All the springs and emergency cables are fashioned faultlessly and the steering mechanism is fabulous.

Under the working prop-rod hood is the heart of the machine. And though it is not a big block monster it is detailed so accurately you’ll swear you have the 1:1 in front of you. DM put the scaled wiring, plumbing and sticker appliqués in all the right spots. The doors are of high-tech lineage with the internal hinge hardware, the body sports chrome metal-foiled scripts and they appear to have been clear-coated. The lights pop up and the stance and ride height is genuine to the real car. This year model Corvette tooling may open up a whole new world of C3’s to come and I’m praying they come from DM. In summary, I LOVE IT!

TP 04/30/2008

Danbury Mint 1993 Corvette 40th Anniversary Coupe- Nbr Ltd Ed 1387

My friends at Danbury Mint have done the C4 Corvette proud. Their first issued C4 was the gorgeous yellow ’95 ZR-1. Loyal to the image of the 1:1, it was well received and it heralded the way for a black limited edition ‘96 coupe. Their awesome and incredible Grand Sport Coupe, which some would say is the quintessential ’96, later followed. Progressing on these successes, DM has just completed fabrication on the coveted 1993 40^th Anniversary Corvette, also in coupe form, faithfully and flawlessly. My friends at the Corvette Action Center keep a thorough archive of all things Corvette. They keep tabs on production numbers and option lists as officially tallied by Chevrolet. Their Tech Center’s Production and Performance list highlights a very special option for Corvette’s 1993 model as, “The 40th Anniversary package”. It included special Ruby Red Metallic paint, ruby red interior, special emblems, wheel center caps and power driver seat. The Z25 option code, used to order this package, cost $1,455 additionally and accounted for 6,749 units. If you weren’t fortunate enough to obtain a new 40^th Anniversary Vette from Chevy, now is your chance to get one from DM.

Talk about detail, and I will, this little charmer has it in all the right places. Talk about accuracy and functionality, this Ruby Red rascal has that too. As you open the model’s box you’ll first note its special color. DM’s paint is the correct shade of ruby red, not an easy task to duplicate, and it has just the right amount of metallic. Like all current DM diecasts, the finish is flawless, smooth and even. My example has a wonderfully glossy mirror-like clearcoat that is instantly stunning. The interior is equally accurate in color and detailing. In fact DM’s model has a driver’s door arm rest done in black while the passenger’s door arm rest is ruby red. I wonder how many other model companies would have gotten that right. The dash authenticity is spot on and the seats, with their perfect little 40^th Anniversary logos in place, are perfect miniatures to the real things; leather creases and all. The belts are cool looking and the rear floor has the stowage compartment hatch lock handle indicated where it should be. Even the console door opens just like the genuine article. And opening the rear hatch window is a treat. Feast your peepers on the twin pneumatic prop cylinders. DM made them so realistic. They also stowed the tinted removable roof panel beneath the window. It fits exact. They also supplied us with the body color roof panel and speaking of fit; they both sit in place like gloves thanks to twin locating studs, almost too small to see with the naked eye. Just behind the rear window is the operational gas filler door. On the 1:1 there is a finger indention that allows the operator to swing out the door panel easier to gain access to the gas cap. It is surrounded by the C4 logo emblem. DM replicated it! That emblem, as well as the one on the hood and the two 40^th logos on either side of the hood’s clamshell are chrome metal foiled to perfection.   

The chassis takes on a completely authentic representation utilizing DM’s skills of accurately reproducing the smallest details. From the exhaust heat shielding to the working suspension, they left nothing unaccounted for. The same holds true for the engine bay. Open that big hood for a delightfully accurate and finely detailed view of Corvette’s LT-1 350 cubic inch small block. Everything is finely crafted to reflect the actual motor, plumbing, wiring and informational labeling. The hydraulic cylinder prop works too. So too, do the revolving headlights. DM got this one as close to the original image as humanly possible. What a treat to enjoy the total package of realistic replication. I can’t help but dream of seeing a ’94 version in super-rare Copper Metallic, to match my 1:1.

This model is available only to previous subscribers to the limited edition Corvette series, the issue price is $135.

TP 08/18/2006

Franklin Mint 1981 Corvette Coupe- Independent Retailer Nbr Ltd Ed of 750 - P001

1981 was an interesting year for Corvette. The sporty fiberglass Chevy was actually constructed in its familiar factory in St. Louis, Missouri but also in the new Corvette assembly plant facility in Bowling Green, Kentucky as well! Both factories operated at the same time. This also marked what was to be the last Corvette model to come with a manual transmission. But of course the Doug Nash manual tranny came back in the ’84 model year. Strangely, however, the factory in St. Louis painted the cars with a lacquer finish while the cars in Bowling Green received enamel paint with a clear top coat. Paint code 28 designated Dark Blue Metallic sprayed at the St. Louis plant while code 38 stipulated that cars made in Bowling Green were the same color but in enamel with clear coat. The cars from St. Louis painted Dark Blue Metallic numbered 2,522 while only 496 were so finished at the Kentucky factory. Perhaps more interesting is that Bowling Green offered interiors of Camel, Dark Blue and Silver Gray for the code 38 paint while St Louis offered the same options plus a Medium Red interior as well. Stranger still is that 1981 saw code 01 and 24 used in St. Louis for Primer Gray and Bright Blue Metallic, respectively, and only one car each was so painted!

Once again Michelle Peters has commissioned The Franklin Mint to produce a special repaint in limited edition numbers for release from her independent dealership. And once again it is a Corvette to receive the honors. Not done until now, the 1981 year model fills a gap in Mint offerings for Chevy’s two-seat sports car.

Essentially the same tooling as FM’s initial 1982 series vehicle, Michelle had FM make some nice tweaks. All paintwork on the running gear is authentic, the emblems are much more realistic and the T-Tops have locator pins to help hold the roof panels from sliding around as you look the model over. The dark blue paint is highly metallic and susceptible to flash but to the naked eye, deep, dark and lustrous. The engine has nice detail and the suspension functions well. Mint Models may be reached via email at service@mintmodels.com or phone at (800)341-4699 toll free or direct at (518) 783-1113. The issue price is $135.  TP 08/04/2006

Franklin Mint 1982 Corvette Coupe- Independent Distributor Nbr Ltd Ed of 648 – E428

Commissioned by Mason Distributing, a Franklin Mint dealer, this model arrives in the same number of units that the actual car was made in back in 1982, 648. A good limited edition number count as it makes it relatively rare, just the way some collectors like it.

Code 56 was simply called, “Gold” and 648 ’82 Vettes were painted in this brass-gold metallic color. Not as bold as some orange shades, yet not as mousey as some lesser pigmented tints, it stands out just enough in the curio or display shelf to command a second and third glance. The 1:1’s interior came with either camel or charcoal with this exterior choice so, outfitted in the charcoal, it becomes somewhat rarer than 648. No numbers are available as to the actual production figures.

FM did a nice job on an older tooled model. These diecasts are seen as FM ‘80, ‘81 and ‘82’s for the most part and have some updates to the original issuance. The main basic highlights remain; working suspension, nice stance and body shape, good detail on engine and engine bay and good fit in most cases. Some of the 1980 through 1982 models suffered from undue door gaps in front but I sense that FM tweaked this a bit as my example looks improved overall. The tinted T-Tops fit well.

Issue price is $135.  TP 05/11/2007

1982 Corvette Sport Coupe- Independent Retailer- Nbr LE of 1000   P004

Corvette produced 25,407 cars for 1982. The generation change-over, highly anticipated for the ‘83/’84 model year, was drawing near and limited ’82 Corvette sales compared to previous year’s figures. This was the last of the C3 Vettes. Production recorded 18,648 base coupe configuration units and 6,759 for the silver beige Collector Edition Hatchback. In addition that year, Corvette also offered four special two-tone paint options. They were code 10/13, a white over silver, code 13/39, silver over charcoal, code 24/26, a silver blue over dark blue and code 13/99 a gorgeous Silver over Dark Claret, the car modeled here. Easily the best choice of the color combos, it was sold in a limited number, only 1,301. This model was commissioned by Diecast Reproductions. Tony Cerra, of that firm, did a fantastic job of ‘ordering’ this limited edition from Franklin. His obvious attention to detail and knowing just what he wanted in the diecast adds a nice dimension to our collector hobby in this model.

The changes that he specified over FM’s 1982 Spectra Red model include a newly revised T-top frame in chrome. The master cylinder & brake booster now comes in cadmium, the alternator is silver, A/C compressor is in proper black and the air cleaner wing nut is now black. Also changed to a correct silver color are the ignition lock, directional lever, tilt wheel lever, and rear view mirror bracket. The AC/heater vents are now fashioned in black along with the shifter boot. In addition, an 8 1/2 x 11 title (owner of the model may fill in the title if they choose) & replicated window sticker are included with each model. This lends a realistic and very nice touch to the car. Comparing the model to the red ‘82 and the ’82 Collectors Editions, the model exhibits much better fit and certainly a much better finish. Even the roof panels snap in tightly. Engine detail is good, as is the interior fit and finish and the stance and overall look of the model is very attractive. Make no mistake, this is still an older tooled piece based some eight years past. And while the light pods do not open and we do not see the same level of sophistication as the newer FM ’93 Corvette, not to mention DM’s newer pieces, it is still a lovely image. The paint breaks are exact and the pinstriping is precise and the way that Mr. Cerra laid out the car’s configuration, we have a very pleasant new limited edition on hand. Bravo to Diecast Reproductions, I look forward to more exclusives.

TP 06/17/2005

Franklin Mint 1982 Corvette Weathered – D998 Custom

My biggest problem with reviewing this model is coming up with a specific label for its genre. We’ve been treated to whimsical car models before, cartoon character models and dioramas to house our precious treasures. But this one is wholly different from them all and yet maybe more precision in detail than most. For some time now Manny Solano has been wowing the forum readers with his prowess in customizing scale diecast cars to look like junk yard and barn finds and posting photos that have us all drooling over. But it took the marketing expertise of Tony Cerra to grant us our wishes of owning these basically one-off pieces.

Tony heads up Diecast Reproduction, Inc. at http://www.diecastreproductions.com. He has brought us such jewels as the Apollo 12 1969 Corvette, the 2000 Platinum Power Corvette, the 2002 Indy League Corvette and the original stock version of this model and others. Tony teamed up with Manny to tap into those unbelievable modeling skills to yield a diorama in itself. Talk about imagination; just looking at this highly customized Corvette, conjures up images of running across a minor tragedy in the form of a derelict, discarded and unwanted previously valuable car. Oh the humanity! What a waste of a previously gorgeous automobile. Or is it?

Keep in mind folks; this is just a model, not a modeled version of a real, genuine 1:1 sports car but just a model-crafting exercise and what a phenomenal exercise it is! Manny laid on years of rust, neglect, and deterioration then literally punched holes in time through the metal and finish while weathering up a storm of detail for our viewing pleasure. Unless you actually hold one of these beauties in your hands it is easy to miss the nuance and perfection that is the tiny detailing artistry. Photos cannot capture it all. The rust is real – how did he do that?

There’s no shine to the paint and the stress marks, cracks and scratches look like they took a decade or two to materialize. The chassis, in all its rusted glory, is enhanced by the holes in the mufflers and the sight of the incredible flat tires. The engine is fantastic in its abused state but at least someone had the forethought of ragging the intake; little good it did. And I am amazed at the perfection of the windshield hole and subsequent cracking. The interior may be the best part of the illusion. The way the leather seats have transformed through the years, cracking, gathering dirt and debris, is more realistic than I can imagine. Spare parts adorn the passenger’s seat and floor. The spare tire adds another touch of realism too; it’s pretty much disgusting!

I’m telling you, no, I’m warning you, be careful displaying this piece, it may bring unwanted results. Diecast visitors may see this and pay more attention to it than your most prized collection pieces. Yeah, it’s THAT good!    TP 09/09/2009

Franklin Mint 1983 Corvette Coupe -#LE/1983 – E422

This may be the rarest Corvette known to exist, simply due to attrition, by default. Still rare in anyone’s definition, 43 were actually made, but this lone white example of a 1983 Corvette exists at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Making the transition from the last C3, of 1982 vintage, to the highly anticipated change-over in model design, Chevrolet ran long in the 1982 production run and basically skipped the 1983 model year. The first 1984 Corvettes were ready for and ultimately set for sale in March of 1983 as 1984 models. As is the case to this day, “pilot cars” are produced of the Corvette. Not considered as part of the actual production run, these are cars used for testing and more often that not, later destroyed. They do not want them to fall into the hands of the public for liability reasons as you can no doubt imagine. Once in a while I delight in reading about an exception to the rule in a Corvette periodical, magazine or newsletter from the National Corvette Museum or any of the many Corvette Forums online. These pilot cars go for mucho dinero.

The lone surviving 1983 was given a serial number bearing witness to its 1983 birth as were all 44. But with some of the 43 being crash tested and some pummeled in all sorts of unimaginable ways, this white knight stands alone and unscathed. Well, almost. It was cloaked in a savings bond’s paint scheme as a sales pitch to employees at the Corvette Assembly plant. But then restored and returned to its former unashamed factory white attire. Now housed across the street at the National Corvette Museum, the car stands as a testament to a hand-off of one generation to another.

In their quest for different and diverse automotive subject matter for us collectors, Franklin has not missed many great Corvette opportunities. A little known piece of Corvette trivia to most Corvette-a-philes, the 1983 Corvette’s existence was possibly overlooked by most others. So I give props to FM for not being in the latter group. They have essentially revisited their 1984 Corvette tooling and offer this model to us ever-hungry Vette addicts as a limited edition of 1983 units. There had been more than one set of wheels utilized on the lone existing #0023 1:1 car and FM knew that and crafted the correct and current ones. I know because I asked them directly and specifically before this model’s release. They were up to speed on all elements of this issue.

The accurate blue interior was used, the engine made to look period correct and a simulation added to the top of the rear fender to indicate where the power antenna resides when the car’s ignition is shut off. I note an unexpected little bonus in a fabricated VIN number plate and the blue windshield sticker affixed to the actual car. To be honest I do not know the origin of its “RBV 098” history. The roof panel is accurate as a body-color piece and the fit of the rear hatch window, doors and clamshell hood are exacting. FM even thought to replicate the, “1983” National Corvette Museum” license plate. Nice touch! Issue price for this limited edition is $120. TP 01/12/2007

Franklin Mint 1:5 1986 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic- Connoisseur’s Edition  - E418

Size is everything in a model. We largely collect our treasures based on scale. Let’s face it; it is as ageless a consideration as the collectible itself. In the automotive realm, 1:43^rd scale offers a size which lends itself to large collections due to the capacity of replicas we can legitimately collect. But they do not offer, in general terms, as much detail content as a larger model is capable of holding. The 1:18^th scale takes up more room than does a 1:24^th diecast. Recently there has been a spate of 1:12^th scale cars coming to us at an alarming rate. So when I tried to envision FM’s new 1:5^th bike I gasped. Even a two wheeler, at THIS size, is huge! So then I opened the package. I had delusions on a GRAND scale! There’s just NO disappointment in this monster.

This is one heavy Harley. No, I mean REALLY; this model Harley is HEAVY! TFM built a very substantial model here. It is tight, agile and robust. The finish on the big ’86 Heritage Softail Classic is astonishingly smooth, glossy and even. The striping and lettering is awesome. The usual features of FM’s previous bikes are all here but a whole new cast of characters to go with them. First, a word about that; this marks but only the fourth offering of motorcycles from The Franklin Mint in this scale. Two have been pewter models and the first of which was a version of this very cycle issued in 2001. This model adds a more vibrant color combo and a windscreen that is removable.

Aside from the standard operating features are a set of buckles that actually work on the removable saddle bags,  a removable genuine leather seat, removable oil filter and a removable air cleaner revealing the air filter and carburetor assembly. You can twist the throttle, pull in the clutch and brake levers and activate the horn switch. Take off the twin gas caps, counter-clockwise on left and clockwise on the right (keep the caps separate for return) and you can remove the gas tank. Doing so allows you to position three batteries inside. Once done switch on the main power switch, located on the inside left front fork. This will permit operation of the electrical features.

Turn signals, headlight, passing lights, brake and lane change indicators and speedometer all light up. Just be sure to turn the main power switch back off when you are finished being totally impressed! The bike takes on completely different looks when displayed with or without the windshield fairing and saddlebag complement. FM even supplies you with a rather heavy diecast helmet for display purposes as well. Of course it is paint specific and matches the bike’s ensemble. At this size and commanding presence, this can be one forceful display. Switch on the lights and you add a does of ‘dazzling’ to the mix. FM did everything right on this little goodie. Harley fan or not, this is a GRAND ‘must-have’! Issue price $495.  TP 02/24/2008

Franklin Mint 1993 Corvette ZR1- Nbr Limited Edition of 5000 E263

I have always been a fan of FM’s ‘93 Corvette tooling. This was a natural winner in 40^th Anniversary Ruby Red trim but the fact that it was also optioned with the ZR-1 package somehow got lost in the reception of the model even though we so listed it. This is a resurrection of the tooling in a repaint with what I’d term as some welcomed refinement.

First, the color. It is called "Polo Green II Metallic" code RPO 45 and made in 2,189 units for 1993. It carried over from 1992 but changed slightly in appearance in 1994 and was renamed, "Polo Green Metallic" dropping the "II" designation. This is a very deep, dark forest green with a tinted roof panel. FM retained all the goodies that, in my opinion, put the model ahead of its previous FM Corvette brethren. It has excellent engine detail. The wiring for the ZR1 engine is properly color oriented. Radiator labeling and graphics for the induction housing and valve covers are well defined. The headlight pods rotate the way the real ones do. Fidelity to the 1:1 is excellent and the light beige interior looks beautiful with this dark exterior. FM refined their previous badgings and emblems updating them to chrome metal foil treatment. I have a tiny issue with the ‘Corvette’ lettering on the rear in chrome as this was an after market item not found on the stock car but I like its look on this model.

The rear hatch window opens and the roof panel, in dark tint, fits well when in place and gives a bird’s eye view of the nicely reproduced interior, dash and center console detailing. The chassis shows good attention to detail and the aforementioned paint is exquisitely finished in a high gloss. The issue price is $120.  TP 09/07/2006