Car Details

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Image
33201
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    MPN
    E010
    Brand
    Franklin Mint
    Comments
    MSRP
    Scale
    1:24
    Model Year
    1956
    Automaker
    Ford
    Model
    Thunderbird FM Preferred Partner Nbr Ltd Ed of 1000
    Color
    Goldenglow Yellow
    Ltd Ed
    0
    Date Issued
    December 22, 2004
    Series
    Franklin Mint
    Link to buy
    Find Ford at Legacy Diecast
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    Review

    The early two-seat T-Birds have always enjoyed iconoclastic status as classic cars. Quite a few of us would like to see the 1955 and 1957 small birds added to the list of our collectibles in precision 1:24th scale and up to today’s ever improving standards. Let’s get one thing out of the way first on this model. It is based on Franklin Mint’s initial tooling technology of about a decade ago. Their ’56 Bird was initially offered in Aqua in 1992 and followed up with a Fiesta Red version in 1995. But despite the lack of working gizmos and newer upgrades the image itself is highly refreshing. What makes that possible is little more than the color, a cheery, sunny shade called Goldenglow Yellow. It makes you wonder why this model wasn’t treated to this choice long ago.

    Aside from the low limited numbers of the diecast, the appeal of the replica is the beautiful application of the paint, smooth and bright. The chrome-trimmed continental kit spare adds a dimension of sparkle also. With black and white interior, the car takes on a rich contrast and with the hard top in place, its bright white paint makes this issue a stand out. The fit lines are all close and the doors are suitably tight. There’s a prop rod for the hood while the trunk lid stays open on its own. Mounted to its floor is the limited edition plate. To access it simply pull the conny kit rearward and open the trunk lid. Once closed, push forward to snap it closed.

    The grill insert is made from photo-etch metal. Under the hood FM added the chrome dress-up kit, popular for the day and it adds a modicum of spice to the engine bay. The engine detail is well defined albeit devoid of wiring and complete plumbing. It is amazing what a different color can do to liven up a diecast that we have been used to looking at for a period of time. This is a great example of what the right color on the right car can do. A definite thumbs up to The Russian Island for commissioning such a charming and beautiful model!

    The issue price is $135.
    Orders may be placed through: Russian Island, Attn: Michael – 2033 Nottingham Place Allen, TX 75013
    Phone1: 469-855-7602 Phone2: 972-396-7602 Fax: 972-396-7602 Email: zilvladimi@aol.com Web: http://www.therussianisland.com

    Reviewed by Tony Perrone · November 12, 2004

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