I’m always excited to review a new Auto art Corvette, and this gleaming Cortez Silver 1969 Roadster didn’t disappoint. Right off the bat, let me clarify that AA made no changes to the engine. The same, underwhelming ZL 1 engine is apparent in this model. Still, there is enough to love in this Vette to please many Corvette diecast collectors.

As is one of AA’s signature strong points, the Cortez Silver paint is rich, smooth and gleaming. The C3 is one of my favorite Corvette body styles and unlike the Yellow version which made a loud and bold statement, this Cortez Silver model sits like a streak of lightning on the shelf, ready to zoom off. It has presence and brute strength. The thing I love about the AA ’69 Corvettes are the pop up headlights. The mechanism right underneath the front end, works like a jewel and the shut lines are better than any in the market. The car is hefty and aside from the lackluster engine, details abound. The dual exhaust pipes and optional luggage rack are extra icing on the Silver cake.

The Black interior will delight any Corvette aficionado. All you need in this interior is for the lights to work, illuminating the perfectly replicated dash and gauges. The steering, seats, carpeting and attention to Corvette badging should delight Corvette faithful.

Although some collectors will resist adding the AA 1969 Corvette to their collections because of the engine shortcomings, there are simply no other offerings of this year that come close to the quality that AA puts into their images. In this collector’s opinion, the Auto art 1969 Corvette Roadster is a star that shines on the shelf, whichever color you choose.

-Patty Henderson