This is Franklin Mint's fifth version of the little 1956 Metropolitan. All hard tops. This also includes the so-called error version. Even in real life these diminutive cars were no bigger than a minute but as adorable as they could be. The 1:24th iterations are too. Of course no self-respecting macho guy would ever dare be caught driving one of these, at least in a neighborhood where he'd be recognized; fun ride or not. And, my goodness, in this shade of pink? Ok, ok, I confess the color is not really called pink, but I ask you, is the actual color name any better? It is Ballerina Red. Oh - my - GOD! For the female driver who wanted good gas mileage and miles of smiles this was a dandy little automobile. Reliving those fun times is as easy as an FM purchase. FM has built some nice features into the cute production model. The wipers are photo-etched metal, the seats exhibit nice detail and the engine bay reveals more than decent wiring and plumbing!

This is a limited edition of only 2500 so if you want to relive the good old days you better not wait too long. Sure to elicit, "Ewws and ahhs from the feminine collectors, FM created a small treasure in this little piece that also appeals to the nostalgic sense of us secure macho types too. LOL! The issue price is $105.

-Tony Perrone