For the sake of the stature of this new release, a seriously detailed precision diecast, I will forego the cliché references to songs of the period, current events, etc. Likewise, we mostly all know where the origins lie with the vehicle and its history is well documented and familiar to us by now. Instead I’d like to focus completely on the model at hand. I always wanted to get my mitts on this little number, but for whatever reason, have not been successful until now. FM reprises their very popular red and white original issue released in 1994. Discontinued, I am very glad it has been redone as a limited edition and in this charming shade of Brunswick Blue accented with Lotus White. In person it is a knock out.

Franklin built in a lot to enjoy here. The front doors fit really well and show no undue gapping at all. The external hinges are elegantly crafted. Each front door has windows that slide open. The passenger’s side doors also open wide, from the center, affording a large entry to the bus. The outside seatback folds forward to allow access to the third row seating are. In the back, you may open the engine cover to display the engine’s simplistic details. Above it is an opening rear tailgate, also on the nice external hinges, that permits a good view of the cargo area. FM includes the cargo restraint rails that act to keep the windows and rear passengers intact. That’s also where you’ll find the Ltd Ed plate.

For a more complete view of the interior, FM has fashioned a nicely scaled sliding fabric top. It functions really well. Slide it back without forcing it and you have a bird’s eye view of the goings-on in there. The chassis is pretty well plain Jane except for the working steering, back behind the wheel, since the driver sits directly above the front wheels. FM reproduced that nicely. The paint finish is exceptional and is smooth and highly glossy. If you are like me and have wanted this issue but have been unable to get a good representative sample, now’s your chance. The issue price is $135.

-Tony Perrone