The Franklin Mint really has this Corvette fiberglass thing down to a science. They have made several models from the actual materials that the replicated cars were manufactured in. Aluminum was used for their BMW Z8, Shelby’s Cobra 427 S/C, and copper for the ’21 Rolls Silver Ghost. But back in 1998 the 1963 Sebring Silver split window Corvette Coupe took center stage made from the Corvette’s medium, fiberglass. We saw a follow up in limited edition form with the blue ’63 and then the ’57, a ’56 from Mint Models, a ’70 and ’71 came hot on their heels and in more than one color variation. Currently reincarnated as a 1956 model, this black beauty offers plenty to like.

For me, the highlight of this jaunty little roadster is its engine. When FM initially tooled up their C1 as a fiberglass ’57 model, they chose the highly prized first-year fuel injection engine for the power plant. But when they were commissioned by Mint Models to do a ’56 version, based from the fuelie model, they installed the dual quad motor. They did themselves proud by adding great little detail touches in the way of fuel lines and throttle linkage. Their engine bay is resplendent in authenticism. The paint is grand; rich, smooth and glossy. Contrast that with red interior, black ‘up top’ in the form of a hard top and the additional soft top display option, also in black, and you’re good to go. Of the 3,467 Corvettes made in 1956, 2,797 of them had the “two-tone paint combination” option (contrasting side cove color). Chevrolet’s making only 670 solid color cars from 810 cars painted in black allowed FM to create an unusually rare Corvette with this specific issue.

The ‘feel’ of the model, in fiberglass, is nice. TFM opted to reproduce this replica from an existing tool which made it more cost effective than tooling up internal hinges for the doors. It also avoided any misalignment problems, for which I rejoice. This is a good choice in color, build material and product quality. Issue price is $120.

-Tony Perrone