Franklin Mint 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Hardtop Coupe

This is one of the better detailed 1:24 scale muscle car models I have had the opportunity to review. FM has done a superb job of production on this diecast. The doors, trunk and hood line up perfectly. The hood, when closed on the model I reviewed, was almost seamless. Under the hood another great display awaits you as you view all the detailed wiring and decals on this Turbo Fire 302 engine, which if you care to look closely enough, you can actually read.

The body lines appear generally correct (but see the Editor's note at the bottom of this review) and the choice of colors, orange and black, are exactly right for this model. The appearance of the vinyl roof finish and trim inside and out, is by far, some of the best I have seen. This appears to have been accomplished by use of plastic materials as opposed to normal diecast aluminum, an interesting departure from the norm. The plastic offers a slightly different "feel" than usual being somewhat less substantial than metal. Still, the vinyl appearance and detail is excellent. Side lights on the front and rear fenders fail in detail, being paint finished.

The underbody provides good detail with continuing technical improvements included such as suspension detail with leaf springs flexing realistically and a revolving driveshaft when wheels are turned. In overall appearance, this release is one of the better looking models I have seen. The issue price is $105. (12/97) EDITOR'S NOTE: Persons intimately familiar with this Camaro may take issue with the fidelity of its roof and windshield appearance. Despite this, the reviewer is quite satisfied with the overall stance of the car. Also, this is apparently the first use of plastic instead of metal for a hardtop, resulting in a much truer scale. (12/01/1997)

-Mike Martin