Franklin Mint 1969 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Stingray Coupe

Issued in June 1995, this Monaco Orange big block added color and pizzazz to the FM Corvette line-up. It boasts a magnificent engine bay. The gray wiring and accurately color-coded engine components are expertly done. It does lack working suspension and the wheels, while barely acceptable in the mid 90's, pale in comparison to those on the FM fiberglass 1963 Stingray. Later models sported opening headlights and better dash treatment but these minor items aside, the '69 is a lovely image. To me, the Corvette form from 1968 to 1972, with high arching fenders and full metal front and rear bumpers, exuded a look of strength, power and potency. Less sophisticated than today's iteration, FM captures that nuance wonderfully in this model. The paint is applied smoothly and evenly rich. The tampos are sharp and the hood and doors line up the way they should. In fact, the T tops fit precisely, if not securely in place. The side exhaust pipes are well detailed and the door locks are remarkably realistic. If you must have every one of the Corvette series cars or need a good example of the "C3" collection, you can't go far off with this choice. A fantastic candidate for a fiberglass reissue, this car in the "ZL-1" configuration would be incredible. One of only two ever made in either yellow or white, I would be first in line for the 'hairiest' Vette ever.

The issue price is $90. (09/20/2000)

-Tony Perrone