Franklin Mint 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Split Window Coupe - Fiberglass Edition

Okay. Let's take a second look at FM's second-edition '63 Corvette "Split-window" coupe. Is this reissue worth the effort? Well, let's see….

This time out, the body's "fiberglass" plastic, finished in lustrous Sebring Silver. Forget the debate over whether it's made like the real cars' bodies. In the interest of truth in advertising, there's fiberglass material in there somewhere. I think the real issue for die cast mavens is whether we want a plastic model. With this reissue, FM raised the bar. Everywhere you look, the small details are just sharper. There're etched-metal grills instead of chromed plastic. Where there is chromed plastic, it's done meticulously and looks great. Corvette's optional alloy wheels are replicated this time. Working parts include a full suspension, drop-down spare tire tray with tire, and working, pop-up headlights.

This model really shines in the interior and under the hood. This time, the dash and console details are 3-D and the upholstery looks more authentic. There are authentic decals visible here and there. Under the hood, FM opted for a "fuelie" engine with all the expected trimmings. The difference is like night and day. (Don't worry about the "missing" plug wires - they weren't visible on the real car either.) FM did its homework on this baby and deserves credit for listening to collectors. You decide. Do you need two '63s in your collection? I did. The price is $135 + S&H.

-Tom Pine