When FM retired the '57 Vette, I wondered why. 1957 was a seminal year for the marque, with the intro of fuel injection the year after the body style was reworked. Why take this particularly noteworthy year out of the line? Then, along comes the completely redesigned, FIBERGLASS image of this classic Vette and all I can say is - wow! Though fiberglass definitely redefines the meaning of a die cast image, it's a natural for Corvette. I wonder if this will catch on for future releases and re-releases of FM's most popular car models.

This new image raises the bar yet again. The list of features is impressive. The paint job is truly first rate and the overall proportions and "look" of the image are spot-on. The tires are whitewalls this time, with better-looking full wheel covers. There's a fully detailed engine in all its glory and an interior that doesn't stint on details - with a beautifully redesigned dash layout and opening center console between the seat backs! Pop the trunk and you have a removable mat and spare tire compartment cover, something that's been sorely needed in these older Vette images. Look underneath at the beautifully detailed undercarriage, turn the rear wheels and notice - yes! - the driveshaft rotates. And this time out there's a full suspension fore and aft. Really neat extras include a top-up ragtop AND a hardtop (in die cast metal). Even the cowl behind the seats lifts to reveal a fully detailed folded top. If you look carefully at the top of each door you'll see the edges of the windows - a nice little "extra" touch. Oh, and don't forget the aerial on the left rear fender. Now THAT's what I call getting your money's worth! Any gripes? I sure wish the windows actually worked, a la the '39 World's Fair Ford. They also could have painted the car in solid black, which was the most ordered color that year. End of list.

Yet again, FM has demonstrated why they're number one in die cast images - by giving collectors the features and innovations they want. This new image of the 1957 Corvette is a prime example. Keep 'em coming FM! The issue price is $135.

-Tom Pine