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Once more Jim Cowen’s Automodello has scored another winner with one of their latest models, the 1966 Fitch Sprint (item #AM-FIT-SPR-WG). The model was introduced at the CORSA 2012 International Meet in July, 2012.The car that the Fitch Sprint was based on was the attractive Chevrolet Corvair Corsa and was intended to give America a bargain grand touring car for little more than the price of a standard Corvair Corsa.
In 1960, Detroit’s Big 3 woke up to the reality of the sales of imported cars in the United States. The parade of imports led by Volkswagen were beginning to make their mark. The success of American Motors’ Rambler and Studebaker’s Lark had also made an impression on Detroit. Ford’s new Falcon with conservative styling and running gear led the pack. Strangely, General Motors chose a rear-engine configuration for their new Corvair. Chrysler, as might be expected, chose to go with their version of continental styling in their Valiant. By 1962 Chevrolet had introduced their more conservative ChevyII/Nova while the Corvair was now being touted as a sporty car.
John Fitch, the world renowned race car driver, and would-be auto manufacturer had decided that he could cheaply provide a kit to upgrade the Corvair Corsa to a GT car that might emulate the Porsche. The would-be customer could order a Corsa and have it delivered to Fitch’s Connecticut garage, bring his car to the garage, or have his local dealer install the kit. The entire kit included improved suspension, a 15 horsepower tweak to the engine and modifications to the interior and exterior. The most visible styling enhancement was an addition of what was called the “Vent Top”. It was a fiber glass add-on that ran from mid-roof down to the rear fenders, giving the car an attractive fast back appearance. Pricing for the entire installed kit was a modest $383.
The Automodello model is painted in a flawless Willow Green. The hood and top have a matte black finish that continues along the window sills, back to the rear tail lights. Immaculate detailing includes a tiny Corvair logo on the nose, minute Corsa names on the front fenders, and SPRINT emblems on the rear C post. The interior is white with black carpets and includes a special wood-grain steering wheel and knob on the floor-mounted shifter. Door and window handles further enhance the interior. The eight-spoke chrome wheels include knock-off hubs. The chassis shows some suspension detail and aluminum mufflers and tail pipe extensions appear below the rear grille.
The amazing thing about this model is that all this quality and detail are available for only $95 for the standard model that has a limited build up of 999 units. In addition, a Tribute Edition in white with a blue top and black interior is available for $166 with a build of 66 units and is signed by John Fitch, A third version, the Homage Edition in black with tan interior for $235, hand numbered and limited to 24 units is also available. If you are a fan of Corvairs, John Fitch, or just great models, don’t miss this one.
(08/04/2012)
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