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Danbury builds another masterpiece. This time, in green and white, and in the form of the famous retractable hard top, the Fairlane 500. The inevitable question of comparison will come up between this and the FM models, including the one done for the Tinder Box folks, in blue. So why should a collector now buy this version? Because it is done so masterfully. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not badmouthing the FM versions, I have two of them and love the blue model. But, if like me, you like the ’57 Ford, you will have to own this one. My first high school driver was a ’57 Ford Fairlane 500; need I say more?
First of all, you need to see this color combo in person. It is as rich as a Sunday drive, top down, in a state park full of greenery. The antique cream shade of Colonial White deepens the contrast of the lush Cumberland Green. The interior is superb. The two-tone seats feature an insert of vinyl-like material that is patterned like the real car. The dash is simply amazing in small miniature detail. DM even fashioned a high beam dimmer switch on the floor. Remember those? The doors are works of modeling art, with internal hinging and strike plate locks that snap the door closed. The visors are operational. Don’t like the fender skirts? They come off. The fuel door opens and the antenna raises and lowers. The fit of the pieces of this model is unbelievable, maybe too realistic. The seams are so precise that you may have trouble opening the hood or raising the incredible retractable hard top. A slight bit of downward pressure on the front leading edge of the hood with one finger may be enough to open the rear of the hood enough for you to get a fingernail under it. Your efforts will be rewarded when you see this engine detail. Aside from the standard wiring and plumbing is a standout “See Clear” windshield washer bag, hose attached, metal fuel lines, battery cables and proper printing on the radiator hose. Vacuum hoses, incredible rocker cover printing and the neatest little fuel pump, visible from below, that you ever saw. The glass bowl, filled with gas, is replicated in a perfect yellow/orange.
The roof, when stowed away, is so precisely fit that I have to wiggle it while pressing on the top release button, to get it to raise. Be careful and take your time. It’s worth it. With the top in place, a perfect fit by the way, take a moment before closing the rear deck. You can readily see the model craftsmanship in the form of magnificent detail. Every pump, hinge and hydraulic feature is represented. The minute informational stickers are present in perfect scale. The suspension works and the stance is correct. Every nuance of the model is beautifully replicated. Thank goodness and Danbury Mint for today’s technology. They help us recall and appreciate yesterday’s great cars. A solid 5 star effort! The issue price is $115.
(10/29/2003)
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