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Sales of this diecast are reserved for the subscribers to the Danbury Mint's Limited Edition Corvette series that debuted with their 1953 Corvette model. Further Limited Edition series releases will be the '64, '69 and '96 Corvettes. As most of you realize, Danbury also brought out an all-new tooling non-limited edition 1958 Corvette, in Charcoal, during Corvette’s 50th anniversary year, 2003. All the superlatives that apply to that C1 generation Corvette can be attached to this knockout C1 model as well and maybe then some. The first thing to strike you is the choice of color, Cascade Green with Ermine White side coves. For 1960, this was Corvette’s rarest color. Only 140 units were so painted and sold out of the total production of 10,261 cars. The color pick is magnificent and simply must be seen in person. A subtle shade of green, it has a slight metallic base and a misty, willow tone reminiscent of 1950’s pastel colors. The interior is jet black. The 1960 model year was a much smoother image for Corvette. The ribs of the 'washboard hood' for 1958 were eliminated, along with the twin chrome spears running down the trunk lid, much to the relief of some Corvette purists, many of whom thought these 'dress-up' cues in poor taste in the first place. The 1959 model year eliminated them and that carried over to this model year. Danbury captured these nuances brilliantly.
The roadster sports the two four barreled carb 283 engine making 270 horses. Look real close to see where DM painted the red, “270” on the lower end of the valve covers, just like Chevy did on the 1:1. As with the ’58 car, they fashioned every conceivable detail below the hood in metal, rubber and diecast. In the interior of the car, you’ll note the fabric and photoetch seat belts, flip up visors and, opulent for 1960, dash and console. Yes, the doors open on hidden hinges. By the way, the door gaps are splendidly tight, as are the hood and trunk lid. There are plenty of subtle touches to add to the realism of the model. The key lock is separately fabricated in the trunk, below the inlaid Corvette emblem and below each door handle. The fuel filler door opens and even that piece is free from any excessive gapping. The antenna raises and lowers and the suspension works. The trunk isn’t immune to detailing and features a removable spare and jack assembly and trunk mat. You'll find several niceties on the model such as darkened recesses in the wheel covers, adding depth and realism, a lack of those center dots in the headlights and simulated screw points on the taillights.
Danbury has stepped up to the plate with their various renditions of, “America’s Sports Car” and with each new release, is hitting the ball a mile out of the park. Easily the most pleasing C1 Corvette in 1:24th to my eye, this model should appeal to a great number of Corvette fans and detail addicts like me. 5 stars!
The issue price is $135.
(12/22/2003)
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