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For the fiftieth anniversary of its birth, Danbury Mint will limit production of this beautiful diecast model to however many units are made in 2008. Then production ceases as of 12/31/08. The second rarest color, next to silver, was Panama Yellow for Corvette’s model year 1958. The DM boys crafted up a gem in this, their latest 50th anniversary Corvette achievement. They replicated the fuel injected engine option and outfitted it with white coves, charcoal interior and an auxiliary top.
The model boasts the same precision detailing as its more high-tech predecessors utilizing internal door hinging, scaled hood prop-rod, photo-etched seat belt ends, highly detailed engine bay, chrome metal-foiled insignias and genuinely-crafted chassis markings. From the early years, we have nearly come to forget panel gapping. I, for one, am glad for that. But lest we overlook it, the intrinsic value we place on close body-panel fit can be traced back to Danbury Mint. The Vette’s hood, doors and trunk lid all fit precise and equal all the way around. Tolerances are tight. Operating functions are still cool despite model repetition. The result is a remarkably scale version of the real car. Speaking of which, I have viewed a multi top flight NCRS (National Corvette Restoration Society) Panama Yellow fifty-eight first hand and up close. DM’s paint shade is spot on!
The charcoal interior is gorgeous. More matte than glossy, it appears very realistic with that specific treatment. The dash, gauges and console appointments, door hardware and floor materiale is extremely well crafted. Underneath the hard top is detailed and the fit is exceptional. Under the truck lid is a removable rubber floor mat. Under that is the jacking instruction-labeled spare cover and under that is the actual spare. DM formulated a jack inside the spare’s wheel but it, too, is removable for inspection. The suspension is fully workable and so is the antenna, fuel filler door and hood prop rod. The engine detailing is typical DM; awesome! The fuelie exhibits incomparable detail for this scale. Fuel lines, plug wiring, water hoses, all beyond description.
For color selection, thorough carry-out of replication and sheer display presence, the new Panama Yellow Vette is exquisite!
(02/05/2008)
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