The heavens have started to open with a shower of classic American muscle from high quality model maker AUTOart. AUTOart has a history and reputation for producing some excellent European and Japanese sports cars, road cars, and some unusual “I can’t believe they made a model of that” cars. The classic AUTOart 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is definitely a model that falls into the category “I can’t believe they haven’t made this yet!” Well folks, wait no more, the AUTOart 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is here in grand 1/18 scale available in three beautiful and complimentary colors, Monza Red, Laguna Gray, and Classic White.

Like earlier Corvette releases, AUTOart’s 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray release is limited to 6,000 units worldwide. This Monza Red sample is number 0059 and arrived securely in a foam case, nice box, a numbered certificate of authenticity, antenna, and removable t-tops. The paint quality is excellent as is the interior detail, headlight and tail lamp lenses. AUTOart has captured the look of the classic wheels with precision and nice wide tires sit flat on the display case without that overinflated look. The model features an opening hood, doors, and as previously mentioned, removable t-tops. The t-tops have a nifty combination latch and tongue and groove fastening system that helps the tops to stay in place as the model is moved around or held upside down to view the undercarriage. However, I will caution you against holding the model from these tops when installed.

As great as the model is, collectors have pointed out some imperfections in the execution of certain features of the model such as the exhaust tips and center wheel caps, but these are shortcomings I'm willing to overlook given the overall execution of the model. The classic design of this car with those muscular high rise fenders and overall stance make for an excellent display and photography subject. It displays well next to other Corvette models, and my personal preference is with the t-tops installed. The engine is well detailed, but lacks some of the intricate details found in their C1 and other Corvette series releases making this collector longing for more in this department.

Overall, the AUTOart 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is crafted beautifully and is probably the best 1/18 scale image of this model year you can obtain at the moment. While they have a great history of producing classic European and Japanese models, collectors have been asking for this high quality model maker to expand more into American manufacturers. It seems AUTOart has heard the calling of collectors, as they have started to release more and more classic American models as seen here with the 1970 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe Stingray. If you decide to obtain one of these beauties, you will not be disappointed.