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There has now been decent homage paid to the C3 Corvette generation by the Mints in model form. The C3 encompasses, as you know, the model years of 1968 through 1982. Franklin Mint has now replicated three 1970 models, all in fiberglass, including this one. Their previous two were a red convertible with a 454 big block in 9900 units and the corresponding blue coupe in LT-1 configuration limited to 5000 pieces. Now, thanks to Michelle Peters of Mint Models, we have the gorgeous little LT-1 in convertible form again in the rich metallic Donnybrooke Green with warm Saddle interior. In this fashion, no one really knows how many actual cars existed. Build numbers for the paint codes aren’t available for 1970. What is known, however, is that only 1287 LT-1’s were made for ’70.
TFM reprised their best for this commissioned Vette; the sealed photo-etched emblems and scripts, previously-mentioned fiberglass body, finely crafted and applied LT-1 striping on the hood, opening headlamp pods and internal 1:1-like door hinging. The suspension articulates and the updated hood extending prop rod was included here as well. TFM made that change from the first-issued 1970 red convertible to the 1970 blue coupe. The egg-crate grille and grated side vents are formed well and the ‘mud-flap’ fender flares are crafted nicely. The first two years of the series, 1968 and 1969, had smooth fender bottoms. To prevent stone nicks and chips, Corvette added these for 1970. The interior is really done well. The dash and console gauges look authentic, the seats fold forward to reveal the seatbelt ends, done in photo-etch metal. The corresponding lap belts are in place next to the seat bottoms; done with P-E also.
Michelle had TFM grant us a bonus. We have the option of a three-way display. We may opt to show our car sans top, with beige soft top or auxiliary hard top simulating a black vinyl-covered unit. The stance and overall fidelity to form is excellent. Mint Models has once again added to the diversity of what the Franklin Mint brings out on their own and sitting beside any of their Corvettes, this one shines!
Exclusively commissioned by Mint Models from the Franklin Mint.
Orders may be emailed to: service@mintmodels.com
or you may call Mint Models at: (800) 341-4699
(12/15/2007)
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