The 1970 Corvette ushered in the LT-1 era. It was the first time Chevrolet introduced the big block to the Corvette family. The Corvette finally had the horsepower to compete with the other muscle cars of the era. Chevrolet also included the 454 cu. in motor which put out 390 h.p. This was the largest engine Chevrolet installed in the Corvette. The car was meant to be driven fast and with its lower weight due to the fiberglass body this car ate up its competition. Unfortunately the introduction of unleaded gas and emission controls all but throttled this motor in less than a decade.
Franklin Mint has produced another winner with the introduction of the 1970 Corvette LT-1 limited edition fiberglass model. This Monza Red convertible with red or black top is an excellent rendition of the car that rolled off the assembly line in 1970. The long fender lines and fender louvers show off the sleek styling that Chevrolet was trying to achieve with this car. The pop up headlights are an essential element to this car. The hood and marking are authentic in every way with the only disappointment being the solid ice cube tray grill. This takes away from the open look the front of the car has in real life. Franklin Mint also did not include the square amber turn signal which was new for 1970 opting for the old white lights instead.
The interior of this car is simply magnificent. The roomier seats are clearly defined and the dash instrumentation is easy to see. The chrome accents in this car on the shifter and steering wheel fit in nicely with the bold black interior. With the top off it is easy to see the detail Franklin Mint once again put into the interior of this car. The passenger grab bar fits in beautifully and the carpeted interior is once again first rate. The seat belts do not sit firmly against the seats and have the appearance of floating in air when the top is off. This is a minor distraction as I am sure most collectors will keep the top on when putting this model out for display.
The engine is finely crafted and full of detail. The air cleaner stickers are easily readable and the hoses and wires lie almost perfect. The brass top of the brake fluid and its straps display that extra bit of detail that make this model worth owning. The duel exhaust contains all the bends and curves just like the original and fits almost perfectly underneath this car. The drive shaft and its spindles are clearly visible as well when you turn this car over. The addition of the metal brake lines adds a nice touch of detail as well.
Overall this model from Franklin Mint is worthy of its price. The removable tops come in both red and black to give the collector some options when they display this model from the Franklin Mint. The amount of the detail the engineers have put in merits its addition to your collection. If you are looking for that last minute special gift or have someone who can wait for a high quality limited edition 1970 LT-1 Corvette this is the car for you.
