Franklin Mint 1970 Oldsmobile

Along with the special edition Hurst Olds of 1968 and 1969, the 1970 W-30 was the most powerful production Oldsmobile ever created. The W-30 was an option package on top of the 1970 Oldsmobile 442 model. Features over the regular model included an engine with 5 more horsepower and an aluminum intake manifold, red fiberglass inner fender-wells, and fiberglass OAI hood.

I must admit I was somewhat skeptical upon learning of the scheduled release of this replica by the Franklin Mint. I didn't believe that the Franklin Mint could attain the accuracy and quality of the 442 W30 that this replica deserves. I was wrong. I found this model to be extremely striking and very accurate for a $120 price point model.

It doesn't matter what angle you view this model from, you can't help falling in love with it. If you are a baby boomer that lived and enjoyed these cars during your youth then you will love this replica, I do. I especially like the way Franklin Mint captured the look of the hood; it flows smoothly with the lines of the car. I have seen this model recreated in 1:18th scale and the hood was way off in appearance, kudos' to Franklin Mint on their rendition of the hood, they got it right. Also, I have to mention the roofline on this replica is as near perfect as you can get. The roofline has a perfect slope and rear window. This model has great eye appeal making for a replica that is as close to scale as you can get.

Evident by the above image I have the infamous error version of the '70 Olds with the misspelled "Polyglass" on the Goodyear tires. I can live with that blunder but it never should have slipped past the design team in the first place. I have been informed that the spelling has been corrected on the currently shipping models.

Viewing the fit and finish of this replica you have to be impressed with the fit; it is excellent. However, the finish on the model I had for review was only good. It has noticeable blotches in the paint that cannot be buffed out. That said this is a tough color to spray; I admire Franklin Mint for doing it. Also, the right-side tailpipe extension was AWOL; not in the box either. This in my opinion was another quality control issue that should have been addressed before the model was ever placed in a box. Viewing the image below you can't help but notice the missing exhaust extension.

Engine detail is good and does include the red inner fender wells. The engine compartment is difficult to view because the hood doesn't open very wide.

Overall this model will make a nice addition to anyone's collection and I rate it a buy. As for its overall ranking I give it "Four Corks" out of a possible five. I am looking forward to future releases from the Franklin Mint to be on par or better than this image, lets hope.