Franklin Mint 2005 Chevrolet

In my opinion one can never own enough Corvettes in their collection. The Limited Edition Franklin Mint 2005 C6 recreated in Black with a red interior is a worthy addition to any collection even if you are not a diehard Corvette Collector.

Marking the sixth generation of its legacy, the 2005 Corvette delivers more power, passion and precision reaching a new standard of performance and excellence then any Corvette before it.

The sixth generation Corvette blends technical sophistication with impressive style. Five inches shorter than the previous model, the 2005 model cuts a tighter, more taut profile — with virtually no loss of usable space. More than just visual, the new dimensions make the car more agile with upgrades in handling, acceleration and braking. At 0.28 coefficient of drag, the C6 is the most aerodynamically efficient Corvette ever built with improved anti-lift characteristics that improve high-speed stability and confidence. Plain English this puppy flies while holding the road rather well.

Franklin Mint did an admirable job recreating this jewel from front to rear, top to bottom. Fit and finish is excellent. All panels are tight and true, finish is glass like, very smooth with no blemishes. The C6 features exposed headlamps, the first time since 1962 that a production Corvette has not had a mechanism to conceal the lamps when not in use. The fixed Xenon High-Intensity discharge lamps integrate seamlessly into the design and aerodynamics of the car.

Viewing this model for eye appeal, I have to say it got my attention. Whether you pose it top up or down, daddy liked what he saw. It poses very well amongst other Corvette's in my collection. I will admit I am spoiled with all the photo-etched parts that the competition offers and obviously lacking on this model. However, factoring in the average selling price for this model compared to that of the competition you are getting a tremendous bang for your buck making it hard to pass this one up if a C6 is on your wish list.

The new LS2 6.0-liter small-block V-8 is the standard engine in the 2005 Corvette C6. It is based on GM's new Gen IV small-block family of engines. Franklin Mint recreated the engine compartment precisely to that of the 1:1 adding to the appeal of this stunning replica.

The 1:1 instrument panel and door trim areas make extensive use of cast skin, which retains the look and feel of genuine leather. Anodized aluminum accents the interior in key functional areas, such as the manual shift knob and door release buttons. The Franklin Mint interior lacked the crispness and detail of the 1:1. I am a stickler on gauge detail and realism; this model did not receive passing grades on either item.

However, I would buy and recommend this model based on its overall eye appeal and price. It is a gorgeous black Corvette, which as an added bonus is a Limited Edition. It may be displayed top up or as a convertible. What's not to love? If this model had some additional bling it could have been a real winner.