Chevrolet Corvette (1955)

Product Description

Chevrolet Corvette (1955) in Blue (1:24 scale)
- In the history of Corvette®, 1955 will always be remembered as the year the torch was passed. The year the famed > Blue Flame> engine, the firebrand that ignited the torch in the first place, gave way to the awesome V-8. Now, this historic automotive legend is back in a sensational die-cast replica capturing all the power of the fantastic original. Loaded with authentic details you"d expect to find on a privately commissioned model. From the wraparound windshield to the dual exhausts. Even the golden >V> on the fender, denoting V-8 power. The steering & road wheels turn & the doors open & close. Hood lifts to reveal the incredibly detailed replica of the mighty 195 hp V-8. Harness the power for yourself! This is the first Vette™ with V-8 power & one of the most historic classics of all time. This spectacular 1955 Corvette® 1:24 scale replica comes fully loaded with operable features like steering & road wheels that actually turn, & is painted & polished to a gleaming finish. Own a die-cast model as awesome as the real thing! The famous “ Blue Flame Special” had powered the birth of America’s first sports car, the 1953 Corvette®. In 1955, Corvette® unveiled its first improvement on the “ Blue Flame”—a new, powerful V-8. With the 1955 V-8 option, Corvette® began a tradition of developing progressive increases in displacement—a tradition that would define Corvette® power for years to come. Surprisingly, only 700 models were made in the model year 1955, the large majority of those being with the V-8, even though a six-cylinder engine was available. Because of the rarity—and because of its importance in the history of Corvette®—the 1955 Corvette® is highly sought after by knowledgeable collectors. The 1955 Corvette® was the only Corvette® available with both six- & eight-cylinder engines. The two models had similar exteriors, with the exception that the V-8 model was identifiable by the enlarged, gold V on the Chevrolet® logo. The V-8 engine was a 265cid modification of the engine introduced in the Chevrolet® passenger car that same year. It was equipped with a four-barrel carburetor, automatic choke & had longer mufflers than the six-cylinder models. Chevrolet® announced that the unit was carefully counter-balanced after assembly, providing for smooth operation. Other features on the ’55 Corvette® included the beautiful “wraparound” windshield, which extended around the side of the car. Also, the radio & all lamps & bulbs had to be changed to 12-volt ratings, as the ’55’s electrical system was changed over from the earlier 6-volt system to a 12-volt system. Exterior & interior styling were basically unchanged from the previous year. But design was not what made the 1955 Corvette® special. The introduction of the V-8 engine would play an important role in the development of the Corvette®. Indeed, the following year would see nearly five times as many models produced. Now, Franklin Mint Precision Models brings the 1955 Corvette® to life with its incomparable die-cast replica. Accurate in every detail & authorized by Chevrolet Motors, the 1955 Corvette® is sure to be admired by all who see it. From the 265 cubic inch V-8 engine to the signature “wraparound” windshield, your 1955 Corvette® is a classic, precision-engineered model that will be appreciated & admired for many years to come.