Review Detail

This iconic car of the sixties has been given another paint job and released as part of Hot Wheels' 40th Anniversary. The 2008 release of the Since '68 version of the '63 split window Corvette is based on its popularity among collectors. This casting first appeared in the Hot Wheels line in 1980, a far cry from any of the original cars released in '68 but still has appeared since '68.

This comment comes from another review I did for a '63 Vette but also applies here: The casting has always been flawed. The 1:1's front fenders lead out from the undercarriage and end in front of the elongated rectangular grille. On the model, this is incorporated into the base so, you don't get a separate grille and bumpers. The rear fenders are handled in the same way on the model, being incorporated into the chrome base. Considering the 1:64 scale these idiosyncrasies are completely understandable and do not, in any way take away from the model's aesthetic.

This cars' paint job is very appealing. The candy apple red is eye catching and the black stripe that travels from one end to the other highlights the great split rear window of the '63 Vette. The addition of the number ten on the sides makes this a race car version; not the best version I've seen, but still a desirable one for Vette and general collectors alike.

The five spoke rims and red line tires look great but like every other Mattel casting of the '63 the rear of the car is jacked up slightly. The small tires float in a rear wheel well that's high and deep and that detracts from what should be smooth lines.

This version was a bit on the pricey side and cost three times the price of a mainline car. The only way they can justify the cost is the metal base. I see nothing different from any of their other castings that justifies charging so much. This version is overpriced and it is a big consideration when deciding whether to purchase it or not.

Bottom line: If you are a lover of everything Hot Wheels, or you collect Vettes then I'd say this is a definite buy. Everyone else should look for better versions that are more affordable. Price be damned - I shelled out for this car because I love the '63 split window Vette and this paint job is great.