There is not much available in diecast form for us collectors when it comes to the latest C7 Corvette platform. The team at Maisto does offer the 2014 Corvette Stingray Z51 in 1:18 scale. But the question is how does it measure up? The Corvette here is from Maisto’s “Special Edition” series. They do however have a premium replica upcoming from their “Exclusive” Series featuring the same. Retail is anywhere from $35.95 to $45.95, some specialty clubs have them under $20.
From the outside the replica does capture the lines of the latest platform. Paint quality is basic but application is consistent throughout. Panel gaps and shutlines are average, though some areas a little less. The model comes equipped with independent spring suspension, which is cool, but the ride height suffers somewhat do to the spring stiffness. Modifiers out there will easily adjust the springs for optimal ride height. Side mirrors could use a little more finesse, a little more sanding to remove the production mould lines would serve well.
Front fascia features solid plastic grilles; this is not surprising based on price point. Headlight material is basic with average detail. Moving to the rear the transition from upper panel to diffuser is done well. The real eye soar is the quad exhaust. It really looks out of place (well below average fit and finish) and the chrome finish needs to go!
Underneath the car features some of the make-shift suspension components from the Z51. Also exhaust components are exposed in various installments in chrome. Other than the chrome finish I like it.
Wheels are executed well. The package includes the 10-spoke option wheels, rotors and calipers. The black on black with the white exterior of the car works well.
There is access to the motor with the typical Corvette up-swing hood. This is achieved with two large dog-leg hinges. Motor detail is sparse. All is completed in black with the exception of the Chevrolet font on the intake. The rear hatch is accessible too. Note the large dog legs hinges and large plastic storage base.
Inside the interior is treated to the black/red design. Though each area of the element interior is present the materials are some crude, they lack any depth and realism. Notice they left the latch of the seat-belt mechanic in red too (seat). There is no carpeting here either.
For an average $30 the model of the Maisto Corvette Stingray Z51 has about everything you could expect and more. Is this a serious collector piece, by no means. Maybe their upcoming ‘Exclusive’ Series car will serve better here. What it does offer is a great opening price point option for a young, novice collector on a budget. Also could be a great platform for anyone who is into modifying their diecast. I commend Maisto for sticking to their guns, they know they aren’t the best or most detailed pieces available today, but I guarantee they move more units than the likes of AUTOart, Minichamps, and others. Enjoy the pics!
Still, it’s more toy than model. The detailing is really low.
Agreed, BUT it still fills a good portion of the diecast hobby.
Some detail painting with modellers water based paints will add considerable depth to the model. This will be particularly easy if this car is offered as one of the assembly line kits. If not, it shouldn’t be too difficult to take the whole thing apart and then the buyer gets busy. I’ve done this with several ‘entry point’ mass produced diecasts (1/18 and 1/24 scale), and it makes a considerable difference to how it looks on the shelf. And – horror of horrors!, I’ve also removed some of the huge operating scaffolding on several models, and glued everything shut…….
Don’t know where the $30 price comes from but I bought mine both a white & a Blue Z51 for $18.99
Suggested retail is provided by the Canadian distributor. Costco is a “club” with membership fees. They operate on very low margins by driving through large amounts of inventory. If I was any other dealer I wouldn’t carry the Maisto brand based on this. Their retail is lower than cost!