Corvette Model Gallery

1998 Coupe

 In its second year, the C5 introduced its convertible sibling.  It was introduced a year after the coupe, but the C5 was designed as a convertible platform from the beginning, eliminating the need for additional braces to stiffen  the chassis and its associated weight.  The convertible featured an externally access  trunk, the first since 1962.  The coupe didn't change in appearance to the '97, but several improvements were made under the skin.  Active handling was introduced during this model year.   In 1998 the Corvette was chosen as the Official Pace car for the Indianapolis 500.  The Corvette was also selected as car of the year in 1998

The model

Robert Wheeler built this great looking '98 coupe, using the R-M snap version as a starting point.

Revell-Monogram kit #85-1900

The wheels represent the popular aftermarket chrome look chosen by many owners.

Torch Red touch up paint polished to perfection.

Here are some of Rob's comments on the model:

Paint:

• Painted with Corvettes favorite color for ‘98, Torch Red. I used rattle can lacquer touch up paint which was then color sanded and polished using the LMG system and Novus plastic polish.

Work Done: 

• One of the more controversial options, the body side moldings, were added using stretched sprue.
• By 1998 many owners were expressing their dislike of the bulky wheel design but found that by chroming them their appearance was improved. After deciding to leave the kit wheels in their bright chrome finish I have to agree.
• The window unit required a great deal of work to mask and paint but it looks good and fits extremely well.
• The interior was painted semi-matte black and detailed. Detailing included replacing the base model seats with the more popular sports style as well as carpeting and shoulder / seat belts.
• Raised emblems were sanded off and replaced with decals.
• Parts not included in the snap kit which had to be replaced from the spares box included : rearview and external mirrors, disk brakes, and correct 18 inch rear tires.
• I drilled out the exhausts but did no further detailing of the chassis merely painted it matte black.

Comments:

Proof that a simple kit does not necessarily mean an inferior model is Revell-Monogram’s 1997 snaptite coupe #85-1900. While the use of a snap kit to build a 97-99 coupe is easy, given the lack of external body changes, some sacrifices come with this type of kit. With a little extra effort and some spare parts the compromises are barely noticeable.

If you have any questions or comments for Robert, you can email him at  r.wheeler@sk.sympatico.ca

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Page updated  10/29/04