In 1963, for Chevy’s second-generation Corvettes, the brand offered the extremely popular hardtop with a split window, a convertible, and, for the first time, a removable hardtop. Round 2 has re-released the AMT 1/25 scale 1963 Corvette convertible for its Street Rods imprint with pad-printed tires and a completely new decal sheet.
You can build this kit one of three ways: stock, custom, or a drag version. As always, with kits like this, make sure you look over the instruction sheet to choose the version you would like to build before proceeding with your project.
A word of caution: If you’re unfamiliar with reissue kits and old-style instructions, they can be a bit vague. Use references to get an idea of where to locate items like the windshield washer bottle, battery, and radiator fan shroud.
First up, choose either the big-block 427 or the small 327 engine. The 427 can be built with an eight-stack carburetor unit, a stock three-barrel carburetor and manifold, or a supercharger (perfect for the drag machine). The 327 gives you a tamer stock look with a carburetor and air cleaner. Whichever you choose, you’ll be left with an extra, nicely detailed engine for your spares box or as a display piece.
Those who appreciate the simplicity of older releases may not mind the kit’s promo-style chassis and molded-in front and rear suspensions and driveshaft. Detail painting can go a long way to making these look better.
The kit includes eight black vinyl tires—the racing tires have pad-printed lettering, while the stock tires are no-name. You can choose between stock and custom, five-spoke wheels.
Inside, the dash, steering wheel, seat belts, and shifter are the only things that are not molded in place. The instruction sheet does not give you specifics for placing gauge decals. The rather-sparse interior is in keeping with early Corvettes, so take some time to paint the little details provided, and it should display well.
Make sure the hood you choose matches the version of the Corvette you’re building. Along with the assortment of other stock, custom, and drag parts, you’ll also choose between the removable hardtop or convertible.
The kit comes with plenty of decals, but again, make sure the decals you choose fit the version of the hood you’ve optioned.
Overall, the AMT 1/25 scale 1963 Corvette convertible builds quickly. Yes, it has solid metal axles, which is usual with promo-style kits. But rather than sweat the details, have fun, and make a good-looking model. You’ll find that this kit can make a great addition to any Corvette enthusiast’s collection.