This section shows the working spring front suspension that debuted in this issue. The front of the frame was redesigned, with the upper control arms molded in place, and the lower control arms separate and pivoting (Opposite of the 1964, and the later reissues). This was used again in 1967, and with the Cosma Ray issue, but when the 1967 Corvette was reissued in 1976 as the "Streaker Vette" the original 1964 frame was back in place, with only the steerable wheels. All reissues from that point have the same setup. If the Cosma Ray tool still exists, this frame insert is probably still with it.
Dave, thanks for the history lesson! I think it's really a treat to have guys like you around that can tell us these things. I wonder if they will ever bring that kit back and find this chassis? I bet it's not the priority list, but I guess we will have to wait and see.
That custom grille (part 105) bit the dust in the 1984 issue to be replaced with a pair of Lynx Ram Flo air filters. Anyone notice that stock grill in the instruction sheet looks like the 63-65 style? The bottom grille has the proper egg crate design.
This is the first of 2 different issues of the Night Stalker, circa 1981. It is similar to the "Streaker Vette" from 76-80, except for the wheels, tires, decals, and color of plastic. The second, 1984 issue got new wheels and tires again, a large Pro Stock hood scoop, a twn 4bbl carb adapter for the blower, accompanied by two Lynx Ram-flo air filters replacing the custom grille, and new decals that matched the molded in white "Sting Ray" issue that was requested by WalMart, because they didn't like the name "Night Stalker." This kit has its orgin as MPC's very first model kit, the 1964 Corvette annual, that was revised over the years to a '65, a '66, and finally to the '67 it is now. Other than faint door lines particularly in the roof area, it's a really nice kit. Back when I did box art models for AMT/Ertl, I suggested they tool up a convertible body for this one. Of course, a couple of years later, Revell/Monogram came out with theirs....
Wrong decals. These are for the "Streaker Vette" issue from the 1970's. Of course, this first issue of the Night Stalker from 1981 could have had some leftover decals from the Streaker Vette issue, that I think saw it's last run in 1980. The second issue of the Night Stalker came about in 1984, and gained a big pro stock looking hood scoop and some triangular air filters, but lost the bumperless custom grille.
Please wait...
