Ertl learned early to exploit existing molds by making multiple years from one casting. Of course the 71 GSX was a natural since the body is identical to the 70. They did at least update the grill, rear bumper and interior properly. The black & gold paint scheme really works on this car and predated the use of that scheme on the Trans Ams by many years! The grill has been greatly improved with application of proper paint colors. The side marker lights just leap off the car. I wish Ertl and other would return to molding them into the body so they can be properly chromed. This looks so much better than a mere tampo marker light.
Notice how the stripes line up so well? Why has this become more difficult for Ertl? Though it seems to shine quite nicely, this black paint is far from perfect. Black must be a difficult color to use well as many black cars of any manufacturer seem to be more flawed than other colors.
There are so many things to detail in here. The under side of the hood for one. The fluid bottles, master cylinder, alternator, battery, radiator support, cowl panel, duct seals and distributor got some attention as well.
Though it doesn't show too well, the console, door panels, steering wheel and some dash components all got some dabs of color to add the needed detail. Ertl's addition of the GSX dash badge sure adds a nice touch. The woodgrain sticker with knobs Ertl added sure sets off the dash board well.
Compare this under carriage to that of the 70 Chevelle. What a great deal of improvement one generation of diecast made. Of course everything started out black down here except for the engine and transmission. Liberal application of silver really helps "real" it up.
