MUNCLE MIKES · CASTING GUIDE
SilhouetteThe pipes and painted base matter too
Silhouette’s clear bubble and long nose make it recognizable immediately. Identifying an early version takes another look at the engine, side pipes and underside, especially when a restored car has replacement glazing.
Two versions of the first-year show car
Silhouette joined the original 1968 lineup, based on Bill Cushenberry’s show car. The US casting has clear dome glazing and an engine with dual carburetors. Hong Kong examples have a blue dome and a supercharged engine.
Hong Kong side pipes are longer and thinner. Compare their shape before calling a shorter pipe broken; first establish which casting is in front of you.
Look inside, then underneath
The Hong Kong steering wheel is a separate black part; the US wheel is molded with the interior. Both versions have painted bases, with four square openings in the Hong Kong underside.
Bearing wheels are documented on the original casting, including deep-dish wheels on some early Hong Kong examples. Record the wheel arrangement together with the cabin and base details rather than relying on one part.
Inspect the dome’s lower edge
Look for cracks and glue where the canopy meets the body. Scratches in the broad curved surface can be obvious, while a split at the rim disappears in a flattering photograph. Another angle is more useful than polishing it before inspection.
Check the exposed engine and exhausts for replacements or repaired joins. A clear dome and bright plating do not establish that the assembly is untouched.
The Beatnik Bandit guide covers the other bubble-top in this first-year show-car pair.
