Sizzlerking’s Sizzlers
Grading Guide:
INSERT/WINDSHIELD:
Molded black inserts are usually complete. Common problems with these include scuffing and breaking.
The chrome inserts were VERY susceptible to acidic fumes discharging from the battery over time. These fumes got underneath the chrome finishes, causing them to peel away. Many inserts will look good, but if they are touched, the chrome will flake off. It is common to see all of the chrome gone on the inserts. Because of the high percentage of inserts missing chrome, it does not affect the value very much. Sizzlers collectors understand that this is the norm, rather than the exception. Complete (100% chrome), shiny and unbroken chrome inserts can raise the car’s book value by 5%-10%.
Scratching and yellowing are the most common problems of the windshield. The windshield came in many styles:
Molded Clear
- Ferrari 512S
- Indy Eagle
- March Formula 1
- Sideburn
- Spoil Sport
- Up Roar
Molded “see through” Blue
- Ford MK IV
- Angelino M-70
- March Formula 1
Molded Black
- Ford MK IV
- Angelino M-70
- Backfire
- Flatout
Molded Smoke
- Anteater
- Angelino M-70
- Backfire
- March Formula 1
Things to look for when grading or
purchasing:
1. Chipped fronts on the Revvin’ Heaven, Straight Scoop and Hot Head. A high percentage of these I have seen are chipped. This can decrease the book value of the car by as much as 20%
2. Broken inserts on the Firebird, Camaro and Mustang Boss 302. The insert usually breaks by the grille/headlight portion. This can decrease the car’s value up to 5% if broken 25% if the piece is missing.
3. Missing windshields can decrease the car’s value up to 50%.
4. Inserts and windshields can be transferred from one car to the other without affecting the value.
5. Rechromed inserts are very common these days. They can enhance the look of the car significantly, if rechromed and re-blued correctly. ASK if the car has been rechromed. Rechromed inserts cannot be graded higher than poor.
Common grading misconceptions:
1. The insert never came in “white”. It was chrome plated. If the insert is missing ANY chrome whatsoever; the car cannot be considered MINT.