Basic releases:

Here are the next case code cars you should be seeing in stores now. They are case code ‘M’; being stocked now.

New Models: Scorcher in purple (pic’d); Yur So Fast in white (pic’d); ’10 Ford Shelby GT500 in yellow (pic’d); the Brave and the Bold ‘Batmobile’ (pic’d); Sand Blaster in tan camo. (pic’d); Ducati 1098R in red (pic’d); ’67 chevelle SS 396 in blue (pic’d); ’10 Aston Martin DBS in silver (pic’d); Howlin’ Heat in gold (pic’d); Back Slider in silver and blue (pic’d).

HW Racing: Canyon Carver in copper red. HW Hot Rods: ¼ mile coupe in green; ’37 Ford Woodie in white.

Night Burnerz: ’70 Ply. Road Runner in gold. Mystery cars: Purple Passion in pink; Aston Martin V8 Vantage in orange.

All Stars: Mazda Furai in red; ’10 Lamborghini Gallardo in white; Ferrari 308 GTS in blue.

HW Performance: Pro Stock Firebird in orange. Faster Than Ever: ’65 Mustang Fastback in red.

HW City Works: Four-1 in black; ’07 Caddy Escalade in yellow Taxi trim.

Track Stars: Phototype H-24 in drk. red.

HW City: Scorchin’ Scooter in silver.

Muscle Mania: AMC Javelin AMX in red/wht./blue; ’70 Ply. Superbird in yellow; AAR Cuda in blue.

HW Garage: Ferrari P4 in blue; H2GO in blk./wht. (pic’d).

Race World: City- 5 Alarm in green. Desert- Sand Stinger in red.

Treasure Hunts: Ford GTX1 in blue (pic’d).

Exclusives:

Walmart – Special selection of cars packed with key chains and tagged as ‘Key to Speed’ cars.

10 packs: ’70 Ford Torino in yellow.

Other series:

2010 Delivery series: Code “M” expected this month; releases to include: Hooker Headers Power Panel 2nd color; Centerline ’56 Flashsider (pic’d); Bell GMC Motorhome 2nd color; Ed. Pink ’50’s Chevy 2nd color (pic’d); Holley ’62 Chevy pickup 1st. & 2nd. colors (pic’d); Mr.Gasket ’72 Ford Ranchero; Good Year ’55 Chevy Panel; Crower ’59 Caddy Funny Car 2nd. color (pic’d).

HW Garage series: Code “L”, are expected soon

Larrys Garage; Phil’s Garage; and Waynes Garage will return soon.

Speed Machines: Case code ‘H’ expected soon.

Monster Jam 2010: No new releases this month.

2010 Dragstrip Demons: Case code ‘E’ expected soon.

IZOD Indycar series: No new releases.

A Sneak Peek: Here’s a look at the RLC rewards cars for this year.

Special release: A 12 car packed case of 2 different cars from the Danica Patrick NASCAR release.

The Mustang is covered in the very same thermochromatic paint that is used on 1:64 scale Hot Wheels Color Shifters and will change from blue to white when exposed to hot or cold water. The Mustang’s appearance is part of a cross-country tour that stops at more than 50 festivals and events across Canada to promote the Hot Wheels Color Shifter products.

This event will give convention goers and children a chance to water down the full-size car and see its color change before their very eyes. Perhaps even Hot Wheels Designer Larry Wood will get a chance at shooting the water canon at it!

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this fantastic new event at the first-ever Canadian Diecast Convention coming to the Sheraton at the Falls on September 9-12, 2010! Information on tickets and accommodations for the convention can be found on ToyCarConventions.com.

This casting was released in 1970 in both a USA and Hong Kong version. It has a swing-up hinged rear opening engine cover that reveals 3 detailed turbine engines. It also features a wrap-around windshield in clear and blue glass, a plastic interior in assorted colors and redline tires. As with all early redlines, the base and body are cast in metal.  The finish was available in 10 spectra-flame colors with the hardest to find being metallic hot pink.

This casting is very desirable among collectors. C9 sell in the range of $40-$90.

Casting Comparison

Credits: Images from the RK Stickels collection. Tomarts guide #6, and Spectraflame – The Essential Guide.

Pictured here are the standard version of the Summer Smash Drag Bus and the 2010 Rhode Island Hot Wheels Club car. Click any image to see the larger version.

Tickets for the 2010 Summer Smash are still available at the official Hot Wheels Summer Smash website. Accommodations at the Crowne Plaza Hotel are almost sold out for this year. Collectors buying tickets after the rooms sell out will be booked into an overflow hotel down the street.

Basic releases:

Here are the next case code cars you should be seeing in stores now. They are case code ‘L’; being stocked now through end of July.

New Models: Nissan GT-R R34 in silver (pic’d); ’62 Ford Mustang Concept recolor in yel; Custom ’10 Camaro SS in orange (pic’d); ’08 Dodge Viper SRT-10 ACR in black; ’67 Pontiac Firebird 400 in blue; Scoopa di Fuego in silver (pic’d); International release – Volkswagen SP2 in orange (pic’d).

HW Racing: Datsun 510 Bluebird in white; Ford GT-LM in green.

Hot Action: ’56 Merc. in 2-tone purple.

HW Hot Rods: Willy’s coupe in red; ’40 Ford Pickup in silver.

Night Burnerz: Super Gnat in black.

Mystery cars: . ’70 Pontiac GTO in olive (pic’d); Honda Civic Si in blue. All Stars: Scirocco GT24 in Dark red (pic’d); ’73 Ford Falcon XB in yellow (pic’d).

HW Performance: Camaro Convertible concept in dark green; ’08 Dodge Challenger SRT8 in K&N black.

Faster Than Ever: Corvette Grand Sport in red.

HW City Works: ’09 Ford F-150 in red.

Race World: Battle- XS-IVE in blue. Underground- Enforcer in green. Jungle- Custom ’41 Jeep CJ-2A in safari tan. Movie Stunts- Tri & Stop Me in dark red; Flame Stopper in orange with a stunt camera crane, in off road or spoked wheels (both pic’d).

Treasure Hunts: Ford GTX-1 in blue; Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe in orange (pic’d).

Exclusives: TRU – Special colors – Hummer H2 SUT in silver; Ferrari F430 Challenge in blue; ’55 Chevy Bel Air in blue; in conjuction with the 20 car Mail In offer for a ’70 Monte Carlo in spectra blue with Real Rubber tires. (pic’d).

10 packs: ’68 Chevy Nova in orange (pic’d).

Other series:

2010 Delivery series: code “L” expected in July; car releases to include: Hooker Headers Power Panel 2nd color; Centerline ’56 Flashsider; Bell GMC Motorhome 2nd color; Wynn’s Supervan 2nd color; ’29 Ford Pickup; Penzoil Convoy Custom (pic’d); Doug’s Headers Deco Del. (pic’d); Mr.Gasket ’72 Ford Ranchero(pic’d); B&M ’32 Ford Sedan Delivery; Conoco ’77 Dodge Van (pic’d).

HW Garage series: code “K”, are expected in July: Larrys Garage: Passin’ Gasser in red. Phil’s Garage: Willy’s in purple/white (pic’d); ’68 Ply. Barracuda in blue; ’70 Chevelle in black; Ferrari 288 GTO in yellow. Waynes Garage: ’57 Chevy Bel Air in slate blue; ’70 Chevelle SS Wagon in yellow (pic’d); Neet Streeter in pink; Fish’d & Chip’d in green; Rolling Thunder in blue (pic’d); Vairy 8 in orange/white (pic’d).

Speed Machines: Case code ‘G’ expected in June: 8 pictured.

Monster Jam 2010: Case code ‘M’ expected; Grave Digger; Airborne Ranger; Iron Warrior (pic’d); Shark Wreak; El Toro Loco; Monster Mutt; Backwards Bob (pic’d); Shocker; Cuttin’ Coroners (pic’d); Obsession; Eradicator; Prowler (pic’d).

2010 Dragstrip Demons: Case code ‘D’ expected in June; but delayed shipments are just now coming in.

IZOD Indycar series: Case codes A-B-C are all out now.

A Sneak Peek: Now you can really see the brand-new design from legend Tom Daniel — the Mob Rod™ — taking shape! Here is the first shot of the metal casting. Note the big blown engine. So what color will the first edition be when it debuts in the HWC™ Series Nine Real Riders® segment? We could tell you, but then we’d have to… well, you know…!

Also, look for the Garage series sets to be showing up soon at your select local Walmart stores.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The "In the Stores" column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club

The Mattel version of the Classic 57 T-Bird was released in 1969-1971, and was truly racing inspired with the aero cowl behind the drivers seat and drag pipes poking from behind the front wheel openings. Without a doubt, Mattel’s T-Bird was ready to race the orange track drag strip from the get-go.

The T-Bird was only released as a USA casting and featured a metal base, a lift up hood which reveals a metal engine, a plastic interior (in assorted colors), clear glass and redline tires. The finish was available in 18 spectraflame colors. Metallic Pink has traditionally been the most desirable color. This casting is very hard to find in a C7 or better condition and can be very pricey.

Click on any image to see the larger version

Credits: Images from the RK Stickel’s collection, Blister T-Bird, and T-Bird with red headlights from the Scott Jones collection. Tomarts guide #6, and Spectraflame – The Essential Guide.

Have you seen someone proudly displaying their love of Hot Wheels? Reach out to me via the contact form and we can share your picture with the rest of the collecting community!

This USA-only casting was available in 17 spectraflame colors. It featured an all metal chassis and body, as well as an opening rumble seat and a dark color plastic interior. Early run examples have been found with three to nine buttons on the inside of the rumble seat.

Some castings have been located with chrome rear wheels indicating a late run as all USA castings featured silver painted wheels. The ‘36 Ford casting is very collectable, and a fair market price to pay for a good casting is $25-$50. All models featured below cost less then $30.

Click any image to see the larger version

Credits: Images from the RK Stickels collection, Note: Pink is a restoration. Tomarts guide #6, and Spectraflame – The Essential Guide.

Basic releases:

Here are the next case code cars you should be seeing in stores. They are case code ‘H’; being stocked through end of April into May.

New Models: ’81 DeLorean DMC-12 recolor in gold; Formula Street recolor in blue; ’09 Cadillac CTS-V in moroon w/2 tone interior (pic’d); Torque Twister in orange (pic’d); ’71 Dodge Charger in orange (pic’d); ’08 Dodge charger Drift in Mopar silver/blue tampo’s.

HW Performance: Pro Stock Firebird in blue; Camaro Convertible Concept-green; ‘92 Ford Mustang-red.

HW Racing: Custom Ford Bronco in white; Circle Tracker-blue; Madfast-blue.

HW Garage: Dune it Up in green (pic’d); ’10 Camaro SS in silver (pic’d); ’10 Ford Mustang GT in blue (pic’d).

HW City Works: Rescue Ranger in green.

HW Hot Rods: ’32 Ford in blue (pic’d). Night Burnerz: Asphalt Assault-orange and blue; ‘09 Nissan GTR-black; ‘67 Custom Mustang-red; 24-Seven-red; Datsun Bluebird 510-white.

Mystery cars: ’70 Dodge Hemi Challenger in yellow.; Nissan Skyline in silver.

Global All Stars: Citroën C4 Rally-red; ‘73 Ford Falcon XB-yellow; VW SP2-orange; Ferrari 308 GTS QV-blue. Muscle Mania: ’69 Merc. Cougar Eliminator in green; ‘66 Ford Fairlane-yellow; ‘69 Pontiac GTO Judge-orange; ‘67 Camaro-black.

Faster Than Ever: Custom V-8 Vega in white; ’67 Pontiac GTO in white/teal

Race World: Beach- Sharkuiser; Rockster. Highway- Pit Cruiser; Airy 8.

Treasure Hunts: Rat Bomb (pic’d).

Walmart Specials; New Birthday cars coming this month include: ’65 Pontiac GTO (pic’d); ’68 Chevy Nova (pic’d); ’40 Ford Pick up (pic’d); Nissan Titan (pic’d); ’69 Camaro convertible.

Other series:

2010 Delivery series: code “J” expected in Apr.; cars will consist of: Kendall – Double Demon (pic’d); TRW – 8 Crate (pic’d); Hurst – Custom ’59 Chevy (pic’d); Milodon – ’56 Chevy Nomad (pic’d); Ed Pink – 50’s Chevy Truck; Edelbrock – ’83 Chevy Silverado; Crower – ’59 Caddy Funny Car; Bell – GMC Motor Home.

HW Garage series: code “G”, are expected in Apr.: Larrys Garage: ‘51 Buick LeSabre-gold (pic’d); ‘57 Chrysler 300-redorange (pic’d); Bone Shaker-purple (pic’d).

Phil’s Garage: 8 Crate-red and white(pic’d); ‘68 Plymouth Barracuda-black or yel. (pic’d); ‘66 Nova-black and green(pic’d).

Waynes Garage: Shoebox-black and gold(pic’d); Fish’d and Chip’d-black(pic’d); Rolling Thunder-gold(pic’d); Street Rodder-red and black or white and gold(pic’d).

2010 Dragstrip Demons: Case code ‘C’: ’75 Chevy Monza FC – Army Snake(pic’d): Altered State – Mike Zarnock; ’74 Vega FC – Snake(pic’d); ’68 Barracuda Pro Stock – Bill Stiles; ’70 Camaro FC – USA-1 Bruce Larson; ’77 Corvette FC – Mongoose Corvette.

Speed Machines: No new releases this month.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The "In the Stores" column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club

Diecast designers come up with a tremendous number of designs that unfortunately are never selected to become real castings. Its been many years since Eric moved on from his design position with Mattel and the Hot Wheels brand, yet one of his original designs has seemingly come back to life as part of the 2010 Hot Wheels line-up. Eric recently sent me his account of how this design has come full circle and is now becoming a reality. I’m sure you’ll agree, its a really interesting read. Enjoy!

The new Dodge Charger Drift Car that Hot Wheels is producing as a 2010 New Model is actually one of my designs! I originally designed the car at Mopar’s request. BJ Birtwell, then with Chrysler as a youth marketing person, called me up on behalf of Shaun Carlson and NewFormz to design their new drift car. This was in 2005. The guys, including driver Samuel Hubinette, wanted to do something with the Charger to make it more aggressive and unique. Originally they had asked for a wide body design which you can see in my drawings. Through that process however I kept coming back to the SRT-8 body and especially the hood. The 2005 show car was before the release of the SRT-8 so things like the hood were unavailable for the 2005 build.

The NuFormz team eventually migrated over to an SRT-8 body but the paint scheme remained. Shaun Carlson had raced for Mopar for years dating back to his Dodge Neon front wheel drive dragster (a Hot Wheels car I worked on while at Mattel). He had recently been running Pro-Stock for Mopar for Don Schumacher’s team with legends like Allen Johnson. Shaun had expressed bringing over the cool Colored camo designs of the Pro-Stock cars asking for something a bit different and in Mopar Blue. I designed a camo that had Mopar script and "M" icons interlaces with a traditional camo print.

At the time when I was designing the show car, I was also working on the Foose diecast line. At toy fair I was with Chip and we were talking about various projects and I found out that Chip was going to do the wheels on the Charger show car. It was mind blowing to me that we had both been working on the car but unaware of the other’s involvement even though we had been working on the diecast line for months! Some of the build of the show car was captured in a documentary, Drift The Sideways Craze that aired on Discovery’s HD Theater and TLC.

At the Super Convention Phil Riehlman and I got to talking and he told me Jun Imai had handled the Charger project for Hot Wheels. Jun is super talented and it shows in his work. The Charger came out beautiful. It is really cool to see my design end up in the Hot Wheels line some 5 to 6 years after I left. I now know how it must feel for other artists, designers, customizers and race car drivers to see their design turn up on a toy store shelf when it wasn’t the original intent. It’s a honor and a privilege.

- Eric Tscherne

Its just an off the wall concept, that some say is a cross between a Peepin’ Bomb & Bug Eye. It has a long, flat dual cowl nose and “arrow pod” side panels with six vents to cool the rear mounted turbine engine. It’s high-side profile gives it great suspension travel for racing. A sliding clear canopy top reveals the cockpit and serves as a cover for the orange turbine that spins in the wind.

The Whip Creamer features a metal base and came with either a clear plastic (USA) or blue (HK) canopy. Most interiors can be found in black, but tan and brown were also made and are very hard to find. Finishes were available in eleven spectraflame colors. The hard of those to fin is generally metallic blue with a tan interior and a USA base. Overall, this casting is a very affordable among collectors with C8 examples selling in the range of $20-$50.

Click any image to see the larger version

Credits: Big thanks to my left coast buddy Scott Jones and his endless help with rare pieces and added insight. Scotts collection includes the following: 1. packaged Yellow with rare brown interior, 2. Rainbow selection, 3. Dark blue with tan interior, 4. Purple, 5. Aqua. Balance of images from the RK Stickels collection, note: Bright Green is a restoration. Tomarts guide #6, and Spectraflame-the essential guide.

This new volume contains 5,500 listings, 3,100 color images, secondary market pricing, and weighs in at whopping 504 pages! It truly is the biggest and most complete identification and price guide on Hot Wheels cars variations found in blister packs from 1989-2008.

Pre-order now directly from Mike’s website (via PayPal) for just $25.00 (in the USA). Shipping outside to Canada, Mexico and elsewhere is available. Please note that PayPal purchase will come up as “The Krellman Group.”

Obviously, Jesse James was not the designer of the Hairy Hauler. In fact, he was probably playing with one back then just like the rest of us Redline Collectors! In reality, the man responsible for the Hairy Hauler was Hot Wheels Designer Paul Tam. Paul designed some unique cars while at Mattel, but this one takes the cake.

This USA only casting was available in 12 spectra-flame colors and featured an all-metal chassis and body. The hinged nose canopy opened to reveal a white plastic interior. What I like the best about the Hairy Hauler is that its heavy, fast, and sleek which makes it great for orange track racing!

Click on any image to see the larger version

Basic releases:

’09 New Models: Fast Gassin’ in red/chrome.

’10 New Models:

’67 Chevelle SS 396 in red (pic’d) – ’67 Pontiac Firebird 400 in green (pic’d) – ’08 Dodge Charger Drift in blue (pic’d) – Tooligan in gold; Sting Rod II in yellow (pic’d) – ’09 Caddy CTS-V in black (pic’d) – VW Beetle in DK.red; Scorcher in red – Snow Ride in orange (pic’d) – ’08 Viper SRT-!) ACR in white – Fangula in purple (pic’d) – ’09 Corvette Stingray Concept in yellow – Backslider in green – Ghostbusters Ecto-1 (pic’d)

’10 HW Performance: Pass’n Gasser in red – ’41 Willy’s in yellow

HW Racing: Mustang Funny car in blue/purple – F-1 Racer in blue

Hot Action: Ford Thunderbolt in white – Bugatti Veyron in blue

HW City Works: Hummer H2 SUT in yellow

Heat Fleet: Custom VW Beetle in red w/flames – Jeep Scrambler in brown

Mystery cars: Hyundai Spyder in black w/flames – Nissan 350Z in purple – Duel Fueler in silver – Jaded in orange

Track Stars: Drift King in army green – Twin Mill III in green – Dieselboy in blue

Muscle Mania: ’70 Ply. Superbird in greens – ’67 Dodge Charger in blue – ’70 Buick GSX in blue – ’69 Pontiac Firebird T/A in black.

All Stars: Lamborghini Gallardo in black

HW Hot Rods: Bone Shaker in blue

HW Garage: La Fasta in silver

Race World: Cave- Evil Twin; Swoopy Do – Volcano- ’64 Lincoln Continental – Earth- Paradigm Shift (pic’d); Stockcar (pic’d)’ Speedway- Cadillac LMP; Saleen S7

Treasure Hunts: Classic Packard (pic’d) – Old # 5.5 w/wht. tires (pic’d) – 69 Talladega (pic’d)

Walmart special colors: ’40 Woodie in yellow – Ferrari 430 Scuderia in red – Ford Mustang 2+2 Fastback – FTE in yellow

Other series:

2010 Delivery series (Code “D, E, F,” all expected in Jan/Feb):

GMC Motor Home – ’55 Chevy Panel – ’56 Flashsider – Custom ’62 Chevy – ’59 Caddy Funnycar – ’83 Silverado – 50’s Chevy Truck (pic’d) – ’34 Ford – Combat Medic – Dairy Delivery – Anglia Panel – Cool One – VW DLX Station Wagon (pic’d) – Super Van – Hiway Hauler – Baja Breaker – ’69 Chevy Pickup – ’32 Sedan Delivery

HW Garage series 2010 (Code “D”):
Larry Wood: Custom ’66 GTO Wagon (pic’d) – Phil Riehlman: ’70 Chevelle SS – Wayne Scott: Chevelle Wagon (pic’d) – Neet Streeter (pic’d) – ’57 Chevy (pic’d) – Other cars: Fish’d & Dipp’d (pic’d) – Buick Le Sabre Concept (pic’d) – Ferrari 288 GTP (pic’d) – ’41 Pro-Mod Willy’s (pic’d)

Store Only Garage series Promo’s:

Walmart: Tail Dragger – VW Drag Truck – ’58 Ford Edsel

Target: Custom ’56 Ford Truck – ’64 Custom Galaxie – ’65 VW Fast Back

TRU: ’69 Pontiac GTO – Rat Bomb – ’70 Roadrunner

Speed Machines (Case ‘B’): Bugatti Veyron – Enzo Ferrari – Ford GTX-1 – Ferrari 575 GTC – Porche Carrera GT – ’07 Shelby GT 500 – Gallardo LP 560-4

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The “In the Stores” column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club

The features that stand out are its pointed nose and a high side profile which gives it great suspension travel for racing. The next unique characteristics that stand out are it’s open cockpit, the large, exposed quad piped V-8 engine and that snubbed-off rear profile with high humped quarter panels. It also has a lever in the dashboard that raises and lowers the headlight covers. The metal base and exposed metal engine finish off the things that truly make it stand out.

The Peeping Bomb can be found in a variety of variations. Its plastic windshield can be found in clear or blue. Plastic interiors are most frequently found in black. White interiors are rare and very hard to find. The casting was issued in both the US and Hong Kong. Finishes were available in eleven spectraflame colors. The metallic purple with a HK issued base is generally considered the hardest to find. The Peeping Bomb is a very affordable among collectors with C8 examples selling in the range of $20-$50.

Credits: Big thanks to my left coast buddy Scott Jones and his endless help with rare pieces. Scotts collection includes the following: 1. Aqua factory prototype, 2. packaged Aqua with white interior HK casting, 3. the early run orange & purple spectraflame with orange headlights, 4. yellow "reason speculative casting" and added insight. Publications: Tomarts guide #6, and Spectraflame-the essential guide.

The fact that Mike’s very own Altered Roadster from the Drag Strip Demons series adorns the cover is pretty cool too, don’t you think?!

Click the image to see a larger version of the cover.

By far, this casting has to be one of the top five most recognized from the Redline era. The Turbofire was a USA-only casting and was available in 18 spectraflame colors. Its plastic interior came in assorted colors and featured a lift up rear hood that revealed its metal engine. The Turbofire is one of my favorites as a collector as they are available in good supply and at affordable prices.

Click any image to see a larger version

Basic Releases (Case Code ‘P’)

’09 New Models:

• - Volkswagon Type 181 in Blue; Ford GT in white race trim; Corvette C6 in red.

’10 New Models:

• - ’10 Ford Shelby GT500 in blue; ’67 Pontiac Firebird in green; Corvette Stingray concept in silver; Spider Rider in orange; 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo in black (inter. card).

Muscle Mania:

• - Olds 442 re-color in purple.

HW Designs:

• - Hyper Mite in orange.

Mystery cars:

• - Zotic in yellow.

Other cars:

• - Mad Propz in primary colors.

T-Hunts:

• - Bone Shakers, Mustangs and some Fire Eaters showing up.

Promo’s: K-day cars:

• - ’69 Chevelle SS 396 in blue; ’67 Camaro in matte silver; Dairy Delivery in anodized silver.

Walmart:

• - Halloween and Christmas cars are beginning to show on the shelves.

Autozone:

• - Has a special line called “Mustang Mania”

Collector Lines

2010 Delivery series:

• - Expect to see case code “A” very soon. This will be one of the more popular series for 2010.

Classics series 5:

• - Case code ‘N + P’: Many re-paints but the coolest new casting is the ‘Semi’.
• 

Larry’s Garage:

• - Wraps up it’s run with the Holiday selection for 2009. Case code “Y”. Six cars total include: Dairy Delivery; ’67 Pontiac GTO; ’57 Chevy Bel-air; Bone Shaker; ’69 Camaro; Ford Delivery. (pictured below). The all new “Garage” series begins in December.

2010 Dragstrip Demons:

• - Case code ‘A’; expected in Dec. with all new cars.

Speed Machines:

• - A new 2010 series with all real production cars in it. Cars all have co-molded tires similar to the old Acceloracers rims. Expected in December.

2009 Holiday Rides:

• - “A” series said to be through hobby retailer only; selections include: ’41 Willys coupe; ’50 Caddy w/Go-Kart; Baja Bug; Pontiac GTO Wagon; Letter Getter; and Texas Hold’em. All come in two colors.

Star Trek 1/50th scale:

• - Case code ‘B’ just came out.

1/87th:

• - No new releases.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The "In the Stores" column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club.

The Hot Wheels Demon started life as the “Little Coffin,” a famous 1960’s show rod built by Dave Stuckey of Wichita, Kansas. Dave worked at the famous custom shop Star Kustoms, owned by Darryl Starbird. The Little Coffin went through a few transformations, and in 1962 the Monogram Model Company purchased the car for use as a promotional vehicle where it was scaled for the popular plastic model craze that was sweeping the states.

Mattel later acquired the Monogram scaling prints in 1969 and crafted the Demon. It was finally released in 1970 and came in 12 spectra-flame colors. It also included a black roof, blue tinted front glass, a black interior and a chrome engine with dual carbs sitting atop a supercharger.

This casting was only produced in Hong Kong. There is a single variation of the Demon with a white interior that is very rare. Collectors will find the Demon tough to find in C6 or better condition, making a good set of rainbow Demons a difficult task to accomplish.

Hot Wheels Designer, Ira Gilford took the Dodge concept car and brought it to life as the 1/64th Torero. This casting was only issued in a USA version. It features a hinged front opening hood that reveals a detailed Hemi engine, a clear wrap-around windshield, a plastic interior in assorted colors, (with brown being hard to find), and redline tires. Finish was available in 19 spectraflame colors, with the most desirable being metallic yellow. Torero’s with chrome like wheels are believed to be from late run castings.

This casting is very easy to find and makes a great choice for entry level collectors. Good C-6 examples can be had for around $20.

Basic Releases (Case Code ‘P’)

’09 New Models:

• - Barbaric in red/blk; F1 racer in blue; Pedal de Medal.

HW Dream Garage:

• - Ferrari F430 Spider in yellow.

Muscle Mania:

• - (K-mart colors) ’65 Mustang fastback in orange; ’67 Shelby GT-500 in purple; ’69 Charger in white pearl.
• - (Reg. issue) ’71 Plym. GTX in black: ’69 Coronet Super Bee in orange.

HW Designs:

• - Pony Up in purple.

Rebel Rides:

• - Mustang Mach 1 in green; ’64 Continental in purple; Roll Cage in red.

HW Racing:

• - Pass’N Gasser in prim. red.

Collector Lines:

HW Delivery Series:

• - Charms; Blow Pops; Mounds; Almond Joy; Junior Mints.

Classics Series 5 (Case Code ‘L’):

• - ’62 Corvette; Combat Medic; Texas Drive ‘em; Street Rodder in Green (possibly a Wild Weekend var.); ’56 Caddy Funny Car; a gold Avanti; a ’58 Edsel; Hammer Sled; Mini Cooper; ’70 Monte Carlo; and a Tucker.

Larry’s Garage: (Case Code ‘R’):

• - ’69 Camaro; ’33 Ford Roadster; Bone Shaker; ’70 Mercury Cyclone; Purple Passion; Dairy Delivery; 3 Window ’34 Ford; ’57 Chevy Bel-Air.

Dragstrip Demons: (Case Code ‘J’):

• - Army Snake; USA-1 Vega; Go to Blazes Mustang; Mongoose II; HW Snake cuda; ‘Lil’ Nate Cuda; Rough & Tumble Duster; Black Snake Cuda; Mike Zarnock’s Altered; The Zipper Rail Dragster.

Connect Cars: (Case Code ‘K’):

• - MS; OK; WY; and KY.

Fire Rods:

• - Combat Medic; Chevy Silverado; Ford Thunderbolt.

Military Rods:

• - New cars coming.

Cop Rods:

• - New cars coming.

1/87th scale: (Release Code ‘B’):

• - Dairy Delivery; ’56 Panel; Batmobile; VW bus.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors from online research and personal finds at retail locations. The ability to find select pieces will vary based on geographic location and the frequency that your local retailer refreshes their stock.

The "In the Stores" column is brought to you courtesy of the Connecticut Valley Diecast Club.

Thanks again to Ralph Riccardi for manning the camera and all the great editing!

Thanks again to Ralph Riccardi for manning the camera and all the great editing!

Released in 1970, it was available in 9 spectra-flame colors, with a black roof with white stripe on cowl, roof, and deck lid. Black numbers (ranging from 1 to 9) appear in a round circle on the doors. A water-slide decal sheet with sponsor logos was also included. Other features included blue tinted glass, a plastic interior and a metal base. This casting was only produced in Hong Kong.

The TNT is very collectible as quantities are plentiful. They are most often found in green and blue, and tough to find in C7 or better condition in the remaining 7 colors. The cars featured in this article include originals from my childhood collection. They include my first TNT Bird (in green with water-slides applied in random all over the car), 2 restorations and redo’s of the 2006 RLC release. However, the one that trumps them all is the pink car I acquired a few years back. The seller claimed that the car belonged to an ex-Mattel employee. I’ve had that car reviewed, and it seems to be original. As a collector you gotta love the hunt and the stories that tag along. Enjoy.

A quick trip over to the site confirmed that a sale for a “Wild Boar” Dairy Delivery will be forth-coming! The detail page was not available at the time I checked, so be sure to check back with there with the link below if you are interested in joining the quest to obtain this piece.

[via popedesigns.com]

Thanks again to Ralph Riccardi for manning the camera and all the great editing!

All these cars pictured below will be on display during the show, and one will be selected and auctioned off. The selected car will also come along with custom theme packaging. Stick’s Redlines are high quality restoration and very collectible, so this will certainly make a great addition to anyones collection.

Note: The club car pictured is an original and will not be part of the selection for the auction.

Here’s a look at the trailer to get you pumped!

Click the image to see the larger version

Photo Credit: Victor Valle, Valle Photography

You can also watch Joe Kelly Jr. interviewing Mike Zarnock as they go through some of the great pieces in Sid’s collection!

[via photobucket.com]

Now lets talk about the little Maverick that could. The Mattel version, released in 1970 as the Mighty Maverick was based on a re-proportioned concept of the Ford Maverick by Howard Rees. It had a metal base and lift up hood that revealed a metal engine with 8 carbs. It was available as a Hong Kong or USA casting with a plastic interior with blue or clear glass. One of the coolest features was the black plastic spoiler on the rear deck and the white racing stripe on the roof. Its flawless finish was available in 15 spectraflame colors. This casting is very hard to find in a C7 or better condition, and as you might imagine, are very pricey.

Here’s a quick casting comparison:

USA casting:
Clear windows, opening hood, wide stripe on roof, interior in black with molded dash, steering wheel and rear wing.

Hong Kong casting:
Blue windows, opening hood, thin stripe on roof, interior in black with molded dash, steering wheel and rear wing.
Optional Brown interior and wing, only found in copper and orange spectraflame. Also, some HK’s have been found with satin black roofs.

I would like to thank Jim Lombari and Dan Spauding from the Rhode Island Hot Wheels Club, and Scott Jones (via the web) from California for their contributions this months post.

Note: Frantic Ford drag car-Dan Spaulding. Aqua, Apple Green, Pink-from: Jim Lombari collection. Packaged Olive & Blue, Red, and 75 reissue with tampo-from: Scott Jones collection. Balance: RK Stickels collection

Click the image to see a larger version

Be sure to visit the official Hot Wheels Summer Smash web site for information on tickets, accommodations and activities at the Smash!

As it turns out, one of those missions was to visit the Hot Wheels Design Center at the Mattel Headquarters in El Segundo, California. The lucky agent who won the “golden ticket” and got to complete that mission was aspiring indy filmmaker and dancer, Beto “Mooncricket” Lopez. As a Hot Wheels collector himself, this mission was certainly a dream come true!

Here is the first episode from his trip to the Design Center. I’m sure you’ll agree that Beto got to experience what collectors like you and I only dream of!

Be sure to visit the Fiesta Movement web site to see what Beto and the rest of the agents have been up to as part of the campaign.

[via youtube.com]

[via sears.com]

Click any image to view the larger version

[via theinspirationroom.com]

Collectors who will be attending Comic-Con in person should plan on heading over to the Mattel’s Hot Wheels sales and display booths to get a first-hand look some special new products. Here are some of the cool things you can expect to see (as listed on HotWheelsCollectors.com):

• – Battle Force 5 – Check out the new Hot Wheels series debuting on Cartoon Network August 29th. Free DVD trailer included with every purchase*! Also, come out to Room 7AB on Sunday, July 26 from 12:00 to 1:00 PM to see the Hot Wheels® Battle Force 5 screening
• – Star Trek U.S.S. Enterprise in Space Dock – Docking station opens up to become a stand for the Enterprise. Available first at Comic-Con, then only at HWC!
• – Batman: The Dark Knight Batmobile and Bat-Pod Vehicles – Packaging recreates the scene from the movie where the Batmobile is destroyed and the Bat-Pod emerges. Available first at Comic-Con, then only at HWC!
• – Real Bat-Pod from The Dark Knight – Visit the Hot Wheels booth and see the actual Bat-Pod from the hit film!

* This item is available on a first-come, first-served basis only while supplies last.

You can check out all the cool photos of these Comic-Con/HWC Exclusives on the original news posting on HotWheelsCollectors.com.

[via hotwheelscollectors.com]

The name “Custom Convoy” might not ring a bell because its a brand new casting in the 2009 Classics line-up. This version appearing at the Wild Weekend will be painted in Spectraflane pink – a color that is exclusive to the Wild Weekend of Hot Wheels 6!

This premium car will be given to the first 100 ticket purchasers and first 100 H.O.T Package purchasers as part of their ticket purchase. The remainder will be available for purchase throughout the weekend.

Tickets for the Wild Weekend are available on the official web site or by calling 860.558.3136 to buy them directly.

[via wwhw6.com]

“For big boys who love all things retro or just want to feel like a kid again, Hot Wheels has teamed up with Felt to introduce the “Sixty-8″, a celebration of Hot Wheels 40th anniversary. With a renegade rat rod inspired look, the design team was determined to create a unique, aggressive cruiser reflective of the culture from which it was modeled. The traditional built-in kickstand and chainguard were the first things to go. The usual coaster brake hub was replaced by a custom 3-speed cassette version featuring CNC compact cassette cogs, and an over-sized 14mm hollow axle.”

Each bike sells for $1099 (USD) and comes with a Limited Edition Serial Number Badge. Use the link below to jump to the Felt Bicycles web site for more information.

[via feltracing.com]

In addition to the car, the buckle features shards of plum and blue Van Gogh stained glass, grouted in black and sealed for durability. I’m impressed that the artist actually mounted the car with the hood in an open position to reveal the engine! However, I can’t say the same for the price thats set at $83 (USD)!

Click any image to see the larger versions

[via etsy.com]

The Silhouette premiered in January 1963 at the San Mateo Autorama, and by 1969 it became a Hot Wheels casting. It was probably the most remembered car of this era, especially in a metallic red that matched the original candy color – minus the dark faded highlights (see pictures below). Minor modifications were made to Cushenbery’s original design by the Hot Wheels staff when designing the die-cast version. Those changes included a taller blown motor with dual carbs, med wheels in back with smalls up front and removal of the side pipes.

This casting was available in 16 spectraflame colors and featured a matching color base. The Silhouette, like the Python, is one of my favorites as a collector as they are available in good supply as well as being an affordable casting to collect.

Note: all resto’s carry repro wheel from the redlineshop.com.

While very Jim was very tempted to rip it out of the package for a better look, it was decided that the sample would stay safely sealed so that it could become part of the Make-a-Wish Charity auction that will be held during the convention. For now, here’s some decent in-package close-ups to drool over!

The combination of Larry Wood’s design and Wayne Scott’s graphics make this a really sharp piece. The run is limited to 1000 pieces and they will be available for $20 each (plus tax) at the 2009 Hot Wheels Summer Smash.

[via youtube.com]

Local toy car collector has his real-life race car turned into a Hot Wheels

DEERFIELD, N.Y. (WKTV) – Think your kids have a lot of toys? Try being Mike Zarnock – almost 20,000 Hot Wheels cars. And no, they’re not his kids – they’re all his. And now, the real-life car that he built and raced in his 20s, has become a Hot Wheels toy for a new generation of kids.

[via wktv.com]

Click any image to see the larger version

The Bone Shaker will be available for sale to all attendees of Wild Weekend. Convention goers who purchase the Wild Weekend “H.O.T. Package” will get the Bone Shaker as part of their ticket purchase. Check out the official Wild Weekend of Hot Wheels 6 website for more information about tickets and convention activities.

[via wwhw6.com]

The Python was available in two manufacturing variations – a USA and Hong Kong casting. There were slight modifications to each origin of production, see below for comparison. On the USA version, the body hangs halfway over base in front, but has no overhang in back. In addition, the engine sports twin carbs. On the Hong Kong version, body hangs over the base in front and back with a supercharged engine sitting on the base.

The Python is one of my favorite Redline castings as they are available in good supply and are affordable to collect. The Purple Python in my collection is original, but was acquired with a missing the painted roof and without wheels. For now it wears a set of “repro-sneakers” until I can get a good set of originals to add. The pink with black roof is also part of my collection, but I commissioned James Sweetring (aka “Rooster”) out of his Utah custom shop for this restoration.

Click any image to see the larger versions

Note: all resto’s carry repro wheel from the redlineshop.com.

Open Admission

• - Texas Hold’em-style play
• - Entrants capped at 50 Players
• - $100 Buy-in
• - Winner will receive a very limited
• - Mattel-produced VW Drag Bus “Poker Edition”

Private Game

• - Limited to 16 Players
• - $200 Buy-in
• - Winner receives a “Poker Edition” VW Bus, special trophy, and $1000 worth of BP’d Redlines!

If you’re any good at poker at all, then one look at the Mattel-produced winner’s bus will be all the persuading you need to enter the game! Act fast, as seats are limited.

Click the image to see a larger version

Registration for either of these games can be done thru email via contact@wwhw6.com

[via wwhw6.com]

Here are the details directly from the official Wild Weekend of Hot Wheels 6 web site:

All Rear Loading Beach Bomb photos on this site were supplied by Bruce Pascal, and are used courtesy of HWProtos.com. For more useful information on prototypes, redlines, and other early Hot Wheels, visit their web site at www.hwprotos.com.

Please visit the official Wild Weekend of Hot Wheels 6 site for information on ticket purchases and for additional photos of the Beach Bomb.

[via wwhw6.com]