I have been fascinated by cars since I was very young. I loved to look at them, memorize them, and read and study about them. I also loved to play with little ones!  In the late Sixties, when I was only 2 years old, my Dad bought me over 200 Matchboxes from a much older kid in the neighborhood who needed Christmas money that year.  There were so many cool cars in that box and I played with those cars until they were completely destroyed; which is very hard to do to old Matchboxes. Back in the day, kids played with toy cars much longer than today where there are so many more toy choices at an earlier age.  I was also fortunate enough to have relatives in Germany and visit them quite often as a child.  They would have dozens of cars waiting for me before I arrived including Siku, Majorette, and euro Matchboxes plus would buy me more while I was there which was usually the whole summer off from school.  I would then be able to bring all these unique cars back and impress my friends with them which were much different than your “garden variety” U.S. Matchbox and Hot Wheels of the day.

Furthermore, near my hometown were Woolworth’s, local independent toy stores and regional department stores [anyone remembers Two Guys stores?] not to mention a big hometown 5 &10 [who remembers those?] all stocked with Matchboxes, Hot Wheels, Playart [aka Roadmates or Peelers], Zylmex, and Corgi Juniors. But being a kid I played with these cars like a typical kid would.  I raced them down orange tracks, plowed them through the dirt, played smash up derby, flung them across the sidewalk/driveway, and put them behind the back wheels of my Dad’s Impala. Pre-1969 Matchbox Mercedes Buses with the bubble tops and MG 1100s were especially fun to crush! [Sorry Matchbox fans!] 

Having all these different cars made a lasting impression on me; so when I began to truly become exposed to the world of toy shows and later the internet I saw the same cars I had as a kid and began to snap them up.  I also collected the newer versions of these makes when I could find them.  To me, the thrill of finding a Playart 1968 Plymouth Barracuda or a Siku 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado that still has its jeweled headlights in decently mint shape at a flea market or toy show rivals the joy of finding a great Hot Wheels Redline.  I am still looking for an affordable Impy Flyers Vauxhall Firenza that’s also in clean shape.

I am usually very, Very, VERY, picky about what kind of discontinued orphan cars I collect or any older diecast in general for that matter.  My friend Jeff Koch once jokingly called me a “prissy little B*%@H” [at least I think he was joking] when it came to the condition and what type of car I collected. He probably was justified about that title and I probably am a tad particular about what I buy; but Jeff if you’re out there; please clear that up!

A few years ago I found two Zylmex 1971 Ford Thunderbirds, one mud brown and one sky blue, in dead mint condition for $1.00 a piece in a box at a toy show!  I thought I had died and gone to heaven!  I had these exact two cars as a kid and I used them as my special F.B.I. guy cars! I used to watch the old ABC TV show, The F.B.I., with my Dad every Sunday night and either Efrem Zimbalist Jr. or someone on the show was always driving a Thunderbird.  As a kid, those were my “special” cars, the ones I only gently played with and wouldn’t let anyone else touch! 

I also had a “special” case for my “special” cars and it was chock full of things like a red Playart ’69 Mustang, a rainbow of Hot Wheels Sugar Caddys, a Matchbox Superfast Iso Grifo, and a Corgi Juniors Ogle, plus a smattering of everything else.  But eventually as I got older, I gave my cars away to either my younger cousins or friends of my parents who had younger kids. This is why today I cherish finding cars from my childhood and treat them with great care once I get them home.  I remember studying the Sears Roebuck Christmas catalogs then asking for [and getting] the Hot Wheels Redline sets. I remember getting Woolworth’s Peelers in my Christmas stocking and buying Corgi Juniors with my pocket money when I went to Two Guys.  I can even remember first finding Majorettes in the U.S. around 1973 in a Shop-Rite supermarket and my father refusing to buy them because they were $1.29 each; so my uncle who visiting from South Jersey and shopping with us wound up buying them for me. I also recall the fun of matching my toy cars to cars I saw on the street or TV! 

I now love to read about the history of diecast cars and how they came about. Stories about how Elliot Handler didn’t want his grandkids to play with a competitor’s car or the steep decline of Corgi Juniors not because the cars didn’t sell but because of the terrible economic climate facing Britain and the fatal business decisions of the parent company; like our own history, toys have interesting ones also.

Today, nothing appeals to me more than when a company comes out with an oddball car in its line like the recently cancelled Motormax Fresh Cherries line [R.I.P.!], Hot Wheels Australian Ford XB Falcon and Brazilian VW SP2, Matchbox’s ‘69 Cadillac Sedan De Ville or new Volvo 1800, Greenlight’s ‘71 Javelin Alabama State trooper car [a real life car if you didn’t know], or Tomica’s Mitsuoka Viewt [look that one up]!  I really don’t meet too many diecast collectors who collect quite the same combination of cars I do.  I love Superbirds and ’57 Chevys in diecast and real life but after a while of seeing row after row of them at car shows or on the peg, I kind of like seeing the odd Pinto or De Soto.  Some cars I would love to see done in 1:64 scale are a ’76 Chrysler Cordoba [and pronounce it “cor-DO-ba” as Mr. Montalban so eloquently did in his commercials], or a ’78 Chevy Caprice coupe [I had one; great car!] or maybe something really off the wall like a Borgward Isabella  or ’57 Nash Ambassador hardtop coupe!  Like I said, I like’em odd!

What unique diecast cars do you collect and why do you collect them? I love talking to other collectors about why they collect the cars they do.  I love to hear about someone’s oddball “FIND” and why they love that oddball car.   You should be proud of your oddball collection and tell everyone about it who wants to hear. I definitely have an open ear; let me know!

Don’t be afraid to go to your window right now; open it wide up, and yell as loud as you can:

“I AM A @@-YEAR OLD MAN/WOMAN AND I LOVE TO COLLECT TOY CARS”

It’s really very liberating!

Greenlight Collectibles

GreenLight Collectibles will exhibit at the 10^th Annual Boston Area Toy Collectors Club

This Prestigious Annual National Toy Event will add GreenLight to their line-up of toy companies displayed for Hobby Enthusiasts

Boston, MA (August 17, 2010) As a company that can transcend so many merchandising categories, GreenLight feels honored that it can fit into so many different facets of the hobby industry.  Greenlight is first and foremost a diecast collectibles item, for its high quality, low production run and selective availability in the market.  However, GreenLight is also an automotive enthusiast product and a toy collectors pride and joy.

The Boston Area Toy Collectors Club (BATCC) holds an annual event dating back ten years, in which through invitation only, members and their guests are treated to exhibits, speakers, giveaways and sneak peeks into some of the most popular toy manufactures in the country.  The BATCC and GreenLight have worked together for the 10^th Annual National Collectible Toy Event to introduce new and up-coming product as well as make some local news.

1:64 Hot Pursuit is one of GreenLight’s most successful series, the series is a collection of Police themed vehicles all officially licensed by the representing police department.  Massachusetts’s town of Westwood will have an influential part of 1:64 Hot Pursuit as their 1965 Ford Galaxie, will be included in the up-coming Series 5 assortment.  GreenLight will present a pre-production mock-up of the model at the Toy Collectors Event and the Westford Police Department will take this opportunity to pose for photographs with the early mock-up and possibly make headlines in the diecast and police industry.

GreenLight has also acted on furthering their 18^th scale offerings with their highly anticipated release of the 2010 Mustang GT and Shelby GT500’s.  Both cars are available in two color schemes and both have graced the covers of The Car Room Magazine Vol.2, No.3 and The Diecast Magazine Issue #8.  GreenLight will provide a model of the 1:18 2010 Torch Red Mustang Shelby GT 500 to be displayed along with The Diecast Magazine Cover, for which it was spotlighted.

Through exhibiting at the 10^th Annual National Collectible Toy Event GreenLight hopes to introduce its product to a new group of toy hobbyists as well as reach out to current diecast enthusiasts with their ever growing product lines and expanding range of merchandise. Happy Collecting!

GreenLight has also arranged for a variety of their scaled models to be awarded as raffle prizes and silent auction pieces.

If you would like to be sent an invitation to this year’s Event and see pictures from previous Boston Area Toy Collector Club Events please visit www.bostontoyclub.com

For more information on GreenLight Collectibles please visit www.greenlighttoys.com

I’ll be attending the BATCC event later this month with The Car Room Magazine, so stay tuned for photos of the pre-production piece and more.

The Drag Bus is limited to just 25 pieces (20 Standard, 5 Diamond Edition) of which 20 (16 Standard, 4 Diamond Edition) will be for sale at the convention, and they will be available for $100 each. The time and place of the sale will be posted on the final convention schedule available during registration.

The Dairy Delivery is limited to just 10 pieces and will be sold out of Bryan Pope’s room for $85 each. Convention attendees should look for Pope Designs flyers at the hotel for the location of Bryan’s room.

Stay up to date on all of the latest Pope creations by signing up for the mailing list over on the official Pope Designs website.

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.

Diehard-Diecast also has the latest Delivery Series cases in stock which the premier versions of the 49 Ford COE, 64 GMC Panel and VW Variant. They are being offered by the case or singles too. Just click on the CONTACT button, let them know which cars you want and they will send you a PayPal invoice. Check out the select on the Diehard-Diecast.com Hot Wheels page.

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 piece is a pre-production hand-sample that came direct from CMC. Its one of only three that were ever made, AND its the only pre-pro that was ever made in the color combination of white and red with unpainted wheels. Check out this list of amazing features:

• Over 1,600 individual parts
  Working steel spring suspension
  Working steering
  Opening stamped-steel louvered hood with real spring catches
  Opening trunk
  Removable spare tire
  Leather seats
  Materials list includes copper, brass, stainless steel, mild steel, leather, styrene, rubber, vinyl, and more

This piece was featured in the April / May 2009 issue of The Car Room Magazine as well as in an episode of "Playing With Cars." Its estimated to be worth over $500, so this should certainly bring in a good amount of money at the charity auction.

Here’s the episode of Playing With Cars that the Audi was featured in:

Be sure to check out the official Summer Smash website for more information on tickets and accomadations.

“Earlier this month I shared the photos of the fantastic 1 of 1 EVOs that Dave Chang is bringing to this year’s Summer Smash for the charity auction. Shortly after, information and photos began to surface showing details of a “little” project Dave had brewing for the Fastest Downhill car contest at the convention. It quickly became apparent that a very special “World’s Fastest” Downhill EVO was being built with some special features that just might make it one tough competitor at this year’s competition. Here’s what Dave had to say about the EVO and the contest over on his personal blog:

What started out as an engineering challenge for us, we have found out this baby is too low to the ground and will not fit on the standard downhill track.

So I’ll personally build another one with a lot of cutting and adjusting, and hopefully with enough ground clearance to make it to the finish line.

1st Place for this Summer Smash Downhill Challenge will be this original EVO built for the race! A 1′ off EVO SS with the CNC’d Brass Rims, plus a Pre-production EVO “BIG TOW”

Rules are: Anything goes as this race is the “World’s Fastest Challenge”

But- The vehicle must be technically altered and cannot be stock. Technically altered mean it must be drilled out with some form of modification for speed.”

I’m sure there are quite a few race candidates with their eyes on the prize with those two amazing trophy pieces on the line. Rest assured that I’ll be there snaping pictures and taking video during this great event.

Be sure to visit the official Hot Wheels Summer Smash website for tickets and information on events and accomodations. Act fast if you haven’t made arrangements yet, as there’s just under a week left until Summer Smash III rolls into Warwick, Rhode Island.

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.

Hot Pursuit Release 4: These are Target Exclusives along with authorized dealers. You will see them in Target stores by August. This release includes:

-1:64 1991 Ford Mustang Wisconsin State Patrol 
-1:64 2008 Dodge Charger Florida Highway Patrol
-1:64 2008 Dodge Charger Iowa State Patrol
-1:64 2008 Crown Victoria (White) Indiana State Police
-1:64 2008 Crown Victoria Virginia State Police
-1:64 2009 Dodge Challenger Broward County, Florida Sherriff

The Greenlight 1:18 scale line has a couple of new releases coming this month to dealers and TRU stores. A VW bug and a VW Micro Bus come to you through the Black Bandits name; And a 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601, only through dealers.

There seems to be a few other changes happening at Greenlight these past few months. They may be dropping some of their lines and adding some new ones. One noticeable change is the addition of a new line called “GL Muscle".” This looks to be replacing the Muscle Car Garage line with Release 1 coming out soon.

* – 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

Once again, Boxman has managed to create a unique packaging design that manages to work perfectly with three different themed designs – Dark Shark, Summer Smash Surfing and 3D Tiki. Collectors who attended the 2010 DiecastSpace Super Convention got a chance to see Jimmy’s incredible 3-D backing cards, and this new 3-D Tiki design will allow Summer Smash attendees to see the visual effects first-hand as well.

Each casting is limited to just 10 pieces and will be available to Summer Smash attendees on a first come, first served basis. Pricing of each piece is still to be determined.

Click any image to see the larger version

Be sure to visit the official Hot Wheels Summer Smash website for information on tickets and accommodations.

M2 has plans to pay homage to the great Studebaker Corporation by producing several Studebaker cars and trucks. These pictures give a glimpse of the 1949 – 1952 Studebaker 2R trucks that were the first modern designed trucks after World War II. Collectors can expect to see several versions of these pieces that will include all the great detail and quality you expect from M2 Machines.

So far, the Smash has managed to meet and exceed their financial goals each year. One of the reasons why this continues to happen year after year is through the amazing pieces donated to the Charity Auction.

2010 is shaping up to be another banner year through generous donations like these three pre-production EVOs that are being brought to the Smash by Dave Chang.

These are 1 of 1 pre-production factory paint samples done in colors that were never released. I can hardly wait to see the bidding frenzy that these piece will bring to the auction, and the only way you can get in on the action is to attend the 2010 Summer Smash in Warwick, Rhode Island from August 19th through the 22nd. Be sure to visit the official Summer Smash website for information on tickets and accommodations. See you there!

Basic 100 line:

MB09: Dodge Magnum, green – MB16: ’71 Porsche 914, dark green – MB25: Honda Insight, dark red – MB33: Jaguar XK, red-ish brown.

MB34: Lexus GS430, orange – MB39: Construction Skidster, yellow – MB54: ’08 Ford E-350 Ambulance, red – MB58: Dodge Charger Police, white.

MB66: ’08 Garbage Truck, blue-ish – MB73: GMC Wreaker, maroon – MB78: MBX Motor Home, yellow – MB84: Baja Bullet, off white.

MB86: Cliff Hanger, orange – MB87: Quick Sander, blue/silver – MB91: VW Beetle 4×4, off white – MB95: Toyota Land Cruiser, dark green – MB96: Jeep Willys, tan – MB98: VW Type 181, tan.

“Lesney” Edition (Superfast): code “H”

- ’68 Mercury Cougar in orange – ’71 Chevy Camaro Z28 in green – ’69 Karman Ghia in yellow – ’68 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 in green.

* – 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

Click any image to see the larger version

The bus is dressed in House of Kolor Silver metal-flake with a white top. The side graphics feature a lovely blonde "bombshell" (hubba, hubba!) riding a flaming bomb, and the top is adorned with a second pin-up and signature “kill count” bomb markings. This run is limited to just 20 pieces and each bus comes mounted in an acrylic case. They will be available via http://www.alienprojects.com/NSPromotional.htm for $90 (USD) each on a first come, first served basis. The sale link will become visible on the page when the sale starts. Be sure to clear your browser’s cache to ensure the button will show up

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

Simply use the coupon code “SALE” at checkout to receive the discount. The coupon can be used on anything in inventory. Be sure to take advantage of this offer soon, as the store was completely sold out in just 2 hours last year!

There are also a lot of cool new items (not part of this sale) will be hitting the DiecastSpace store in the upcoming weeks. Here’s a quick run-down so you can mark you calendars:

• - August 1 at 3PM Eastern: The August Dairy goes on sale 1 of 25 pieces and features an awesome paint scheme by WRF Customs
• - August 15th 3PM Eastern: Pre Order The 1 of 15 DiecastSpace.Com Hot Wheels Convention Evo edition. We do a really cool paint scheme to celebrate the convention and we limit it to 1 of 15.
• - August 23 at 3PM Eastern: Any of the ComicCon 70 Chevelles by Chris Nightstalker Walker will go on sale on the site. Remember, if you want to guarantee yourself one, visit the DiecastSpace setup at Chicago ComicCon during August 19-22. Chris will be on hand and he can sign them.
• - August 23 at 3PM Eastern: The 1 of 10 Hand Airbrushed Summer Smash EVO’s by Kool51 will be available IF there are any left from Summer Smash.
• - August 23 at 3PM Eastern: The 1 of 50 Rolling Thunder an Evening with Wayne Scott Summer Smash event car will be available if there are any left over. This piece has been hand airbrushed by Kool 51.
• - September 14th at 3PM Eastern: If there are any left over Canada Convention Cars from Liberty Promotions, then at this time they will be put up on the site

Click the image to see a larger version

Here is the official press release from GreenLight:

GreenLight Collectibles has the World in the Palm of their Hand

Highly successful 1:64 Motor World introduces its third release and continues to shine the spot light on International Car Models

Indianapolis, IN (July 14, 2010) As motor vehicles become increasingly vital to everyday life, the automotive industry has grown to be one of the most important economic sectors and viable enterprises in existence.  This revenue is one that proves to be essential to the well being of the respective manufacturing countries.  These countries that produce the cars that we internationally adore are the focus of GreenLight Collectible’s highly successful series 1:64 Motor World.

GreenLight’s greatness has hit pandemic proportions as its reaches every corner of the globe.  To continue to move forward with this conquering reputation GreenLight created the third release of 1:64 Motor World representing global manufacturers as well as appealing to international and domestic die cast collectors.  The 1:64 Motor World Series is also the most economical line offered by GreenLight with a MSRP of $2.99.

1:64 Motor World Series 3 is sectioned into three different sub-series- Classics, American, and Speed.  Those cars that are placed into the “Classic” sub-set are distinguished vehicles, well-known for their appearance and performance.  The “America” collection contains manufacturers indigenous to the home of the brave and “Speed” sub-series include those vehicles that could rip the road apart.

1:64^th Motor World Series 3 includes the following twelve vehicles:

• Classics – 1958 Porsche 356A Carrera Speedster – Blue
• Classics – Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – Red and White (Firestone)
• Classics – Mini Cooper – Red with Black Stripes and Top
• Classics – Volkswagen Samba Bus – Yellow with White Top
• Classics – Volkswagen Samba Bus – Beige with Olive Green Top
• Classics – Volkswagen Samba Bus – Teal with White Top
• American – 1955 Chevy Bel-Air – Black with Grey Top and Silver Trim
• American – 1956 Ford F-100 – Black
• American – 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C – Blue
• American – 1999 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am – Black
• Speed – 2003 Dodge Viper SRT/10 – Yellow
• Speed – Jaguar E-Type – Midnight Navy

All twelve cars from Series 3 will be available at Toys ‘R’ Us and Gordmans throughout the United States and through GreenLight Hobby Distributors/Wholesalers and Online Dealers around the world beginning in September 2010.

1:64 Motor World die-cast model cars feature 100% authentic metal bodies, plastic chassis, authentic detailed wheels and are officially licensed by the respective automobile companies.  As with GreenLight Collectibles offerings, the “Green Machine” chase car program carries over into the Motor World line with 2% of the production run manufactured in alternate schemes to provide the marketplace with the rare vehicles the collector craves.

The Official 2011 Diecast Hall of Fame Ceremony will take place in February during the 2011 DiecastSpace Super Convention at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino. Tickets are now on sale for the Super Convention and can be purchased at ToyCarConventions.com.

*- Please note that Sean Taylor from M2 Machines was inadvertently omitted from the verbal announcement, but will be sixth inductee in the Diecast Designers category for 2011.

Luckily for collectors, Dave Chang has been listening. The result is the next “EVOlution” for KustomCity know as the “EVO BIG TOW.” So far, only these few shots are available to give you a look at its progress through the design phases. Its easy to see that the Big Tow is shaping up to be another winner. We’re looking forward to getting a closer look at this piece when it becomes available in late July.

Click any image to see the larger version

The judges certainly had their work cut out for them after seeing the great Pro entries in the 2010 Magical Weekend of Cars Customs Contest.

The following slideshows feature entries from the Mild, Spicy, Wild and Sets classes. Which are your favorites? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

+++ Pro, Mild +++

+++ Pro, Spicy +++

+++ Pro, Wild +++

+++ Pro, Sets +++

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.

The following slideshows feature entries from the Mild, Spicy and Wild classes. Which are your favorites? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

+++ Amateur – Mild +++

+++ Amateur – Spicy +++

+++ Amateur – Wild +++

Forever 64 Release 7: ’66 Dodge Charger, ’69 Dodge Charger R/T spoiler, ’71 Motion Chevy Camaro, ’68 Jeep CJ5’, ’59 Chevy Impala convertible, ’70 Dodge Super Bee, ’65 Mustang, ’69 Chevy Camaro SS 396, ’50 Chevy Panel Delivery, ’50 Olds 88, ’37 Cord 812 SC Convertible, ’84 Pontiac Firebird.

* – 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

Stay tuned for more pictures featuring the customs from both the Amateur and Pro classes.

DiecastSpace’s involvement will begin with the Chicago Comic Con running August 19-22, 2010.

Wizard released the this official announcement on their site yesterday:

The world of diecast toy cars will have a strong presence at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con as DiecastSpace.com, the No. 1 Online Social Network for diecast car collectors and organizers of four major conventions in North America, will serve as official diecast partner at the event, August 19-22, at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill.

DiecastSpace.com will produce limited edition custom collectible cars for the Chicago Comic Con, that will be available at their booth. Their existing relationships with major diecast brands such as Hot Wheels®, Johnny Lightning, Greenlight Collectibles and many others will bring a wide variety of automotive collectible products, events and celebrity to the Wizard World Comic Con. Collectors and fans are invited to check back on WizardWorld.com as the event nears for other exciting news about DiecastSpace’s participation.

DiecastSpace.com just wrapped up its Magical Weekend of Cars convention in Orlando, Fla. This year into next, it will manage events in Niagara Falls, Canada (Sept. 9-12); Dallas (Nov. 4-7); and the “Super Convention” in Las Vegas (Feb. 24-27, 2011) that features the annual Diecast Hall of Fame ceremony.

Chicago Comic Con runs from August 19-22, 2010 at the Rosemont Convention Center. This major pop-culture convention brings together fans of comics, toys, collectibles and offers a chance to see actors, writers, artists that each industry has to offer.

For more Chicago Comic Con guest and programming updates, become a fan of CHICAGO COMIC CON on Facebook!

Save up to 15 percent off the price of tickets by ordering your tickets in advance. Tickets are more at the door.

GET CHICAGO COMIC CON TICKETS NOW!

Congratulations to Paul Biddle at The Toy Peddler who recently announced some impressive milestones for the site that will be achieved this month. There will also be some nice deals on listing credits over the July 4th holiday weekend. Here is the low-down from the latest Toy Peddler e-mail blast:

I have some very exciting news to share with you. This July we will have our 500,000th sale here at The Toy Peddler. In celebration, I am going to be offering some great deals over the 4th of July weekend. First, if you purchase listing credits in any amount on Saturday the 3rd, or Sunday the 4th, you will receive DOUBLE credits. I rarely offer this opportunity, so take advantage of it if you are a seller or planning on selling in the future. Second, on Saturday you can relist any item back to the front page, (where most sales occur) for just .25 cents. Third, on Sunday the 4th of July, you can list any item for just 1/2 the normal listing fee. So, if you take advantage of the listing credit offer and list items on the 4th, it is like you are paying just 1/4th the normal fee! (see how that ties in?) I would love to see us all celebrate our independence from Ebay this weekend and show our support of TTP.

Along with our 500,000th sale this month, we will be seeing our 1 MILLIONTH listing sometime from late July to mid September. I did some calculating and with relistings counting as a new listing, that means we have an actual sale rate of somewhere near 75%! That is huge! Have you ever listed items at Ebay and not had them meet reserve or even get bids? These figures show just how active the buyers are and how reasonable the sellers prices are. SO, I want to have a little contest to see who can guess the closest to when that 1 millionth item will be listed. The winner will receive $100 in cash, $50 in listing credits AND a Johnny Lightning TTP Challenger which will be released this month to Toys R US, Target and possibly Walmart stores. I will personally autograph the card. To enter, just reply to this email or contact me NO LATER than JULY 15TH. Give me your best guess as to date, and exact time of day (pacific time) that the millionth item will be listed. (1 entry per member) Good luck!

For those of you planning on attending the upcoming 24th Annual Hot Wheels Collector Convention Oct. 13th through Oct. 17th at the Marriott Los Angeles Airport, we will be doing something special. I plan on bringing my 1970 TTP Challenger with me and will have it displayed in front of the hotel for the week. You can have your picture taken with it and I will be autographing any Johnny Lightning TTP Challengers that you were lucky enough to find and bring with you. I will also plan a photo op for an all members gathering and will have LOTS of prizes to give away. This is going to be a very special event and I would like to gather as many TTP members as possible. I will have more details on what will take place in an email to follow in the near future.

  If you are a member who has never tried selling here at The Toy Peddler, and has never received free listing credits, please reply to this email with your user ID and I will add $5 in free listing credits to get you started. It’s very easy to list your items for sale here at The Toy Peddler. As always I appreciate your support of TTP and suggestions on how to make The Toy Peddler an even better place to buy and sell your toy cars, collectibles and other items.

Here is the official press release from GreenLight:

Indianapolis, IN (June 22, 2010) Fully restored and wearing its famous Reims livery, the 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601, frequently referred to as “American Racing’s Crown Jewel”, sold for a record-breaking $7.25 million at Mecum’s inaugural Monterey, California Auction on August 15, 2009. A car with this amount of notoriety is very much deserving of recognition and GreenLight has decided to do just that with its production of a 1:18 scale replica to tribute this incredible chart-busting auction accomplishment and legendary piece of racing history.

This Shelby Daytona Cobra was one of six cars built by Carroll Shelby to compete against the dominant Ferraris in the F.I.A. (Federation Internationale de l’Automobile) World Manufacturers Championship for GT race class in 1965. The coupe body was an experimental design and was built on an existing Cobra chassis; these modifications increased the top speed by 25 MPH, allowing for the Cobra to keep pace with the highly regarded Ferraris. After the car won its first race, five more coupes were built including the CSX2601.

After competing at many racing events, CSX2601 made its history when it seized the 1965 World Manufacturers Championship for the United States. Steering the U.S. into that victory was legendary driver Bob Bondurant. “I always wanted to race in Europe against the world’s best drivers. Winning that World Championship was the crowning achievement of my career,” shared Bondurant.

Join GreenLight and celebrate one of the proudest moments in U.S. race history with this official licensed 1:18 scale special edition. The 1965 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601 represents a competitive spirit and victory against all odds. GreenLight’s model will have a limited production run of 1,900 pieces and a MSRP $39.99.

This 1:18 die-cast replica features a detailed engine, real rubber tires, metal body and chassis, detailed graphics, custom license plate and is officially licensed. The release is scheduled for arrival in July 2010 and will be available through official GreenLight official hobby shops and wholesale dealers. For more information about GreenLight’s 1:18 scale ‘65 Shelby Daytona Cobra Coupe CSX2601 and other quality collectibles from GreenLight, visit http://www.greenlightcollectibles.com.

Basic 100 line: MB38 – ’57 GMC Pickup, MB63 – Ice Cream Van

Walmart special colors: MB38 – ’57 GMC Pickup in white, MB53 – ’78 Dodge Monaco Police in gold

Lesney Edition (Superfast): Nothing new to report 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

Collectors who weren’t able to attend the Magical Weekend are in luck as limited quantities of several convention pieces have been made available in the DiecastSpace store on a first come, first served basis. This is definitely a prime opportunity to pick up some great pieces like the MiQ Willmott Dairy and the official Liberty Promotions Drag Bus, Dairy and Camaro.

Speaking of Liberty Promotions, the remaining alternate color convention bus and Rebel Run versions (submitted randomly into orders) are also available for purchase at LibertyPromotions.com.

My multi-part pictorial post on GreenLight’s current Motor World release concludes with the Classics Series. Castings for this series include the Land Rover Range Rover, the Volkswagon 30, the Volkswagon Samba Bus, the Mercedes Sprinter and the Mini Cooper. Be sure to check out Part 1 and Part 2 of this pictorial series if you happened to miss them!

Click any image to see the larger versions

Click any image to see the larger versions

Stay tuned for Part 3 featuring the Classics Series!

This piece is available for pre-order in the DiecastSpace online store while supplies last for $169 USD (with free shipping).

Be sure to visit the official 2010 Hot Wheels Summer Smash for information on tickets and accommodations for the largest diecast show to hit the Northeast this year.

Paint and graphics were done by SDChopShop and packaging was completed by Jimmy “The Boxman” Chavez. The run is limited to just 20 pieces.

The 2010 Magical Weekend of Cars rolls into the Swan and Dolphin Hotel at Disney World in Orlando Florida from June 23trd thru the 27th. Visit ToyCarConventions.com for more information on tickets and accommodations.

In addition to the new vendors, Hot Wheels Designer Wayne Scott has been added to the guest lineup which already includes the likes of Big Daddy Don Gartlits, Phil Rhielman, Eric Tscherne, Mike Zarnock, Lee Pearlman, Chris Walker and Bryan Pope. Eric Tscherne recently posted this little teaser of the artwork that he’s preparing for the show that features renditions of himself and Chip Foose done up Pixar Cars Movie style!

The general admission has also been expanded to 30,000 square feet to accommodate upwards of 18 full scale hot rods. Rumor has it that two of those cars will be creations from the popular TV show Overhaulin’.

While most add-on events have sold out, there are still tickets available for the Liberty Promotions Drag Bus Breakfast. General Admission tickets for $60 (with a convention car) or $25 (without a car) are still available until Friday, June 18th. Additional rooms have also been added to the convention room block and are available of a first-come first-served basis. Please visit the official convention page on ToyCarConventions.com for more details.

“GMP is taking you back, back to the 50’s with this awesome ‘32. With it’s satin black paint and red steelie wheels wrapped in luscious white walls, it is the epitome of vintage cool. This little rod will have you remembering those long gone days of street light racing and late night escapes…”

This 32’s features include:

Only 996 of these are being made available for purchase and each piece will retail for $109.95 USD. Pre-orders are being taken now at the GMP Diecast website or by calling 1-877-880-2809. Collectors can expect the ‘32 to arrive in August.

Click the thumbnail above to see the larger version of the image.

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!

Each Motor World casting features exceptional body detail and paint as well as fantastic wheel detail at this scale. A selection of the pieces come with rubber tires while others come with plastic, and all Motor World castings come with plastic bases which allows GreenLight to keep the price low compared to the their premium collector lines.

This pictorial features the 3 castings that are part of the “Speed Series” within Motor World Release 2. Stay tuned for the “Classics” and “All American” Series pictorials coming later this week.   

Forever 64 – Release 6:  ’67 Pontiac Firebird; a ’70 Dodge Challenger R/T; a ’67 Chevy Camaro SS; a ’71 Chevy Camaro ‘Beat the Heat’; a ’70 Plymouth Superbird; a ’65 Mustang Fastback custom; a ’65 Mustang Fastback; a ’10 Dodge Viper ACR; a ’49 Buick Custom in red or blue; a ’37 Cord 812 SC convertible; a ’51 Hudson Hornet; a ’75 Chevy Corvette.

Johnny Lightning has also announced a Hobby line coming in 2010 called “JL 2.0”. These cars are believed to be for Hobby exclusive distribution. A 1/64th scale car with metal bodies and chassis, rubber wheels, and exclusive color and design.

JL 2.0 – Release ‘A’: ’08 Dodge Challenger – Black w/flames; a ’80 Chevy Monza – spoiler; a ’80 Chevy Impala – project car; and a ’65 Pontiac GTO – racing legends “Arnie Bestwick”.

1:24 Scale Muscle Cars: The 1964 Impala SS was a car that brought luxury and affordability together. Now Johnny Lightning is reproducing that car with all the attention to detail and lavish styling of the original. From the windshield wipers down to the gearshift—but no seatbelts, which were optional at the time—this 1:24 casting perfectly replicates the most minute aspects of the Impala. The second is a replica of Arnie Bestwick’s Pontiac GTO stockcar. You can also get this replica in the JL 2.0 line 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

Editor’s Note – Stay tuned for an up-close pictorial of the Forever 64 Release! -Jeff

With that being said; the below timeline of a “collection” relationship is meant to be humorous but also to teach what might come to be. You’ll see some references that everyone may not get, and I only use the generic HE and SHE titles to personify the most common relationship in the die-cast collecting world. As I mentioned before, there are many other relationship partners who face the collecting world together and maybe can see themselves in the below situations.

Stage 1: The “No need for concern; we just met” stage.

Reality: You just began to date. SHE already has concerns but SHE doesn’t yet understand you let alone the beauty [and the obsession] that is collecting die-cast. HE is still safe.

Stage 2: Still together; “Getting to know you; getting to know all about you.”

Reality: This is where SHE is beginning to let her guard down and the naïveté begins. SHE thinks its great HE likes to shop! But; SHE is still wondering why HE has to hit the toy department first as soon as you enter the store. “What’s the rush?” SHE thinks. Poor thing!

Stage 3: Die-cast 101

Reality: SHE begins to want to know more…HE to SHE; “Honey when you’re in Target without me just look for the [little green strip, green tires, white tires etc etc]; that would really be great!” SHE actively seeks out die-cast related gifts for HE. HE begins to feel like the master from TV’s KUNG-FU; “Try to snatch the treasure hunt from this rack.”

Stage 4: Understanding the Lingo; “OOH The needle…and the spoon, take a trip…‘round the moon.”

Reality: SHE hunts and picks up this stuff so SHE can have more conversations with HE and HE actually pays attention. SHE may even find her first Chase/Hunt piece, which really seals the deal! HE loves all the attention from SHE regarding his hobby. HE feels the student has graduated to the next level.

Stage 5: Getting to know the Natives!

“There is a red one who wont accept the white one who wont help the blue one.”

Reality: HE introduces SHE to the other “collectors” at a local show or store. SHE notices that once HE and SHE are back in the car HE turns and says “OK, Greg is a scalper, Peter is a runner, and Bobby collects Star Wars so no worries about him.” SHE also learns the nicknames for the others. She also wonders why there aren’t many other women! By now HE and SHE are either engaged or just married. If HE and SHE share a home; a die-cast corner begins to develop.

Stage 6: Active partner; “So Happy Together”

Reality: You continue to attend local shows and maybe your first “AWAY” event together. You both have fun. SHE meets some nice people [the ones HE wants her to meet] and SHE sees that there are actually other women around. SHE thinks “This isn’t so bad!” SHE may even begin to form her own nicknames for people other than yours. The die-cast corner begins to develop into a die-cast room.

Stage 7: Complete immersion/involvement

Reality: You visit more “AWAY” shows together.

GOOD: SHE actually begins to be able to hold her own with other collectors and collecting in general. BAD: She actually gets to see the real scope of who collects this stuff and it’s a bit frightening. SHE also accidentally meets some members of the DWA: DIECAST WIDOW”S ASSOCIATION. This isn’t good; a diversion is needed; “Hey SHE; have you met Hans; he’s from Belgium!” Die-cast room becomes more ornate.

Stage 8: Initial pullback; Separate worlds

Reality: SHE doesn’t go to conventions/shows anymore. SHE shops with HE only when the baby needs diapers or clothes but SHE is still interested in any good finds you get. But SHE is still happy he has something HE likes. HE promises to actually shop for other things when HE hits the stores; thinks that helps his cause. Die-cast room becomes less ornate some cars are put away “so the baby won’t get them.” Yeah, that’s it.

Stage 9: Tensions mount; “PRESSURE…Pushing down on me, pushing down on you”

Reality: Cracks in SHE’s die-cast love begin to show. The kid[s] are now a little older or you’ve been blessed with more. SHE’s interest in your finds lessens to an “UH HUH”. Money spent is all of a sudden is a concern. Plus there’s concern over that the big basket of cars for the kids is growing, even though they are girls or can’t even sit up. Die-cast room becomes a die-cast corner again.

Stage 10: Utter disdain. Cracks in SHE’s diecast love are now Grand Canyon chasms.

“I feel the earth move under my feet; I feel the sky tumbling down”

Reality: HE is losing the battle at this point but doesn’t realize it. HE thinks when SHE leaves the room during a die-cast related phone call at home that she is just giving HE privacy. HE notices SHE’s complete lack of interest in his finds but thinks SHE’s busy with the kids. Die-cast corner becomes a shelf in the garage.

Stage 11: Battle lines are drawn: It’s the cars or ME/US

Reality: What do you think happens? There’s no shame, let it out! Go to your happy place!

“To everything TURN, TURN, TURN, there is a season TURN, TURN, TURN.”

Stage 12: DING! FRIES ARE DONE!

It’s pretty self explanatory. No need to throw salt in anyone’s wound. HE is just happy because HE gets to keep what HE still has. The die-cast shelf is getting really dusty.

But don’t worry, because like the legendary Phoenix, there is…

Stage 13: Collecting 201! “A white lightning amongst the ashes.”

Yes, in this case #13 is lucky because things usually do and will swing back in HE’s favor if both HE and SHE are willing to come to a compromise. It takes a little time so just be patient; good things do come to those who wait. There’s always give and take in every relationship, no matter what the reason; you just have to find the right balance to make things work.

For those of you in a relationship and are/were unaffected by ANY of these tribulations at ANYTIME; good for you and again more power to you! But trust me, you are the minority; whether you believe it or not.

For those of you who recognize if any of these symptoms are happening [or might happen] but thought it was only happening to you; you are not alone; you may still be able to change things for the better. It has been said that those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

For those of you this has already happened to; all I can say is sorry. There is no judging here; just understanding and realization that #@&% can happen to anyone at anytime for any reason. No one is immune!

I have been lucky to have a very understanding wife. Being out of work for 3 out of the last 8 years had put a strain on my collecting and my wife’s attitude towards it but she still realized what it means to me and has at least encouraged me to keep collecting but modify the way I collect. In that sense I am a realist not an idealist. Some cars are better than none. One or Two “away” trips a year as opposed to none is even better. I still look, I still buy cars and talk about them and she listens and chimes in once in a while. She’s happy to look when I come home with a nice convention piece, RAOK, or a one-off custom. [Shout out to my best bud Bryan Pope!] She even looks for Treasure Hunts if I am not at the store with her. I have never shied away from the fact that I have changed as a collector over the years; and I know it is for the better.

You can take what you want from my relationship versus collecting timeline, ignore it, or just have a laugh. That’s what life should always boil down to: having a good laugh every once in a while. LIVE to COLLECT; COLLECT to LIVE is a motto best served to the insane or very rich. LIVE to LOVE; LOVE to COLLECT is a motto best served to everyone who loves little cars.

As always, let me know what you think. Let it all out, I can take it.

Auto-Dreams Release 12 (All in Black with Flames): ’51 Ford Crestliner, ’49 Mercury, ’55 DeSoto Fireflite, ’55 Dodge Royal Lancer, ’57 Chevy Bel-Air, ’58 Plymouth Fury (Chase pieces are unknown at this time)

Click any image to see a larger version

1:24 Scale Release 12: ’71 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda in Lime Green or Red, ’57 Chevy 210 Hardtop in Blue or Cream

* – 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

Don Tognotti was one of the most successful Custom car show promoters of his time, but before that he built show cars. The Hot Heap was based on his 1964 modified Model T Roadster show car called “King T”, also known as “Tognotti’s T.” The King T won the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster award at the Grand National Roadster Show in 1964.

By winning this award the King T was launched into stardom. Shortly after, MPC built a 3-in-1 model kit, and in 1968 Mattel released it as one of the original 16 Hot Wheels castings. A popular Hot Wheels model among many collectors, the Hot Heap is one casting that most collectors hope will be reissued in the near future.

The Hot Heap was originally issued in both a US and Hong Kong casting. The US version featured a metal engine and a color-matched, molded interior and steering wheel. The base was fairly plain with no details other than the exhaust pipes and logos (Hot Wheels, US patents pending, etc.) It also had a shorter trunk, and the leaf springs on the back were shorter and less detailed. US  castings also came clear windshields and the wheels carried a dull silver finish.

The Hong Kong casting came with a plastic chrome engine. The base was more detailed with the entire drive train molded into the base, and featured open slots to view the axles. It was also issued with chrome wheels. The trunk was also longer, and the leaf springs on the back were longer and more detailed. They also came with blue-tinted windshields, and the interior were molded in various colors with a black steering wheels.

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

Click the image to see a large version

Its refreshing to see Pope utilizing a fresh and unique casting – much to the dismay of Drag Bus fans everywhere! Only 100 of these will be made and they will surely sell out at the Summer Smash, so be sure to get your tickets soon and join us in Rhode Island this August!

GreenLight Collectibles certainly falls into that category, yet they continue to excel and succeed with creative lines that collectors continue to enjoy year after year. Their County Roads series is a line that offers a wide selection of appealing vehicles that would all be right at home cruising the the back country roads on the out-skirts of a sleepy town.

The 6 castings that make up County Roads Series 4 strike a nice balance of muscle, 4-door sedan and classic work truck that covers 4 different decades. Those castings include the 1968 Chevrolet C-10 Pickup, the 1970 Pontiac GTO, the 1977 Dodge Ramcharger, the 1987 Pontiac Firebird Formula, the 2006 Ford Crown Victoria (Laconia, NH Fire Dept.) and the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO. 

Click any photo to see the larger version

Each vehicle in the series features rubber tires and a full metal body and chassis. The production run is limited to just 4500 pieces and each car is individually numbered on the chassis.

GreenLight’s extremely limited “Green Machine” Chase Cars are part of this series and are produced at only 2% of the run. They are randomly inserted in cases and of course, very hard to find at retail. Buying sealed cases is your best chance of getting your hands on one!

County Roads Series 4 is currently on its way to brick and mortar retailers, and online retailer are currently taking pre-orders for sets and cases. The MSRP for single pieces is $5.99 USD.

Click any image to see the larger version

The new issue will be available in the next few weeks. Until then, you might consider subscribing so you don’t miss a single issue!

Can’t make it to the convention? Online quantities will be available to Liberty Legionaires starting with Colossus level members on June 24th as well. However, if you’ve been on the fence when it comes to joining the fun at the convention itself, then you’re definitely in luck. DiecastSpace and Liberty Promotions have teamed up to offer collectors all the “indecisive” collectors out there a little incentive to see what the Magical Weekend of Cars is all about.

Head over to the 2010 MWoC Drag Bus page on LibertyPromotions.com and you’ll find a special coupon code that will save you 20% off your ticket purchase to the Magical Weekend over at ToyCarConventions.com.

Wayne is well known for his amazing graphic work with Mattel and the Hot Wheels brand. Before his recent departure from Mattel he was able to take a stab at full-blown design which resulted in popular new castings like Rolling Thunder.

Be sure to visit ToyCarConventions.com for information on tickets and accommodations for the Canada Convention. This first-ever event is on course to sell out fast!