The popular “Drivers” series from M2 Machines returns to retail this fall with a great line-up of classic castings that are sure to put a smile on collector’s faces. Release 12’s castings will include:

• - 1971 Plymouth Cuda HEMI -  Black w/White to Candy Turquoise Flame
• - 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona HEMI -  Black w/White to Candy Orange Flame
• - 1949 Mercury -  Black w/Gold & Green Flame
• - 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air – Black w/Candy Red Flame
• - 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1 428 -  Black w/Black & Medium Pink Pearl Flame
• - 1969 Pontiac GTO -  Black w/Cyanide Blue Pearl Flame

The Chase piece for this release will a 1949 Mercury in Green with white flames and black pin stripes. Collectors can expect to see these hitting retail in September and October. Some online vendors have this series available for pre-order now.

Catch a glimpse of the Drivers Series Release 12 via these pre-production images. Click either image to see a larger version.

Here’s a look at some of the latest M2 Machines products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page, and we’ll update the list to your credit!

The Promotions – Standard (492 pieces) and Chase (108 pieces) versions of the ‘49 Merc produced for the 2011 DiecastSpace Super Convention and made their debut in Las Vegas in February. Remaining quantities are available online at 1stopdiecast.com and on the secondary market.

1:24 Scale – New larger scale releases include a ’65 Ford Mustang 2+2 289 in red or bronze and a ’71 Plymouth ‘Cuda 383 in yellow or white.

* – 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

-Pictures courtesy of M2Machines.com and 1stopdiecast.com.

Here’s a look at some of the latest Johnny Lightning products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page, and we’ll update the list to your credit

Forever 64 – Release 13: This release includes the ’69 Dodge Charger R/T, the ’70 Plymouth Superbird, the ’72 Chevy Vega – Bruce Larson, the ’69 Chevy Impala SS Convertible, the ’92 GMC Typhoon, the ’68 Shelby GT500, the ’55 Chrysler 300, the ’77 Dodge Monaco, the ’81 Chevy Malibu – Beat the Heat, the Sprint Car – DiecastSpace, the ’77 Dodge Monaco – Demo Derby and the ’65 Chevy Chevelle SS.

JL 2.0 – Release 5: This release includes the ’87 Ford Mustang – Beat the Heat, the ’72 Vega Wagon – Warren Johnson, the ’87 Buick Grand National – Black w/Flames and the ’09 Dodge Challenger R/T – Mopar Drift car

Muscle Cars 1:24 Scale – Release 51: This release includes the ’68 Pontiac GTO and the ’49 Buick Roadmaster. – Release 52: This release contains the ’71 Plymouth Duster and the ’68 Chevy Nova.

* – Please note that this list was compiled based on information gathered by collectors fromonline 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

-Pictures courtesy of JohnnyLightning.com and others.

Here’s a look at some of the latest M2 Machines products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit!

Auto-Thentics: Release 15 – Auto-Trucks: Castings will include a ’50 Studebaker 2R w/plow, a ’56 Ford F-100, a ’54 Studebaker 3R, a ’56 Ford F-100 Stake Body and a ’58 Chevy LCF Spartan 60 (orange or Blue)

The Chase piece will be the ’58 Chevy LCF Spartan 60 in black/gold and the Super Chase is a ’56 Ford F-100 Stake Body in gold.

Auto-Projects: Release 2 – Castings will include a ’57 Dodge Custom Royal Lancer D500, a ’54 Studebaker 3R Flatbed, a ’58 Plymouth Fury, a ’69 Pontiac GTO Judge, a ’69 Plymouth Road Runner Hemi and a ’70 Ford Mustang Boss 429.

The Chase piece is a ’70 Mustang Boss 429 in a primer gray.

Drivers Series Multi-Packs:

Release 1A includes a ’71 Plymouth Cuda 440, a ‘71 Dodge Charger R/T Hemi, a ‘57 Ford Fairlane 500 and a ’57 Chevy Bel-Air w/TRU.

Release 1B includes a ’57 Chrysler 300c, a ’66 Chevy Corvette 427, a ’67 Chevy Nova SS and a ’70 Ford Mustang Mach 1 351 w/TRU.

* – 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

*Pictures courtesy of M2 Machines, Diecast Museum and 1StopDiecast.com.

An assortment of current Johnny Lightning product happened to land on the DiecastAudio doorstep, so I thought it might be a good opportunity to try out my new lighting setup and see how they come out. Let me know what you think of them via the comments section below!

The shipments consisted of the 1977 Ford Van and 1963 Ford Galaxie 500 from JL 2.0 Release 4, the 1964 Dodge 330 Superstock and 1970 Chevy Camaro Funny Car from JL 2.0 Release 3 and the all new 1979 International Scout II casting from JL Release 10.

Features that caught me eye this time around include the cool flip up body on the Camaro Funny car, the reverse opening hood on the Scout and the great “Dirty Donny” graphics of the Ford Van. Each of these great pieces are available now from your favorite brick and mortar or online retailer.

Click any image to see the larger version!

Collectors have been raving about GreenLight’s Hot Pursuit line and have certainly been letting them know about it. The result is another all new line-up of great police cruisers for your collecting enjoyment that should be appearing at retail in December.

Here’s the official announcement from GreenLight:

GreenLight puts the “Hot” in Series 5 release of Hot Pursuit

It has been one hot year for GreenLight’s Police themed product line appropriately named “Hot Pursuit”

Indianapolis, IN (November 2, 2010) The collectors were the ones that breathed life into this series with their requests of GreenLight to manufacture a entire police themed product line.  The first release debuted in August 2009 and since then Hot Pursuit has developed into quite the staple item at mass market stores, hobby shops and the shelves of all GreenLight Fans.  This will make a total of three releases for Hot Pursuit in 2010 and collectors can expect many more to come.

Series 5 has incorporated major metropolitan area departments such as Kansas and Houston.  As well as the first time that the classic sheriff brown / tan exterior paint scheme has been utilized.

1:64 Hot Pursuit Series 5:

1965 Ford Galaxie Westwood, Massachusetts Police

2008 Dodge Charger Kansas City, KS Police

2008 Dodge Charger Houston, TX Police

2008 Ford Crown Victoria New York State Police

2008 Ford Crown Victoria Vanderburgh County (Evansville, IN) Sherriff

2009 Ford Mustang Edmonton, Alberta Canada Police

These die-cast replicas feature opening hoods, detailed engines, real rubber tires, metal body and chassis, detailed graphics, custom license plates and are officially licensed by the respective automobile companies.  Quantities are limited to 8000 units of each car and will be available at GreenLight Hobby Retailers, Distributors, Target, TRU, and Meijer stores beginning in December 2010.

Greenlight Collectibles recently announce their participation in the “invitation-only” Boston Area Toy Collectors annual dinner event where they will have a pre-production version of their 1965 Ford Galaxie featuring the Westwood Massachusetts Police Department that will appear in Series 5 of the Hot Pursuit line. Here are all the details from GreenLight’s official press release:

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.

Attendees of the first-ever Canadian Diecast Convention will now have one more exciting event to attend as the 1:1 scale Hot Wheels Ford Mustang Color Shifter will be making at stop in Niagara Ontario on Saturday, September 11th.

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.

Here’s a look at some of the latest Greenlight products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit!

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

Here’s a look at some of the latest Matchbox products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit!

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

Here’s a look at some of the latest Hot Wheels products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit!

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

Today, GreenLight announced the upcoming third release of their popular 1:64 scale Motor World series. Volkswagen fans will be happy to see that they’ve included not one, not two, but three different versions of their popular Samba Bus casting!

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.

Here’s a look at some of the latest Johnny Lightning products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit!

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

My multi-part pictorial post on GreenLight’s current Motor World release continues with the All American Series. Castings for this series include the Ford F-100, the Shelby Cobra 427 S/C, the Chevy Bel Air and the Cadillac Eldorado. Check out the Speed Series from Motor World Release 2 in Part 1 of this pictorial set.

Click any image to see the larger versions

Stay tuned for Part 3 featuring the Classics Series!

Here’s a look at some of the latest M2 Machines products that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit!

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

One of the biggest challenges a diecast manufacturer faces is getting the proper “mileage” out of each casting’s tool. Companies who specialize in realistic diecast replicas feel that pressure even more by having to stay within the constraints of authentic paint colors and design.

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.

The ‘36 Ford coupe is one of the most desired 1 to 1 scale cars of its time. The Hot Wheels designers must have known a thing or two about the future of street rodding back in 1969. This little coupe has the classic “California rake” with a “big-n-little” tire combo giving it that killer street stance. It sports a chopped roof and no chrome trim which is period perfect for the late sixties.

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.

Series 1 of GreenLight’s new 1:64th scale Dioramas line was a major hit and the Series 2 is looking to share the same success. Here’s the official press release from GreenLight:

Scenes from your favorite GreenLight Collectible Collections Steal the Show

INDIANAPOLIS, IN (April 19, 2010) When GreenLight launched a brand new line entitled 1:64^th GreenLight Dioramas, the team envisioned it being a success. GreenLight knew this would be a popular line, but was ecstatic when the first assortment SOLD OUT prior to arrival! After the extraordinary success of Series 1, GreenLight is gearing up for the second release of 1:64^th Dioramas in May! “If you were impressed by the first wave of 1:64 Dioramas then Series 2 will blow you away!” says Jeff Nelson, National Sales Manager. Series 2 is composed of four different scenes including Bullitt, Hot Pursuit, County Roads and a brand new theme, Hitchin’ a Ride.

The revised Bullitt scene features the two famous cars later in the chase scene just as the crash occurs complete with scrapes and bullet holes in the models. County Roads captures the spirit of the 60’s with a light green Large Camper painted with peace signs and flowers. Hot Pursuit features the 2010 Mustang GT Convertible being pulled over by a Nevada Highway Patrol Dodge Charger, while Hitchin’ a Ride features the very first taxis made by GreenLight.

1:64^th GreenLight Dioramas Series 2 Assortment includes:

• - Bullitt/Steve McQueen #2 -1968 Ford Mustang & 1968 Dodge Charger (Crash Scene, Damaged))
• - 1:64 Hot Pursuit- 2008 Nevada Highway Patrol Dodge Charger and 2010 Mustang GT Convertible +two Plastic Figurines
• - 1:64 Hitchin’ a Ride- Two 2006 Ford Crown Victoria Taxi Cabs + two Plastic Figurines
• - 1:64 County Roads- 1965 Dodge D-100 with Large Camper + two Plastic Figurines
•    

These replicas feature opening hoods, detailed engines, real rubber tires, metal body and chassis, detailed graphics, custom license plates and are officially licensed by Ford®, Chrysler Group LLC®, Chevrolet ®, Warner Bros® Entertainment Inc and the Chadwick McQueen and The Terry McQueen Testamentary Trust. Each scene will vary in production quantities ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 as some of dioramas will be solid packed as well as in assortments.This release will be available in May 2010 at Toys ‘R’ Us, Toys ‘R’ Us Australia, Kmart, Meijer and your favorite hobby shops and online dealers!

GreenLight LLC is a premier manufacturer and marketer of officially licensed, authentic die-cast replica vehicles. GreenLight die-cast replicas are available in 1:18^th, 1:24^th and 1:64^th scale and are officially licensed by General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Chrysler Group LLC, Carroll Shelby Licensing, Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, Tim Phelps, Grand-Am Road Racing Association, Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and Bridgestone Americas.

Here’s a look at some of the latest products from M2 Machines that will be appearing in stores and online.* There is very little coming out this month. For those of you who follow this line you may have trouble finding what you want in the stores. I suggest an online retailer if you want to find what your looking for. Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit.

Auto-thentics Release 11: ’58 Plymouth Belvedere in Teal; ’59 Caddy series 62 in lavender; ’57 Ford Fairlane 500 in red/white; ’57 Chevy Bel-Air in cooper; ’57 Chrysler 300c in yellow; ’55 Dodge Royal Lancer in 2 tone blue.

Click any image to see the larger version

Chase pieces include: ’57 Ford Fairlane 500 in Black/gold; and a Gold Chase of a ’59 Caddy series 62.

* – 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.

Here’s a look at some of the latest products from GreenLight Collectibles that will be appearing in stores and online.* Found anything that isn’t on the list? Please submit it via the contact page and we’ll update the list to your credit.

Hobby Collection Series, Release 5: ’10 Mustang GT; ’64 Plymouth Fury Sport; ’69 Ford Mustang BOSS 302; ’71 AMC Javelin AMX T/A; ’09 Corvette C6 convertible; and a ’67 Chevy Impala SS. All pictured below.

New Motor World, Release 2: ’55 Chevy; ’56 Ford F-100; BMW Z4; ’53 Caddy Eldorado; Jaguar XK; Lamborghini Gallardo; Land Rover Range Rover; Volkswagon 30; Mercedes Sprinter; Mini Cooper; ’65 Shelby Cobra; Volkswagon bus. All pictured below.

* – 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 DCX Expo returns to the Fairplex in Pomona, California this year on March 20th & 21st. Along with its return comes an opportunity for collectors to pick up some limited edition custom pieces being made specifically for the event.

This first piece announced is this custom 1:24 scale Divco that has been designed to match the style of the DCX Dairy Delivery offered at the 2007 expo. The run is being limited to just 50 pieces, and they are available for $55 each. Collectors who are interested in this piece should note that the 2007 Dairy Delivery shown in the picture does not come with the Divco, and is only shown for design reference.

M2 Machines will be in attendance at this year’s event and has produced a limited run of the 1970 Ford Gran Torino GT casting. The standard edition run is limited to 492 pieces and ships in the standard M2 packaging for $17.00. They have also produced a chase version for the show that is limited to just 108 pieces. Chase pieces will be randomly inserted into orders that are placed through Diehard-Diecast.com. No information is currently available on how they will be distributed during the event itself. Both versions also have an official DCX show sticker that indicates the run quantity.

Pieces purchased through Diehard-Diecast will ship on March 22, 2010 or you can request to pick up your order at the show.

Jump to the Diehard-Diecast order page

M2 is hitting it hard! I will keep you up to date on all their lines and monthly releases as I can find information released.

 Auto-Lift, Release 3:

This new release includes: a ’49 Mercury in both red and gray; a ’66 Dodge Charger in both black and met. blue; a ’67 Chevy Nova SS in both met. orange and red; The Chase piece in this series will be the ’49 Mercury in a red and gold car.

Drivers 101, Release 5:

This new release includes: a ’71 Dodge Charger in purple; a ’69 Pontiac GTO Judge in red; a ’67 Chevy Nova SS in silver; a ’70 Ford Torino GT in yellow; a ’70 Ford Mustang BOSS 429 in met. orange; a ’57 Chrysler 300c in black; Which is also the Chase piece, this time in blue.

* – 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 Lincoln Johnny Lightning Race Club recently announced the availability of their 2010 custom club car. The club selected Johnny Lightning Ford, Chevy and Dodge (shown) van castings as the base for this year’s run.

A total of 15 were customized for the run by M & S Customs who have also done a number of cars for the Rhode Island Hot Wheels Summer Smash conventions. Each car is being sold for $20 to non-club members and $15 to club members.

Contact the club through their official website for more information.

Fresh off the glimpse of the 2010 Super Convention Dinner Dairy we got a short while ago is this look at a raw, unpainted version of 2010 Shelby Mustang from GreenLight that attendees of the VIP Admin Party will receive. I think this is just the tip of the iceberg for the sneak peeks with just a few months left until the main event.

Click any image to see the larger version

Be sure to visit the official Super Convention website for information on tickets, accommodations and event activities.

Muscle Car Garage “Up in Flames” release 2 is coming at the end of October into November.

The series will include: ’66 Ford Galaxie; ’67 Chevy Corvette; ’69 Buick GS; ’70 Plymonth Road Runner; ’71 Chevy C-10; ’09 Dodge Challenger

*Pictures courtesy of Greenlight.com.

* – 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

Maisto is one company that is very hard to find up to date release information on. In this article I will attempt to inform you of all the 1/64th scale car lines they have to offer and show some photos of some of their line. The main two lines are: All-Stars and Pro-Rods, with sub categories to each.

Series 9.2 includes: ’36 & ’37 Ford coupe; ’32 Ford Roadster; ’36 Chevy Pickup; ’29 Ford Model A; ’50 Merc.

SUB-Series include: Tour Buses – Red and Blue colors. Fresh Pair – Two cars released together in a single pack. Transporters – 4 color choices. Elite Transporters – A Flatbed style truck w/car; a Tow Truck w/car; and Pickup w/trailer and car. Limousine – Stretched cars and SUV’s. Rescue Force – Police and other emergency vehicles.

Cars include: ’65 Mustang; ’62 Chevy Biscayne Wagon; ’62 Chevy Bel-Air; ’55 Nomad; ’67 Mustang GT; ’69 Corvette; ’70 Nova. Some cars have exposed engines which are: ’71 Vega; ’93 Mustang Cobra; ’70 GTX; ’64 Galaxie 500; ’68 Camaro Z28. A sub-series in the Pro-Rods line is the Haulerz line which has four styles of cabs to choose from.

* – 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

GMP Diecast has announced several new releases this month with one of them being this 1:18 scale limited edition 1964 Ford Thunderbolt called the Little “Georgia Shaker.” Collectors with a passion for racing heritage will especially enjoy the history behind this die-cast replica. Here’s the story from GMP:

“Hubert Platt, the Georgia Shaker, was known for his great looking, strong performing cars, his on-track showmanship and his off-track flair. He was called a “controversial racing showman” in local racing newspapers as early as 1962. Hubert raced many “Georgia Shaker” cars but none came close to the Thunderbolt! Ford’s Total Performance program was well underway when the order was sent to build a batch of special lightweight Ford Fairlanes. Stripped to the essence, painted Wimbledon White and stuffed with 427 cubic inches of Galaxie V-8, the cars were dubbed Thunderbolts, and they struck factory experimental drag racing like lightning.”

GMP has taken Hubert’s beautiful Thunderbolt Shaker and recreated it in all it’s glory with this 1:18th scale replica. Some of its features include:

• – Opening hood doors and trunk
• - Retractable Radio Antenna
• - Folding Seat Backs
• - Opening Glove Compartment
• - Working Suspension
• - Rotating Driveshaft
• - Poseable Steering
• - Plumbed and Wired Engine
• - Authentic Interior Detailing

In addition to a standard version, there will be a very special limited edition car which will come with a signed certificate from Hubert himself. The signed version will be limited to just 250 pieces at $129.95 each and the standard version being limited to 1000 at $119.95 each.

Note: Click the image to the right to see a larger version of the image.

[via gmpdiecast.com]

Earlier this year, Ford launched an innovative promotional program to build buzz about their new Ford Fiesta. The campaign is called The Ford Fiesta Movement and gave 100 lucky “agents” the opportunity to get behind the wheel of their own Fiesta for 6 months. During that time, they have been blogging, tweeting and life streaming their experiences as part of their daily life with the car. In addition, the agents are given monthly “missions” that they must complete as part of the campaign.

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]

M2 Machines recently announce a new line of lower priced 1:64 scale models that will likely grab more of the “impulse buy” crowd than their previous releases. In order to reach the lower $2.99 price-point, the line sacrifices some of the more detailed features like opening doors & hoods, metal chassis and jeweled headlights and taillights found in the Auto-thentics and Detroit Muscle lines. However, features like detailed interiors, hood options, rubber tires (both stock and new larger versions) and the same excellent quality tampos will all be a part of this new direction for M2.

Three excellent muscle-car casting have been selected for the initial release. They include the 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 302, the 1968 Plymouth HEMI Cuda and the 1969 Pontiac GTO Judge. Each casting will be available in two different color variations as shown below. There will be one BOSS 302 chase piece packed into every master case of 48.

Click any image to view the larger version

As you can see in the photos, the rear of the card will contain a fun car-related technology tip that will educate young enthusiasts and keep their interest in cars and die-cast collecting alive. Drivers 101 will be exclusive to Target stores and select hobby retailers starting in August 2009.

Thanks to Fred Blood from 1stopdiecast.com for the photos which where originally posted on Joe’s Diecast Shack.

This time around we look at one of my favorite rides – the “Classic ’32 Ford Vicky.” This little baby is one of the most collectible early Redlines. It was designed by Larry Wood who gave it the California hot-rod look.

This US-only casting has a metal chassis and a plastic interior that came in assorted colors. It was also designed without hood sides, so the killer motor really stands out. The Vicky also featured a smooth black painted roof insert, open front suspension (very rare), redline wheels and an exterior finish that was available in 15 spectra-flame colors!

As with previous articles, I’ve added a photo of a 1:1 scale “Vicky” as reference.

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

Why pay secondary market prices when you can get a limited edition 2009 Super Convention commemorative piece straight from the source?! DieHard-DieCast created a limited run of just 100 of these 1947 Ford COE Box Trucks that were available at the show. A small quantity still remain and are being made available directly from the DieHard-DieCast website for just $32.

Click any image to see them up close

[via diehard-diecast.com]

Sean Taylor from M2 Machines graciously sent out a box of samples for me to look at in preparation for our interview on Saturday Nitro. Since I didn’t know what was in the package, I thought I’d shoot a quick “unboxing” video so you could share in the revealing!

The 1950 Oldsmobile 88 can be found in Release 5 of the current Auto-Thentics line. The 1970 Mustang Boss 302 will be part of Release 3 for the Detroit Muscle line and features the new “Sky Hood” option!

I also need to make a few “informational” corrections. I identified the shirt Sean sent as a Snake and Mongoose design, but its really a Don “The Snake” Prudhomme design – very cool! In addition, Sean’s letter mentioned an additional piece of loose diecast that was not shown in the video. I was pleasantly surprised to find that one additional piece hidden in the bubble wrap at the bottom of the box. Ahh, the trials and tribulations of doing things “semi-live!” Stay tuned for a special post just for this additional piece. It definitely deserves its own feature rather than tacking on some extra video!

What did you think of the “unboxing?” Would you like to see more of this type of content on diecastAUDIO?! Please leave a comment and let me know what you think!

This week Greg Rogue from DieHard-Diecast.com announce the release of a new Limited Edition run of Jada ’47 Ford COEs that are sure to gain some attention. This is the first of what he hopes to be many pieces in their new exclusive DieHard DieCast brand. There are also quite a few other “firsts” associated with this release:

• - First time Jada has made a line with exclusive packaging
• - First time Luis Tanahara has designed a package for DieHard-DieCast.com
• - First time for a Jada Toys limited edition this small of a run
• - First time the 47 Ford COE is in this special Liquid Purple
• - First time a Jada LE will be available at only one website

There are only 3000 pieces in this first release. Each piece is available for $5.99 (plus S&H), and combined shipping is available for orders of more than two. Use the link below to jump straight to the order page where you’ll also get a preview of a few other Code 3 designs that are currently in the works!

[via diehard-diecast.com]

Every once in a while the Peterson Auto Museum offers up some great deals on limited edition die cast pieces, and this week is one of those times! Right now they are offering up the Peterson Ford COE in Black or Grey for just $9.95 each.

If Ed “Big Daddy” Roth is more your style, then you’ll surely love the limited edition “Outlaw” in gold or silver for just $4.95 each. Finally, Ed Roth’s Rat Fink design adorns the limited edition “Tales of the Rat Fink” VW bus that is on sale for just $7.95. Click the images to see them up close and then jump over to the Peterson Museum store to snag these deals while supplies last!

[via peterson.org]

Its been a while since I’ve featured a 1:1 scale car here on diecastAUDIO. I introduced the category last year to showcase concept cars that may or may not become production vehicles, but often become miniatures after being picked up by one of the mainstream die cast brands. In fact, the post I did last year about the 2011 Pontiac Trans Am has become one of the most popular posts on the site!

When thinking of James Bond and the all the cars that have appeared in the films, images of BMWs, Lotus Esprits and Aston Martins might come to mind. This time around we’re taking a look at Ford’s new European model, the all-new Ford Ka. The “peppy-looking” little car will make an appearance in the highly anticipated new James Bond film, “Quantum of Solace.” While it might not be a sleek and sexy sports car, its sure to command attention with the film’s leading lady, Olga Kurylenko behind the wheel!

Many of the James Bond cars have been replicated in die cast over the years. Brands such as Corgi, Johnny Lightning and ERTL have all produced replicas of classic Bond rides in a variety of scales. The Ka has a mild amount of sportiness to it in its stock form, and I can almost picture it as a part of a James Bond themed Johnny Lightning release. It might even take on a whole new life with the addition of larger wheels, low-profile tires and a body kit.

Its hard to say if the Ford Ka will ever make it to die cast form. I feel chances are slim that we’ll ever see it come to any of the mainstream brands. What do you think?