In 1968 Mattel rocked the toy industry and for decades thereafter, the collector’s world, by releasing the Hot Wheels series of toy die cast cars. With traditional cars along with wild custom designs and paint jobs, these little metal cars have captured the imagination of kids that loved cars, all around the world. Auto World is paying honor to the Hot Wheels brand with the latest release of both 4-Gear and Xtraction cars with Hot Wheels inspired liveries. Release #1 (SC382) Hot Wheels Tribute Cars captures the excitement of the original Hot Wheels cars along with some of the unique marketing Mattel used to keep the brand in the forefront. Paying homage to Classic designs and even the Treasure Hunt motif, this release pays tribute to the iconic line of Hot Wheels that Mattel introduced all those years ago.
#1 ‘55 Chevy Bel Air Gasser / Candy Striper Tribute – Pink Metallic/White/Red
Doing my research for this car (I’m not a Hot Wheels collector or expert by any means) I was blown away at the following this particular car has. Not only are there Candy Striper cars, but there are posters, blankets, and even throw pillows carrying the Candy Striper’s image. The original Hot Wheel release brings hundreds of dollars at auctions and swap meets. Auto World has captured the likeness very well on their ‘55 Chevy Bel Air making this one very cool release.
#2 ‘70 Plymouth Funny Car / Classics Series Tribute – Candy Red/Gold
#3 ‘69 Chevy Camaro SS / Treasure Hunt Tribute – Black/Yellow/Red/Blue Flames
Mattel released the Hot Wheels Treasure Hunt Cars in 1995 and energized the collectors of the die cast line like no other release. Hidden from view in the packaging and scattered amount the releases, these cars were immediately sought after. Auto World captures the paint scheme of one of these Treasure Hunt gems on their ‘69 Chevy Camaro SS.
#4 ‘70 Plymouth Duster Funny Car / Stars & Stripes Tribute – Metallic Blue/White/Red
Here is the packaging for the Auto World 4-Gear -Xtraction Release #1 Hot Wheels Tribute Cars (SC382)
Below are some additional views of this latest release.
Auto World has captured the Hot Wheels themes and brought us another unique set of cars that will look great on the track and in any collectors display case. Look for these at your local hobby shop or favorite web store in late November 2022.