Monthly Archives: November 2024

Hot Wheels Pop Culture Mix 1 for 2025 Announced

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Hot Wheels has recently announced the first mix of Pop Culture cars for 2025, and it’s shaping up to be a great one! The Pop Culture line is part of the Hot Wheels Gold series, featuring premium releases with rubber tires and more detailed bodies than the mainline cars. This set includes some real gems, with a nice variety of castings and themes. Let’s take a closer look.

Aston Martin Vanquish from James Bond “Die Another Day”: This sleek silver Aston Martin comes equipped with Real Rider Modern 10-spoke wheels and captures the essence of the iconic car from the James Bond film. The Vanquish was a fitting choice for Bond, showcasing cutting-edge technology and performance, much like the DB5 did in earlier films. It’s sure to be a popular choice for both Bond and diecast enthusiasts.

The Mystery Machine from Scooby-Doo: This turquoise and orange Mystery Machine is an instant classic. It features orange Real Rider wheels and the classic Scooby-Doo graphics. The Mystery Machine has been a staple of the Scooby-Doo franchise since its inception in 1969, and this Hot Wheels release is a great way to celebrate its enduring popularity.

1968 Mazda Cosmo Sport from Jay Leno’s Garage: This white 1968 Mazda Cosmo Sport with chrome Slotted Real Riders is a beauty. The Cosmo Sport was a groundbreaking car for Mazda, featuring a sleek design and a rotary engine. Its appearance on Jay Leno’s Garage introduced this classic car to a new generation of enthusiasts.

Kool Kombi with Mattel 80th Anniversary graphics: This red Kool Kombi with chrome Real Rider 10-spoke wheels is a standout in the set. The Kool Kombi is already a popular casting, and this new livery celebrating Mattel’s 80th anniversary is sure to make it even more desirable. I predict this one will be the big hit from this case.

K.I.T.T. from Knight Rider: This black K.I.T.T. with black Dish Real Rider wheels is a must-have for fans of the classic TV show. K.I.T.T., or Knight Industries Two Thousand, was a technologically advanced car featured in the 1980s series Knight Rider. This talking car captured the imaginations of a generation, and this Hot Wheels release is a great way to relive the nostalgia.

While the Mystery Machine and K.I.T.T. always have a following, they have also been done in very similar releases in the past. The Kool Kombi will likely be more desirable because it is already a popular casting and showing up in a new livery. It’s also worth noting that the Aston Martin Vanquish and the 1968 Mazda Cosmo Sport are both excellent castings that are sure to be popular with collectors.

Overall, this is a strong mix of Pop Culture cars that is sure to please a variety of collectors. I’m particularly excited about the Kool Kombi and the Aston Martin Vanquish. What are you most looking forward to in this release? Let me know in the comments below!

Hot Wheels 2024 Q Case Review: A Surprise Ending to the Year!

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It’s that time again, diecast collectors! The final case of the year has arrived, and it’s time to dive into the Hot Wheels 2024 Q Case. In the past, the Q Case has often been a bit of a letdown, filled with repeats and less desirable models. However, this year’s Q Case breaks the mold and delivers a fantastic lineup of new models, recolors, and even a few surprises. Let’s take a closer look at what this case has to offer.

New Models in the 2024 Q Case: Fresh Metal for Your Collection

The 2024 Q Case kicks off with a bang, introducing several exciting new models. The VW T3 Custom (#227) in a sleek brown and metalflake gold is a standout. This casting captures the iconic VW van with a customized touch, and the color combination is simply stunning. Another new addition for 2024 that caught my eye is the Retro-Active (#237) in a vibrant orange pearl. This futuristic-looking car has a unique design that’s sure to turn heads.

Hot Wheels continues its impressive “HW: The ’90s” series in this case with two fantastic additions. The McLaren F1 (#243) in red is a personal favorite. This legendary supercar is a must-have for any diecast collection, and the red paint job perfectly complements its iconic lines. Joining the McLaren is the ’98 Subaru Impreza 22B STi-Version (#244) in white. This rally-inspired icon is a true legend of the 1990s, and Hot Wheels has done a fantastic job recreating it in diecast form.

Another of the new releases is the Porsche 928S Safari (#245) in red. This rugged take on the classic Porsche 928 is a welcome addition to the Hot Wheels lineup. It also serves as the regular Treasure Hunt for this case, adding an extra layer of excitement for collectors.

More New Models and a Super Treasure Hunt!

The 2024 Q Case keeps the hits coming with even more new releases for 2024. The Tesla Cybertruck (#246) in ZAMAC is a highly sought-after model. This futuristic pickup truck has generated a lot of buzz, and its popularity is reflected in its strong secondary market value, currently selling for around $15-$20.

Hot Wheels introduces another new casting with the Hi-Roller II (#247) in blue. This classic-looking car has a timeless design that’s sure to appeal to collectors of all ages. The Dodge Van (#248) in black is a cool addition, representing the popular Dajiban custom van scene in Japan. These vans are known for their unique drifting style, and Hot Wheels has captured their essence perfectly.

Truck enthusiasts will appreciate the ’83 Chevy Silverado (#249) in blue. This classic pickup truck is a staple of American automotive history, and the Hot Wheels version is a great representation. Keep an eye out for the Super Treasure Hunt version of this model, which features Spectraflame blue paint and Real Rider wheels. It’s already commanding a hefty price on the secondary market, selling for $125-$130.

Finally, the Ford Mustang Dark Horse (#250) makes its debut in a sleek satin blue with black wheels. This new Mustang model is a fantastic addition to the Hot Wheels lineup, and the color combination is spot-on.

Recolors Galore: Familiar Faces in New Hues

The 2024 Q Case also delivers a solid selection of recolors. Some of the highlights include the Loopster (#48) in neon yellow, the Alfa Romeo GTV6 3.0 (#98) in blue, and the ’91 Mazda MX-5 Miata (#120) in yellow. These recolors add variety to the case and offer collectors a chance to add new versions of their favorite castings to their collections.

The Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe (#122) appears in a striking dark blue with Gulf Oil graphics. This iconic race car is always a welcome sight, and the Gulf livery looks fantastic. Other notable recolors include the Speed Dozer (#147) in dark red, the ’96 Porsche Carrera (#174) in white, and the ’90 Acura NSX (#175) in white, both from the “HW: The ’90s” series.

The Rally Speciale (#179) shows up in blue, while the Bugatti Bolide (#185) gets a red and black treatment. The Bumblebee (#186) VW Bug from Transformers returns in a dazzling metalflake gold. This casting, along with the yellow version released earlier this year, has been a huge hit with collectors.

Rounding out the recolors are the ’67 Lotus Type 49 (#188) in dark green with #4 on the side (a variation of the earlier #5 version), the Track Dwagon (#189) in black and yellow, and the ’66 Triumph Tiger 100 (#190) in white and blue.

Overall, the Hot Wheels 2024 Q Case is a surprising and satisfying end to the year. With a strong mix of new models, recolors, and sought-after Treasure Hunts, this case is a must-have for any diecast collector.

Hot Wheels Bronco & WRX: Collector Edition Re-Release!

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Hold onto your hats, collectors! Hot Wheels is giving us another shot at two highly sought-after Collector Edition cars from 2022: the ’85 Ford Bronco and the Subaru Impreza WRX. But there’s a twist – this time, they’re both up for grabs in a single promotion!

A Blast from the Past

Remember those awesome mail-in offers from 2022? The ’85 Ford Bronco was a Target exclusive, while the Subaru Impreza WRX was only available through Best Buy. Well, dust off your receipts and get ready for round two, because Walmart is bringing them back!

Why the Hype?

These cars were incredibly popular when they first came out. The Bronco, with its rugged charm and classic lines, quickly became a favorite among collectors. I mean, who doesn’t love a good Bronco? And let’s not forget the Impreza WRX, a rally-inspired legend with a die-hard following.

What’s the Deal?

Starting November 25th, 2024, head over to Walmart or visit Walmart.com and spend at least $20 on qualifying Hot Wheels cars or multipacks. Then, follow the official rules to submit your request. You’ll need your receipts, blister cards or UPC codes, a completed order form, and $7.00 for shipping and processing. The catch? You won’t know which car you’re getting until it arrives. It’s like a surprise grab bag!

Market Watch

Now, here’s the interesting part. The ’85 Ford Bronco currently fetches around $25-$30 on the secondary market, while the Subaru Impreza WRX commands a higher price, closer to $40. Will this re-release affect their value? It’s hard to say for sure. We might see a slight dip initially, but I suspect these cars will remain popular in the long run. After all, they’re both fantastic castings with a dedicated fan base.

My Two Cents

Personally, I’m thrilled about this re-release. It’s a great opportunity for collectors who missed out the first time around to add these awesome cars to their collection. Plus, the element of surprise adds a fun twist!

What do you think about this re-release? Are you planning to try and get your hands on one of these cars? Let me know in the comments!

Hot Wheels Modern Classics Car Culture Set: A Closer Look

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The Hot Wheels Car Culture line is back with another exciting set for 2024: Modern Classics! This is the fifth installment of the Modern Classics series since Car Culture was introduced, and it’s bringing some serious heat. We also saw a Modern Classics premium line back in 2008, which introduced the ’83 Chevy Silverado casting.  This Hot Wheels Modern Classics Car Culture set is available now on Amazon. Let’s dive into what this set has to offer.

The Lineup:

  • #1 – Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32) Pandem: This casting is brand new to Hot Wheels and comes in white with Hot Wheels and Pandem graphics. The bronze Real Rider Modern 5 spoke wheels are a perfect complement to the car’s aggressive lines. The R32 Skyline GT-R, nicknamed “Godzilla”, was a legend on the streets and tracks of Japan. Its all-wheel-drive system and powerful 2.6L twin-turbocharged engine made it a force to be reckoned with.
  • #2 – 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II: This classic German sports sedan comes in ZAMAC with grey Real Rider Aero wheels. The 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II was a homologation special built so Mercedes could go racing in the DTM series. It featured a powerful 2.5L inline-four engine and aggressive aerodynamics.
  • #3 – Nissan SilEighty: Another new casting, this one is a real head-turner. The SilEighty is a popular modification in the tuner world, combining the front end of a Nissan Silvia S13 with the body of a 1988-1994 Nissan 180SX. This Hot Wheels version is blue with bronze Real Rider Euro wheels.
  • #4 – Nissan Skyline GT-R (BCNR33): This R33 Skyline GT-R comes in white with black Real Rider Modern 5 spoke wheels. While not as iconic as the R32, the R33 still boasts impressive performance and a cult following.
  • #5 – Subaru Forester STi: Finally, a Hot Wheels casting of the Forester STi! This new casting is blue with grey Real Rider Modern 10 spoke wheels. The Forester STi offered a unique blend of practicality and performance, with its turbocharged engine and rally-inspired all-wheel-drive system.

Chase Car:

  • #0 – Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32) Pandem Chase: This blacked-out chase version of the R32 Pandem is already generating a lot of buzz. With black Real Rider Modern 5 spoke wheels, it’s an even meaner looking version of an already aggressive car. I’ve seen this one selling for $125 to $150 on the secondary market.

Trenton’s Take:

I’m really excited about this set. The R32 Skyline and the SilEighty are my personal favorites, but I’m also stoked to see the Subaru Forester STi finally get some love from Hot Wheels. I think this set has something for everyone, from JDM fans to European car enthusiasts. The variety of castings and the high-quality details make this a must-have for any Hot Wheels collector. I predict these will sell out fast, so grab them while you can!

Get Ready for the RLC Exclusive ’64 Dodge Power Wagon!

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Hey there, diecast fans! Trenton here from Hallsguide, and I’m back with some exciting news for all you Hot Wheels and classic truck enthusiasts. Get ready, because Hot Wheels is dropping a brand-new RLC exclusive model that’s sure to become an instant classic: the RLC Exclusive ’64 Dodge Power Wagon!

This isn’t just any ordinary Power Wagon; it’s a first-ever release of the ’64 model in the Hot Wheels RLC line, and it’s bringing some serious heat. This bad boy is decked out in a stunning Spectraflame olive paint job that’ll have you drooling. Trust me, the pictures don’t do it justice. And if you’re a fan of hefty diecast models, you’re in for a treat. This thing has some serious weight to it, thanks in part to those four doors!

Under the Hood and Beyond

Lift the hood of this RLC Power Wagon, and you’re greeted by a sight that’ll make your engine roar: a meticulously crafted Ramcharger 413 “Wedge” engine. This beast of a motor, known for its impressive torque and horsepower, was a game-changer back in the day, powering some of Dodge’s most formidable muscle cars. The 413 Wedge cranked out a whopping 365 horsepower and a monstrous 470 lb-ft of torque – serious muscle for the early 1960s! With its distinctive “Cross Ram” intake manifold and dual four-barrel carburetors, this replica is a testament to the raw power that defined the era. Hot Wheels didn’t stop there, though. They’ve also recreated the intricate details of the suspension, separating the axles and driveshafts for an authentic touch that true enthusiasts will appreciate.

A Nod to Off-Road Royalty

The Dodge Power Wagon is a legend in the world of off-roading. Back in the day, when civilian pickups needed a boost to tackle tough terrain, the Power Wagon stepped up to the challenge. This RLC release takes that legacy to the next level with a modified off-road restoration approach. It’s a fitting tribute to a true workhorse.

A Blast from the Past

This ’64 Power Wagon really hits home for me. It takes me back to my younger days when I had a ’65 Dodge D100. It was a two-door pickup, nothing fancy like this Power Wagon, but it was my pride and joy. I spent countless hours tinkering with that old truck, learning the ins and outs of engines and bodywork. Mine had a slant-six and a three-on-the-tree transmission – definitely not in the same league as the 413 Wedge in this RLC release! Still, seeing this Power Wagon brings back a flood of memories. It makes me wish I had held onto that old D100, but hey, that’s part of life, right? Maybe I’ll have to keep an eye out for another one someday…

Mark Your Calendars!

This RLC exclusive ’64 Dodge Power Wagon drops tomorrow, Tuesday, November 26th, at 11 AM CST. You know these limited-edition models go fast, so set your alarms and be ready to snag yours before they’re gone. I have a feeling this one will be a hot commodity on the secondary market, especially with that gorgeous Spectraflame olive finish.

A New Classic from Brendon Vetuskey

It’s also worth noting that this is a brand-new casting designed by the talented Brendon Vetuskey. Brendon has been responsible for some of the most popular Hot Wheels castings in recent years, and I have no doubt that this Power Wagon will be another hit.

So, what do you think of this upcoming release? Get yours tomorrow at Mattel Creations.  Are you as excited as I am? Let me know in the comments below!