Monthly Archives: November 2024


Hot Wheels Mustang 60 Years Set Coming Soon

Hot Wheels is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the iconic Ford Mustang with a special 5-car Silver Series set. This Hot Wheels Mustang 60 Years collection spans decades of Mustang history, from the classic 1965 Fastback to the modern-day RTR Spec 5. Let’s dive into the details and explore the rich history behind these legendary vehicles.

A Brief History of the Mustang

The Ford Mustang debuted in 1964, captivating the American public and creating a whole new market segment: the “pony car.” This sporty, compact coupe offered style and performance at an affordable price. Over the years, the Mustang has evolved through several generations, each with its own distinct personality and following.

The Cars

  • 1984 Ford Mustang SVO: This model represents the “fox body” generation (1979-1993), known for its lightweight design and potent turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The SVO (Special Vehicle Operations) was a high-performance variant that pushed the boundaries of Mustang performance.

  • 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302: This legendary Mustang was designed to compete in the Trans-Am racing series. Its 302 cubic inch V8 engine and aggressive styling made it an instant classic.

  • 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1: The Mach 1 was a performance package offered on the Mustang from 1969 to 1978. It featured upgraded engines, suspensions, and styling cues, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts.

  • 2018 Ford Mustang RTR Spec 5: This modern Mustang is a collaboration between Ford Performance and drift champion Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s RTR Vehicles. It boasts a 700-horsepower supercharged V8 and aggressive aerodynamic enhancements.

  • 1965 Ford Mustang 2+2 Fastback: This classic Mustang represents the first generation (1964-1973). Its sleek fastback design and wide range of engine options made it a hit with buyers.

My Thoughts

This set is a fantastic tribute to the Mustang’s legacy. Personally, I’m drawn to the 1969 Boss 302, the 1984 SVO, and the 2018 RTR Spec 5. The Boss 302 and SVO hold special places in my heart, while the RTR Spec 5’s performance is simply incredible.

I’m a bit conflicted about the wheel choices. While I love the MM5 wheels in black, I’m not as fond of the chrome versions. However, this is a minor detail in an otherwise impressive set.

Value

I anticipate these cars will initially sell around their retail price ($2.97 each). However, the RTR Spec 5 might be an exception due to its popularity and high performance. As these sets become harder to find, I expect their value to increase in the secondary market, especially for the more desirable models like the RTR Spec 5.

Overall, this Hot Wheels Mustang 60 Years set is a must-have for any Mustang or diecast enthusiast. It’s a great way to celebrate the history of this iconic car and add some unique pieces to your collection.


Hot Wheels Rolls Out 75 Years of Peanuts

Well, diecast fans, it looks like Hot Wheels is at it again, shaking things up with a whole new tier of collectibles! Earlier this year the Silver Series, hitting that sweet spot between their mainline and what used to be their premium lines (now dubbed “Gold Series”) was announced. For their next set in the Silver Series, they’re celebrating Hot Wheels 75 years of Peanuts with a series of character-themed cars.

The Lineup

  • #1 Volkswagen Beetle: This isn’t your grandpa’s Beetle! It’s ‘Tooned up with a giant engine hanging out the back, matte black paint, and those classic black C5 wheels with red rims. Joe Cool (Snoopy) is along for the ride on the side, and the card art features Snoopy and Woodstock. Always loved the ‘Tooned versions Hot Wheels does. They really capture the fun of the brand.

  • #2 1985 Honda CR-X: A blast from the 80s! This one’s decked out in metalflake blue with black P4 wheels and yellow rims. The graphics are sharp, with Snoopy launching a football to Woodstock. On the card art we’ve got good ol’ Charlie Brown and Lucy – hopefully she doesn’t pull the football away at the last second! The CR-X was a super popular car back in the day, known for being sporty and fuel-efficient. I wouldn’t mind having a real one in my garage!

  • #3 Super Gnat: This little red speedster is ready to take the mound with Charlie Brown, Linus, and Lucy in full baseball gear, both on the car and the card art. It’s sporting black Star-5 wheels with yellow rims. The Super Gnat is a Hot Wheels original design, first appearing in 2004. It’s had a ton of variations over the years, but this one’s definitely unique!

  • #4 Bully Goat: Yellow with those shiny chrome MM5 wheels, this Bully Goat is ready to rumble! It’s got a whole gang of Peanuts characters on it and the card art. The Bully Goat casting debuted in 2004 as a vision of a futuristic Pontiac GTO and has seen some cool decos.

  • #5 60s Fiat 500D Modificado: Peppermint Patty and Marcie are cruising in style in this white Fiat 500D with red 5-spoke wheels. This casting has been around since 2017 and it’s always a hit. The classic lines of the Fiat with the Peanuts characters is a winning combination!

The Silver (and Gold) Standard?

Now, about this Silver Series… it’s priced a bit higher than mainline, starting at $2.97. But it seems like you’re getting a bit more for your money – maybe some nicer decos, more detailed wheels, and usually metal bases. And then there’s the Gold Series, which is basically the old premium lines with a new name. Those will set you back $5.99 or more. It’ll be interesting to see how this tiered system plays out and what kind of value collectors find in the Silver Series.

My Two Cents

Personally, I’m digging this Hot Wheels 75 Years of Peanuts series. The cars are cool, the character tie-ins are fun, and it’s a nice nod to a classic. As for the Silver Series in general, I’m cautiously optimistic. If Hot Wheels keeps the quality up and the designs interesting, I think it could be a real winner.

Hot Wheels has done a variety of Peanuts cars over the years in Mainlines, Premiums, and everything in between.  See if Ebay has just the Peanuts Hot Wheels you are looking for!

What do you think, collectors? Are you excited about the Silver Series? Which car is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!


Ultra Hots Are Back! A First Look at the 2025 Mix 1 Set

Hot Wheels collectors, get ready! The first batch of 2025 Ultra Hots is hitting Target shelves soon, and this set is bringing the heat (pun intended!). As always, we’re treated to eight fantastic castings decked out in Spectraflame paint and those iconic Ultra Hot flames. Let’s dive into the lineup:

  • ’70 Ford Escort RS1600: This rally legend comes in a striking gold Spectraflame with black stripes, accented by white Ultra Hot flames. A classic casting with a fresh new look, this one will surely be popular.

  • Volkswagen T1-GTR: Pink might not be the first color you associate with a race-ready van, but this T1-GTR rocks it! The white and orange flames add a playful touch to this unique casting.

  • ’89 Mazda Savanna RX-7 FC3S: Black Spectraflame always looks sleek, and it’s a perfect match for the aggressive lines of the RX-7. The white, yellow, and light blue flames give it that extra pop. I predict this one will be a personal favorite for many collectors.

  • ’88 Honda CR-X: This little hot hatch is a blast from the past! The purple Spectraflame is a bold choice, and the white, orange, and light purple flames really make it stand out. Remember those CR-X commercials with the catchy tunes? Good times!

  • Porsche 356 Outlaw: This classic Porsche gets a modern makeover with green Spectraflame and white and yellow flames. The Outlaw racing modifications add an aggressive edge to this timeless design.

  • ’65 Pontiac GTO: Muscle car fans rejoice! This GTO in brown Spectraflame is a beauty. The white and yellow flames are a classic touch, and the casting itself captures the iconic lines of the original car perfectly.

  • ’81 Toyota Starlet KP61: This is a casting that’s been gaining popularity lately, and this Ultra Hots release is sure to fuel the fire. The orange Spectraflame with white and yellow flames is a winning combination.

  • ’69 COPO Corvette: No Ultra Hots set would be complete without a Corvette, and this COPO in blue Spectraflame doesn’t disappoint. The white and orange flames are a perfect complement to the classic lines of this American legend.

Ah, the original Ultra Hots! Talk about a blast from the past. I can still remember the thrill of tearing open those blister packs back in ’84, revealing those vibrant colors and those first iconic Ultra Hot flames. It was like holding a little piece of racing history in my hand. Those cars saw some serious action, both on the classic orange track and on the epic dirt courses I’d create in the backyard. Good times, indeed!

My Thoughts:

Overall, this is a solid start to the 2025 Ultra Hots series. There’s a great mix of castings, from classic muscle cars to JDM icons and European legends. The Spectraflame paint looks fantastic, and the Ultra Hot flames add that extra bit of flair that we all love. I’m particularly excited about the RX-7 and the CR-X – those are two castings that I’ve always been a fan of.  If only they would bring back the Wind Splitter and Silver Bullet from the original series.

What About Value?

It’s always tough to predict the secondary market for these sets, but I think a few of these castings have the potential to be quite popular. The RX-7, CR-X, and Starlet are all hot commodities right now, and the Spectraflame and Ultra Hot treatment will only make them more desirable. Keep an eye out for these when they hit the pegs!

Happy Hunting!

I don’t know about you, but I’m already planning my trip to Target. These Ultra Hots are sure to be a hot item (sorry, couldn’t resist!), so don’t miss out. Want to pick up some of the older Ultra Hots?  Amazon has a great selection right now. Happy hunting, collectors!


This Blazer’s Blazin’ a Trail Straight to Your Collection!


Who’s ready for another awesome Matchbox Collectors release? This time, it’s a classic SUV that’s sure to get your collecting motor running: the 1979 Chevy Blazer! Mark your calendars for Thursday, 11/21 at 11 AM CST because that’s when this bad boy drops.

Mattel is really hyping this one up, and for good reason. They’re calling it a “rugged replica” of the second-generation K5 Blazer, and it’s easy to see why. This diecast captures the iconic boxy style and off-road spirit of the original. Plus, it’s decked out with some sweet features that make it a must-have for any serious collector.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • This Blazer comes in a slick dark sparkle gold finish that’ll shine on your shelf.
  • It’s a ZAMAC model, which is always a big plus in the diecast world.
  • The True Grip off-road tires with classic hubs and silver foil add an extra touch of realism.
  • Of course, it wouldn’t be complete without that classic half-cab and square body design.

A Blast from the Past

The ’70s were a wild time for SUVs, and the 1979 Chevy Blazer was right in the thick of it. This beast outsold its rivals and became a legend in its own time. It’s a symbol of American automotive history, and now you can own a piece of that history in 1:64 scale.

Collector’s Corner

Now, let’s talk about the important stuff: what’s this Blazer going to be worth down the road? Square body trucks and blazers tend to hold their value well. Add in the popularity of the Blazer and the cool features on this release, and I think we’ve got a winner. My guess is this one will be a hot commodity on the secondary market in a few years when it’s not so readily available.

Ready to Roll?

Don’t miss your chance to snag this awesome Matchbox Collectors 1979 Chevy Blazer when it hits Mattel Creations on Thursday. Set your alarms, clear your schedules, and get ready to add another gem to your diecast collection.  Product page.

Let me know in the comments what you think of this release and how many you plan on grabbing!


Hot Wheels Neon Speeders 2025 Mix 1 Coming Soon!

Get ready to light up your collection with the upcoming Hot Wheels Neon Speeders set, hitting Walmart shelves exclusively very soon. This set is a vibrant blend of classic castings, JDM legends, and some modern favorites, all decked out in eye-catching neon colors and graphics that’ll transport you straight back to the ’80s and ’90s. Let’s dive into the lineup!

1. Custom ’70 Honda N600

This little Honda is a custom design from the late Ryu Asada first released in 2021. The real-life N600 was one of the first cars Honda exported to the United States, and it was known for its fuel efficiency and peppy performance. This Neon Speeders version comes in a bright yellow with a Mooneyes logo and a hornet tampo on the side, rolling on black five-spokes with blue rims. I’m a big fan of the Mooneyes connection, as it adds a cool drag racing vibe to this classic Honda.

2. Custom Volkswagen Beetle

The Volkswagen Beetle, another iconic car that needs no introduction. This casting has been a staple in the Hot Wheels lineup for decades, and it’s always a fan favorite. This time around, it’s sporting a lime green paint job with pink stripes and an adorable green bunny on the side. The chrome Neon Speeders 6-spoke wheels add a touch of flash. This one is sure to be popular with VW enthusiasts and collectors of all ages.

3. Nissan Silvia (S13)

Representing the JDM scene, we have the Nissan Silvia (S13). This popular drift car is a legend in the tuning world, and it’s finally getting some love in the Hot Wheels Neon Speeders. The satin black paint job with a green and pink dragon on the side is a perfect match for the pink Neon Speeders 6-spoke wheels. This casting is sure to be a hit with fans of Japanese cars and drifting culture.

4. Mad Manga

The Mad Manga is a fantasy casting that’s been around since 2012. It’s a wild design with a futuristic look, and it’s always been a popular choice for customizers. This version comes in black with a pink base, front splitter, and tail pipes. The pink cat and yellow cat on the side is a nice touch. It’s rolling on black five-spokes with white rims. This one is sure to stand out in your collection.

5. Mini Cooper S Challenge

The Mini Cooper S Challenge is a relatively new casting, first appearing in 2011. It’s a sporty version of the classic Mini Cooper, and it’s quickly become a favorite among collectors. This Neon Speeders release comes in a bright orange with an ape’s head on the side. The chrome Neon Speeder 6-spoke (NS6) wheels add a touch of class. This one is sure to be a popular choice for Mini fans and collectors of all ages.

6. ’70 Chevy Chevelle

The ’70 Chevy Chevelle is an American muscle car icon. This casting has been a part of the Hot Wheels lineup for many years, and it’s always a popular choice. This version comes in black with pink and blue stripes and a pink snake on the side. The chrome NS6 wheels add a touch of shine. This one is sure to be a hit with muscle car enthusiasts.

7. ’70 Dodge Hemi Challenger

Another classic muscle car, the ’70 Dodge Hemi Challenger is a legend on the streets and the drag strip. This casting is a mainstay in the Hot Wheels world, and this Neon Speeders release is a real head-turner. It comes in pink with a black Challenger stripe down the side and a black panther on the side. The chrome NS6 wheels complete the look. This one is sure to be a popular choice for Mopar fans.

8. Porsche 993 GT2

Last but not least, we have the Porsche 993 GT2. This high-performance sports car is a legend in the Porsche world, and it’s finally getting some love in the Hot Wheels Neon Speeders. The black paint job with yellow graphics and a horse on the side is a perfect match for the bronze NS6 wheels. This casting is sure to be a hit with Porsche enthusiasts and collectors of all ages.

Overall Impressions

The Neon Speeders set is a great mix of classic and modern castings, all with vibrant colors and eye-catching graphics. The theme is a fun throwback to the ’80s and ’90s, and the cars are sure to stand out in your collection. I’m particularly excited about the Nissan Silvia (S13) and the Porsche 993 GT2, as these are two castings that I’ve been wanting to see in this series for a while now.

Keep an eye out for the Neon Speeders set at your local Walmart. I have a feeling these are going to be popular, so don’t miss out!

What do you think of the Neon Speeders set? Which car is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy collecting!