Yearly Archives: 2025

Hot Wheels Premium F1 Series Races to a Sellout on Mattel Creations!

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The Hot Wheels Premium F1 Series launched today on Mattel Creations, and it was a lightning-fast sellout! These highly detailed 1:64 scale Formula 1 cars were up for pre-order with a limit of 5 per account for each car, and most models were gone within 2 hours. The pre-order price was $8 each, and for good reason – these aren’t your average Hot Wheels. We’re talking premium castings, Real Rider wheels, and authentic liveries that’ll make any diecast collector or F1 enthusiast drool. If you’re looking to add to your collection now, you might want to check out some of the other Hot Wheels Formula 1 diecast cars available on eBay while you wait for these to hit store shelves.

The Grid

This series isn’t just a few cars; it’s a full grid of 16 speed demons! Check out the complete lineup:

  • MoneyGram Haas F1 Team VF-24 Car #20
  • Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team VCARB 01 Car #22
  • Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 Car #1
  • Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber C44 Car #77
  • McLaren Formula 1 Team MCL38 Car #81
  • Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team W15 Car #63
  • Williams Racing FW46 Car #23
  • McLaren Formula 1 Team MCL38 Car #4
  • BWT Alpine F1 Team A524 Car #31
  • Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team W15 Car #44
  • Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber C44 Car #24
  • Williams Racing FW46 Car #43
  • BWT Alpine F1 Team A524 Car #10
  • Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 Car #11
  • Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team VCARB 01 Car #30
  • MoneyGram Haas F1 Team VF-24 Car #27

With this kind of variety, collectors can recreate their favorite on-track battles or build a display showcasing the diversity of the F1 field.

Premium Features

What sets these F1 cars apart? It’s all in the details:

  • Premium Construction: These castings have a noticeable heft and quality feel.
  • Real Rider Wheels: Rubber tires add realism and enhance the overall look.
  • Authentic Liveries: The paint jobs and sponsor decals are incredibly accurate.

Sold Out But Not Gone Forever

If you missed the pre-order, don’t despair! Mattel Creations has a message on their site indicating that more cars will be available at retailers later this year. It makes you wonder what retailers they are talking about. Will they be available at places like Walmart and Target? Or are they talking about hobby shops? Maybe we’ll even see some of them show up in grocery stores and drug stores. I’ve even seen Hot Wheels at places like Dollar General and Family Dollar. It will be interesting to see how this all plays out. Hopefully everyone who wants one will be able to get one. Keep your eyes peeled and be ready to pounce when they hit the shelves!

Why the Frenzy?

The rapid sellout of this series highlights the growing popularity of Formula 1 and the enduring appeal of diecast collecting. These cars offer a fantastic way for fans to connect with their favorite teams and drivers. Plus, with their high-quality features and limited availability, they have the potential to become valuable collector’s items down the road. Speaking of Formula 1, I was lucky enough to attend the United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas last year. What an incredible experience! The speed, the sound, the atmosphere… it was electric. Seeing those cars in person, especially through the esses, was something else. I’ve always been a fan of open wheel racing, and this just took it to a whole new level. If you ever get a chance to see an F1 race live, I highly recommend it.

Fast & Furious Car Culture Mix 2: A Mixed Bag of Diecast Delights (and Disappointments)

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The Fast & Furious Car Culture line from Hot Wheels has been a consistent presence in the diecast world for some time now, and while it’s certainly a popular series, I can’t help but feel a bit of fatigue setting in. Mattel seems content to milk this cash cow for all it’s worth, but I often find myself wondering if they’re starting to test their luck with collectors. The latest release, Fast & Furious Car Culture Mix 2 for 2025, is a perfect example of this. Don’t get me wrong, there are some gems in this mix, but there are also a couple of head-scratchers that leave me wondering, “Why?”

A Closer Look at the Cars

1. Mazda RX-7 FD: This white RX-7 with HKS graphics from the original Fast & Furious (or Fast & Furious 4, depending on how you’re counting) is a decent addition to the lineup. It’s not the most exciting casting, but it’s a solid representation of the car from the movie and the black Real Rider 5-spoke Modern wheels are a good choice. I remember seeing this car in the theater back in 2009 and thinking how cool it was that they brought back some of the original cast. I do love this casting, as well as the real life RX-7 so this one is nice to see in this set.

2. Nissan Skyline GT-R (BNR32): You can’t go wrong with a Skyline GT-R, and this black BNR32 from Furious 7 is no exception. The silver Real Rider 6-spoke Modern wheels look great, and the overall execution is well done. I have a feeling this one will be the first to disappear from the pegs. I’ve always loved the R32 Skyline. All that being said, I feel like Hot Wheels is starting to overdo the Nissan Skyline, but at least it’s an R32.

3. 2020 Dodge Charger Hellcat: This grey Charger Hellcat from Fast X is a nice model, but it’s not exactly groundbreaking. The black Real Rider 5-spoke Modern wheels are fine, but I wouldn’t have minded seeing something a little different. I’m not sure how I feel about the newer Fast & Furious movies. They seem to have gone a bit over the top with the stunts and the CGI. I prefer the earlier movies when the focus was more on the cars and the street racing….and family.  You never turn your back on family.

4. Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA: This is where I start to scratch my head. This orange Alfa Romeo with black racing stripes from Fast X is almost identical to the 2023 release. The only difference is the wheels. This one has silver Slotted Real Rider wheels, while the 2023 release had grey steelies. Is this really necessary? I’m not so sure. Especially when you can still find the 2023 release warming the pegs at many Wal-marts.  But I know they have a loyal following, so maybe this one will appeal to some collectors.

5. 1966 Chevy Impala: Finally, a new casting (sorta)! This lavender ’66 Impala from Fast X is a beauty. The chrome Real Rider 5-spoke mag wheels are a perfect choice, and the overall execution is top-notch. This is the first time this casting has been done as a premium.  It debuted last year in the Silver series (Fast & Furious: Racing Series). For fans of classic American muscle cars, the ’66 Impala is sure to be a hit. I’m glad to see Hot Wheels giving this car the premium treatment.

Some Thoughts on the Future of Fast & Furious Diecast

While I appreciate the occasional new casting like the ’66 Impala, I’d love to see Mattel take some more risks with the Fast & Furious line. Instead of constantly rehashing the same old cars, why not introduce some new vehicles from the franchise? Or maybe even some fantasy castings based on the movies? I’d love to see a Spacefaring Fiero, for example. I think it’s time for Mattel to inject some new life into this line before it becomes completely stale. What are your thoughts on the Fast & Furious Car Culture Mix 2 for 2025?

Beyond the Hype: Why the Hot Wheels Elite 64 McLaren M6GT Deserves Your Attention

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Hot Wheels has been on a roll lately with their Elite 64 line, and this latest release is no exception. The Hot Wheels Elite 64 McLaren M6GT is a deep cut for even seasoned car enthusiasts, and I predict this model will be overlooked by many collectors who are chasing the latest hyped-up releases. While everyone else is scrambling for the newest JDM tuner or Fast & Furious replica, savvy collectors will be scooping up this meticulously crafted piece of automotive history. You can bet I’ll be adding one to my collection!

A Blast from the Past: The Story of the McLaren M6GT

Before the F1, before the Senna, there was the M6GT. This car was Bruce McLaren’s vision for the ultimate road-going supercar – a raw, mid-engined beast born from the Can-Am racing series. Imagine a time when supercars were more about pure performance than luxury and technology. That’s where the M6GT fits in. It was a stripped-down, lightweight machine designed to dominate the road. Sadly, only a handful of prototypes were ever built, making it an incredibly rare and desirable car. This Hot Wheels release gives us a chance to appreciate this often-forgotten chapter in McLaren’s history.

A Closer Look at the Elite 64 Model

Hot Wheels has really outdone themselves with this one. The level of detail on the Hot Wheel Elite 64 McLaren M6GT is fantastic. From the iconic McLaren Orange paint to the bespoke Real Riders wheels, this model perfectly captures the essence of the original car. And let’s not forget that opening rear engine cover revealing a detailed silver engine – a feature that always adds a touch of realism to a diecast model.

Here are some of the key features:

  • Opening rear engine hood: A must-have for any serious diecast collector.
  • McLaren Orange paint: A classic color that perfectly suits this car.
  • ZAMAC body: Durable and gives the model a quality feel.
  • Bespoke Real Riders wheels: Add a touch of realism and enhance the overall look.
  • Full-metal black chassis: Provides weight and stability.

Why This Model Will Be a Future Classic

Remember what I said about those hyped-up releases? They’re great, but they often come and go. The M6GT, on the other hand, is a different story. It’s a niche model that appeals to true automotive enthusiasts. I think this car will fly under the radar for many, leading to a large initial production run. That means it will be easy to find right now, but fast forward a few years – once it’s gone from the Mattel Creations website – and I predict this model will start to climb in value. Mark my words, the Elite 64 McLaren M6GT will be a sought-after piece in the future.

More Than Just a Toy

For me, diecast collecting is about more than just acquiring the latest “hot” item. It’s about appreciating automotive history and design. The M6GT represents a significant era in supercar development, and this Hot Wheels model is a fantastic way to celebrate that legacy. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, I highly recommend adding this gem to your collection.

Hot Wheels Boulevards Mix 2 for 2025: A Closer Look

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The Hot Wheels Boulevards line has been a consistent source of unique and interesting castings since its introduction in 2021. With its mix of classic and modern vehicles, there’s usually something for everyone in each release. Mix 2 for 2025 is no exception, offering a diverse range of vehicles from a classic Porsche to a modern Bugatti. Let’s dive in and take a closer look at each car.

121 – Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7

This classic Porsche is presented in a sleek black with red Carrera graphics, a color scheme that beautifully highlights the car’s iconic lines. The red Real Rider 5-spoke wheels add a sporty touch. The Carrera RS 2.7 is a legend in the Porsche world, known for its lightweight design and impressive performance. It’s sure to be a popular choice among collectors. The 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 was a homologation special of the 911 S, developed so that Porsche could enter racing competitions requiring a minimum number of production cars be made. Compared to the 911 S, the Carrera RS 2.7 had a larger engine (2.7 liter compared to 2.4), a “ducktail” rear spoiler, wider rear fenders, and larger brakes. Approximately 1580 were produced.

122 – ’16 Bugatti Chiron

The Bugatti Chiron needs no introduction. This modern hypercar is a masterpiece of engineering, boasting incredible speed and power. This Hot Wheels version is a stealthy black with black Real Rider 5-spoke wheels. I’ve always been a fan of the Chiron’s aggressive styling, and this model captures it perfectly. The Bugatti Chiron is a mid-engine two-seater sports car designed and developed in Germany by the Bugatti Engineering GmbH and manufactured in Molsheim, France, by French automobile manufacturer Bugatti. The Chiron was first shown at the Geneva Motor Show on March 1, 2016. The Chiron is the successor to the Bugatti Veyron. The Chiron’s engine is an 8.0 liter quad-turbocharged W16 engine, an evolution of the Veyron’s engine. The Chiron can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.4 seconds, 0 to 124 mph in 6.1 seconds, and 0 to 186 mph in 13.1 seconds. It has a top speed of 261 mph, electronically limited for safety reasons. The actual top speed of the car is unknown.

123 – ’69 Ford Mustang Boss 302

Next up is a ’69 Mustang Boss 302. This Hot Wheels version comes in a vibrant orange with black Boss 302 stripes and a black hood. The Real Rider mag wheels complete the classic muscle car look. While it’s not as flashy as some of the other cars in this mix, the Mustang Boss 302 has a timeless appeal that’s sure to resonate with collectors. I remember having a Hot Wheels Boss Mustang when I was growing up. It was purple with white stripes. I loved that car and played with it all the time. I’m not sure what happened to it, but I’m sure it’s long gone. The 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302 was a high-performance variant of the Ford Mustang produced in 1969 and 1970. Ford built the Boss 302 to compete in the SCCA Trans-Am racing series. It featured a unique exterior with a reflective “C-stripe” on the side and a rear deck wing spoiler. The engine was a 302 cubic inch V8 with a four-barrel carburetor. The Boss 302 was also equipped with a close-ratio four-speed manual transmission, a Hurst shifter, and a 3.91:1 rear axle ratio.

124 – Datsun 510 Wagon

The Datsun 510 Wagon is a bit of a surprise inclusion in this mix, but it’s a welcome one. This classic Japanese wagon sports a striking yellow and black color scheme, with the top half of the car black with yellow stripe running down the middle. The chrome 8-spoke Real Riders are a nice touch. I think this casting has the potential to be a sleeper hit. I’m not sure what it is about wagons, but I’ve always liked them. I think it’s because they’re so practical. You can haul a lot of stuff in a wagon, and they’re also great for road trips. The Datsun 510 was a series of compact cars produced by Datsun from 1968 to 1973. The 510 was available in a variety of body styles, including a sedan, a coupe, and a wagon. It is powered by a 1.6 liter inline-four engine. This Datsun is a popular car in both Japan and the United States. It was known for its handling and performance. The 510 was also successful in racing, winning the East African Safari Rally in 1970.

125 – Meyers Manx

Finally, the Meyers Manx is a classic dune buggy that’s been a popular Hot Wheels casting for many years. This version features a bright green with white Real Rider 5-spoke wheels. While the Manx is a cool little car, I don’t think it will be as popular as some of the other cars in this mix. It’s likely to be a peg warmer. The Meyers Manx is a small, lightweight dune buggy designed and built by Bruce Meyers. It was introduced in 1964 and inspired by the Volkswagen Beetle. While originally designed for off-road racing, but it quickly became popular as a recreational vehicle. The Manx is known for its simple design and its fun-to-drive nature.

Overall, I think Hot Wheels Boulevards Mix 2 for 2025 is a solid mix with a good variety of vehicles. There’s something for everyone in this release, from classic sports cars to modern hypercars. I’m particularly excited about the Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 and the Datsun 510 Wagon.  I think these two castings have the potential to be very popular with collectors and likely won’t be hanging on the pegs for very long.

Kaido House x Mini GT – Chevy Silverado, BMW M3 & Nissan Skyline GT-R(R34)

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Kaido House and Mini GT are back at it again with another round of highly anticipated diecast releases. This June, collectors can look forward to three unique and stylized models that blend classic car designs with the distinctive Kaido House aesthetic. You can find them on eBay or Amazon once they are released. Let’s dive into the details of each release:

#174 – Chevrolet Silverado Kaido HKS V1

This ain’t your grandpa’s Chevy truck! The Kaido House x Mini GT Chevrolet Silverado takes an ’83 Silverado and slams it to the ground, adding a healthy dose of visual flair. The black paint job is accented by vibrant purple, mint, and pink HKS graphics. Anodized aluminum wheels and gold-tipped side-exit exhausts complete the look. I’m really digging the attention to detail with the opening hood revealing a twin-turbo LS engine and the functional tailgate. And of course, no Kaido House release would be complete without a chase variant!

The Silverado has a long and storied history in the world of trucks, and the ’83 model holds a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts. It was a time when trucks were built to be tough and reliable, and the Silverado was no exception. This Mini GT release captures that essence while adding a modern, modified twist.  HKS is a well-known Japanese tuning company specializing in high-performance aftermarket parts. Seeing their logo on the Silverado adds a layer of authenticity to the model.

#177 – BMW M3 KAIDOHAUS V1 – Orange

The Kaido House x Mini GT BMW M3 is a vibrant take on the legendary E30 M3. Bathed in a striking orange paint job, this diecast model features Kaido House graphics in a German-inspired font, a nod to the car’s origins. The anodized aluminum turbo fan wheels are a standout feature, with the front wheels in white and the rear wheels in mint green, matching the mint green spoiler. I’m always a sucker for opening features, and the ability to peek under the hood to see the detailed engine is a big plus.

The E30 M3 is an icon in the automotive world, known for its exceptional handling and performance. It’s a car that has achieved legendary status among enthusiasts, and this Mini GT release pays homage to its legacy in a unique and eye-catching way.

#167 – Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) Tamiya X Kaido House “The Grasshopper” V1 – White

This Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) is a collaboration between Kaido House, Mini GT, and Tamiya, featuring the iconic “Grasshopper” livery. The white R34 sports a custom body kit, green and red stripes, and Tamiya and Grasshopper Racing Team graphics. The 6-spoke anodized aluminum wheels and opening hood showcasing the RB26DETT engine add to the model’s appeal.

The R34 Skyline GT-R needs no introduction. It’s a car that has captured the imaginations of enthusiasts worldwide with its incredible performance and aggressive styling. This Mini GT release, with its unique Tamiya collaboration, is sure to be a fan favorite. Tamiya is a Japanese manufacturer famous for its plastic model kits and radio-controlled cars. The “Grasshopper” is a classic Tamiya R/C buggy, making its inclusion on the R34 Skyline a fun crossover for fans of both brands.

About Kaido House:

For those unfamiliar, Kaido House is a brand that’s all about celebrating car culture, particularly the Japanese “kaido racer” style. Their designs often feature bright colors, bold graphics, and extreme modifications. They’ve gained a strong following in the diecast community for their unique and eye-catching creations.

Each of these Kaido House x Mini GT releases is sure to be a hit with collectors. The attention to detail, unique designs, and chase variants make them must-haves for any diecast enthusiast. I’m already planning space for them on my shelves!

See our post covering the first Chevy Silverado from Kaido House x Mini GT HERE.