Yearly Archives: 2025

Hot Wheels Fast & Furious 2025 Mix 3 Preview: THREE New Castings Steal the Show!

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Get ready, collectors, because the details for the Hot Wheels Premium Fast & Furious 2025 Mix 3 (Assortment L) are here, and this one looks like a potential game-changer! While the F&F Premium line consistently delivers must-have movie cars, this particular mix stands out for featuring three brand-new castings. That’s a serious injection of freshness into the line! For those still hunting older releases while waiting for this set, remember that checking sites like eBay can yield good results for past F&F grails. But let’s dive into the exciting new metal slated for Mix 3:

Nissan 240SX (S14)

Kicking things off is a car that takes us right back to the beginning: Letty Ortiz’s Nissan 240SX (S14) from the original 2001 film, The Fast and The Furious! Presented here in burgundy, this S14 aims to capture the look of the car Letty drove, famously seen during the Race Wars scenes. Hot Wheels has given this release unique white and yellow “flaming surfer” style graphics on the sides and a “DT” detail on the hood (perhaps a nod to Dom Toretto?), riding on RR10SPM wheels. While the graphics might be Hot Wheels’ specific interpretation for this release, it represents a key vehicle driven by a core character from the movie that started it all. The S14 itself is a 90s JDM legend, and connecting this specific model back to Letty’s original ride definitely increases its appeal and makes it a must-have for long-time fans of the franchise.

Lamborghini LM002 (New Casting!)

Here’s where things get really interesting! Mix 3 introduces a brand-new casting: the legendary Lamborghini LM002. Presented in black and equipped with rugged-looking Black Off Road Real Rider 10-spoke wheels, this is fantastic news. The LM002, affectionately known as the “Rambo Lambo,” was Lamborghini’s outrageous V12-powered SUV from the late 80s/early 90s – pure excess and incredibly cool. Its appearance in Fast & Furious 6 (briefly, used by Tej’s crew) makes it a perfect, if somewhat deep-cut, addition to the F&F line. A new truck/SUV casting is always welcome, but debuting with something as iconic and wild as the LM002? That’s a power move by Mattel. Expect collectors to go nuts for this one.

Koenigsegg CCXR (New Casting!)

Hold onto your wallets, because the second brand-new casting in this mix is the Koenigsegg CCXR! Finished in black with chrome RR10SPM wheels, this is a serious piece of hypercar exotica. The CCXR is known for its insane speed and distinctive looks. Its inclusion makes perfect sense, as Roman Pearce and Tej Walker famously (and hilariously) acquired a pair of black CCXRs at the end of Fast Five. Getting a Hot Wheels Premium version of this hypercar, and as a new tool? This is massive. Koenigseggs are rare in the Hot Wheels lineup, so combining that rarity with the F&F connection and new casting status makes this an absolute must-have. This could easily be the chase car of the mix in terms of demand.

’70 Custom Plymouth Roadrunner (New Casting!)

And the trifecta is complete! The third brand-new casting for Mix 3 is a ’70 Custom Plymouth Roadrunner, decked out in classic Hemi Orange and rolling on chrome Preferred Series Real Rider wheels (which usually feature a vintage 5-spoke muscle car design). As a Mopar fan, this is music to my ears! The 1970 Roadrunner is peak muscle car era styling. The “Custom” designation is intriguing – maybe it features modifications seen in one of the films, or perhaps it’s a nod to the modified grey Roadrunner Dom drove in Tokyo Drift and Furious 7? There was also an orange ’70 Roadrunner GTX in Fast 6. Regardless of the exact inspiration, a new premium ’70 Roadrunner tool in Hemi Orange is guaranteed to excite muscle car collectors. This one is going straight into my personal collection, no question!

Toyota GR Supra

Rounding out the set is Han’s orange and black Toyota GR Supra from F9, riding on RR10SPM wheels. The casting itself is great, representing a significant car from the recent films, however, this specific orange and black livery is starting to feel… familiar. Very familiar. Including previous Premium releases and multipacks, this deco has seen quite a bit of action since 2021. While it’s undeniably linked to the franchise and the Supra is popular, collectors who already own one (or two) versions of this specific car might feel a little less enthusiastic compared to the three brand-new castings. It’s still a solid car, maybe perfect for those who missed out earlier, or for customizers looking for wheel donors or repaint projects.

Overall Thoughts on Mix 3 (L Assortment)

Wow. Just wow. The big story here is undoubtedly the three new castings. For Mattel to drop a new LM002, Koenigsegg CCXR, and a ’70 Roadrunner all in one Fast & Furious Premium mix is fantastic and shows continued investment in the line. This instantly elevates Mix 3 to one of the most anticipated assortments in recent memory. The S14 is a welcome addition, and while the Supra might feel a bit repetitive for some, it still fits the theme.

From a collector’s standpoint, expect the Koenigsegg CCXR, Lamborghini LM002, and ’70 Custom Plymouth Roadrunner to be the hottest items, likely demanding significant attention and higher prices on the secondary market right out of the gate. This is a mix you won’t want to sleep on!

Keep your eyes peeled for this assortment hitting stores later this year or early 2025. What do you think of these choices, especially the new castings? Let me know in the comments! And be sure to follow Hallsguide on YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for all the latest diecast news!

Breaking News: The Hot Wheels Collectors’ Social Credit System – A Revolutionary Leap in Collecting!   Recently updated !

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April 1, 2025

Hot Wheels collectors, it’s finally happening! The Hot Wheels Collectors’ Social Credit System (HWCS) is here, and it’s launching exclusively through Mattel Creations’ RLC membership platform. This groundbreaking system is poised to redefine the way we collect, interact, and engage with Hot Wheels in ways we’ve never imagined. Let’s explore the exciting features and how they’ll transform the collecting experience—whether we like it or not.

1. How the HWCS Works: Collecting with a Purpose… and a Little More

For those who thought collecting Hot Wheels was about, well, collecting, think again. With the HWCS, collecting becomes much more—an opportunity to build a perfect profile of yourself, your tastes, and your habits. Every Treasure Hunt, every social media post, every comment in a forum… it’s all tracked and rewarded.

Points will be awarded for:

  • Treasure Hunts in Your Collection: The rarer the car, the higher your score. The thrill of finding a limited edition just went from personal achievement to systematic data capture. But don’t forget, those common cars? Not really contributing to your image as a true “collector.”

  • Social Media Engagement: It’s not enough to just own a rare car—you’ll need to share it. Constantly. The more you engage with fellow collectors, the more your score grows. You’ll be rewarded for each “like” and “share” as the system eagerly watches your every move. It’s almost as if the system is thrilled to track your collecting behavior.

  • Community Interaction: Whether you’re helping others find models or discussing the latest release, your contributions to the Hot Wheels world will determine your ranking. The more active you are, the higher you’ll climb—and the more you’ll become part of the ever-growing web that is Hot Wheels’ data network.

2. The App: A Convenient, All-Seeing Eye

And then there’s the Hot Wheels Collector’s App, currently in beta testing, which will tie it all together. The app is designed to make your life easier—or at least, make your collecting life more connected. With real-time tracking of your collection, you’ll be able to keep tabs on everything, from your points to new releases. It’s exciting to think how all your purchases, posts, and opinions will be automatically integrated, creating a seamless experience.

The app also gives Mattel’s advanced AI direct access to your habits and preferences, so it’s constantly learning what you like, what you buy, which stores you visit, and how often you interact with certain models. Do you make the daily rounds to all of the retail stores each day?  Bonus points for you!  Do you stalk the local Target before the doors open then sprint past the little kids to get to the Hot Wheels first?  That will lose you points.

The more you share, the more the app “gets” you. It’s almost like the system knows exactly what you want before you even ask for it. The thought of being that understood, that connected, is undeniably fascinating, isn’t it?

3. Influencers: The “Unbiased” Experts

Speaking of engagement, we can’t overlook those influencers, the ever-present figures who will continue to shape the way collectors view their hobby. Through Mattel’s collaboration with a select few, you’ll have direct access to the most hyped models—just a click away from being influenced by every glowing review and exaggerated enthusiasm.

It’s interesting how a certain influencer’s posts—often the most vocal about the newest cars—seem to align perfectly with Mattel’s product push. But of course, there’s no bias here—he’s just providing valuable insights. And as an added bonus, engaging with these posts gives you extra points in the HWCS. The more you comment, the more you share, the more you become a part of the machine. How neat is it to know your interactions can shape the Hot Wheels market while contributing to your own status?

4. Focusing Your Passion (or Narrowing It)

Let’s talk about focus—something the HWCS rewards in a big way. Are you one of those collectors obsessed with JDM models or ’83 Silverados? Don’t worry, your commitment will definitely be appreciated. But what’s really exciting is how the system helps you hone in on your true passion. It’s almost as if the system encourages you to refine your focus to make your collection more complete, even if that means narrowing your taste a bit. After all, isn’t that what collectors are supposed to do?

However, for those who veer too far into the realm of single-model obsession, the system provides a helpful nudge—encouraging a little more diversity, helping you discover new models you never thought you’d like. It’s reassuring to know the system has your best interests at heart, guiding you toward a well-rounded collection. Of course, the app will track whether you follow its suggestions. It’s nice to think that your best collection is just one algorithm away.

5. The Red Zone: The Inner Circle

For the top-tier collectors, the “Red Zone” (5000+ points) is where the magic happens. In this exclusive space, you’ll get access to VIP events, personalized models, and even early access to new releases. The app will help you earn points for staying in the loop, making sure you don’t miss a single opportunity to expand your collection—and your influence.

What’s truly exciting is how this will foster a sense of community among the elite. But don’t be discouraged if you don’t make it to the Red Zone right away. The system is designed to encourage you to engage more, participate more, and collect more. There’s always a chance for you to rise to the top—if you’re willing to play along.

2025 Red Zone Rewards Car

6. Looking Ahead: The New Era of Collecting

Ultimately, the HWCS is not just about collecting—it’s about connecting. Mattel’s AI, the app, and the seamless integration of social media are all working together to create a new kind of collecting experience. One where every interaction, every post, every new model is part of a larger plan to build a more perfect community. It’s almost like the system has its own idea of what’s best for collectors—and you’ll be rewarded for following its guidance.

We can’t help but be intrigued by how all these elements—Mattel’s data, the app’s algorithms, and the influence of those Mattel-preferred voices—will shape the future of Hot Wheels collecting. There’s something almost comforting about the idea that the system knows us so well, guiding us towards the ultimate collecting experience.

Embrace the Future With the Hot Wheels Collectors’ Social Credit System, there’s never been a more connected way to be part of the Hot Wheels world. We’re excited to see how this system will bring collectors closer together, track their every move, and unlock a new level of influence within the community. Welcome to the future of collecting—where the more you share, the more you earn.

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.