Trenton


About Trenton

Trenton Hall - Founder and Diecast Enthusiast Trenton Hall is the founder and driving force behind Hallsguide. His journey into the world of diecast began as a childhood fascination, evolving into a lifelong passion. What started as a simple online price list for his personal Hot Wheels collection during his college years in 1998 has blossomed into one of the most trusted and comprehensive resources for diecast collectors worldwide. Trenton's vision for Hallsguide was to create more than just a price guide; he wanted to build a community where collectors could connect, share knowledge, and fuel their passion for diecast. His dedication to accuracy, insightful analysis, and engaging content has made Hallsguide a go-to destination for diecast enthusiasts of all levels. When he's not immersed in the world of diecast, Trenton enjoys spending time with family and working full-time as a computer science teacher and cross country & track coach. He believes that the joy of collecting lies not just in acquiring rare treasures but also in the connections forged within a passionate community. Fun Fact: Trenton also founded Diecast Republic in 2021 as a retail diecast store in Texas and found online at www.diecastrepublic.com

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!


Holy Collaboration, Batman! Hot Wheels x Kith Drop a Limited-Edition 1989 Batmobile

Hey collectors, Trenton here from Hallsguide! Get ready to rev your engines because Hot Wheels is dropping a limited-edition Batmobile that’s sure to send your collection into overdrive. This ain’t no ordinary Batmobile, though. This one’s a collaboration with Kith, the streetwear brand that’s been making waves in the fashion world.

A Dynamic Duo: Hot Wheels and Kith

For those unfamiliar with Kith, let me give you the lowdown. Founded in 2011 by Ronnie Fieg, Kith has become synonymous with high-quality streetwear, often featuring collaborations with big names in sports, music, and, now, pop culture. They’ve got a knack for blending classic styles with modern trends, and this Batmobile is a perfect example of that.

The Batmobile That’s Got It All

This 1:64 scale replica of the 1989 Batmobile is decked out in Kith’s signature style. We’re talking custom Kith Bat Signal Batman indicia and Kith Monogram artwork throughout. It even comes in custom packaging that screams “collector’s item.”

Nostalgia Trip

Now, let’s talk about the car itself. The 1989 Batmobile is an icon, pure and simple. It’s sleek, it’s powerful, and it perfectly captures the dark and brooding aesthetic of Tim Burton’s Batman. I remember seeing it on the big screen as a kid and being absolutely blown away. This Hot Wheels release is a great way to relive that childhood excitement.

Collectibility Factor

As for collectibility, this Batmobile is sure to be a hot commodity. Limited-edition releases from Hot Wheels always generate a lot of buzz, and the Kith collaboration only adds to the appeal. I wouldn’t be surprised to see this one selling for a premium on the secondary market.

Release Details

The Batman x Kith for Hot Wheels 1989 Batmobile drops on Monday, November 18th at Kith shops, 11AM EST/CET on Kith.com, CA.Kith.com, EU.Kith.com & the Kith App.

My Two Cents

Personally, I’m excited about this release. It’s a great blend of pop culture and streetwear, and it’s sure to be a conversation starter in any collection. If you’re a fan of Batman, Hot Wheels, or Kith, I highly recommend trying to snag one of these.

What do you think of this collaboration? Let me know in the comments below!


Hot Wheels Boulevard Mix is Coming Soon!

Hey diecast fans, it’s Trenton from Hallsguide, and I’m back with some exciting news for all of you Hot Wheels collectors out there. Get ready for the upcoming Hot Wheels Boulevard Mix, featuring five awesome diecast models that will surely add some serious flair to your collection.

This mix is a real treat, offering a diverse selection of vehicles ranging from classic sports cars to rugged off-roaders. Let’s dive into the details of each car:

  • #116 – Porsche 935: This black, white, and gray beauty comes with deep-dish chrome Real Riders on the back and black 4-spoke Real Riders on the front. The custom paint job gives it a “project-in-progress” vibe, making it a unique addition to any collection.
  • #117 – Lancia Delta Integrale: This red hot rally legend comes with gray 10-spoke Real Riders. The Lancia Delta Integrale is a classic rally car with a rich racing heritage, and this diecast model perfectly captures its iconic design.
  • #118 – ’91 BMW M5: This white classic sports sedan with gray 5-spoke Real Riders is a must-have for any BMW enthusiast. The E34 M5 is a legendary car known for its performance and luxury, and this diecast model is a great way to appreciate its timeless design.
  • #119 – Toyota Land Cruiser FJ43: This yellow off-roader with black 10-spoke off-road Real Riders is ready for any adventure. The FJ43 is a classic Land Cruiser known for its ruggedness and reliability, and this diecast model is a great way to add some off-road spirit to your collection.
  • #120 – Alfa Romeo GTV6 3.0: This white sports coupe with green graphics and a 4-leaf clover on the side comes with black 4-spoke Real Riders. The Alfa Romeo GTV6 is a stylish and sporty car with a unique Italian flair, and this diecast model is a great way to capture its distinctive character.

I’m particularly excited about the Porsche 935 in this mix. The custom look and the mix of different Real Riders give it a truly unique appearance. I think this one will be a popular choice among collectors, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it command a premium on the secondary market.

The Lancia Delta Integrale is another standout in this mix. This car has a special place in my heart, as I’m sure it does for many rally enthusiasts. It’s a true legend of the sport, and I’m glad to see Hot Wheels giving it some love.

Overall, I think the Hot Wheels Boulevard Mix is a fantastic addition to the Hot Wheels lineup. It offers a diverse selection of vehicles with something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic sports cars, rally cars, off-roaders, or just cool cars in general, you’re sure to find something to love in this mix.

Keep an eye out for the Hot Wheels Boulevard Mix at your local Wal-Mart. The Boulevard sets typically sell out quickly, so don’t miss out!  you can also find a variety of Hot Wheels Boulevard releases on Amazon.

What do you think of the Hot Wheels Boulevard Mix? Which car are you most excited about? Let me know in the comments below!