The Diecast 1/64 Hot Wheels and Other Small Scale News and Notes Archive

Visit the 1/64 Diecast News and Notes for the most up to date articles / news about Hot Wheels and more from this site.  This way you can keep up on the news and take a look at collecting tips.

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Monster Trucks, Nano Rides, Tomica Returns, and Hunting Around

The holiday season is soon here so we'll see more stock in the stores thankfully as summer has been slow here but it is September and soon fall so looking forward to some new releases.  One of the biggest news is Tomica's return to the US again exclusively at this time through Walmart Stores.  They seem to have a limited line-up at the moment but will probably expand them if the demand is there.  These are blister packaged with the car and box clearly shown to be hung on the hooks / pegs for display in the store.  Something different out there, glad to see a new player to help keep the others on their toes a bit.  They are holding their own but nice to see something fresh.

There have been some new stuff over the summer such as we saw more station wagons from Greenlight in 1/64 scale, GM this time around such as their Olds Vista Cruiser along with a Pontiac variant.  Greenlight's 1/18 Monster Trucks with Bigfoot 4x4x4 #1 Ford Truck being the first one out the door.  This is a 1979 Ford or a 1974, long story short is that the truck started out as a 1974 then Bob Chandler updated it with a 1979 front clip / grille, etc.  Some state the first regular truck as a 4x4 was a 1975 but it can get confusing - anyway, great to see monster trucks as diecast in 1/18 scale - though we  did have some r/c trucks but never at this detail - while static models they should be nice as long as the price is reasonable for the common collectors.

Hot Wheels, Matchbox, M2, etc. has their line-ups coming out with new paint schemes, some new cars, etc. but the big thing is square-body aka 1973 to 1987 Chevy Pickups coming from Greenlight and M2 including Auto World.  I probably forgot other releases but keep your eye out for a flood of these trucks to make the Chevy and GM people happy.  The Ford people are glad to see the older 1970s F-Series trucks and I'm sure the Dodge Mopar fans will get their share later if not already with some trucks and SUVs out there, etc.

SpinMaster has their Monster Jam line, Mattel their Hot Wheels Monster Truck line and as mentioned before and above about Greenlight's 1/18 Monster Trucks.  We'll see more cars in all scales like under Jada's Metals line, some more Fast and Furious R/C cars and diecast in their scales like 1/24 and 1/32 even the Nano Rides which are smaller than 1/87 scale in a three pack  but nothing from Mattel at this time sadly unless their trickle out on Amazon or other online outlets, we shall see.  So keep hunting and looking at your favorite places, browse and search online, never know what you'll find.  Sometimes collecting older stuff at low prices or deals are good so don't be afraid to check toy shows and flea markets for deals that meet your budget.  Remember don't overspend with your budget in mind.

Mid-2019 Brings Jada's 20th Anniversary 1/24 Cars, Regular & Apple Hot Wheels

While this focuses mostly on 1/64 scale, Jada for 2019 is celebrating their 20th Anniversary.  You can spot their special 1/24 line-up of bare metal zamaz style vehicles from each of their lines they had done in the past.  Each vehicle contains a plaque in which if you put them all together you get a nice mosaic.  This means having to buy two of each if you want to keep one in the box but a neat thing though.  Not sure if they'll do anything in 1/64 or other scales but never know.  No special news for Matchbox, etc. or Greenlight except for their 1/18 old school diecast Ford 1979-style Monster Trucks which should be out probably in the fall.  They will be pricey but worth it as like the original Bigfoot 4x4x4 will have a tilt front end and other details.  The first time collectible monster trucks ever done in 1/18 diecast if I remember correctly.  The Monster Jam and Mattel trucks are roughly 1/24 scale, larger ones are radio control but none in diecast.  GameStop has the 51st Satin and Gold Hot Wheels series but hard to find as they sell out quickly.  They don't carry a lot of Hot Wheels near me but I hear others have more probably due to how popular it is for that store location as they focus mainly on video games, you can find collectibles in there - I wouldn't go out of your way but stop in sometime if one is nearby they might surprise you.

One last big note is Apple via Mattel has their own line of Hot Wheels id track and cars with a chip inside to allow your Apply I-product like the iPhone or iPad to track these special Hot Wheels 1/64 cars.  They are available from Apple - a bit pricey but have exclusive packaging, paint schemes and the NFC chip.  This seems interesting as it drives into the new age but then you need to have the equipment, another line to collect if you like the special paint schemes.  I might grab one or two for my personal collection but not invest in getting a track set or compatible phone at this time.  As always remember to watch your budget as noted in the past as you don't need all of them, collect what you like, trade others, be patient as you don't need all the stuff out there,  and remember to have fun with the hobby.

March Hot Wheels Month - Fast and Furious 1/64 Cars

For Fast and Furious fans, I know you are out there especially the ones who come here for the Mattel 1/55 guide which is a separate line to their Hot Wheels cars for 2019 Hot Wheels is doing a Premium line-up of Fast and Furious cars including some new molds.  Be check to be on the lookout for those through the year.  The first batch has surfaced already.  Jada under their Metals Diecast label has been pumping out more JDM cars in their larger than life 1/64 scale which measures out to about 1/55 scale.  Some repaints and other variations from Greenlight and M2 Machines.  As the title says that March is Hot Wheels month so some Walmart stores have extra stock in but your locations near you might vary.  Nothing much else to cover at the moment except to note to check the Matchbox cars as they have some special Superfast 50th Anniversary vehicles plus their new line-up of vehicles with moving parts such as opening doors with their prices in between the main ones and the collector cars.  I think it is great to see Matchbox put out some reasonable priced albeit higher than the regular line but expected due to the cost to produce vehicles with moving parts such as doors that open or a hatchback, etc. but lower than being in the collector range.

New Year Means New Diecast for 2019 - Lots of Cool Stuff Coming Out

While it is over for Hot Wheels 50th Anniversary, we'll be looking at others such as Matchbox which celebrated their 65th in 2018 but their stock usually rolls over into the next year so be on the lookout for their Sapphire special marked cards and vehicles with 65 marked on them in a special greenish/white paint scheme - some of them are the Olds Vista Cruiser wagon, Off-Road VW Golf and in a 5-pack the Jaguar XKE coupe.  We'll have 1/24 Hollywood series cars such as Jada's Knight Rider TV Series KITT Firebird with working light and more features and others from Greenlight, M2 Machines and under Round2 such as Auto World, Johnny Lightning, etc.  So while it is winter and some slowdown, there will be stock still coming out.  Greenlight's Ford Panther Wagons the LTD Crown Victoria and Grand Marquis style are very popular being the first time down as 1/64 diecasts - they are doing 1979 to 1991 variations from when they were just LTDs to LTD Crown Victorias with different style grilles and even the Mercury Versions.  Monster Trucks are hot as well so check those out in various scales from Greenlight including Artisan Series 1/18 - the first for a monster truck I think in diecast other than a toy that size.  Save some of that holiday money as 2019 looks to be a great year.

Fall / Autumn 2018 - More Diecasts, Restocks, Holiday Season

Forgot to add if you are in the US to get your USPS Postal Stamps featuring Hot Wheels. The end of the year is getting closer along with the holiday seasons so that means the companies pushing out more diecast and the stores stocking up for the busy time of the year such as Black Friday.  Some highlights in Diecast including Greenlight's 1/64 Bigfoot 4x4x4 1979 Bigfoot #1 Ford Monster Truck, Mattel's Hot Wheels mainlines are flowing out there and others like the 1980s Panther-based Ford LTD Crown Victoria Full-Size Station Wagons in 1/64 scale.  As always, reissues and new pieces from Greenlight, M2 Machines, Johnny Lightning and Auto World such as big 1970s Buick Station Wagons.  Some larger scale vehicles as well.  Neat items.  Also, more from Jada to cover the JDM market in the 1/55 sized (1/64 labeled) series like the wide-body Datsun 510 sedan.

Late Summer 50th Hot Wheels Big Display, Bigfoot 4x4x4 Ford Monster Trucks

Summer is winding down as I type this near the end of August 2018.  Look in Walmart for a big 50th Hot Wheels Display with both ends have regular mainlines including a Fast and Furious set for 2018.  The sides include their track sets and some transporters.  Looks like it'll be there for awhile maybe a few months.  A neat display a large Bone Shaker 50th deco on top for each side.  There is also a Mopar set as a Wal-Mart exclusive with the interesting vehicle being the 1970 Dodge Power Wagon pickup truck which is worth the $1.27 each price, the other cars are the Mopar Custom '77 Dodge Van, Dixie Challenger in a Mopar paint scheme, 70 Charger with Blower (actually mislabeled as a 70 Dodge Challenger R/T), two different style Dodge Viper coupes plus a 1971 Plymouth GTX in yellow but not the best of a paint scheme.  Greenlight is doing a monster truck series featuring the original #1 Bigfoot Ford Monster Truck in 1/64 and larger scales which should be here for the fall.  They are also going to do some other trucks like Fords F-series Monsters around 1974 to 1979 with Chevy Monsters Trucks around the 1968 to 1972 body style - King of the Crunch.  M2 Machines recolors but nothing really to note except for their early 70s Camaro in 1/64 that came out earlier this year plus some more late 1960s Camaros.  Look in the coloring book / magazine section for a Hot Wheels 50th Black Cover Coloring Book priced at $5.00  Sadly no Mattel 1/55 news at this time for the Fast and Furious 1/55 Line-up.  Looks like the stores having a backlog of them did the series in but I'll try to keep you updated in the guide section as best I can.

Summer Preview - Hot Wheels 50th Magazine, Christine 1/24 1958 Fury and more!

On newsstands be sure to look for the special collectors magazine celebrating Hot Wheels and its 50th Anniversary.  The magazine is priced at collectible prices $12.99 such as issues like these are as they are one offs such as what is done for TV shows, movies, comics, etc.  I did pick one up for my collection as it has some interesting info in there.  I recommend paging through it briefly before buying as it does have info and photos but it is nor a complete history of Hot Wheels or for everyone.  In diecast news, Mattel is getting out more mainline cars out there including the 50th retro five car series found at Walmart and other places at $6 a car with the US contest for the 2018 Camaro SS ending in July 2018.  Some other cars out there from Greenlight, M2 Machines, etc. and in the fall of 2018 Greenlight should have out in 1/24 a diecast copy of Christine from the 1983 movie - a special ordered in red 1958 Plymouth Fury.  Otherwise Jada has some repaits in 1/24 scale in their Metals line-up which looks like they prefer to use Metals on their diecast these days with Jada only found on the bottom.  Target will have a special Hot Wheels day in June with special Hot Wheels releases to take over from Kmart K-Days I suppose.

50th Anniversary Decades Hot Wheels 2018 - Spring Diecast Update

Phew!  Looked like winter didn't want to leave us there for awhile when spring came but slowly and surely it is warming up.  Good chance to get out to the stores and flea markets to see what's available.  One of the newest items I spotted online is a series of ten 50th Hot Wheels Decades Series which includes the very popular 1983 Silverado Chevy Pickup, a 1970 Dodge Charger Street Machine plus a Corvette of course.  A nice assortment but right now I only spotted them online on a certain auction site and others.  I think they might be Target issues or exclusives but I can't be sure.  The cards have nice artwork and the vehicles are done fairly well, more colorful than the black and gold 50th Anniversary series at Family Dollar.  F series of Mainline Hot Wheels for 2018 are rolling out into stores like Walmart so look for them on the hooks and browse the aisles for a display on the end of an aisle / endcap for special 50th units that hold mainlines for 2018.  Some may have older cars but look through them.  They are made that there is a catch bin at the bottom.  Unconfirmed personally but I've read that people are finding 2018 50th reissue 1968 style cars around a street price of $6.00 each at various grocery stores so they might show up soon in your area with a button like the originals.  In other diecast 1/64 news some more issues from Greenlight, M2 Machines, etc. but nothing really exciting to report at this time.  Some more JDM cars so be on the watch for them.

The 50th Anniversary of Hot Wheels in 2018 - Winter Update

Be on the lookout for special black and gold carded 50th Hot Wheels in stores such as Family Dollar and your supermarkets, grocery stores and other places that may carry newer Hot Wheels.  The first is a six car set mostly in black with gold chrome and blue accents plus an extra chase / hunt car being a gold-themed '67 Camaro.  There is an error on the back of the cards as they show the Bone Shaker picture for the '65 Ranchero.  Also, Matchbox is putting out some more higher end collectible cars.  They have planned many new vehicles for their basic line-up so be prepared for some neat cars, trucks and SUVs such as a Jeep Grand Wagoneer and many others.  Matchbox is a bit slow with their releases so they will be out later in the year.  Mattel / Hot Wheels will probably do more for the 50th birthday from they started in 1968.  Nothing else to report except for more releases by Round 2 such as reissues of Johnny Lightning molds plus a few hobby exclusive colors.  Big new from Greenlight looks to be a hobby shop / online stores exclusive Bigfoot #1 4x4x4 Monster Truck but no sample images or test shots.  I assume they are using their 1970-era Ford Truck mold to create this.

Restocks and More for the Holiday Season - 2017

I apologize for the delay in updates here regarding 1/64-ish diecast.  Roound2 has some special two car diorama sets out which are a bit hard to find.  Some online retailers have them though.  They are Ghostbusters and a Christine The Movie set with a 58 Plymouth Fury using the Johnny Lightning mold along with Buddy's 1968 Camaro, you also get a figurine in that set. A bit pricey but good to see them return.  Mattel has some more 2018 Hot Wheels slowly coming out along with the holiday series at Wal-Mart.  Don't feel bad if you missed the 50 car Walmart set for $25 as they mostly had 5-pack cars in there and nothing special from what I could tell on the photo online.  A lot of people are looking to complete their 1/55 Mattel Fast and Furious collection but there haven't been any news or updates that I received from visitors to this site about the cars to complete the first series.  I'm not sure if there will be a second as they were slow sellers due to many duplicates in each restock and not many new releases.  Some minor updates include new nine vehicle gift pack designs for Hot Wheels with some new 2018 cars thrown in so be on the look-out.  You'll notice the new artwork on these packs.  A new Hot Wheels Car Culture series is out Cars and Donuts with some nice pieces like the older BMW M1 with wing.

The Dump Bin Returns, New Cars and Series for Fall / Holiday Season of 2017

Mattel has finally dished out some new Hot Wheels.  Look in Walmart for the return of the dump bins as the local one finally got a bin again advertising the Forza six car set for 2017 with the Australian Ford Falcon as the chase car.  The P case is out but was picked through.  A lot of neat pieces like the Forza AMC Javelin AMX in silver with a black stripe.  Hot Wheels will be celebrating their 50th anniversary for 2018 so some of the new package designs are making their way out already as transition pieces.  Be on the lookout for new diecast from other companies like Greenlight and M2 Machines with new JDM or Japan-inspired releases plus the Jada customized series.  Nothing else to really report at this time.

Far and Few Between but New Updates for Late Summer 2017

Coming to online retailers and stores is the Jada JDM Tuners line-up of 1/64 and larger cars from the Japanese culture.  These are in sets of A and B colors for their 1/64 line-up, they'll have a "1/32" range and 1/24 cars to go with them.  Greenlight has released a Mad Max Last of the V8 Interceptors Ford Falcon XB so get that while you can as it'll be very popular.  They also have a Matrix 1960s Lincoln Continental out as another new tool in their line-up.  M2 Machines has their own Walmart only for now release of their Japanese cars mostly tuners like the Nissan Fairlady or Z of the 1970s and the boxy sedans like the Bluebird and the Skyline in the Auto-Japan series.

There hasn't been anything worthwhile to report regarding diecasts as of July 29th.  The local stores around here are thin on stock and there are the usually recolors and reissues from M2 Machines, Greenlight, etc. plus Auto World and others but nothing worthy of reporting here.  I'll keep you updated if there is anything of note to keep your eye out for.  There is a new Lamborghini Hot Wheels set of cars available at Walmart but the good one out of that set is the Lamborghini Countach as most of the others are newer cars.  The Diablo was retired thus they would have to do a new mold to bring back that car albeit slightly different.

New Fast and Furious Hot Wheels for 2017 Spotted and Minor Updates

Nothing much new to report except that Mattel's set of Fast and Furious cars for 2017 have trickled into Walmart stores.  They have included different cars this time around.  There is Brian's White Supra that stands out.  No 1970 Dodge Charger R/T with Blower this time around but there is the 1970 Plymouth GTX / Road Runner in Dark Gray instead.  Greenlight and M2 Machines are putting out new releases and new colors as always in their respective 1/64 line-ups but nothing stands out at this time to report here.  It is M2's 10th Anniversary in 2017 so they did offer up 750 special 10th Anniversary Boxes which sold out quickly, in it you get a gold colored1957 Chevy Bel Air.  Walmart is promoting Hot Wheels Month for March 2017 so check that out on some of the cards.  The mainlines are slowly coming in for 2017 with some interesting issues.  Maisto has some new cars and r/c for 2017 coming out later this year.  Right now the season is a bit slow but it takes time for new products to come out.

Tips on Hot Wheels Three Packs for Issues found in 2017

For the most part, older three packs from Hot Wheels included at least one vehicle that wasn't a regular mainline issue and not found elsewhere unless in other gift packs such as the 9 and 20 packs.  Now I have noticed cars flowing over into these three packs from the previously issued five pack sets.  Examples include the white VW Golf GTI  from the VW 5-pack and the black 1969 COPO Corvette with flames from the Flames five pack.  I'm not saying they are no longer collectible 3-car sets but to be alert when buying these.

Hot Wheels are Rolling in for February 2017 and New Old Stock 2015s

There are restocks of A, B, C and D cases in Walmart locally here along with fresh new old stock mainlines from 2015.  They might have found some old cases somewhere or Mattel was clearing out some leftover stock.  I noticed that two sizes of Fast and Furious 1/55 Movie Scenes Playsets are now out.  The cars look the same as what the single ones are so nothing to be that excited about.  Maybe if you'd be interesting in setting up some of the scenes from movies.  Some restocks of Johnny Lightning cars but they're getting pricey at $6.00 each.  Also, be on the lookout for some leftover Hot Wheels Walmart Fast & Furious cars.  The 50th Anniversary Camaro sets are out in special bins at Walmart with the '67 Camaro being the car sought after as it is still all metal with an opening hood.  A few had noted that they might have a painted motor while others don't.  I think the bare engine bays are more common but again they're selling them both at the same price.  Looks like a nice set of cars but would have been good for them to have included the 1970 Camaro Road Racer in the series instead of one of the newer Camaros.  There is also to be a special muscle car series at Walmart but my local one hasn't had any in at this time which is priced a bit higher at $2.50 each or so.

Look for Jada to be using new packaging for their Fast & Furious line-up especially their pull-back or "1/43-1/32" type cars with Dom and his infamous '70 Charger as a logo similar to what Mattel is using on their 2017 line of merchandise.  I'm not sure if they'll be doing this across the whole line but have noticed it popping up on a few cars.

Mattel's New Furiously Fast New Line for 2017 - Fast and Furious

They were a bit of a surprise to me but Mattel released in early January a new line-up of Fast and Furious movie cars and vehicles.  These are not, I repeat not Hot Wheels branded.  The scale is roughly about 1/55 very close to what Jada put out for their Build N Collect series.  The cars seem to be well done for the retail price of around $4 to $5 each.  According to the package, there will be a total of 32 different designs.  Expect vehicles in the line-up like the 1970 Charger R/T with Blower plus the primer gray 1970 Charger with a black hood, the Furious 6 Custom Charger Daytona and even the Maserati.  Some special issues spotted at Wal-Mart include a three pack with one exclusive car to that pack.  Each one has a specific name to it.  This seems to be a start of something as online I noticed 5 packs that will be at certain stores along with action packs with figures especially of Dom (Vin Diesel) so expect lots more to come.

Another note is the Car Culture Hot Wheels Series with a red, white and blue 1970 Charger, a copper 1968 Cougar Road Racer in a stock looking paint job (without numbers), a 1968 COPO Camaro, the new for 2016 yellow 1969 Corvette Convertible Road Racer with Roll Cage and the very popular orange-ish 1955 Chevy Gasser.  These are more pricier than your mainlines but keep looking around as street price is about $3.49 but you might have to pay $5 to $10 on the secondary market.  A few online retailers are stocking these around $4 a piece so grab them while you can.  Wal-Mart is also having a series of muscle cars and such but I don't have much on those at the moment.  So far 2017 is looking like a good year for collecting but remember you don't have to have them all, collect which ones you like and don't worry if you miss out on a few as they'll be around.

New Hot Wheels Nine Car Gift Pack Designs for 2017

Mattel has revamped the front design on their Hot Wheels Gift Packs for their new issue 2017 series packs.  You can see the new photo on the right featuring the Rodger Dodger car design and possibly a MS-T Suzuka? sporty exotic type car.  Some of the 20 car packs includes the Rodger Dodger design but the new 2017 line has this on them.  From the gift pack that I had received, the new Exclusive car is a reissue of Mattel's Hot Wheels 1970 Plymouth 'Cuda Convertible that hasn't been out for a few years.  So be on the lookout for more Exclusive cars throughout the coming year.  For the 2016 series packs, we had Datsun 620 pickup trucks, 1968 Cougar Road Racers, Ford Fairlane Thunderbolts and the 1968 Plymouth Cuda Hardtop in gift pack only Exclusive Colors not available as mainlines and I probably missed one or two.  Remember to check the other cars in the packs as they'll feature new colors and cars for 2017 plus gift pack only vehicles.

November 2016 - What to Cover and What Not to Cover

Hot Wheels are showing up slowly but surely, look for their 2017 line-up in stores as they have been releasing their 2017 cars already which is fairly common similar to model years for the automotive industry as next year models would be out around September or so.  As retailers put out stock to fill their shelves be sure to look for some older stuff that could have gotten lost in the shuffle.  Right now there's nothing really new in the Fast & Furious line except for a new set exclusive to Wal-Mart for 2016 with the usual cars except this time they took their Honda S2000 casting painted up like the one from 2 Fast 2 Furious.  Jada is working on a new JDM line but I'm not sure if they're only going to have them in larger scale and not their 1:55-1:60th size like the Fast and Furious cars.  Other than that I don't think there is much else to cover.  One note I should point out is that a few Auto World Release 5 cars seem to have snuck out with Exclusive Walmart stickers while they are regular issues.  The only special Walmart Auto World cars are the Yellow Firebird with the bird on the hood as the regular one comes without one plus the green one comes without one while the regular one has one if you can follow that.

October 2016 - Last of the 2016 Hot Wheels are Out with the Q Case and 2017s!

Well it looks like the end of 2016 Hot Wheels are upon us with the Q case cars.  These are the ones marked with a Q at the end on the back of the package.  It is like a secret society.  You have to learn all the behind-the-scenes details about these little $1 diecast cars.  What is interesting is that the Q case is also a transition case as they'll put in a few of their 2017 line-up such as the new color for the 1977 Firebird in the HW Flames series with a new model number scheme of #13 out of 365 instead of the 250.  From what I read about this, they're going to number each color variation for the line-up this the jump in cars released while technically they're about the same.  This case also includes some of the last of 2016 New Models like the #86 '69 Corvette Racer and the #240 Tour De Fast.  I remember a few years back when they did a more drastic package change, I got the exact same car in the two different packages probably when they went from the Q case to the A case.  Be on the look-out for the new 2017 Hot Wheels as they'll be pouring in soon.  Not much to report on the other diecast manufactures except for reissues and repaints from Racing Champions / Johnny Lightning / Auto World.  Fast and Furious news include Dom's Off Road '70 Dodge Charger for 2017 in the regular Hot Wheels line and the return of KITT so keep your eyes peeled.  Some cartoonish reissues are coming back like the tooned Mustang and Charger Daytona.

September 2016 Update:  The Fall Collecting Season Begins!  Look for Restocks

There will be new stock in your favorite retail stores as this is the time for them to get in new items for the holiday season.  Be on the lookout for exciting diecast release.  I need to get a photo but Maisto Fresh Metal series under the Adventure Wheels in Walmart has a new design for their nine car packs now called Adventure Force.  The last of the Hot Wheels for 2016 should trickle in slowly for the rest of the months of the year and then before we know it 2017s will be showing up.  The year goes by fast but remember to keep checking your spots because older earlier stock usually shows up in case you missed out on earlier releases.  One of the harder to find ones for me was the Hudson Hornet regular Hot Wheels as locally I didn't spot any but I bet others in other parts found plenty.  You never know but watch for the last of the releases of 2016 Hot Wheels because they're still coming out from the regular ones to collector issues.

I would like to add that before the end months leading to the holidays that some retailers will put out some earlier issue stock so check in the stores such as Wal-Mart because at times you might find some sets or cars that were sold out for awhile.  They'll be getting in new stock as well so remember to make your journey around and don't be disappointed if the stock looks stale because new stuff will be coming in soon and you might find some re-stock surprises which you missed out earlier in the year.

December 2015 - New Stock for the Holidays but Nothing Spectacular

Check your big box stores like Target and Walmart for new 2016 and the last of the 2015 Mainline Hot Wheels.  Target has some special snowflake cards.  Walmart is overstocked on the Star Wars regular $1 issue cars but still grab a few if you like them.  The 1/55 Fast and Furious series hasn't showed up at the local Walmart.  I don't have any other local stores such as Toys-R-Us or Target to give a report if they're on the shelves.  Check my links section, maybe a place there might have them available if you're looking for the set.  Nothing else to report that's interesting.  Would have been nice to see a restock of the Walmart Holiday Hot Wheels.  Boscov's has about the same as before, still look in there as sometimes they might have special Hot Wheels and Matchbox.  You never know.  Support your local and online diecast retailers especially the little guys because they help to keep the hobby going.  One last thing is that Walmart redid their dump bin into a round bin with some neat side art of their cars.  I wish Hot Wheels aka Mattel would release those to the public like us to buy.  M2 Machines, Auto World and Greenlight has some recolors out and one or two new cars.  No big wow to report at this time.

Update:  The local Walmart got in an extra Hot Wheels cardboard dump bin, the three section one.  While you are in there, check for one of those because I noticed some older 2015 Hot Wheels but they finally got in the end of the line 2015 issues and newer 2016s.  Some new 5-gift packs are out for Matchbox with some pretty neat ones.  The 3-car Hot Wheels packs at the register aisles have some regular mainline 2016 cars in them.

Supply and Demand for Fall with More Coming Soon - November 2015

Some 2016 series mainline Hot Wheels are showing up at places such as Walmart but people are gobbling them up.  Be patient though as there will be more especially near the end of the year for the holidays.  Check out Dollar General for some older stock Hot Wheels from 2015 and new issue Matchbox for 2015.  There's a new color 1968 Ford Mustang Hardtop in black, a Dodge A100 in Firestone livery and even an off-road Lamborghini LM002.  The 2016 packaging for Hot Wheels has been updated.  I'll post a photo soon.  Nothing else to report at the moment.  Nothing really exciting from M2 or Greenlight.  AutoWorld has some new tools for 1/64 in the works such as a 1963 Dodge Polara drag car and a 1964 Barracuda plus rumor is they are going to revive the Johnny Lightning and Racing Champions Mint names for more variety.  I'm not sure what they're planning to release but they might be slow sellers depending on what the price range is for them..  Kmart has some special Hot Wheels colors out so check them as the last K-Day Hot Wheels event for 2015 is November 7, 2015 but all stores should have the colors in stock after the event.  No special Red Lines or Heritage series have showed up locally which is a disappointment from Hot Wheels.  Hopefully they'll get in Walmart soon.

James Bond 007 Series, Fast and Furious 1/55 Coming Soon - October 2015

Take a look in your local Walmarts for the limited edition 007 Hot Wheels.  There are five cars in this set, the previously released Aston Martin DB5, a newer Aston Martin from the Mainline series, the Lotus Esprit and for the final two a 1964 Lincoln Hardtop in black and a 1971 Mustang in red.  I'm not going to label any of them rare but it seems that most of the Mustangs were picked out at my local store.  Be sure to check your Dollar Tree stores as I noticed some older 2015 issue Hot Wheels there and was able to score one or two cars that were hard to find elsewhere.  The Family Dollar stores are getting in the 5-car Gift Packs but they aren't selling any loose cars.  You can find some loose mainlines in Dollar General though.  I'm not promoting any store over the other but would like to give all collectors a chance to find cars other than having to pay big dollars for them from people that scoop them up.  Some Jada Toys small scale news as they noted that soon for November their 1/55 line-up of Fast and Furious cars will be released.  A special note is that each package will have a piece to build Brian's Supra from Furious 7.  So be prepared to buy two, one to keep and one to build that extra car if you're into having to have them all.  I guess you could also buy one set and still have all the parts just not completed.

I spotted some Retro Entertainment Hot Wheels around like the 1970 Dodge Charger from The Fast and The Furious, two versions of BTTF Delorean and the 1967 Camaro from Christine.  Because of the higher price on these series, they are harder to find and stores don't like to stock them often.  An update on the dump bins as collectors call them at Walmart, I found the large one not to be as deep as some in the past.  I think to have a spot under them to promote track sets and other Hot Wheels items.  The three bin set-up is deeper and have this hybrid locally.  Sometimes it is good to look on the rack because a few hidden gems might be lurking there.  You never know.  Good luck in your adventures!

P.S.  I wanted to add that the dollar stores such as Family Dollar and Dollar General are getting in the five vehicle gift packs by Hot Wheels so be on the lookout for them.

Another Surprise Place to Find Hot Wheels - September 2015

I was lucky enough to find another new round of Hot Wheels at Walmart in their updated dump bin and on the pegs.  I think this was cases M, N and P for the year 2015.  Some cool designs were in this series but I missed out on finding any 2015 Dodge Challengers as they were cleaned out.  I should note that while in a local convenience store to pick up some drinks to beat the heat and humidity, I found that they had a regular stand of Hot Wheels.  The cars were from Case E or so earlier this year but very surprised to see them in a Turkey Hill Minit Market.  So keep your eyes open as you'll never know where they'll pop up.  I should note that the card design for the mainlines series of Hot Wheels is being updated a bit for 2016 as I have noticed on other sites.  They have not popped up yet locally in the wild.  I have seen transition cards with the current series on a newer design card in the past so sometimes there are variations out there on card designs for the same car and year.  Some old stock is being put out at Walmart from M2 Machines, Auto World, etc. so check your local store to see what they have.  The last I seen were M2 Christmas Haulers.  Someone noted them as being from 2014.  Coming later in the fall is the James Bond 007 series from Hot Wheels so be ready for those cars.  Most of them have been released already like the Lotus Esprit and 1971 Mustang but they'll be on new 007 cards and lower prices.  Nothing else to report at this time. Just waiting for the Jada 1/55 scale Fast and Furious cars to hit the shelves.

The Walmart Dump Bins are Attacking! - August 2015

There is always the time when you don't have the willpower or resources to look through all the newer Hot Wheels or diecast at a store due to time constraints or other factors.  This was the case when I noticed not only one huge big bin of Hot Wheels but another three section one right next to it.  I was able to skim through some of it and got a few cars but not through the huge big dump bin pile.  Another collector was going through part of it but I don't think they found much for their troubles.  There are signs that someone have gone through the cars in my area such as finding them stacked back in nicely but then they'll get a mess again.  Some are not that neat in putting the Hot Wheels back so the cards don't get bend but I digress.  Well, August 2015 brings us a new batch of series M cases of 2015 Hot Wheels along with older E cases and some Zamacs from that time.  I was surprised to see an orange VW Caddy pickup.  Maybe these cases were hiding in the back and Walmart decided to put them out locally along with a new case or two.  I have no idea.  Be sure to check your dollar stores such as Dollar General as they are putting up some older 2015 issue mainlines to get your regular Moon Eyes Yellow Custom Dodge Van and others.  You never know what might pop up.  I haven't found any treasure hunts in the mix, though.  Unfortunately, I didn't have time to sort through the huge dump bin of doom pictured here on this page.  I thought it was fitting to show you how huge of a pile there was of cars.  There was also pegs full of ones leftover from them rearranging the toy section.  So be patient and you might be able to find what you're looking for even in the middle or later part of the year.  Sometimes you might have to resort to other stores to find what you need but they can surprise you like this bunch.  There's all those earlier cars unless Mattel had some extra stock.

Faster, Larger and More Furious Than Ever

Greenlight finally has out their 1/18 Custom Dodge Daytona as announced last year replicating the car from the Fast and Furious 6 movie.  While I don't really cover the larger scale diecast as this section is mostly for 1/64, I wanted to let everyone know that checks out my site here that the car is out at your favorite retail and online store.  Most should have them available as I write this.  The car itself looks to be a good replica of the movie car.  I should let you know from checking out some details that while it is 1/18 scale, nothing opens on the car although the interior looks to be completely detailed out.  I didn't see any underneath chassis shots so I'm not sure how well they did the undercarriage.  The twin to this car is in stock orange with a black stripe without clear headlight covers but still a custom car similar to Dom's Custom Daytona.  The only way to go stock is to get an American Muscle 1/18 version of the 1969 Dodge Daytona if you like big scale diecast.

The next in line Jada Fast and Furious 1/16 R/C car is out:  Letty's Off Road Dodge Challenger so as soon as I can get my hands on one for a reasonable price, I'll be doing a review.  Be patient as some of them are trying to gouge you for them on certain sites but the average price is about $25 for one.  Some other announcements is a line of 1/55 or so scale diecast from Jada for the Fast and Furious franchise which will be cool to have as they might be all new molds.  Possibly a late 2015 release or earlier.  As a sidenote, some more new Greenlight and M2 Machines 1/64 are flowing into stores and online shops so be on the lookout.  Nothing special to note as most are repaints but check them out.  More Hot Wheels will be coming out soon but nothing spotted locally yet such as the new Heritage series.  So while out be sure to check your favorite spots to see what Hot Wheels and other 1/64 diecast are lurking including Maisto.

Sizzlin' Hot Wheels Summer Releases Are Here

Walmart has some special Hot Wheels cars that are exclusive to them such as the Avengers sets and the Porsche series.  Both of them are economical as they are under $1 each.  There are eight of them in each series.  Be sure to get them before they are gone.  There are also some new mainlines showing up around there from the Hot Wheels 2015 releases.  This includes the Zamac series there along with others.  Most of the desirables are eaten up quickly but I was able to get a good bunch for my own collection.  Some of them I am missing but I am sure I can get them later once some restocks are done.  Greenlight and M2 Machines are putting out some new repaints and other releases.  A much anticipated release is the 1/64 1969 Ford Pickup by M2 Machines and Greenlight is doing a 1979-or so 1/43 version but the year may change.  Ford truck fans can rejoice!  Some other notable ones is a motorhome under the Greenlight Hollywood Banner in 1/64 scale.  So for June 2015, it looks like to have kick started more releases and hopefully it will keep going full steam ahead into July.  Keep watch in other stores as new products slowly come out including the second wave of Fast and Furious items from Jada with some hope for 1/64 releases by them since the original products for the movie series are getting harder to find.

New Old Stock M2 Machines from 2009+ and More!

There's some new old stock floating around at various online retailers and shops from M2 Machines and Greenlight.  From a confidential source, some distributors are cleaning out some old stock so be sure to grab some pieces while they are available.  Most of the places are selling them for reasonable prices so don't let that scare you away.  I was able to score some earlier release Greenlights and M2 Machines including a close fire red and white top 1958 Plymouth Belvedere which looks very close to the Custom '58 Fury in the movie Christine.  Some chases and green machines are in the bunch but those usually go for more money.  Just keep a lookout.  As a surprise, I noticed one of my blister carded M2 Machines had a mini-catalog inside the package so I opened up an extra one to do some scans of it.  You can find it in the Photo Gallery of the site.  The scan isn't that good but you can get an idea of what they had at the time.  In other news, some more Hot Wheels are flowing into the stores for the month of May 2015.  Be sure to check them out.  Some of them are repaints and a few new models.

New Finds at Walmart for April 2015 - Mystery Models

Found some new releases of Hot Wheels at Walmart.  These include the 2015 Fast and Furious Series of 8 cars.  I was able to get all of them except for the 1970 Dodge Charger R/T.  They were picked out of those.  They had various new mainline Hot Wheels but they were picked through of the good stuff but found some neat ones like the Super Volt which is a drag pro stock version of the Chevy Volt.  From a good source, Target has their store full of Furious 7 and Fast and Furious related merchandise.  If you don't have a Target nearby, check online because other sources are getting in the same product.  No other major 1/64 diecast finds except for a small Matchbox restock at Walmart.  One last thing is that new packs of Hot Wheels Mystery Models have showed up with a Gold Cartooned 1963 Corvette on the packs and this looks to be a special find.  I'm not sure how special but it is marked different on the back and all of them were gone when I found some.  So be on the lookout for some new mainline Hot Wheels, the new 2015 Fast and Furious set of cars along with the Mystery Models.

Delays and Upcoming Releases - Wait is On!

Expect some delays as you have noticed in our hobby world for model kits and diecast due to some shipping problems but they should get sorted out soon.  Check the stores for new 2015 Hot Wheels and be sure to order the full 2014 poster and the first of 4 posters for 2015 from Mattel.  There's one only charge and a great display even if you like to keep them tucked away.  Maisto already put out the 2015 Mustang GT in their 1/18 line back in 2014 but for 2015 I'm eager to see their 1/24 version.  The 2015 Mustang GT has been done in 1/64 so far by Maisto, AutoWorld and Hot Wheels.  We have it in 1/18 by Maisto and 1/10 versions are out by New Bright for their radio control line-up.  I'm on the fence with the new generation Mustang so far.  I did pick up the Hot Wheels and Maisto 1/64 diecasts and the AutoWorld one.  Each of them have their hits and misses.  Maisto did a good job on the headlights while AutoWorld only uses paint.  I wish they would be more detailed.  We'll see what other diecast collectibles are coming out including the revised front and rear 2014-2015 Camaro in many scales and a possible Hot Wheels Mainline Release.  Don't forget to check the stores for past 2014 releases before spending the big bucks, some got in older stock from the past year so you might find your treasures such as me finding Snoopy Hot Wheels and some others for only a buck each.  Not bad at all.  Sometimes good things come to those who wait.

Holiday Finds and Sales - Hidden Treasures

Be sure to check all the stores in your area for restocks of Hot Wheels and other diecast.  Most of them will be featuring cardboard units of Hot Wheels to sell as gifts for yourself or someone else.  They are put out for the upcoming Christmas and holiday season including and before Black Friday.  I was able to cross a few off my wanted list.  The thing to know is they usually put out older stock and some newer for the current line-up of 2014 so you can find ones that you might have missed over the past year.  Another point to mention is that they aren't picked through as quickly as the ones in the bigger popular department stores.  So keep your eyes peeled for them in places you might not think of and don't be discouraged.  You might find your wants at a decent price.

Bringing Up The Rear for 2014 Hot Wheels and 2015 Outlook

The local Walmart got in some cases of the last issue for 2014 and some early 2015 Hot Wheels.  K-mart got in their special edition colors back in September.  Keep watch out in the dollar stores and pharmacies including grocery stores.  This is where you can score some of the earlier 2014 issue mainlines for your collection such as the Snoopy and Star Trek USS Vengeance.  You never know what will turn up.  AutoWorld is going to push out some series 3 colors for their 1/64 diecast line.  The 2015 Hot Wheels look promising but I hope they do less fantasy creature cars and more street cars even if they are customs.  As the holiday season gears up, be sure to look in the dollar stores for other diecast and build-up cars in various scales from 1/32 to 1/24.  Sometimes you can find some unique items for your collection without having to spend big bucks.  These might include light and sound 1/32 cars, r/c cars and others.

A note on the 2015 Mustang.  Hot Wheels has one out in their 2014 Mainlines in red and is pretty plentiful so don't spend too much to get one.  Maisto has their 1/18 version out in red, white and blue as a GT.  There is also a police paint scheme version with lightbar and push bar.  I was told that the 1/24 diecast is delayed until late 2014.  No other ones have been spotted by me out in the wild..

Bigger Things are Coming - New Hot Wheels

Noticed that the local Walmart got in some new cases of Hot Wheels but they seemed to be picked out already.  I got rid of most of my extra ones and not collecting as many as them like I was.  The joy of finding them are gone and I'd rather something a little larger such as 1/32 and 1/24 scale at the moment.  This doesn't mean that I'm going to stop completely but slow down.  No Snoopy or anything cool except for the Heat Fleet Flamed 1970 Buick GSX in Black and the 1969 Cougar Eliminator in Red / White / Black.  There's also the Mopar Anniversary cars by M2 Machines in the cubes but they look rather plain in white.  Waiting for the 2015 Mustang in 1/24 by Maisto including the New Bright r/c cars.

The Slow Months for Collecting Hot Wheels:

Unless you have a free-energy automobile and loads of free time plus a lot of cash to spend then you can visit all the stores in your area including pharmacies and dollar stores and of the course the big department stores to see what all they have in 1/64 diecast and Hot Wheels.  Most of us usually just have time to check out a store when we're conveniently in there.  From checking some sources, it seems like from May to August is the slow months for most stores like Walmart.  My local one has been pretty stale on getting any new Hot Wheels in especially mainlines so I'm missing out on getting a few issues at this time.  Some of them do pop up later and possibly at other stores so I am not paying extra to get them right now like some.  I can wait and do not need all of them.  Just a few.  AutoWorld has been slowly getting on the shelves along with Maisto's revival of their 1/64 All Stars.  I wish that Maisto would use smaller packaging but I digress.  There will be some new stock out there but usually we'll see more in the fall for the big department stores but keep looking you never know.  Greenlight is pushing out their releases but those are mostly hobby and online purchses for most of us while M2 Machines has stuff out but not as gloated as before.

April flowers with more diecast findings:

I am disappointed in no Zamac Hot Wheels at my local Walmart.  I sure hope they get some in as I am after that Zamac 1969 Dodge Daytona Charger.  The AutoWorld 1/64 are becoming popular but I wish they keep them stocked better as there is little selection there.  The wagons are going fast.  I am not really into them but I would like the Christine 1958 Plymouth from that second release without having to resort to buying it online but I think I might have to unless someone offers one up as a trade.  Be on the look-out for mainline Hot Wheels for the Mustang's 50th Anniversary as they do have a series out just not in special packaging just a subset of their regular ones.  It is 50 years for the Hemi too so they might do something special for the Mopar people as well.  M2 Machines will probably do it as they have in 1/24 so expect something for 1/64.  And for you Star Trek fans, the USS Vengeance is out in the mainline series but I haven't come across that one yet.  As I just casually collect and do not travel to many other stores or Walmarts, I don't get to see the variety in the stores.  One tip is to look in your local grocery store as you might have to pay slightly higher prices but you may find some surprises there or cars that have yet to been picked through.

March roars in with new diecast finds and news...

I was correct and Walmart does have an 8 car Mustang Hot Wheels series available.  They could have chosen some better cars for a few of them.  Two look almost alike and the one isn't even close to being a 2003 Cobra.  I just picked what I thought looked nice and left the rest.  More 1/43 Greenlight Fast and Furious cars are out including the Supra, Eclipse and Brian's Escort.  Collectors online are reporting more new cars out in dump bins at Walmart but my local one hasn't gotten much new in except for the special series cars.  Hopefully I'll be able to snag the blue issue of the 1955 Gasser and the Zamac Charger Daytona.  Wish me luck!

The Diecast Outlook for 2014 and Beyond...

Hot Wheels will be doing higher end collectibles in their Retro Entertainment line-up so look for Fast and Furious cars there.  Greenlight got out their 1/43 1970 Charger Street Machine, 1972 Torino and Brian's Subaru.  I'm not really into collecting anything special yet for diecast in 2014.  Right now I am just waiting and seeing what is being released.  I was able to get in the 1/43 1970 Fast and Furious Charger which looks ok but missed out on the Torino as it went out of stock while my order was being processed.  The Charger is ok but it would be nice to see Revell reissue some of their 1/25 diecasts in built form such as the 1970 Charger and Eclipse.

Star Trek fans rejoice because you are going to be getting the USS Vengeance in Hot Wheels Mainline Form for 2014 it seems.  I'm curious if there will be a special 50th Anniversary Mustang carded series at Wal-Mart similar to the Corvettes.  AutoWorld is dishing out their 1/64 cars but I miss the Johnny Lightning cars.  Things are just at a slow point for the start of 2014 as products roll out after the holidays.

Head over to the main section for collecting tips and more articles about the world of 1/64 diecast and Hot Wheels.  Read tips about finding and hunting down Hot Wheels, variations, new releases, other manufacturers, etc.

The Dump Bin of Doom at a Big Box Store.  This photo was taken on August 9, 2015 with earlier cases mixed in with newer ones.  A big headache of a mess I didn't have time to sort through that day..

Sometimes Hot Wheels do not want to stay in their blister such as this Porsche!