Cool Classics Update: Final two batches apparently coming in 2015...

We caused quite a stir yesterday when we asked if Hot Wheels is killing the Cool Classics line, thus eliminating models many of us were looking up to, including the Datsun 510, Datsun 240Z, Ford GT, Hurst Olds, Subaru BRAT, and Honda S2000.

Since then we have gotten some news from a Mattel insider, stating that those last two batches are still slated to be released, but as part of the "Heritage Line" in 2015.  We have no idea what the Heritage Line is, but if it means we will see these models, we are all for it.

So maybe collectors can relax.  Of course, making these last two batches 2015 models could mean big box stores won't want them, and we could see these go the way of other Boulevard, Vintage Racing, and Flying Customs models, becoming dealer and discount store exclusives.  But maybe not.

Yes, maybe we have to go through dealers, or maybe hit TJ Maxx and Tuesday Morning stores, but as long as they are made and released we won't complain.  Too much.

Feeling better?

Uh-oh! Is Hot Wheels killing off the Cool Classics line, leaving the Datsun 510, Subaru BRAT, and Honda S2000 in limbo?

If this is true, it is not a good development.

Today Mattel posted an article on HWC that highlights what they say are the remaining models in the 2014 Cool Classics line.  They state that they have the complete list of expected castings for 2014, divided up into four mixes.  Three of the mixes have already been released, leaving this final batch:

Mix 4

• '65 Ford Galaxie
• Astro Funk
• '84 Ford Mustang
• Volkswagen Drag Beetle
• 1955 Corvette

Yes, those are some nice models.  But if this is the complete list of 2014 Cool Classics, that means two batches slated for a 2014 release have been cut:

Mix 5

• '70 Mustang Boss 302
• 1984 Hurst Olds
• Honda S2000
• Ford GT
• '65 Volkswagen Fastback

Mix 6

• Datsun 240Z
• Datsun Bluebird 510
• 1976 Chevy Chevette
• Subaru Brat
• '10 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake

Looking at those last two batches, there is not a weak model in the bunch.  There are many that we at Lamley and many of you readers are really looking forward to.  Mattel previewed many of the Mix 5 and Mix 6 models at the Nationals Convention a few weeks ago, but are not listing them as part of the official list on HWC.  So what happened?

1. Maybe it is a mistake.  Someone just forgot to add the last two batches in the article.  Let's hope.
2. Maybe those last two batches will actually be the first two batches of 2015.

Both of those options are fine with us, but not seeing those last two batches leaves us worried that the Cool Classics is sharing the same fate of so many other premium Hot Wheels lines.  

Cool Classics unfortunately are clogging the pegs, just like 2012 Boulevard, Hot Ones, and Flying Customs did before them.  The big-box stores could now be saying no to stocking them moving forward, leaning to the cancelation of the final batches.  

That happens, and we collectors have to be prepared to see that happen to the lines we like.  But ONCE AGAIN Hot Wheels has left the most desirable models for the final batches, and it looks like they may never see the light of day.

Think about all the people that missed out on the Boulevard 510 Wagon and Porsche 993, the many still looking for the Flying Customs Nissan Skyline and Texas Drive 'Em, those that never found the Racing Greenwood Corvette and BMW M3, and finally, the sad fact that the final batch of Racing, which was never produced, included a Toyota 2000GT in Shelby livery, a Tokyo Auto Show Kenmeri Skyline, and a racing Datsun 510.  Those are a lot of highly desirable models that were either not made or dumped in certain discount stores.  

So is it happening again?  We sure hope not, and will happily accept that this is just an oversight by the person in charge of the article.  But if it is true, enjoy the pics below.  It is the only way you might ever see these models:

Our feelers are out on this bit of news, so if we hear anything otherwise, we will pass it along...

 

Complete Collection: Hot Wheels '87 Toyota Pickup...

When we showcased the brand new Hot Wheels Retro Entertainment '87 Toyota a few days ago, one of our readers asked is show all releases of the Toyota together.  We thought that was a great idea.

So we have little to say, we just thought we would show them.  Our favorite?  Is there any doubt?  It's Alex P Keaton's sweet 80's ride.  Pretty sure that was the secret to his success...

(Find the '87 Toyota on ebay...)


Hot Wheels '87 Toyota

2012 Hot Ones

2013 Mainline

2013 Mainline recolor

2013 Mainline recolor wheel variation

2014 Cool Classics

2014 Retro Entertainment

First Look: Hot Wheels Cool Classics Honda CR-X (and a special Lamley Deal of the Week)...

After several months and ignored batches, Hot Wheels Cool Classics have finally gotten interesting.  Sure, we liked some of the classics and muscle cars released for Cool Classics, but a little more variety has all of a sudden seeped in.

And for we JDM fans, there is a lot to like.  It started with the '87 Toyota, and in the very next batch comes the Honda CR-X.  Japanese cars get the next batch off, but then return with the Honda S2000 in Batch K, and culminate with the ever-popular Datsun 510, Datsun 240Z, and Subaru Brat.  That is quite the lineup.  And that is only the Japanese cars.  There are plenty more to get excited about.

But let's go back to that Honda CR-X.  This is the third premium version of the CR-X, and in our opinion, the best-looking.  The first two, while nice, were plagued with some over-the-top colors.  This one seems just right.  Not to mention, the Cool Classic wheels look fantastic.

We did have one question when we got our example.  Had the planned modifications taken place?  Apparently the Hot Wheels design team has not been very happy with how the headlights turned out. And we collectors agree.  The headlights are part of the window piece, and from the beginning they haven't really sat flush with the model.  We were told that modifications were taking place, and the expectation was that they would be seen with this model.  It is hard to tell, but we don't think anything has happened yet.  You be the judge:

Can you see any differences?  We can't.

But we are happy to have it, and because of that we are excited to announce a special Lamley Deal of the Week with our friends at Wheel Collectors.  For a limited time, Wheel Collectors is offering a set of Cool Classics Batch H for $19.99 plus shipping.  That is cheaper than retail, and you get the CR-X along with its four Batch H counterparts.  Just follow the link below:

Lamley Deal of the Week Cool Classics Batch H


Hot Wheels Honda CR-X (2014 Cool Classics):

Lamley News: The remaining models of 2014 Hot Wheels Cool Classics have been unveiled, and some great models are coming...

Something funny happened yesterday while talking to a friend about the list of 2014 Hot Wheels mainline models.

We were discussing what models were in the line, and I noted that one model that a Mattel designer eluded to being released, the Subaru BRAT, was not part of the list.  The obvious assumption was that it would be part of the Cool Classics line.  Curiosity bested my friend, and a quick google search yielded a tasty tidbit.  This online store had this list of the remaining Cool Classics organized by batch, and we really like what we see:

J

• '65 Ford Galaxie
• Astro Funk
• '84 Ford Mustang
• Volkswagen Drag Beetle
• 1955 Corvette

K

• '70 Mustang Boss 302
• 1984 Hurst Olds
• Honda S2000
• Ford GT
• '65 Volkswagen Fastback

L

• Datsun 240Z
• Datsun Bluebird 510
• 1976 Chevy Chevette
• Subaru Brat
• '10 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake

Of course we don't know for sure if this list is 100% correct, but we have reason to believe it is.  The Brat is there, as are several models that were previewed to RLC members several weeks ago.  Plus many models that have been in premium lines before.

Highlights for us?  Well, those two Datsuns in Batch L are no-brainers, as is the Brat.  It is surprising to see the Honda S2000 in there, as it is the first time it will sport a metal base.  We think a great many of you will be happy to see the VW Drag Beetle and Fastback as well.  And finally we have another version of the fantastic '70 Mustang Boss 302, which we have only seen in the premium Racing lines:

So like Hot Ones, Vintage Racing, and Flying Customs, Mattel has saved some of the most desirable models of the Cool Classics line for the end.  And while later batches appear to moving off the shelves a little faster of late, we still wonder if the line will make it to the end.  It would be a real shame if the fantastic models of Batch L don't see the light of day.  

So go to your store and buy those models you want.  We did, starting with the Honda CR-X pictured at the top of this post.  Let's make sure Mattel gives this series a full life...

Lamley News: Hot Wheels Cool Classics Batch H, including the Honda CRX, is now out...

Just a quick heads up to let everyone know that Hot Wheels Cool Classics Batch H starting to appear.  Cool Classics are a bit of a mixed bag for us here at Lamley, but Batch H is significant because it contains a model which tickles our fancy, the Honda CRX.

There are four other models in the batch, and you can let us know if any interest you.  For us, maybe the Torino, but that is about it.  We are looking forward to getting the CRX and seeing if any of the plan casting modifications were done.  A First Look is surely in order, so stay tuned.

In the meantime, you can check out the batch at the following link:

Hot Wheels Cool Classics Batch H

First Look: Hot Wheels '67 Camaro and the rest of 2014 Cool Classics Batch G...

It is the Hot Wheels version of "Where's Waldo?".  Each year the '67 Camaro will show up somewhere.

Could be the mainline, as it did last year (with the Super TH treatment).  Could be a convention exclusive (it almost always is).  Could be in a 5-pack.  Certainly in a premium line.

So this year?  In the Cool Classics.  It seems that wherever the 67 Camaro appears, attention is drawn.  The casting is the equivalent of the RLC Neo wheels.  There are far better wheels out there, but nostalgic collectors love them because of their link to the past.  There are far better classic Camaro castings out there (68 Copo, 70 Road Race come to mind), but the 67 has been a favorite of many for a VERY long time.

We will admit, though, that despite the lack of detail in the casting, the 67 can look really good.  The Super Treasure Hunt last year was easily one of the best-looking Supers of the year, and this year's Cool Classics version is in the same boat.  Satin blue, with racing deco.  A winner.

Are we going to add it to the collection?  No.  We have one spot reserved for a '67, and that is taken up by the 2013 Super, and we don't anticipate it will be displaced anytime soon.  But we know a lot of you will seek it out, so we definitely wanted to show it off.

As for the rest of Batch G?  From our perspective...meh.  The Hudson Hornet it surely an interesting casting, but bland here.  Other than that, we have no real opinion about the '29 Ford Pickup, Olds 442, and the terribly overrated Purple Passion.

In general, the Cool Classics are hanging on the pegs, and not really moving.  There are some exceptions, the latest being the '87 Toyota Truck, which is moving very fast.  But the rest are hanging, and outside of the 67 Camaro, we anticipate this batch to do the same...

(Find the 67 Camaro and rest of Batch G at Wheel Collectors...)


Hot Wheels Cool Classics Batch G:

'67 Camaro

Hudson Hornet

Olds 442

Purple Passion

'29 Ford Pickup