HOT WHEELS : THE ULTIMATE GUIDE VARIATIONS

Hot Wheels variations, even with minute differences, can be double the value of a collectible die-cast car. It's all in the details when you're dealing with Hot Wheels, and nothing is more detail driven than variations. Whether it's a slightly different shade of paint, a different wheel, interior or window, owning a variation can mean the difference between a $10 collector die-cast car and a rare find worth $500. This new edition of the ultimate guide to Hot Wheels variations features 4,000+ car listings, plus 2,200 large color photos to help you make smart investments and savvy assessment of your Hot Wheels collection.

About the AuthorAuthor/Freelance writer, Michael S. Zarnock writes Collector Guides and Articles about Hot Wheels® toy cars and is one of the worlds most respected authorities on Hot Wheels® and also holds a Guinness World Record ™ for his Hot Wheels® collection.

Some of Michael’s accomplishments over the years include racing Moto Cross as a teenager to building and driving many Show and Drag Cars as an adult. Some of those Drag Cars ended up being Street Racers for other people. Michael has many stories’ about those Street Racing days that he says he would like to put in a book, including the time he got kidnapped. He says, "Hey, It could happen. Who would have thought I would write books about Hot Wheels® ?"

The mid 1980’s brought another challenge to Michael when he became a singer/drummer and co-wrote songs in a band called "The Blister Tones". After 3 years and 3 Albums, the band split and he went back to working on his house and collecting Hot Wheels® again.

It’s come to be, that Michael has spent so much time and effort on his collection that he has become one of the world’s most respected authorities on Hot Wheels® and their variations.
So much so, that it prompted him to write a best selling Variation Guide called "The Ultimate Guide to Hot Wheels ® Variations", that went into it’s second printing. The 2nd. Edition is written and scheduled for a March 2004 release. He has also done the "Warmans' Hot Wheels® Field Guide", the Hot Wheels® Collector Numbers section in "The Standard Catalog of Die-Cast Vehicles", "Toys & Prices 2004" and a few others that are currently under development. All of these and future publications are available at Bookstores around the world. If you’re looking for up to date Hot Wheels® information, Michael is currently under contract with "Toy Cars & Models®" magazine where he writes a monthly Hot Wheels® Variation Guide. In his column he talks about the most current Variations to be looking for along with prices. See more.

WARMAN'S HOT WHEELS FIELD GUIDE : VALUES AND IDENTIFICATION

Hot Wheels are collector cool - more than 15 million people proudly collect Hot Wheels.
Follows the format, but expands on the details of the first edition of the popular Warman's Hot Wheels Field Guide. With one Hot Wheels car sold every six seconds, Mattel's reign on pocket-sized racers is at top speed as the company marks 40 years of die cast devotion. This new edition of the popular portable field guide offers you an extensive collection of Redlines, Blackwalls and Number Pack vehicle details, as well as a "Wheel Guide" for easy identification, not to mention up-to-date secondary market pricing and more than 500 fantastic color photos of some of the finest and most highly prized Hot Wheels cars ever produced. Just like Hot Wheels, this pint-sized guide is poised for top performance.

Michael Zarnock’s passion for die-cast cars puts him into the Guinness Book of World Records for owning the greatest variety of die-cast cars. He’s the author of two editions of Hot Wheels Variations and helped create the first editions of Warman’s Hot Wheels Field Guide, both published by Krause Publications . See more.

2001 CADILLAC DEVILLE PRESIDENTIAL LIMO

The DeVille (also De Ville and de Ville) name has been used on many of Cadillac's luxury car models. After the Fleetwood was dropped from the Cadillac lineup the DeVille became the largest Cadillac sedan.The DeVille name was replaced by DTS (DeVille Touring Sedan) for the 2006 model year.

The name "DeVille" ("of the city" or "town" in French) derives its name from its town car body, which featured an open chauffeur's compartment and enclosed passenger compartment. The term "Town Car" was used by Lincoln in 1922 to describe a one-off vehicle built for Henry Ford.

The first Cadillac to bear the name was the 1949 Coupe De Ville, with a 4-door hardtop version appearing in 1956 (a one-off Sedan de Ville was built in 1954). Both cars were based on the Series 62. Beginning in 1965, DeVille denoted Cadillac's mainstream model, falling between the Calais and the Fleetwood.

For 1968, the DeVille gained slight exterior changes to comply with new federal safety and emissions legislation, and as with the rest of the Cadillac line up, a new 472 in³ (7.7 L) V8 engine rated at 375 hp.

In November 1971, a showroom-stock 1971 Coupe DeVille placed third in the annual coast-to-coast Cannonball Run, posting the highest average speed of the event, 84.6 mph (136.2 km/h) (excluding stops) and averaging 8.9 mpg-US (26 L/100 km/10.7 mpg-imp).

DeVilles have always been a notable car throughout history and have been used countless times by politicians, spiritual leaders, and are notable in many movies.

As of 2008, the 1993 Cadillac Fleetwood at the Clinton Presidential Center is the final presidential vehicle to be placed on public display. Plans call for the Secret Service to use future vehicles for security testing that may result in their destruction.

A 2001 Cadillac DeVille limousine was delivered to the Bush Administration and was replaced by the current 2006 Cadillac DTS.

2001 Cadillac Deville Presidential Limousine. 1:24 scale diecast collectible model car. This limo is 11"Lx 3.5"Wx 2.5"H. Diecast metal car has opening doors, trunk & hood, free wheels, and workable steering. With US Presidential seal and flags. Highly detailed engine and components. Box is 14"Wx 5.25"Hx 6"D. Yat Ming Presidential Series. GM is a trademark of the General Motors Corporation. 24018 in black color. Individually packed in a window box WB. See more.

1956 CADILLAC EISENHOWER PRESIDENTIAL LIMO DIECAST MODEL CAR

The Presidential State Car is the official state car used by the President of the United States. Analogous to the President's use of an airplane designated Air Force One, the automobile—traditionally a limousine—is informally known as "Cadillac One".

Cadillac is a brand of luxury vehicles owned by General Motors. Cadillac vehicles are officially sold in over 50 countries and territories, with the majority sold in the United States and Canada. In the mid-20th century, the name became a synonym for "high quality", used in such phrases as "the Cadillac of watches," referring to a Rolex. Cadillac's current slogan is Life. Liberty. And The Pursuit., in reference to the inalienable rights stressed in the United States Declaration of Independence

This is a very highly detailed 1956 Cadillac Presidential Limo diecast model car 1:24 scale die cast by Yat Ming. Every details are well put together. It has hood opens, trunk opens, all 4 doors open, wheel steer, wheels roll and includes Presidential Flags and door emblems. Great collectible or gift piece. 1956 Cadillac Presidential Limo diecast model car 1:24 scale die cast by Yat Ming is one of the best showcase model for any auto enthusiasts. See more.

LAND ROVER (LWB) SERIES I - RAC

When first produced between 1948-1958 the Series I Land Rover was used almost exclusively as a workhorse, a vehicle designed, manufactured and marketed o earn it’s keep. As such it found great popularity in farming, police, fire and other emergency services, the army, recovery services and utility companies such as the Royal Mail and Telecommunication firms but never found any interest outside of these areas. All this changed in the 1980’s and a new level of enthusiasm gained momentum until today when a good Series I is the most desirable of all Land Rover in every facet of motoring.

The Land Rover long wheelbase made an ideal tow vehicle with its 4x4 go anywhere capability and as such as was very popular with all the recovery services of the 1950’s including as seen here, the RAC. Decorated in the livery of the Radio Rescue Fleet this was one of the first RAC vehicles to have and orange beacon and aerial.

This is a real nostalgic delight, a Radio Rescue RAC Land Rover, from back in the days when the RAC vehicles were in blue and didn’t look like a paramedics services. The old fashioned RAC diamond logo is well done – and particularly neat on the front wings. The headboard is a nice touch, and tiny touches like the picked out door handles, miniature Land Rover badges, glazed headlights and sliding windows bar make it a real treat.

1/18 - 1952 CITROEN 2CV

Founded by Andre Citroen, the company have been noted for their 'landmark' cars. Probably none was more so that the 2CV, launched in 1948, and designed as a car which the majority could afford. A revolutionary feature was the hydro-pneumatic suspension, launched with the 15CV, and later with the incredible DS19: again many models exist.

This die-cast is 1/18 scale Maisto's 1952 Citroen 2CV. It is well-done, complete with chrome and copper-finished engine and see-through roof. See more.

1/32 JAGUAR E-TYPE SEBRING 1963

This is the 1/32 scale Jaguar E-Type Sebring 1963 from Revell Model Racing. A replica of the model driven by Ed Leslie and Frank Morrill Painted White with all sponsor decals applied Painted driver, steering wheel and interior detail Doors and hood do not open Equipped with a magnet and double-braided pick-up shoes Fully assembled on a removable display base. Length: 4.5" (114mm) Width: 1.9" (48mm) Height: 1.7"(43mm) See more.

1/18 - 1948 TUCKER TORPEDO

1948 Tucker Torpedo is a 1:18 scale diecast collectible car. Detailed engine and interior. Diecast metal, classic oldies car has workable steering, free wheels, opening doors, hood and trunk. Sits on a display plaque.

This off-road version of the Tucker will be as prized by serious car collectors as the original was. It's an 11-inch die-cast model in the signature metallic red, with all the classic components of the original. The doors, hood, and trunk open; the steering works; and of course there's the distinctive pivoting third headlight. The only thing this car doesn't have is the speed to get up to 131 mph like the rare Tuckers did once upon a time. (Lynne Sampson) See more.

1965 ALFA ROMEO GIULIA SPRINT GTA

This model is outstanding value. Probably built better than the car was when new, this Chinese made 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA is expertly done; well propertioned and topped with a first class paint finish. Apart from the messy dash layout, the interior is first class too, right down to the wood-rimmed steering wheel and gear lever knob plus that Alfa chromed hand brake lever. See more.

1936 MERCEDES 500K SPECIAL ROADSTER WHITE DIECAST

This is a very detailed replica of 1/18 scale 1936 Mercedes 500K Special Roadster diecast model car 1:18 scale die cast. Opening Doors, Opening Trunk, Opening Hood, Steerable Wheels, Detailed Interior, Rubber Tires, Perfectly modeled engine, Accurate Gauges and dash inside. 1936 Mercedes 500K Special Roadster diecast model diecast model truck 1:24 diecast model diecast model diecast model diecast model diecast model car 1:18 scale die cast makes great gift for any car enthusiast. Dimensions L-9 (Approximate), H-3 25 (Approximate), W-4 (Approximate). See more.

1/18 - 1970 AMC REBEL MACHINE

Muscle from an Unexpected Source 1970 AMC Rebel ôThe Machineö A One-Year Wonder By 1970 AMC was trying whatever it could to compete with the Big 3 of Ford, GM and Chrysler. After experimenting for a couple of years with muscle cars, they hired Hurst Products to develop what became ôThe Machineö. Part of AMC's mid-sized, mid-priced Rebel line, ôThe Machineö was built for speed. The 340hp. 4-barrel V-8 with a Hurst 4-speed gearbox was lightning quick off the line. Other standard features included high back bucket seats, functional Ram-Air hood scoop and dual exhausts. Precision Engineered to Original Specifications AMC introduced ôThe Machineö at the NHRA 1969 World Championships. Although they played down its speed, it had a lot of engine for a mid-sized car and easily held its own against the bigger name muscle cars of that era. Of the 1936 produced for $3475, the first 1000 were made in this special white with blue and red trim color scheme. After that you could order it in any of the Rebel colors. See more.

1/18 FORD MUSTANG SHELBY GT500 BLUE

Carrol Shelby created the legendary Cobra in 1962 and changed the face of American automotive design forever. His Shelby Daytona Coupe earned the 1965 FIA World Manufacturer's Championship, a feat which no other American manufacturer has ever matched. He has worked with Ford creating the 289 Cobra, Cobra Daytona Coupe, 427 S/C Cobra, the racing GT40, the Mustang G.T. 350 and G.T. 500, with Dodge creating the Shelby Charger, Lonestar, GLH, GLHS, CSX, and Viper, as well as the Shelby Series 1 from the ground up utilizing internal resources and premium outsource suppliers. With his 40+ years as an automotive innovator, Carroll Shelby's legacy promises to reach well into the future with products such as the Ford Shelby Cobra, Ford GT, Ford Shelby GR-1, and the 2007 Ford Shelby GT 500.

Beautifully crafted 2007 Ford Mustang Shelby GT 500 diecast model car 1:18 scale die cast by Shelby Collectibles. This is a very highly detailed 2007 Ford Mustang Shelby GT 500 diecast model car 1:18 scale die cast by Shelby Collectibles. Every details are well put together. Great collectible or gift piece. 2007 Ford Mustang Shelby GT 500 diecast model car 1:18 scale die cast by Shelby Collectibles is one of the best showcase model for any auto enthusiasts. See more.

STUDEBAKER GOLDEN HAWK

As we enter the new century, collectors of 1:18 scale die cast clearly prefer quality and value that is reliable and consistent. In just 2 years, Motor City Classics has established a niche that didn't exist before in the 1:18th market and has seen a steady increase in collectors. For 2002, MCC is affirming their devotion to American classic cars and trucks, and introduce a new and exciting category of vehicles.

This classic oldies car is 10"L x 4.5"W x 3.25"H diecast metal has opening hood/trunk/hood, spare tire in trunk, folding seats, free wheels, workable windows and workable steering. This 1957 Studebaker has highly detailed engine and components. Also comes with a gray Studebaker coin. The grille and chrome are splendid, the interior is fascinating and the wheels are very well done. A treasure! See more.

1/64 SCALE DIECAST DISPLAY CASE CABINET

Solid hardwood case of beautiful design and construction. A prefect way to display 1/64th scale vehicles. Slotted shelves to keep cars in place. Installed wall brackets to hang. This case can display up to a total of 60 1/64 scale Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Racing Champs, Playing Mantis, Fun Line, Revell, diecast, racing usa-online, NASCAR, Diecast, Mattel, Slot cars, etc. A glass door keeps inquisitive fingers away, as well as dust! (vehicles are not included). See more.

CORGI : LAND ROVER GREEN (SERIES III)

Land Rover Green (Series III) was designed by Corgi Classic Ltd. It is deep green body, long body (LWB), ivory roof, clear windows, black interior, with a opening back door and a spare tire on the hood.

Land Rover Series III was assembled in between 1971-1985. It was a long body (LWB), a biggest engine of this model V8 3.5 litres 91 horse powers. Functional, reliable, and phenomenally tough, the Land Rover is the classic off-road vehicle. Introduced at the end of the 1940s, and still in production 50 years later, it is sold in nearly every corner if the world. This die-cast Land Rover III is made of heavy thick metal. It is deserved to be a real die-casting car.

ERTL - 1918 FORD RUNABOUT TEXACO COLLECTORS CLUB TRUCK

The 1918 Ford Runabout was a reflection of WWI era, with its new list price running $345 to $500. Considered the sportiest Model T designed by the Ford Motor Co, it was used by Texaco Marketing during the late teens and 20's. This reproduction in attractive tin is in 1/43 scale featuring a gold steering wheel, headlights, and sporty tires. See more.

SCALEXTRIC 1/32 THE ITALIAN JOB AUSTIN MINI COOPER S SET

The slot cars within are 1:32 scale in size which is approximately about five or six inches in length. They and the other contents enclosed in the collector box are new in the factory original package and have not been professionally graded. The collector box has never been opened and itself is enlosed in a plastic bag taped by the manufacturer; therefore, we are unable to attest to condition of the contents within. We can say that the collector box itself has no visible dents, scars or holes. These electric racing slot cars operate on most readily available 1:32 scale slot car race track systems and are most commonly used on Scalextric 1:32 race tracks in the U.S. Contact your race track manufacturer to confirm this brand of slot car will work with your brand of track. This slot car edition is only available through the hobby market industry. A very nice set. See more.

JOHNNY LIGHTNING 1/64 THE ITALIAN JOB MINI COOPER DIRTY COMPLETE SET

Careering across the roofs, and down through the sewers and marble staircases of Turin, this trio of Minis made an unforgettable spectacle in the 1696 comedy classic, the Italian Job. This is Johnny Lightning on Wheels the Italian Job Mini Coopers Dirty complete set red, blue, white. See here.

1967 MORRIS MINI COOPER POLICE CAR

New, the diminutive Morris Mini seems built to weave in and out of traffic with the greatest of ease. That's why police departments in the UK have numbered the mighty-mite in their fleets. Now, you can do the same by adding this precision replica to your collection. A police light-and-siren rack on the roof complements authentic police markings. This limited edition of 1,500 is exclusively from The Franklin Mint. See here.

MATCHBOX MOY-Y18 1937 CORD 812

One of the mostremarkable and technically advanced cars of the 1930's, the Cord model had retractable headlights, front wheel drive and with Supercharge engine reached 120 mph.

Alas it was the last model ever produced by the Cord Company which went into liquidation shortly after the introduction of the 812, therefore making this model a collectors item since only a small amount were built. Scale 1:35. www.toy2hand.com

CORGI - BRITISH ARMY LAND ROVER & 2 WHEELS TRAILER

Let’s see the die-casting British Army Land Rover & 2 wheels Trailer, model length 9.8 cm. Limited Edition model with cerfiticate.(scale 1:43)

Land Rover was used by the British Army in many ways. For the series II of this model was a special assembled. This model was named FV1806/18062 by increasing the two fuel tank, a special thickness bumper and the electrical appliance concerning the army. While the 2 wheels trailer could be loaded 750kg. It could be able to be alterated for many kinds of using, such as carrying water, radar apparatuses. A special of this car is floating in the water.
Land Rover car is black and light brown color, clear windows and black interior. There is an English flag in front and at the black of the car.

TOMICA AND SINGHA BEER

It seems to be the only one kind was screened on the Die-cast Tomica No.20 – Nissan Skyline GT-R (Scale 1:50) It was produced in Japan in 1989 and it might be a special occasion of the Singha Beer.

Boon Rawd Brewery Co., Ltd., the first brewery of Thailand, was founded by Phya BhiromBhakdi in 1933. The privately owned company has expanded and diversified under the visionary and innovative management of its founder into a renowned beer and beverage producer. At present, Boon Rawd Brewery is the owner of “Singha”, “Leo”, “Thai Beer”, “Moshi” and “B-ing” trademarks.(www.boonrawd.co.th)

CORGI - GOLD PLATE LAND ROVER

The die-casting Corgi car No.07103 Gold Plate Land Rover is a special production on the occasion of the anniversary of 50 years. The Land Rover was produced in China by Corgi Classic Ltd. in 1997. The length is 9.3 cm.
Land Rover made its appearance in Amsterdam Motor Show on August 30, 1948 and met with a success to market immediately around the world. Especially, King George VI ordered it to be used in his own business. Land Rover is the classic off-road vehicle. Introduced at the end of the 1940s, and still in production 50 years later, it is sold in nearly every corner of the world. See here.

CORGI - AEC ERGOMATIC FIRE ENGINE CHIPPERFIELDS

Today, I take another car for looking, that is a die-cast of Corgi No.CG31703 AEC Ergomatic Fire Engine Chipperfields. This die-cast is a limited edition of 12,500. (Scale 1:50) For the die-cast of AEC Ergomatic Fire Engine was used in the Chipperfield’s Circus, also Corgi had produced later on a period of ’90. It is red body which is an identity of Chipperfields. They have three set of ladderd fire fighting, blue dome light on the roof, jewel headlights, black base and “LLW 456M” labels. See here.

CHIPPERFIELD'S CIRCUS MODEL

Chipperfield's Circus was the name of a famous British family circus. The show toured Europe and the Far East. The dynasty goes back more than 300 years, making it one of the older family circus dynasties. During the 1960s circuses were extremely popular, so it was not surprising that during the period between 1960 and 1970 Corgi Toys should release ten Chipperfield’s Circus models, plus four Gift Sets. All were produced with the co-operation of the circus itself.These models proved to be highly collectable, so in 1994 Corgi Classics launched a new series of twelve Chipperfield’s Circus models. Again these proved extremely popular at the time, so futher additions were made. (Encyclopedia of Model Collecting)

OXFORD 1/76 CHIPPERFIELDS MINI VAN

The die-cast Oxford No.CH011-Chipperfields Mini Van was produced by Oxford Die-Cast Ltd. It is 4.6 cm. (1:76) This Austin Mini Van is red body, blue roof. The paint is a special color of the Chipperfields Circus which was a very old group of England for more 300 years. It has a bumper in front and at the back. The front decoration is silver bronze, real tire, clear windows and black interior.

CORGI SIGNS THE BEATLES

Corgi has teamed up with Apple Corps with a licence to produce a new ranged of collectable Beatles diecast. The original models produced in the 1960s and re-used in the 1990s are now rare and sought-after by collectors. The new models will include new versions of the classic Yellow Submarine and the Magical Mystery Tour Bus as well as a Revolver taxi and an Abbey Road Routemaster bus.

Corgi International CEO Michael Cookson, said: "Corgi as a company has had a long association with the Beatles having produced the original Yellow Submarine diecast in the 1960s and it was a piority for the company to re-initiate a program with Apple Corps/Suba Films for an innovative range of product, that people will once again enjoy purchasing.

"With the 40th Anniversary of Sgt Pepper in 2007, it was a perfect time for the deal to have been agreed. and weare truly excited to be partners again. We feel that we will have strong retail support for this line especially from specialty retail and we hope to showcase these products to an all new consumer audience."

(Diecast Collector, March 2008 issued 125)

THE BEATLES COLLECTORS EDITION DIE-CAST BUS IN ALBUM COVER TIN SET

Beatles Album Cover Set of 4 Collector's Edition * 1/36 scale Die-Cast model * ("Revolver" 1/64 scale Die-cast model) These are numbered and from a Limited Edition of 2,008 pieces manufactured. * Comes with a collectable tins and a numbered certificates of authenticity. * Also available in standard edition and individually. * Collect all 4 Beatles Buses. See more.

THE BEATLES COLLECTORS EDITION DIE-CAST TAXI IN ALBUM COVER TIN SET

Beatles Album Cover Set of 4 Collector's Edition * 1/36 scale Die-Cast model * These are numbered and from a Limited Edition of 2,008 pieces manufactured. * Comes with a collectable tins and a numbered certificates of authenticity. * Also available in standard edition and individually. * Collect all 4 Beatles London Taxi. See more.

MATCHBOX REGULAR WHEELS NO.47 COMMER VAN

1-75 model of a Commer Lyons Maid Ice Cream van, issued in various colours and wheel types, and also with the 'Lord Nielsens Ice Cream' logo in place of the 'Lyons Maid'