TK Toy Expo 2024 | Hot Wheels: Let's Race

Hot Wheels has been on top of its game when it comes to affordable die-cast models that have been universally adored by kids and adult collectors for more than fifty years and even continue to be the most glorified brand when it comes to toy cars. Of course, Hot Wheels is no doubt the most familiar brand when it comes to toy cars as “Colgate” is a toothpaste brand. Every child who lives in the mid-80s has known the “blue” brand as that was the era it asserted itself to be known for “edgy” cars with bright colours and ridiculous modified cars.

Mattel Games | Rodger Dodger

The Rodger Dodger is an iconic Hot Wheels casting that is based on a depiction of a modified ’73 Dodge Charger SE with a blown V8 poking out of the hood, one of several variations on the Bye-Focal design. It has been one of the most familiar “generics” or Hot Wheels Originals that is still produced today. In 2021, the Dodger received a minor change on the base due to the subtheme that was released for that year that features Mattel’s popular games. This version of the Rodger Dodger features the deco/livery of the Magic 8-Ball and certainly there we a lot of variations of the same casting released.

MIAS 2023 | Hot Wheels & Matchbox Booth

If you happen to be at this year’s Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) or just about to plan for the weekend you might want to check out what else is the event is offering aside from seeing cars and models that are being highlighted as being part of their showcase in the main area. There is also the East Wing area, where you can check out car accessories, and for the ones who are into the hobby of collecting die-cast cars, there’s one of the two vendors who happen to set up their booth for the enthusiast. This is where you’ll find the Hot Wheels/Matchbox booth by Richwell or Richprime Holdings.

HW J-Imports | '70 Toyota Celica

Japan is known for its electronic products, Japanese Anime, and its fuel-efficient popular cars. Toyota is one of the carmakers that have expanded their reach all over the world through their affordable cars, and competition in motorsport through their TRD (Toyota Racing Development) program to Gazoo Racing. There’s no doubt, Toyota is one of the global brands from Japan that is seen all over the world not only commonly populating Asian streets, but also in Western countries as well. Hot Wheels have taken that advantage in producing more iconic models in die-cast form including the very first generation of the Toyota Celica.

MBX Road Trip | Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser

A Station Wagon (also called a Wagon in the US) or an Estate Car (or short for Estate, a term used in the UK) is mostly known as a family vehicle even before the crossovers or the SUVs became the ‘modern’ ride. It is an automotive body-style variant of a sedan/saloon with a roof extended rearward over shared passenger/cargo. The origin goes back to the 1910s, but the modern station wagon became known by the mid-1940s to the 1970s. It became a part of pop culture often depicted in film and television. But the 1990s saw its appearance in “That 70’s Show” with the Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser that also appeared in the recent spinoff of that series in 2023.

HW Graffiti Rides | VW Beetle Convertible

The Classic Volkswagen Beetle is as iconic as its name and aesthetics were initially known as the “People’s Car.” It was produced in so many iterations and variations even outselling the Ford Model T. It is a beloved car produced in diecast that became a favourite. Hot Wheels produced an original that was part of the “Sweet Sixteen,” and then Larry Wood designed the one released in 1989 that was known as the “VW Bug” but changed to Volkswagen Beetle. Then there was a convertible version that was introduced in 2006 with no roof or hardtop, and this is the featured spotlight.

HW J-Imports | Nissan Maxima

Hot Wheels has been dominant in the diecast collecting industry and continues to expand its concepts, designs, and even being edgy with its licensed cars. The rise and popularity of the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars have been forthcoming at the same time very popular to the point some of the releases have become rare. With every Hot Wheels mainline release, the majority would look forward to the next JDM-licensed car or vehicle that came from Japan. On top of that Hot Wheels also produce premium editions for a specific alone and that ta captures their market interest.

MBX Show Cars | Volkswagen Concept 1

Collecting diecast cars doesn’t start to become a hobby until you’re an adult. Because having them in anyone’s childhood depends on each and everyone’s opinion and personal experience growing up. Sometimes it is not counted until you’re aware of how much a reminder they are in your life. Personally, growing up there have been so many toys out there that become a part of your youth. It might be the latest trend or what’s popular around that time period. But with all that has been happening in-between life, there would be something constant that by chance or moment it would resonate with you.