Does this Fire Chief look unsafe at any speed?

Johnny Lightning Chevrolet Corvair Fire Chief's Car

 This Chevrolet Corvair doesn't look unsafe at any speed.  Although this fire chief is rather precariously perched.

Johnny Lightning Chevrolet Corvair Fire Chief

The Corvair was a rare rear-engined American car. With the engine in the rear, the car had a different center of gravity and was more likely to spin out. Consumer activist Ralph Nader made a name for himself with his book on the Corvair and other American cars. However, some Corvair enthusiasts and collectors believe that the case against the Chevy Corvair was overstated.

Where's the fire?

 Die-cast Emergency Vehicles - Johnny Lightning Fire Chief

This 1950 Ford Sedan from Johnny Lightning looks great as a fire chief's car.  It seems to match the alarm switch just right!

Johnny Lightning 1950 Ford Sedan Fire Chief

Die-cast Car Photography Tip.

It's easy to get a picture of the car from different angles.  You can bring a unique, personal, quality to your die-cast car photographs by placing your cars in interesting situations or in a setting that complements the vehicle.

Johnny Lightning Chevy Nova

Sometimes you just have to roll with your die-cast cars.  You never know what adventures you'll have in the great outdoors!

Johnny Lightning Gasser - Wild Bill & Cody!

This is a Johnny Lightning version of a 1933 Willy's Gasser Dragster named "Wild Bill & Cody."  Here it brings a bit of wildness to a dreary day.

Johnny Lightning Willy's Gasser

Johnny Lightning Dragsters - Side by Side!

These Johnny Lightnings look great as they are squared off for battle!  When you look at a Johnny Lightning, check out the wheels, the pain, and the extra details.

Vintage Dragsters!

Johnny Lightning Dragster

You can always count on Johnny Lightning for vintage dragsters with flame jobs!

Chevy Corvette - Generation 5!

Here's a fifth generation Corvette from Johnny Lightning!

Chevrolet Corvette - Fourth Generation!

In the 1980s, Chevy generated a lot of excitement with the fourth generation Corvette.  It marked a return to true high performance and a commitment to rival the best sports cars in the world.  Here's a Johnny Lightning version!

Corvette - Third Generation

Here's a beautiful third generation Corvette on a suitable tire!

Chevrolet Corvette - Generation 2 Convertible

The Corvette generation 2 (C2) looks great as a convertible in any driveway.

Die-cast Chevrolet Corvette - Generation 2

Johnny Lightning 1963 Chevrolet Corvette

This is the 1963 Chevrolet Corvette with a split rear window.  This is the second generation of Corvette.  It added real power and performance to America's two seat sports car!  This one is another sharp looking car from Johnny Lightning.

Johnny Lightning 1963 Corvette

Die-cast Corvette Week - Here's the First Generation Chevrolet Corvette!

Johnny Lightning 1953 Corvette

This seems like a good week to dedicate to the Chevrolet Corvette!  The iconic shapes of the the Corvette have captivated driving enthusiasts for decades.  While insurance companies make it hard for most people to economically keep a Vette, Johnny Lightning makes it much easier!

The Corvette made it's debut in 1953.  Here is a first generation Corvette from Johnny Lightning:

Willy's Coupe from Johnny Lightning

Johnny Lightning has lots of historic Willy's coupes.  I like the patriotic paint job on this one.

You never know when Lightning might strike!

Johnny Lightning Plymouth Fireball 500

Here is a really cool Johnny Lightning die-cast car.  It's a Plymouth Fireball 500.  I love the twin cockpit seating arrangement of this car.  The side pipes, tires, wheels, and flame job are simply awesome.  That's why it was in my pocket when I ate at Village Inn.

This is just one of my best die-cast cars period.  It looks good and it looks fast.

 It's just the coolest looking little car from Johnny Lightning.

How much is that Alfa in the window?

Matchbox Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA

I put this little Alfa Romeo in my pocket and took it down to our local diner.  It looks fast, sophisticated, and European, even when it is sitting still in the window.

It's a 1965 Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA from Matchbox.  If I name it Julia, it'll be Julia Giulia . . .

"Tony the Tiger" would drive this GTO!

Johnny Lightning 1965 Pontiac GTO

My goat looks like a tiger!  This is my 1965 Pontiac GTO done small and done right by Playing Mantis.  It's a Johnny Lightning with pizzaz!

Johnny Lightning 1965 Pontiac GTO

Run Bandit! Run!

Johnny Lightning Pontiac Trans Am - Smokey and the Bandit

Other centuries and other countries have produced masterpieces:  The Iliad, The Odyssey, Hamlet, and Macbeth.  However, none compare to the 20th Century's Greatest Literary and Cinematic Achievement -

Smokey and the Bandit

Oh, see that Bandit run! Run Bandit! Run!

This Trans Am is from Johnny Lightning and is pursued by a variety of Johnny Lightning Police Cars.

Introducing the Chrysler 300!

The Johnny Lightning Chrysler 300

You see a lot of Chrysler 300's on the streets today.  Many of them have been customized to reflect flashy urban sensibilities.  However, this Johnny Lightning shows us what an original Chrysler 300 looked like.

It's a beautiful car and it really looks good in red with white wall tires.  Maybe the 300 has always had a little bling to bring to a party?

We Remember! Johnny Lightning Jeep

September 11th is a somber day of remembrance.  We will always remember that bright sunny morning and an optimistic atmosphere being shattered by the work of terrorists.  And, while this is just a blog about die-cast cars, we salute the men and women of U.S. and allied armed forces who have traveled a long road since September 11th on our behalf.

This Jeep is from Johnny Lighting.

Fanciful creations from Hot Wheels

When I was a kid, I used to prefer Matchbox cars to Hot Wheels.  Matchbox cars were simply more realistic.  Now, as an adult, I've owned real cars and I'm starting to appreciate the design and craziness of Hot Wheels.  Go figure!  But, you can't just go down to your local car dealer and buy are real car like this one from my Hot Rods 5-pack.

Hot Wheels Collector Tip

Look for cars with a definite personality.  Those are the cars that people remember.

A Nash Hot Rod from Hot Wheels

If you are sitting in your cube, doing paper work and handling e-mail, it might be time for a break.  You know you'd rather be playing with Hot Wheels.  You can check out my collection.  This little car is a stretched out Nash hot rod from my Hot Wheels Hot Rod 5-Pack.

There!  Don't you feel better now!  That little design with a blower and side pipes is pretty darned cool!

Copo, Copo, Corvette!

The Hot Wheels 1969 Copo Corvette

The 1969 Copo Corvette was a race ready Chevrolet Corvette with power in spades!  In 2011, Hot Wheels introduced their own '69 Copo Corvette and it really looks ready to roll!

Hot Wheels 1969 Copo Corvette

Hot Wheels Photography Tip

If you have a series of lines in your photo running next to your die-cast car, it will give the illusion of motion and direction.  Even though this car is standing still, it looks like it is running fast.

Hot Wheels So Fine: Dropped and Chopped!

I can't imagine driving a car like this one.  But, I do love the flat black finish that evokes the rat rod.  This Hot Wheels car is called "So Fine."

Hot Wheels So Fine (front)

 
It's available in a variety of incarnations.  But, mine came from a 5-pack called "HW Hot Rods."

Hot Wheels So Fine (profile)

Banzai Boys! Surf's Up! - A Johnny Lightning Hot Rod

This Johnny Lightning Hot Rod is ready to hit the surf!  I perched it on an old Hobie 16 for this picture and I think it captures the spirit of this little car.

Johnny Lightning Banzai Boys Hot Rod

Johnny Lightning Banzai Boys Hot Rod: Real Car Roots?

The Johnny Lightning Surf Rods Banzai Boys series, featuring models like the 1933 Ford Coupe and Ford Speed Coupe, draws inspiration from real-world hot rods but isn’t based on a single specific car. Introduced around 2000, these 1:64 scale die-casts, often in vibrant red and white with surfboards and “Banzai Boys” decals, reflect the custom hot rod culture of the 1960s, particularly the surf-themed cars popularized in California. The designs, often credited to custom car legend George Barris, evoke the chopped and modified Ford coupes common in that era.

Real 1932-1934 Ford coupes, like the 1933 Ford Model 40, were popular bases for hot rods due to their lightweight frames and V8 engines, easily modified for speed and style. The Banzai Boys models exaggerate these with lowered suspensions, wide tires, and flashy paint, capturing the spirit of custom builds seen in shows or magazines like Hot Rod. While no specific real car matches the Banzai Boys exactly, their aesthetic mirrors the custom 1930s Fords built by enthusiasts, blending historical accuracy with stylized flair. These collectibles, available on eBay or Etsy for $5-$20, remain prized for their nostalgic nod to hot rod and surf culture.

SSSsssssssssssssssssss! It's a pit of Vipers! Johnny Lightning Dodge Vipers!

Dodge Vipers from Johnny Lightning

The people who have to worry about snakes in this neighborhood probably drive Corvettes.  Here are two of my favorite die-cast Dodge Vipers from Johnny Lightning!

Johnny Lightning Diecast Dodge Vipers

These cars have beautiful lines and are nicely detailed.  It's another reason that I love Johnny Lightnings.  They just look good.

Johny Lightning Dodge Vipers

They even have hoods that open to reveal little engines.  But, that is a photo project for another day!

2025 Update--

The Dodge Viper, an iconic American supercar, roared onto the scene in 1992, embodying raw power and bold design under Chrysler’s Dodge brand. Produced in three generations—1992–2006 (SR I and II), 2008–2010 (ZB II), and 2013–2017 (VX I)—the Viper boasted a monstrous V10 engine, with outputs reaching up to 645 horsepower in its final years. Its aggressive styling, featuring a long hood, wide stance, and side exhausts, made it a favorite among enthusiasts. Johnny Lightning’s diecast models immortalize this legend in 1:64 scale, delighting collectors with their precision and nostalgic charm.

Johnny Lightning, originally launched in 1969 by Topper Corporation and revived in 1994 by Playing Mantis, produced Viper models during its 1994–2004 and 2004–2013 runs under RC2/Tomy, with modern releases continuing under Round 2 LLC since 2016. These diecasts, like the 1993 Dodge Viper RT/10 and GTS variants, feature vibrant colors such as Viper Red, GTS Blue with white stripes, and even rare metallic finishes. Detailed tampos, chrome wheels, and opening hoods showcasing miniature V10 engines add authenticity. Special editions, such as the 2002 Johnny Lightning “American Muscle” Viper or limited-run sets, are highly sought after, with prices ranging from $5 to $20 on retailers like Amazon or eBay.

These models capture the Viper’s essence—pure, unfiltered performance. For collectors, Johnny Lightning’s Dodge Viper diecasts are a tribute to an American icon, perfect for display or reliving the thrill of the open road in miniature.

Johnny Lightning 2014 Dodge Viper

[As of 2025:  If you'd like to add a 2014 Dodge Viper to your diecast collection, Round 2 now has these Johnny Lightnings (above) here on Amazon.]

It's a Dune Buggy - Johnny Lightning Dune Buggy!

I often see a Dune Buggy driving around in my town.  It's driven by a long-haired, hippy-looking, dude.  And, he looks like he's having fun!  So, if that's Freedom Rock, crank it up! Here's my Dune Buggy.

Johnny Lightning Dune Buggy

It's called "Lil Van" and it comes from the good folks at Playing Mantis.  It's a Johnny Lightning!  Here's my Dune Buggy navigating around some 'shrooms!  Hey man! The picture is a little fuzzy...

Johnny Lightning Dune Buggy In Action

 

Beep! Beep! It's a Road Runner!

Johnny Lightning 1969 Plymouth Road Runner

Here's my 1969 Plymouth Road Runner from Johnny Lightning.  Long, long ago, it was Motor Trend's Car of the Year and it came with a 383 cubic inch V-8.  According to Wikipedia, the Road Runner had a mission to deliver sub-14 second quarter mile for less than $3000.  Of course, my Road Runner cost $3 and fits in my pocket.

Johnny Lightning 1969 Plymouth Road Runner

2025 Update -- Have You Ever Wondered --

When were Johnny Lightning cars made?

Johnny Lightning cars were first produced by Topper Corporation from 1969 to 1971, introducing 47 models designed to compete with Hot Wheels, known for their speed and "Accelerator Loop" feature. The brand ceased production after Topper’s bankruptcy in 1971 due to business fraud. In 1994, Thomas Lowe revived the brand under Playing Mantis, producing over 600 models, including replicas of the original 1969-71 cars, until June 2004. RC2 Corporation then took over, continuing production from 2004 until Tomy, which acquired RC2 in 2011, discontinued the line in 2013. In 2016, Lowe’s Round 2 LLC relaunched Johnny Lightning, and production continues today with a focus on nostalgic and muscle car models. Thus, Johnny Lightning cars were made in the following periods: 1969–1971, 1994–2004, 2004–2013, and 2016–present.

A Thrift Store Find - Amemiya Asparadrink RX-7!

I found this die-cast car in a local thrift store.  I'm not totally sure what an Amemiya Asparadrink RX7 JGTC 2004 is, but it sure looks pretty cool.

Amemiya Asparadrink RX-7 JGTC 2004 Diecast Model

Also, if Asparadrink contains asparagus, I don't think I'd try it! 

2025 Update -- I know what RE Amemiya is!

RE Amemiya diecast models are prized collectibles that celebrate the legacy of RE Amemiya, a renowned Japanese tuning company specializing in Mazda rotary-engine vehicles, particularly the RX-7. These 1:64 scale models, primarily produced by brands like Pop Race and Ignition Model, capture the aggressive styling and performance upgrades of RE Amemiya’s iconic creations. Here’s a look at what makes these models special.

Amemiya Asparadrink RX-7 JGTC 2004 Diecast Model (side view)

The real-world RE Amemiya vehicles, like the Mazda RX-7 FC3S and FD3S, are legendary in JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) culture for their widebody kits, aerodynamic enhancements, and rotary engine tuning. Diecast models reflect this with meticulous details: think vibrant liveries like RE Amemiya Blue, Yellow, or Blue Chrome, complete with carbon-fiber hoods, GT-AD kits, and front lips. Models like the 1:64 Mazda RX-7 FC3S RE-Amemiya Blue (Pop Race PR640290) feature opening hoods revealing detailed engines, real rubber tires, and authentic decals, measuring about 2.75 inches long.

Amemiya Asparadrink RX-7 JGTC 2004 Diecast Model (top view)

Available in colors like white, silver metallic, and luminous green, these models often come in limited editions, such as the “Japan Minicar a Gogo Exclusive” RX-7 in silver with a carbon hood. Prices range from $20-$30, though premium releases or resin models like the 1:18 RX-8 RE Amemiya can cost upwards of $289.99. Sold through retailers like Amazon, Target, and HobbySearch, they’re prized for their craftsmanship and connection to rotary car culture, making them must-haves for JDM enthusiasts.  

Wow! This particular model was a great thrift store find for only $5.99!

Mopar Madness - A collection of Chrysler-Dodge-Plymouth Hot Wheels Cars

Let's get this party started with some Mopar madness.  I recently got these on whim and re-ignited my car collecting passion.  These Hot Wheels make a pretty miniature good car show all by themselves!

Hot Wheels MOPAR Madness!

Update 2025-- [with a little help from GROK]:

Why Chrysler, Plymouth, and Dodge Cars Are Called MOPAR

The term "MOPAR" is synonymous with Chrysler, Plymouth, and Dodge vehicles, but its origins lie in a clever corporate naming strategy. MOPAR is a portmanteau derived from "MOtor PARts," coined by the Chrysler Corporation in the 1920s. Initially, it referred to a line of antifreeze products introduced by Chrysler’s parts division in 1937. Over time, the term evolved to encompass all genuine parts and accessories for Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge, and later Jeep and Ram vehicles.

By the 1960s, MOPAR became a badge of pride for enthusiasts, particularly during the muscle car era when models like the Dodge Charger, Plymouth Barracuda, and Chrysler 300 dominated drag strips. The term was officially adopted as a marketing brand for Chrysler’s performance parts and service, cementing its place in car culture. MOPAR-branded crates, decals, and high-performance components became synonymous with power and customization.

Today, MOPAR represents not just parts but a lifestyle for fans of Chrysler’s brands. It signifies a legacy of American automotive grit, from HEMI-powered classics to modern Hellcat beasts. Whether it’s a restored 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda or a 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT, MOPAR embodies the spirit of performance and loyalty, uniting enthusiasts under one iconic name.